The United States, one of the most diverse countries in the world, has many beautiful places you’ll be happy to spend your golden years in. Florida is one of the most popular states to retire to in the U.S.. Beyond its year-round sunny weather, things like tax-friendliness, reasonable cost of living, incredible beach scene, and multiple social opportunities also make it irresistible. The states boast 15 of America’s top 25 cities with the highest senior populations. Maine and West Virginia are other popular states for older adults. However, every state has its fair share of amazing places to retire, and whether you are looking for a peaceful location, a laid-back lifestyle, a bustling city, or a beach town, there are endless options to choose from.
Happiness should be your biggest focus as a retiree. According to a recent survey from MassMutual, a third of older adults are not as happy as they were in the workforce. Settling in some of the happiest U.S. cities would make a difference. In a recent study by SoFi, that analyzed the 200 largest cities’ happiness levels, based on factors like community well-being, healthcare access, and cost of living, Barnstable, Massachusetts, was named the happiest city to retire to in America.
Note: SoFi used a variety of sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Sharecare Community Well-Being Index, Walk Score, Tax Foundation, Sperling’s Best Places, and County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, to come up with its findings.
What To Know About Barnstable, Massachusetts
Barnstable, the largest town on Cape Cod in southern Massachusetts, has a long history that can be traced back to 1638 when it was first settled by farmers. It became the county seat of Barnstable County in 1685 and includes seven villages: Hyannis, West Barnstable, Marstons Mills, Osterville, Barnstable Village, Cotuit, and Canterville. At some point, Barnstable was the Oyster Capital of the World and still boasts an incredible oyster scene, with the Naked Oyster and Skipper Chowder House being some of the best oyster restaurants.
The city has been a popular tourist destination for over 200 years attracting travelers with its pristine beaches, historic landmarks, wonderful culinary scene, and cultural attractions. For retirees, choosing to live here means access to over 100 miles of stunning sandy stretches, a strong economy with high living standards, a close-knit community (outside the peak tourism season), and top-notch amenities.
Barnstable Massachusetts Is The Happiest City To Retire To In America
The city’s high community well-being score, significant senior demographic, and great entertainment scene contribute to its high-ranking
One of the things that attracts retirees to Barnstable is its beautiful scenery and wonderful beach scene, with plenty of sandy stretches to explore. Craigville Beach, Millway Beach, and Loop Beach are some of the most spectacular beaches seniors can enjoy while living there. However, beyond its spectacular beaches, Barnstable was named the happiest city in America to retire to because of its high scores in community well-being, significant senior demographic, and great entertainment scene.
There are plenty of cultural, economic, and social opportunities in the city, and although it’s the largest community on Cape Cod, it boasts a strong sense of community, a peaceful vibe, and a relaxed lifestyle.
With 22.98% of its population aged 65+, this city has a significant senior population, which means older adults will have multiple opportunities to interact with their age mates and lead a happy life. The city’s entertainment scene, which includes live music venues, amazing shopping opportunities, and incredible golf courses, contributes to its high happiness levels.
It also boasts some of the lowest poverty levels
Barnstable has one of the strongest economies in Massachusetts, thanks to its central location in Cape Code, making it the region’s hub for commerce, culture, transportation, and education. With a median household income of $94,387, the city is wealthy, but some communities are more affluent, with West Barnstable leading with $119,414. The town’s poverty rate is 6.87%, which is lower than the U.S. average. Being a wealthy community, the town is associated with luxury homes and high-end apartments, with Oyster being one of the most affluent neighborhoods, housing some of the most opulent estates on Cape Cod. Seniors looking for a luxury lifestyle will love retiring in the happiest city to retire in America.
With the highest scores in community well-being, an incredible beach scene, a wonderful entertainment scene, a strong senior population, and the lowest poverty levels.
