For Mark Roberts’ Use: Now that October has arrived, the weather is finally beginning to change from summer to more autumn-like. This might come as a welcome reprieve from this year’s unusually long, hot summer… Or, you might be feeling a sense of dread. Some people simply do not enjoy winter, at all, and can’t wait to escape the cold for a more sunny location someday.

That’s entirely possible as you transition into retirement, because you will no longer be tied to a location due to your career. And we can’t blame you; the cold tends to be harder on us as we get older.

If you’re scouting retirement locations, you might be interested in this list compiled by Kiplinger. They scouted the country and determined areas in which the average temperature never falls below 32 degrees in January.

  • Augusta, Georgia
  • Corvallis, Oregon
  • Round Rock, Texas
  • Jackson, Mississippi
  • Charleston, South Carolina
  • Lafayette, Louisiana
  • Carlsbad, California
  • Phoenix, Arizona
  • Cape Coral, Florida
  • Hilo, Hawaii

If you’re wondering how these locations were chosen, other than climate, we have good news for you: Yes, Kiplinger considered the cost of living. They also accounted for factors such as health care availability, population data, and overall satisfaction.

On the other hand, taxes were not considered, so you might wish to evaluate that as you consider retirement destinations. Taxes can vary wildly between states, and can impact budgets relying upon a fixed income.

Budget will naturally become one of your primary concerns if you decide to move to a warmer climate in retirement. Keep meeting with us regularly as you plan, so that we can help you identify all potential opportunities and establish a workable retirement budget.