Looking to live out your golden years in peace and prosperity? You may want to consider moving to one of these cashed-up communities.
GOBankingRates has compiled a list of America’s safest and wealthiest retirement towns – and a New Jersey enclave made the cut.
The company analyzed data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey, the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey, and other sources to comprise their list. Only towns where at least 25% of the population was 65 years or older were included.
Fort Lee, New Jersey is considered one of the wealthiest and safest retirement communities in America. Jin – stock.adobe.com
GoBankingRates also examined the AreaVibes livability score of each locale, which factors in things such as crime rates and access to amenities, including hospitals.
Fort Lee, New Jersey, came in 12th spot on the list, and was the only tristate town included.
The town, which is just over the bridge from Manhattan and is considered a Big Apple suburb, has an extremely high livability score of 88, which is bolstered by its low violent crime, low property crime rates, and easy access to Manhattan.
The average annual retirement income is $47,944, while the average single-family home value is $939,775, meaning residents are reasonably well-heeled.
Fort Lee was just one of two northeast towns included on the GOBankingRates list.
Gloucester, Massachusetts, came in 27th spot.
The town boasts easy access to all the amenities of Manhattan, while still providing residents with safety and peace. Fotosforthefuture/Wirestock Creators – stock.adobe.com
Runners are seen enjoying the Fort Lee Historic Park in all its autumnal glory. Getty Images
No Florida towns made the cut – a particularly surprising fact given that the Sunshine State has long been considered America’s retirement hotspot.
California, however, had 12 of the safest and richest retirement towns, including Rancho Palos Verdes, Laguna Woods, Walnut Creek, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Palm Springs.
Arizona, meanwhile, had 7 towns on the list, including the number one enclave.
Oro Valley, just north of Tucson, was named the safest and richest retirement town in America.
With a low violent crime rate and access to the amenities of a city, Oro Valley has a high livability rating of 81.
The affluent area, which also boasts stunning mountain views, is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with a plethora of golf courses, hiking trails and nature reserves,
Oro Valley also has a community feel, complete with weekly farmers’ markets, festive parades, and a number of local art galleries.
Find the full list of the top 30 towns here.