Savvy Senior Shares Tools to Find Perfect Retirement Spot

Resources to research cost of living, taxes, climate, healthcare, and more when relocating for retirement

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A reader looking to relocate for retirement when they retire next year is seeking advice on the best resources to research potential retirement destinations. The Savvy Senior columnist recommends several online tools and guides to help evaluate factors like cost of living, taxes, climate, healthcare, transportation, and more to find the ideal retirement location.

Why it matters

Choosing the right place to retire can have a significant impact on one's quality of life, finances, and overall well-being in retirement. With many factors to consider, having the right research tools and information is crucial for retirees to make an informed decision about where to spend their golden years.

The details

The column suggests starting the search on BestPlaces.net, which compiles demographic data to allow comparisons of cities across various criteria. It also recommends consulting 'best places to retire' lists published by news and financial outlets. To dig deeper, the article provides specific resources to research cost of living, taxes, crime rates, climate, healthcare access, and transportation - all important factors when evaluating potential retirement destinations. The advice also encourages readers to spend extended time in locations they are considering to get a true feel for the area before making a final decision.

  • The reader is looking to relocate when they retire next year.

The players

Savvy Senior

A columnist who provides advice and resources to help seniors make informed decisions about retirement and aging-related topics.

Looking to Relocate

A reader who is interested in relocating to a warmer climate when they retire next year.

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What they’re saying

“It's exciting to think about relocating in retirement! Whether you're considering seasonal escapes or a permanent change, there are a wide variety of digital resources that can help you find and research new locations.”

— Savvy Senior (newrockfordtranscript.com)

The takeaway

Thoroughly researching potential retirement destinations using a variety of online tools and resources is crucial for retirees to find the right location that aligns with their lifestyle, financial goals, and overall well-being in the next phase of their lives.