Known as the retirement capital of the United States, Florida is a top choice for many to live out their golden years. With low housing prices and no income tax, the Sunshine State is a hot favorite for good reason. In this large state, there are so many locations to choose from and it can be hard for one to decide.
If retirement is on your mind and you are undecided about where in Florida you should make your new home, consider Punta Gorda. It made the list of “America’s 100 Best Places to Retire” in 2018 and boasts many attractive qualities.
Here’s why you should retire in Punta Gorda, FL.
Small Community
A cozy community of 17,000, this city is a popular choice amongst retirees who seek a small-town atmosphere. Living in a place with smaller population numbers has its benefits. You can escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and get some peace and quiet, and it usually means tight-knit neighborhoods.
The median age here is 67, a testament to its suitability as a retirement location, but it also means that there are more like-minded friends for you to engage with in the neighborhood!
Good Home Prices
For most people, retirement means termination of regular income. As such, we seek locations with lower costs of living to improve our retirement finances. The attractive home prices in Punta Gorda are a key factor that draws retirees. With the average home price at $314,000, it is 9 percent cheaper than nearby Sarasota, and 27.1 percent cheaper than the popular Florida city, Naples. Overall, the cost of living is below the national average.
If you require certain assistance with daily activities, you can consider assisted living at the many retirement communities located in this city.
Great Recreational Options
Although the city houses only a small population, it is filled with lots of activities. It boasts a gorgeous environment with waterfront access. As such, Punta Gorda is wonderful for those who love the outdoors. One can engage in various activities such as boating, golfing, tennis, or going for long walks in the neighborhood as many areas are rather walkable. You can also look forward to visiting the restaurants, parks and the fishermen’s village in the area. The downtown area has also recently seen a revival, welcoming more shops and restaurants. You can rest assured that living here will not be boring, as there will always be something for you to explore and enjoy.
High Level of Safety
When people look for locations to move to, safety is often one of the items at the top of their checklist. With a low violent crime and a property crime rate that is way below the national average, Punta Gorda is one of the safest cities in the nation and the second safest city in Florida, making it a great living location for retirees, especially those who live alone. You won’t have to worry much about living here and can rest assured of your safety.
