10 Reasons to Retire to Florida

Florida is known for retirement. It is a mecca for seniors in search of rest, relaxation, white sandy beaches, and luxury retirement. It has been this way for years, and the truth is, its reputation is well earned. According to the 2010 census, the Sunshine State reported the highest number of people over the age of 65 (17.3%), more than any other state.

Florida has attracted seniors for decades. Learn why you may want to consider retiring in Florida, and why a Florida retirement is pursued by so many retirees.

BENEFITS OF RETIRING IN FLORIDA

Retiring in Florida may sound cliche, but there are some great reasons to commit to a retirement in the Sunshine State.

1. SUNSHINE 

For starters, the state’s nickname is actually “The Sunshine State.” Boasting an average of 230 days of sunshine, Florida’s subtropical climate brings warm summers, mild winters, and temperate springs and falls. Even with a defined rainy season from May through October, retiring in Florida means an abundance of sunshine. Winter temperatures range across the state, from lows in the low 40s in Tallahassee to lows in the mid-60s in the Keys but no matter where you choose to retire in Florida, winters are mild and still have a considerable amount of sunshine, helping retirees enjoy the great outdoors year round. 

2. TAX BREAKS FOR SENIORS

Florida is tax-friendly for retirees and retiring in Florida means that you will get to keep more of your income retirement. There is no state income tax in Florida and the state also does not tax retirement income or Social Security benefits. There are no estate or inheritance taxes, and property taxes are reasonable, making the state financially appealing to seniors looking to save their money in retirement.

3. WORLD-FAMOUS WHITE SAND BEACHES

There’s no place in the world like the Florida beaches. With over 1,200 miles of coastline from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Ocean, Florida’s beaches are known for their soft, white sand, gentle breezes, and sun. Sanibel Island is the number one ranked beach in Florida by U.S. News and World Report known for its calm shores and abundance of shells. Retirees in Florida will enjoy beach walking, playing in the sand with their grandchildren, or exploring Sanibel Island’s 19th-century lighthouse. For a more active beach, Floridians flock to Destin. One of Florida’s most affordable beach towns, Destin also has shopping, dining, and water sport for visitors to enjoy while spotting dolphins and sea turtles. 

4. SOCIAL LIFE

Retiring in Florida is sure to keep seniors active and social. Because Florida attracts seniors from all over the country, it is more likely for retirees to make friends fast, bonding over shared new experiences and setting out on a retirement adventure together – away from their home state.

5. ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

While a Florida retirement brings plenty of rest and relaxation, the state also offers active outdoor opportunities.Explore the Everglades National Park on a high-octane airboat ride, Dive with manatees at Crystal River, see amazing coral at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, or take in the stunning beauty of Amelia Island on a horse riding expedition. The climate, the beaches, and the national park all lend themselves to an active lifestyle, encouraging seniors to take advantage of hiking, surfing, running, swimming, and more, helping retirees age well. 

6. ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES

Because Florida has such a large senior population, retirees in the state have their choice of active senior communities. Many seniors move to Florida before a move to a senior living community because of the 55 and over active communities. Moving to a community that is exclusively for adults 55 and over can help new Florida transplants make friends and find a strong sense of community before making the move into a senior living community. Florida beckons seniors from all over the world with its promise of options, choice, and adventure for retirees.

7. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS

Florida is home to several international airports, making it easy for the family to visit, for seniors to visit loved ones. There are 13 international airports in the state and a number of smaller, regional airports to make it easy for seniors to continue traveling. From Dayton Beach International Airport to Tallahassee International Airport, and Ft. Meyers – Southwest Florida International Airport, retiring in Florida gives seniors easy global access. Additionally Leisure Care communities in Florida offer  Travel by Leisure Care to help residents create the adventure of a lifetime.

8. HEALTH CARE

Retiring in Florida brings easy access to world-renowned high-quality health services and medical care. The high concentration of seniors in the state has led some of the world’s best geriatric professionals to Florida, giving seniors some of the best medical care in the world.

9. ARTS AND CULTURE

The tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and stunning scenery have drawn people all over the world, making Florida a melting pot of cultures. From art museums, galleries, concerts, and restaurants, Florida offers residents a global experience while staying right at home.

10. DISNEY WORLD

The place where everyone feels like a kid again is located in Orlando, Florida. Disney World attracts millions of visitors each year and is a great place to take grandchildren when they come to visit – which you can be sure they will! Retire in Florida and spend your best years at the Happiest Place on Earth! 

Original Source: https://www.leisurecare.com/resources/reasons-retire-florida/