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Nobody retires to the north
Florida the land of retirees, oranges and Mickey Mouse. For years Florida has been a safe haven for old folks. The weather is ideal once you get passed hurricanes and alligators. Every state requires acclimation. When I lived in the mountains the air was thinner so it took time to get acclimated. Water takes longer to boil. When I lived in the city everything moved fast. Florida you think moves slow, well let me inform you it doesn’t. Maybe back in the day, but lately the traffic is out of hand. The influx of norther people has changed the state. No longer grandma and grandpa, big corporation set up shop. During Co-Vid when we were isolated, working remotely seemed to be the answer. It’s true the weather is great in the south. But where is the south? The Mason Dixon Line actually borders Pennsylvania. I guess south Philly is really the south. Whereas Florida is really in the south, Key West being the southern most point of the USA. How about the Deep South? Alabama and Mississippi, you can’t get anymore south as far as culture. You know you’re in the south when you start saying, “Y’All.” The food is different, the music is also different. My big acclimation has been the bugs. Have you ever seen mosquitoes in Louisiana? They can swoop down and pick up a little dog. Being Italian and loaded with that wonderful aroma of garlic I thought I was immune. No way! Roaches as big as mice, you’ll always know when its humid, they suddenly appear everywhere. Rats, yep we got them too, fruit rats, sounds much nicer than sewer rats. Lizards are everywhere, they used to be a bright green color like the Geico lizard. Then black northern lizards moved in and ate the green guys, evolution? Housing prices have doubled in the past five years, gas and food are at an all time high. The cost of living is so high for us elderly that we see every mouth our savings dwindle. $500.000 for a shack, but it has location. I have been checking the prices of houses in Pennsylvania lately. Some Florida half million dollar shack is $250,000. Maybe I’ll trade in my suntan lotion for a snow shovel and retire up north.
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The phrase “nobody retires up north” is a colloquial way of expressing the idea that many people prefer to retire in warmer climates, typically in the southern regions of the United States. Here are some reasons why this trend occurs:
Climate and Weather
- Warmer Temperatures: Southern states like Florida, Arizona, and Texas offer mild winters and warm climates year-round, which are attractive to retirees looking to escape cold, harsh winters.
- Outdoor Activities: The warmer weather allows for year-round outdoor activities such as golfing, swimming, and walking, which are appealing for maintaining an active lifestyle.
Cost of Living
- Lower Taxes: Many southern states have lower taxes, including no state income tax in places like Florida and Texas, which can be financially beneficial for retirees on a fixed income.
- Affordable Housing: Generally, the cost of living, including housing, can be lower in the South compared to the North, making it more affordable for retirees.
Lifestyle and Amenities
- Retirement Communities: The South is home to numerous retirement communities designed specifically for older adults, offering amenities like healthcare facilities, recreational activities, and social events.
- Healthcare Access: Many southern states have well-developed healthcare facilities and services tailored to the needs of retirees.
Social and Family Considerations
- Proximity to Family: Some retirees move south to be closer to family members who have already relocated to warmer climates or to join a community of friends who have done the same.
- Social Networks: The presence of established retiree communities in the South makes it easier for newcomers to build social networks and engage in community activities.
Economic Factors
- Pension and Social Security: Retirees often seek to maximize their fixed incomes by moving to areas with lower costs of living and favorable tax policies.
- Investment Opportunities: Some retirees move south to take advantage of real estate opportunities or other investments that might be more favorable in these regions.
Cultural and Recreational Opportunities
- Cultural Attractions: Southern states often have rich cultural histories, diverse cuisines, and numerous festivals and events that attract retirees.
- Recreational Opportunities: Access to beaches, golf courses, and national parks provides ample recreational opportunities for retirees.
While “nobody retires up north” is an exaggeration, it highlights the common preference for warmer climates and the various advantages southern states offer to retirees. However, it’s important to note that many people do choose to retire in northern states due to personal preferences, family ties, and other individual factors. Each region has its unique benefits, and the best retirement location depends on the specific needs and desires of the retiree.