The search has officially begun for where we’d like to eventually retire. Living close in to the city for the past ten years has certainly been fun, but we’re both ready for something less congested and crowded. Friends of ours who used to live in ATL proper have settled into communities all over north Georgia and Tennessee. Reynolds Plantation/Lake Oconee, about 75 miles east of Atlanta, is another popular choice. Still others have moved to Savannah or over towards Charleston and Myrtle Beach. So many choices.
Ideally, we’d live near the water again in an area with a population of no more than 350,000 and a regional vibe like Boise, Idaho. Areas so far I’ve liked are Pensacola, SE Georgia from Savannah to St. Mary’s, Charleston, Virginia Beach and Knoxville. A little closer to where we currently live: Canton, Ellijay, Waleska, Greensboro, & Eatonton. One neighbor has already built their retirement home in Beaufort, SC (45 minutes NE of Hilton Head) and another will be doing so soon. I’m thinking road trip to check out the area since I’ve never been there.
What do these locations have in common? Each is near a lake, large river or ocean. The boxes of regional airport nearby and access to quality medical care are also checked. Typical places we like to shop and dine are nearby. Activities we like to engage in are available – dog parks, walking trails, library, quilting, volunteering, antiquing, festivals, theatre. Other than Virginia Beach, they’re all within a half day’s drive of our families.
Any other criteria you have for selecting a potential retirement spot that I’ve overlooked or an area to recommend we check out? Not looking to move right away, but we’d like to settle on the area within the next 12-18 months.
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