US News and World Report has profiles of 1000 places for retirement, and lists the following "Best Places to Retire" in a feature from 2007:
• Bozeman, Mont.
• Concord, N.H.
• Fayetteville, Ark.
• Hillsboro, Ore.
• Lawrence, Kan.
• Peachtree City, Ga.
• Prescott, Ariz.
• San Francisco, Calif.
• Smyrna, Tenn.
• Venice, Fla.
Of course you need to use great caution when interpreting these "best lists" because your personal retirement priorities are likely to differ from those of the magazine editor, but lists ofter a good "starting point" from which you can jump off to more information about areas and cities.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Retirement in Bridgeville, Delaware
Bridgeville is located in Sussex County in the southwestern part of Delaware. It is located on U.S. 13 approximately 30 miles south of Dover, the capital of Delaware. Bridgeville is one of the oldest surviving communities in western Sussex County. Bridgeville is a pleasant agricultural-oriented community known for fine homes and broad tree-lined streets. In my research on this great little town, I enjoyed looking at all the beautiful photos of this charming spot in Delaware.
Population: According to 2006 Census Bureau estimates, the population of the town is 1,578.
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $132,800 (it was $79,900 in 2000)
Health Care:
Hospitals/medical centers near Bridgeville:
NANTICOKE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL INC (about 7 miles; SEAFORD, DE)
DEER'S HEAD CENTER (about 25 miles; SALISBURY, MD)
HEALTHSOUTH CHESAPEAKE REHAB HOSPITAL (about 25 miles; SALISBURY, MD)
Transportation:
Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to Bridgeville:
DOVER AFB (about 28 miles; DOVER, DE; ID: DOV)
SALISBURY-OCEAN CITY WICOMICO REGIONAL (about 29 miles; SALISBURY, MD; ID: SBY)
NEW CASTLE COUNTY (about 64 miles; WILMINGTON, DE; ID: ILG
Colleges and Universities:
Colleges/universities with over 2000 students nearest to Bridgeville:
DELAWARE TECHNICAL AND COMMUNITY COLLEGE-OWENS (about 20 miles; GEORGETOWN, DE)
SALISBURY STATE UNIVERSITY (about 25 miles; SALISBURY, MD)
DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY (about 30 miles; Dover, DE)
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE (about 39 miles; PRINCESS ANNE, MD)
UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE (about 57 miles; NEWARK, DE)
WILMINGTON COLLEGE (about 59 miles; NEW CASTLE, DE)
DELAWARE TECHNICAL & COMM COLL-STANTON-WILMINGTON (about 62 miles; NEWARK, DE)
Retirement Communities: Heritage Shores 23 White Pelican Court Bridgeville, Delaware 19933 Telephone (302) 337-1040 Toll Free (866) 684-3348 heritageshores@brookwash.com
Delaware has a unique tax structure. It may be an consideration when choosing that retirement spot! Delaware Tax Structure: Delaware is a uniquely affordable place to live with no state, personal property or inventory taxes, very low local real property taxes, and no state or local general sales taxes.
Population: According to 2006 Census Bureau estimates, the population of the town is 1,578.
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $132,800 (it was $79,900 in 2000)
Health Care:
Hospitals/medical centers near Bridgeville:
NANTICOKE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL INC (about 7 miles; SEAFORD, DE)
DEER'S HEAD CENTER (about 25 miles; SALISBURY, MD)
HEALTHSOUTH CHESAPEAKE REHAB HOSPITAL (about 25 miles; SALISBURY, MD)
Transportation:
Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to Bridgeville:
DOVER AFB (about 28 miles; DOVER, DE; ID: DOV)
SALISBURY-OCEAN CITY WICOMICO REGIONAL (about 29 miles; SALISBURY, MD; ID: SBY)
NEW CASTLE COUNTY (about 64 miles; WILMINGTON, DE; ID: ILG
Colleges and Universities:
Colleges/universities with over 2000 students nearest to Bridgeville:
DELAWARE TECHNICAL AND COMMUNITY COLLEGE-OWENS (about 20 miles; GEORGETOWN, DE)
SALISBURY STATE UNIVERSITY (about 25 miles; SALISBURY, MD)
DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY (about 30 miles; Dover, DE)
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE (about 39 miles; PRINCESS ANNE, MD)
UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE (about 57 miles; NEWARK, DE)
WILMINGTON COLLEGE (about 59 miles; NEW CASTLE, DE)
DELAWARE TECHNICAL & COMM COLL-STANTON-WILMINGTON (about 62 miles; NEWARK, DE)
Retirement Communities: Heritage Shores 23 White Pelican Court Bridgeville, Delaware 19933 Telephone (302) 337-1040 Toll Free (866) 684-3348 heritageshores@brookwash.com
Delaware has a unique tax structure. It may be an consideration when choosing that retirement spot! Delaware Tax Structure: Delaware is a uniquely affordable place to live with no state, personal property or inventory taxes, very low local real property taxes, and no state or local general sales taxes.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Retirement in Dover, Delaware
The city of Dover website says it best "Dover offers an ideal location along with a quality of life second to none. Conveniently located halfway between Washington and New York, Dover is within a few hours of one third of our nation's population, yet without the hassles and problems of large cities. Living in Dover, you will experience a vibrant downtown, a very attractive historical district and well established neighborhoods as well as brand new subdivisions.You will feel connected to your community, be able to enjoy its natural beauty as well as attend arts & entertainment activities. The Schwartz Center for the Arts and Dover Downs brings in national acts on a regular basis. Dover was chosen as one of the 10 Best Small Cities by Employment Review Magazine based on employment rates, cost of living and overall quality of life."
The City of Dover is located in Central Delaware in Kent County and is the capital of Delaware .It is located on the St. Jones River in the Delaware River coastal plain.
Population: As of the censusof 2000, there were 32,135 people.
Universities and Colleges: Dover is home to Delaware State University (a land-grant university and Delaware's only historically black university), and Wesley College. It is also home to the Terry Campus of the Delaware Technical & Community College and that college's administrative offices. Dover also has satellite locations of the University of Delaware and Wilmington University.
Things to See and Do: The former Dover Opera House, , was recently renovated and converted to the Schwartz Center for the Arts, which hosts performances by the Dover Symphony Orchestra, ballet, and classic films.
The Delaware State Library, Delaware State Museum, and the Delaware State Archives are located in downtown Dover and are open to the public for research and browsing.
In Dover's historical district is the Sewell C. Biggs Museum of American Art, featuring collections from the Colonial days to the present. Dover may not be a huge city, but it seems it has big city culture!
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $156,000 (it was $111,300 in 2000) I read that Dover was one of the fastest growing cities in Delaware because of the relatively low cost of living.
Retirement Communities: Heritage at Dover, www.genesishcc.com Westminster Village, www.wmvdover.org
The City of Dover is located in Central Delaware in Kent County and is the capital of Delaware .It is located on the St. Jones River in the Delaware River coastal plain.
Population: As of the censusof 2000, there were 32,135 people.
Universities and Colleges: Dover is home to Delaware State University (a land-grant university and Delaware's only historically black university), and Wesley College. It is also home to the Terry Campus of the Delaware Technical & Community College and that college's administrative offices. Dover also has satellite locations of the University of Delaware and Wilmington University.
Things to See and Do: The former Dover Opera House, , was recently renovated and converted to the Schwartz Center for the Arts, which hosts performances by the Dover Symphony Orchestra, ballet, and classic films.
The Delaware State Library, Delaware State Museum, and the Delaware State Archives are located in downtown Dover and are open to the public for research and browsing.
In Dover's historical district is the Sewell C. Biggs Museum of American Art, featuring collections from the Colonial days to the present. Dover may not be a huge city, but it seems it has big city culture!
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $156,000 (it was $111,300 in 2000) I read that Dover was one of the fastest growing cities in Delaware because of the relatively low cost of living.
Retirement Communities: Heritage at Dover, www.genesishcc.com Westminster Village, www.wmvdover.org
Monday, May 19, 2008
Retire to New Castle, Delaware
As the first capitol of the first state, founded in 1651 by the Dutch, New Castle with its unique cobblestone streets is recognized as a crown jewel. Unlike many historic communities, New Castle is a residential town where people live and work. Each house reflects the individuality of its past and present owners. New Castle has been named a National Historic Landmark..
This small, picturesque village allows vacationers, as well as business travelers, a refreshing respite from the pressures of daily life. Whether you enjoy the beaches, the Brandywine Valley, or other treasures of Delaware, be sure to include New Castle in your search for the perfect place to retire.
Population:As of the census of 2000, there were 4,862 people, 2,012 households, and 1,339 families residing in the city.
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $197,500 (it was $123,000 in 2000)
Nearest Large Cities: Nearest city with pop. 50,000+: Wilmington, DE (5.9 miles , pop. 72,664).
Nearest city with pop. 200,000+: Philadelphia, PA (37.0 miles , pop. 1,517,550).
Hospitals/medical centers in New Castle:
DELAWARE PSYCHIATRIC CENTER (1901 N DUPONT HIGHWAY)
MEADOWWOOD BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM (575 SOUTH DUPONT HIGHWAY
Transportation:
Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to New Castle:
NEW CASTLE COUNTY (about 3 miles; WILMINGTON, DE; )
PHILADELPHIA INTN (about 27 miles; PHILADELPHIA, PA; )
DOVER AFB (about 39 miles; DOVER, DE;)
Amtrak stations near New Castle:
6 miles: WILMINGTON (M. L. KING BLVD, & FRENCH ST.). Services: ticket office, partially wheelchair accessible, enclosed waiting area, public restrooms, public payphones, snack bar, ATM, paid short-term parking, paid long-term parking, car rental agency, taxi stand, intercity bus service, public transit connection.
14 miles: NEWARK (429 S. COLLEGE AVE.). Services: public payphones, free short-term parking, call for car rental service, call for taxi service, public transit connection
Universities and Colleges: College/University in New Castle:
WILMINGTON COLLEGE (Full-time enrollment: 3,087; Location: 320 DUPONT HWY; Private, not-for-profit; Website: www.wilmcoll.edu; Offers Doctor's degree
The great thing about New Castle is that it's all real, not a colonial Disney creation. It is where you'll find great examples of colonial, Dutch and Federal architecture. As I read about this interesting town, I have realized that its history is one of the main attractions. I have noted that there are many museums, tours to historical sites, and a great deal of small town charm.
This small, picturesque village allows vacationers, as well as business travelers, a refreshing respite from the pressures of daily life. Whether you enjoy the beaches, the Brandywine Valley, or other treasures of Delaware, be sure to include New Castle in your search for the perfect place to retire.
Population:As of the census of 2000, there were 4,862 people, 2,012 households, and 1,339 families residing in the city.
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $197,500 (it was $123,000 in 2000)
Nearest Large Cities: Nearest city with pop. 50,000+: Wilmington, DE (5.9 miles , pop. 72,664).
Nearest city with pop. 200,000+: Philadelphia, PA (37.0 miles , pop. 1,517,550).
Hospitals/medical centers in New Castle:
DELAWARE PSYCHIATRIC CENTER (1901 N DUPONT HIGHWAY)
MEADOWWOOD BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM (575 SOUTH DUPONT HIGHWAY
Transportation:
Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to New Castle:
NEW CASTLE COUNTY (about 3 miles; WILMINGTON, DE; )
PHILADELPHIA INTN (about 27 miles; PHILADELPHIA, PA; )
DOVER AFB (about 39 miles; DOVER, DE;)
Amtrak stations near New Castle:
6 miles: WILMINGTON (M. L. KING BLVD, & FRENCH ST.). Services: ticket office, partially wheelchair accessible, enclosed waiting area, public restrooms, public payphones, snack bar, ATM, paid short-term parking, paid long-term parking, car rental agency, taxi stand, intercity bus service, public transit connection.
14 miles: NEWARK (429 S. COLLEGE AVE.). Services: public payphones, free short-term parking, call for car rental service, call for taxi service, public transit connection
Universities and Colleges: College/University in New Castle:
WILMINGTON COLLEGE (Full-time enrollment: 3,087; Location: 320 DUPONT HWY; Private, not-for-profit; Website: www.wilmcoll.edu; Offers Doctor's degree
The great thing about New Castle is that it's all real, not a colonial Disney creation. It is where you'll find great examples of colonial, Dutch and Federal architecture. As I read about this interesting town, I have realized that its history is one of the main attractions. I have noted that there are many museums, tours to historical sites, and a great deal of small town charm.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Retirement in Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington is the largest city in the state of Delaware. It is the county seat of New Castle County and one of the major cities in the Delaware Valley metropolitan area. Beginning in the 1990s, the city launched a campaign to revitalize the former shipyard area known as the Wilmington Riverfront. Development continues as the Wilmington Riverfront tries to establish its cultural, economical, and residential importance. Recent high-rise luxury apartment buildings along the Christina River have been cited as evidence of the Riverfront's continued revival.
Population: the population of the city is 72,876 (as of the 2006 census)
Transportation: Wilmington is served by the Wilmington Rail Station, with frequent service between Boston, Massachusetts, and Washington, DC, via Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, with additional local service to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania via SEPTA Regional (commuter) Rail. The closest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport. A few miles south of Wilmington is New Castle County Airport.
Universities and Colleges: Universities and Colleges
Delaware College of Art and Design
Delaware Technical & Community College
Drexel University - Wilmington Campus
Springfield College - Wilmington Campus
University of Delaware - Wilmington Campus & Downtown Building
Widener University - Wilmington Campus, Widener University School of Law & University College
Wilmington University
Delaware State University - Wilmington Campus
Goldey-Beacom College
Health Care: Christiana Care Health System
13 Reads Way, Ste. 203, New Castle, 19720 (Click for Map)
Website: http://christianacare.org/
Phone: 302-733-1000
Christiana Care is recognized as a regional center for excellence in cardiology, cancer and women's health services, as well as Level-I trauma care and Level-III neonatal intensive care (both highest intensity). Christiana Care operates two hospitals: long-term and transitional care services and outpatient and home health services. Christiana Care provided $25.2 million of charity care last year.
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $141,600 (it was $89,100 in 2000)
Median gross rent in 2005: $736.Percentage of residents living in poverty in 2005: 23.8%
Weather: The climate in the Greater Wilmington area is moderate. The average temperature in the summer is 76 F (24 C) and 33 F (1 C) in winter. Snowfall is moderate and is most likely to occur in January-February-March. Our annual rainfall is approximately 45 inches
Retirement Communities: Sunrise of Wilmington - www.sunriseseniorliving.com , Ingleside Retirement Apartments - www.inglesidehomes.org
Population: the population of the city is 72,876 (as of the 2006 census)
Transportation: Wilmington is served by the Wilmington Rail Station, with frequent service between Boston, Massachusetts, and Washington, DC, via Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, with additional local service to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania via SEPTA Regional (commuter) Rail. The closest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport. A few miles south of Wilmington is New Castle County Airport.
Universities and Colleges: Universities and Colleges
Delaware College of Art and Design
Delaware Technical & Community College
Drexel University - Wilmington Campus
Springfield College - Wilmington Campus
University of Delaware - Wilmington Campus & Downtown Building
Widener University - Wilmington Campus, Widener University School of Law & University College
Wilmington University
Delaware State University - Wilmington Campus
Goldey-Beacom College
Health Care: Christiana Care Health System
13 Reads Way, Ste. 203, New Castle, 19720 (Click for Map)
Website: http://christianacare.org/
Phone: 302-733-1000
Christiana Care is recognized as a regional center for excellence in cardiology, cancer and women's health services, as well as Level-I trauma care and Level-III neonatal intensive care (both highest intensity). Christiana Care operates two hospitals: long-term and transitional care services and outpatient and home health services. Christiana Care provided $25.2 million of charity care last year.
Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $141,600 (it was $89,100 in 2000)
Median gross rent in 2005: $736.Percentage of residents living in poverty in 2005: 23.8%
Weather: The climate in the Greater Wilmington area is moderate. The average temperature in the summer is 76 F (24 C) and 33 F (1 C) in winter. Snowfall is moderate and is most likely to occur in January-February-March. Our annual rainfall is approximately 45 inches
Retirement Communities: Sunrise of Wilmington - www.sunriseseniorliving.com , Ingleside Retirement Apartments - www.inglesidehomes.org
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
The Regions Of Delaware
Delaware is divided into three counties, creating three regions.
In the Northern Region of Delaware (New Castle County) there are du Pont properties maintained as a triumph of both natural and architectural splendor. Dine in elegant surroundings, and then immerse yourself in the Wilmington nightlife.
Central Delaware (Kent County) boasts the capital city of Dover. Horse racing and headlining entertainment at the ever-popular Dover Downs complex lies a quiet, peaceful land with many sites instrumental to the founding of a new nation. This is where you learn firsthand why "It's good being first."
Then there's Southern Delaware (Sussex County), which draws visitors through small, pastoral towns toward sand, and surf . Throughout the year, you can look forward to a relaxing escape filled with sight-seeing, golf, trips to the spa and plenty of bargain-hunting at tax-free outlet stores and antiques shops. Sounds like a retiree's heaven to me!
In the Northern Region of Delaware (New Castle County) there are du Pont properties maintained as a triumph of both natural and architectural splendor. Dine in elegant surroundings, and then immerse yourself in the Wilmington nightlife.
Central Delaware (Kent County) boasts the capital city of Dover. Horse racing and headlining entertainment at the ever-popular Dover Downs complex lies a quiet, peaceful land with many sites instrumental to the founding of a new nation. This is where you learn firsthand why "It's good being first."
Then there's Southern Delaware (Sussex County), which draws visitors through small, pastoral towns toward sand, and surf . Throughout the year, you can look forward to a relaxing escape filled with sight-seeing, golf, trips to the spa and plenty of bargain-hunting at tax-free outlet stores and antiques shops. Sounds like a retiree's heaven to me!
Retirement in Delaware
Delaware is a state located on the Atlantic Coast in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
Delaware is famous for their tax-free shopping and world-class entertainment options, but you'll also find romantic hideaways, scenic byways and fun places for the whole family to enjoy.
Or maybe you just want to slip back into America's proud past: Walk the cobblestone streets of New Castle… visit the square in Dover where Delawareans rallied around the U.S. Constitution… enjoy festivals celebrating diverse ethnic groups.
From north to south, enchanting landscapes also promise seasons of exceptional bird watching, fishing, hunting and camping, along with an extensive trail system for biking, hiking and canoeing. Delaware's history spans from pre-Colonial days to the present. The First State offers hundreds of exciting and stimulating attractions. Enjoy museums and monuments that honor all aspects of our rich heritage.
The following website has provided some of this information, www.visitdelaware.com As I researched Delaware, I realized what a great place it is for American history buffs to retire. You would have a never ending source of material to peruse.
Delaware is famous for their tax-free shopping and world-class entertainment options, but you'll also find romantic hideaways, scenic byways and fun places for the whole family to enjoy.
Or maybe you just want to slip back into America's proud past: Walk the cobblestone streets of New Castle… visit the square in Dover where Delawareans rallied around the U.S. Constitution… enjoy festivals celebrating diverse ethnic groups.
From north to south, enchanting landscapes also promise seasons of exceptional bird watching, fishing, hunting and camping, along with an extensive trail system for biking, hiking and canoeing. Delaware's history spans from pre-Colonial days to the present. The First State offers hundreds of exciting and stimulating attractions. Enjoy museums and monuments that honor all aspects of our rich heritage.
The following website has provided some of this information, www.visitdelaware.com As I researched Delaware, I realized what a great place it is for American history buffs to retire. You would have a never ending source of material to peruse.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
CNN Asks: Can You Retire by 55?
Early retirement - usually with a target age of 50 or 55 - is considered something of a holy grail by Americans. Although some folks are so happy with work they'll keep on plugging away to 65, 70, or beyond, most prefer the flexibility and opportunities that come from casting off the chains of employment obligations in favor of travel and a leisure or volunteer lifestyle where they can pursue what they want to do on their own terms.
CNN helps you decide if you are or will be ready for early retirement here with some case studies and a retirement calculator.
CNN helps you decide if you are or will be ready for early retirement here with some case studies and a retirement calculator.
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