Best Places to Retire

1.

 Money magazine named Walla Walla the top town on its "Best Places to Retire" list. With a population of 30,000, it provides many of the opportunities of big-city living like art galleries and nearby colleges, while still offering affordable housing.

2.

 In an article focusing on the needs of retiring baby-boomers, AARP The Magazine listed Fort Collins as one of "The 15 Best Places to Reinvent Your Life." Money magazine's honor for the best small city in its "Best Places to Live" list also went to this scenic location in the Rocky Mountains. Home to Colorado State University, it offers the cultural and educational advantages of a college town and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

3.

 Portland earned the top spot on Sperling's Best Places "Top Ten Cities for Seniors." Sperling's cited the city's high-quality senior health services, targeted resources like meal services and adult day cares. Additionally, there is an excellent public transportation service, making it easy for older residents to get around the city, even when they no longer feel comfortable driving.

4.

 Kiplinger.com included St. George in its list of "12 Great Places to Retire" as a prime location for retirees seeking to live an active life. With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, this is a great place for anyone desiring to escape a cold Northern climate. The desert weather allows for the year-round enjoyment of outdoor sports or just taking in the scenery.

5.

 AARP The Magazine included Bellingham in its list of the best places to retire for natural diversity and affordable housing in a variety of neighborhoods. Kiplinger.com also touted the natural beauty of the area and a thriving arts community. Abundant opportunities for recreation mean retirees won't be forced to sit around the house with nothing to do.

6.

 Prescott falls third in Money's rankings, with the magazine focusing on the city's appeal to those who love the outdoors. Prescott National Forest offers endless enjoyment for nature lovers, including 450 miles of trails. A Fine Arts Association provides entertainment and culture, while three hospitals in the area help ensure the continued good health of aging retirees.

7.

 Featured by AARP The Magazine, the Raleigh area is notable as a progressive urban area featuring Southern hospitality. With ten universities in the area and numerous high-tech businesses, retirees can enjoy an intelligent and vibrant community.

8.

 Florida has long been a popular retirement destination, and Sarasota is considered a notable destination within the state by AARP The Magazine. Cultural opportunities include a symphony, museums, opera, a film society, theaters, and art galleries. Kiplinger.com also included the city in its list for the mild climate, offering numerous chances to take advantage of the 60 golf courses and 150 parks in the area.

9.

 Listed number four in Money magazine's best places to retire, Holland is a nontraditional addition to the list. Money highlights plentiful summer recreation on nearby Lake Michigan, a classic downtown featuring independent shops and restaurants, and the town's proximity to the larger city of Grand Rapids. Those concerned about Michigan's cold winters can take heart in the town's heated sidewalks and streets.

10.

 Since the city's high cost of living puts it out of the range of many seniors, it's an unconventional choice for the retirement years. However, San Francisco earned the number three spot on Sperling's list for public transportation, senior services, and a mild climate. It also has a high concentration of seniors in the built-in community settings, with low crime rates, so new residents can feel safe.