Independent Living in Georgia

Most people who are looking to retire in the South, immediately head straight for Florida's sunny skies, warm weather and beautiful beaches. What most people don't realize is that they are missing out on a potential gold mine in terms of retirement, in Florida's neighbor Georgia. Georgia is known as the Peach State or Empire State of the South, and the largest and most populous of its cities is Atlanta. Georgia is bordered by a number of states that include Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama and also the Atlantic Ocean. Georgia has had a particular boom in real estate, communications technology and industry that has helped to move its economy on swiftly; however this doesn't mean that it has compromised its Southern charm, or impacted the incredible nature found in the state. It is a state in which golden agers can live a healthy and active life, no matter what their hobbies are.

A Look at Georgia

There are a number of different areas that have contributed to the economic growth in Georgia, and one of the biggest is agriculture. The state's output is poultry, eggs, pecans, peaches, cotton, rye and cattle among many other things, and in fact Georgia is the largest producer of pecan nuts in the world. There are four ports located in Georgia, and they contribute significantly to the state's economic stability. The four ports that are owned by the Georgia Ports Authority are the Port of Savannah, Port of Brunswick, Port Bainbridge and Port Columbus. The strong economy in Georgia makes it a safe bet for retirement. Tourism is one of the newest emerging industries in Georgia, and it now contributes significantly to the economy. Some of the most popular tourist destinations found in the state are the Georgia Zoo, Atlanta Aquarium and the World of Coke.

What's more is that the cost of living in Georgia is significantly lower than the national average, and golden agers will see their money going a lot further here. While Florida boasts that it has no income tax, Georgia's tax scheme is extremely favorable to retirees. $65,000 dollars of retirement earnings is not liable for tax for those older than the age of 65. The median price of houses in Georgia is also relatively low when compared to the rest of the US.

Senior Communities in Georgia

Retirement options in Georgia are limitless, and there are hundreds of well-known communities that you can settle into. Georgia is a huge state and thus there are different areas that will suit different types of personalities. These areas include (but are not limited to) St. Thomas, which is a small seaside town that is extremely popular, but significantly more expensive than other areas; Blue Ridge, which is a small town found in the mountains that is perfect for active, nature loving people; Athens which is a college town; and Atlanta, which boasts a huge variety of cultural and artsy festivals for those retirees who are a little more interested in culture rather than nature. Medical care in Georgia is top of the range, and there is over 151 hospitals found in the state. Types of living communities vary from full independent living communities to part time and full time assisted living options. These choices mean that every golden ager will find a community to suit their individual needs.

Georgia is a state that is full of variety and there is always something for everyone. The state boasts 48 state parks that are perfect for nature lovers. These parks range in diversity and size from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Georgia is a perfect place for any active golden agers to get into the outdoors and do the things that they love. That being said, there are also 15 Historic sites dotted throughout the state that are bound to keep the history buffs interested. Other cultural attractions include the High Museum of Art, the Springer Opera House and the Atlanta symphony orchestra. There is something for everyone in Georgia, and this is what makes it a great place to retire.