Many people dream of retiring in Florida, but where do you go when reports claim it is the worst for aging in place? Based on a study performed by Niche that collected data from organizations such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), we found the next best spot: Plano, Texas.
The study examined key factors that contribute to a high quality of life for older adults, including climate, the percentage of residents aged 65 and older, housing costs,
and access to amenities such as golf courses and healthcare providers. Plano ranks No. 6 on the list, receiving an "A+" rating on the Niche website. The town is known for its safety, excellent healthcare system, and strong sense of community.
It's about a 20-minute drive north of Dallas, giving the city the laidback Lone Star State feel without abandoning a vibrant city life. With an abundance of parks, senior-friendly activities and arts, walkable neighborhoods, and a thriving local economy, Plano is emerging as one of the best places in America to enjoy a fulfilling and secure retirement. The city also boasts a diverse shopping scene, from charming local boutiques to large shopping centers, like The Shops at Legacy, providing plenty of options for leisurely outings and everyday needs ... and without the hurricanes and high insurance costs that often come with life in Florida or farther south in Texas.
Read more: The Best Vacation Destinations Where The US Dollar Goes Furthest
Senior-Friendly Activities In Plano, Texas
The Niche study isn't just backed up by the stats it found from prestigious federal organizations. Take a look at the photo above, and you'll find a luscious neighborhood in the city that has a large green space for golfers as well. But the appeal in Plano goes far beyond the scenery. The Dallas suburb is packed with opportunities that support an active, enriching lifestyle for retirees. The city is home to the Sam Johnson Recreation Center, which offers residents ages 50-plus everything from fitness classes and art workshops to social events and technology lessons. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park with beautiful walking trails for leisure strolling or active running.
Beyond recreation, Plano offers cultural enrichment through local theater performances, festivals, and free concerts. The city also ensures its retirees keep their minds sharp, as Collin College has a lifelong learning program, where seniors can continue growing intellectually without the pressure of formal education. While Texas might not have made it on the list of the best states to retire in America, Plano is surely a standout city that puts the state in the spotlight.
Want to learn about more cities beneficial for retirement? Check out our feature on the Midwest capital city with luxury homes and a low cost of living.
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Read the original article on Islands.
