Our nation's oldest baby boomers have begun turning 65 this year. While some have already retired and others will work for years to come, they stand to reshape retirement, just as they did every other stage of their lives. That's especially true when it comes to where to live: While the previous generation might have been happy to put aside careers and seek out an endless summer in Florida or Arizona, no single approach to retirement is going to work for this diverse bunch. This group has too much going on: They're educated; many love to travel; they're active, curious, and social. So as we went in search of the best place to retire, we recommend the city for the urban-inclined, a park side town for lovers of the outdoors, and a beach destination for lovers of the water and sun worshipers. After all, if baby boomers hate one thing, it's being boxed in. Now, even in their golden years, they don't have to be.
Retirees don't have to trade in fun in the sun and golf for life in the big city and the convenience of having stores and amenities in close proximity. New York City has seen an influx of the over-65 set. When it comes to city living, though, it's hard to beat City Island for its size, quality of life, culture, and abundance of outdoor activities. For those who want to continue to work, it's particularly ideal: The area is home to plenty of start-ups hungry for your business advice.
NYC is truly a mecca for the arts: One survey found that it had more arts-related businesses and organizations than most others in this country.
Despite its proximity to Manhattan, City Island maintains a small-town feel; It is a collection of strong identities. Much of the city is populated by Craftsman-style homes from the 1920s on tree-lined streets.
Another benefit of urban living is access to health care; The area shines, with top-rated facilities including Einstein Medical Center, which has strengths designed to address health issues connected to aging.
City Island has great public transportation, easy access to the five boroughs, with a burgeoning foodie scene .
N.Y.C. has no equal when it comes to culture — and in the past decade, its population of 55- to 64-year-olds has surged 30%