Where You Should Retire in the USA: States Ranked From Worst To Best.
I read this article today and since our very own Smokeywolf is moving within the next two weeks I couldn't help but think of him.
49. CALIFORNIA
Cost of living: 52% above the average in U.S. Population: 39.56 million. Best city: Beverly Hills, per Yahoo! HIGHLIGHTS: It is hard to argue against California's natural attraction. The state has forests, deserts, beaches, and more. It is home to big cities for those desiring fast-paced living.
CHALLENGES: Apart from Hawaii, this state has the second highest costs of living. If you are a fan of bright weather, you will have to pay up! Some are, and it is costing them — 19% of California's residents live in poverty, says the U.S. Census Bureau.
1. ARKANSAS
Cost of living: 17% below U.S. average. Population: 3.0 million. Best city: Bella Vista. HIGHLIGHTS: A really low cost of living in the Natural State, as well as average health charges being the 3rd lowest for retired couples. Arkansas is recognized for its wildlife, hot springs, mountains, lakes and rivers — hence the name the "Natural State."
CHALLENGES: The state taxes are not that easy on your pocket. Social Security benefits and about $6,000 of other retirement earnings are exempt. Income tax rates can hit 6.9% if the income is over $75,000. Poverty rates in Arkansas for retirees are the 8th highest in America. Also, this Southern state is not the place to be for those desiring big city living!
So . . . He's going from a cost of living 52% above national average to 17% below national average. And they didn't even mention taxes, crime, traffic or a repressive gubmint, NO firearms banned list, no ammo licensing, everything you can think of highly regulated, from a "city" of around 15 million to a whole state with 3 million.
I just don't get it. Why would he want to leave utopia?
I read this article today and since our very own Smokeywolf is moving within the next two weeks I couldn't help but think of him.
49. CALIFORNIA
Cost of living: 52% above the average in U.S. Population: 39.56 million. Best city: Beverly Hills, per Yahoo! HIGHLIGHTS: It is hard to argue against California's natural attraction. The state has forests, deserts, beaches, and more. It is home to big cities for those desiring fast-paced living.
CHALLENGES: Apart from Hawaii, this state has the second highest costs of living. If you are a fan of bright weather, you will have to pay up! Some are, and it is costing them — 19% of California's residents live in poverty, says the U.S. Census Bureau.
1. ARKANSAS
Cost of living: 17% below U.S. average. Population: 3.0 million. Best city: Bella Vista. HIGHLIGHTS: A really low cost of living in the Natural State, as well as average health charges being the 3rd lowest for retired couples. Arkansas is recognized for its wildlife, hot springs, mountains, lakes and rivers — hence the name the "Natural State."
CHALLENGES: The state taxes are not that easy on your pocket. Social Security benefits and about $6,000 of other retirement earnings are exempt. Income tax rates can hit 6.9% if the income is over $75,000. Poverty rates in Arkansas for retirees are the 8th highest in America. Also, this Southern state is not the place to be for those desiring big city living!
So . . . He's going from a cost of living 52% above national average to 17% below national average. And they didn't even mention taxes, crime, traffic or a repressive gubmint, NO firearms banned list, no ammo licensing, everything you can think of highly regulated, from a "city" of around 15 million to a whole state with 3 million.
I just don't get it. Why would he want to leave utopia?