The most affordable city in Ohio for retirement: benefits
When you retire, it is essential to settle in a city where you can manage living expenses even with a limited budget. Expenses such as housing, taxes, and home maintenance can significantly impact your monthly income.
In 2024, a city in the Midwest of the United States could be an excellent choice for this purpose. We are referring to Youngstown, which was once a hub of America's steel industry and has now transformed into a cultural center offering affordable housing, parks, and excellent medical facilities, as reported by TravelAndLeisure.
Youngstown, located in Ohio, holds the top spot among the most affordable cities for retirement, according to US News. This ranking was based on an analysis of 150 metropolitan areas, considering factors such as healthcare, recreational opportunities, cost of living, taxes, and overall happiness.
The average cost of a home in Youngstown is only $137,546, while the average monthly rent for an apartment is $706. These affordable housing options contribute to Youngstown's ranking as the top city for a satisfying retirement.
What are the advantages of living in Youngstown
The city boasts a population of over 60,000 residents and is home to notable institutions such as Youngstown State University, the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, the Butler Museum of American Art, and the Youngstown Theater.
Opera enthusiasts can indulge in performances by Opera Western Reserve, which has its own opera company and also provides training opportunities for young artists.
Moreover, Youngstown's strategic location between Cleveland and Pittsburgh offers residents easy access to a plethora of cultural events and activities throughout the year.
For shopping needs, residents have access to major retail outlets including Walmart, Giant, Aldi, and Lidl, alongside numerous local and independent businesses.
The main attraction of this city is the 5,000-acre recreational area - Mill Creek Metropark. It boasts 45 miles of hiking trails, a performing arts pavilion, several lakes, two golf courses, and scenic roads, making it a favorite destination for residents seeking tranquil nature.
The city's healthcare system features top-notch institutions such as Mercy Health and Southwoods Health. Retirees often prefer to reside in villa homes, townhouses, and condominiums. It's worth noting that several new residential complexes are under construction in Youngstown, offering amenities such as ground-floor master suites, community centers, and swimming pools that cater to retirees' interests.
Additionally, it's worth mentioning that Ohio is well-represented in the ranking of the best cities for retirement, with Ashland and Toledo ranking fifth and ninth, respectively.
According to another ranking presented this year by GOBankingRates, Akron tops the list, where an estimated $2,500 per month is needed to live comfortably in retirement.
