Florida and retirement became nearly synonymous in the last several decades, and "snowbirds" find it appealing in the colder months. The areas of Florida that appeal to retirees have expanded way beyond Miami, and now include Bonita Springs, Englewood, Fernandina Beach, Ocala, Tarpon Springs and Saint Petersburg. The Florida Keys remain popular, but other areas are less touristy.
More retirees are moving into this once popular fishing village, which sits between the two rather large cities of Fort Myers and Naples. Although Bonita Springs has only recently become recognized as a good place to live after retirement, it is growing rapidly as more seniors look at the state of Florida for their retirement years. Its location on the Gulf Coast allows for fishing and good times on the beach.
Englewood, in Sarasota County, is the place to retire if you are on a budget. The town is quiet and doesn't have the tourism problems found in some other Florida communities. Artists are attracted to the area because of the low cost of living and its natural beauty. During the summer, the population of the town is actually higher than in the colder months because of the comfortable weather and scenery. This is a nice area for permanent residency or winter living.
Retirees that want quiet and beautiful surroundings will enjoy living in Fernandina Beach on the Atlantic coast. You can enjoy nature and spend time exploring the sand dunes, beaches and the salt marches. Because of its isolated location off the beaten track, it is not as popular as some other areas of Florida and not as built up. This draws nature lovers to the area.
Although Ocala is not as large as other communities are, there are plenty of shopping centers on the outskirts of town. The community is peaceful and the pace of life relaxed. Because the area is not overrun with businesses and buildings, the beauty of the hills and horse farms are easily appreciated.
The tropical climate of Saint Petersburg on the Gulf Coast makes it ideal for those who want a warmer climate close to some scenic beaches. The condominiums in the downtown area are affordable for most. In the older, quaint neighborhoods, apartment buildings and single-family homes are found. The city is located close to shopping and entertainment in Sarasota and Tampa.
A strong Greek heritage can be found in Tarpon Springs located in Pinellas County. The little community is mostly working class and has some beautiful oceanfront homes. Because the community is interwoven with many other small communities, there is always something to do and see in the adjacent communities. With a river flowing through the town, one can find a home amidst the peacefulness of nature.
The Florida Keys is still a popular place for retirees, but the area has become so popular that it is quite pricey to live. There are many adult communities in the Keys that are perfect for the retirement years. Tourism is high in the Keys and it is not very quiet unless you can get away from the tourist attractions. However, it is still a popular place to retire.
