Your Next Steps: Creating a Personalized Action Plan

Reading about cities is inspiring, but now it’s time to turn inspiration into action. This process is a journey of self-discovery. Follow these steps to create a clear, manageable plan for your solo retirement move.

Step 1: Define Your “Must-Haves” vs. “Nice-to-Haves”

Get a piece of paper and draw a line down the middle. On the left, list your absolute non-negotiables. This might include: being within a three-hour drive of your children, having a major hospital within 20 minutes, a monthly housing cost under a specific dollar amount, or living in a place with no snow. On the right, list your “nice-to-haves”: a beach nearby, a great local theater, a dog park, a specific type of grocery store. This list will be your most powerful tool for filtering out unsuitable locations quickly.

Step 2: Research and Create a Shortlist of Cities

Using your “must-have” list, start researching online. Look at city-data websites, read local forums, and explore the online editions of local newspapers. Watch videos that show what daily life is like in those towns. Aim to narrow your search down to three to five promising cities that meet your core criteria.

Step 3: Plan a “Try-Before-You-Buy” Visit

This is the most important step. You cannot get a true feel for a place from the internet. Plan to visit each city on your shortlist for at least a week, and don’t go as a tourist. Go as a potential resident. Visit the grocery store, go to the library, attend a service at a local place of worship, and check out the senior center. Drive around different neighborhoods at various times of day. Talk to people—ask the barista at the coffee shop or your server at lunch what they like and dislike about living there.

Step 4: Consult with Professionals

Before making a final decision, talk to a financial advisor about the tax implications and cost-of-living adjustments for your potential new state. If you plan to buy a home, get in touch with a local real estate agent who has experience working with retirees. These professionals can provide invaluable, location-specific advice to prevent costly surprises down the road.