Charming Western town named one of the most affordable places to retire with mountain views and low taxes
Casper, Wyoming, has been cited as one of the most affordable places for Americans to spend their later years.
While Florida may be the retirement destination of choice for seniors who enjoy warm weather and beach vacations, others enjoy snow-capped mountains or fishing trips.
The charming western city offers just that – and is a good option for those who prioritize affordability in retirement.
This is evident from the latest report from WalletHub ranking of the best places to retire.
The study ranked 180 U.S. cities based on 45 criteria to determine which are friendliest to retirees and where they can plan for an affordable retirement while maintaining the best quality of life.
Casper, Wyoming, has been cited as one of the most affordable places for Americans to spend their later years
WalletHub took into account factors such as the cost of living, weather, quality of healthcare and the number of museums a city has to offer or nearby fishing spots.
Casper finished ninth overall, the second highest among the Western cities on the list.
It was beaten only by Scottsdale, Arizona, which finished in sixth place.
Casper ranked third out of all 180 cities in affordability – taking into account factors such as cost of living, tax-friendliness, the cost of in-home services and the cost of adult health care.
Wyoming has some of the lowest taxes in the country, and one of the lowest personal tax burdens per capita, which is a benefit for retirees on a fixed income.
The Equality State has no individual income tax – allowing seniors to keep more of their income – and does not impose estate or inheritance taxes.
Casper has a population of about 59,000, according to the Census Bureau, about 16 percent of whom are 65 or older.
The cost of living in the western city is lower than the national average, as is the price of the average home.
According to Zillow, a typical property in the city costs $290,928 – compared to the national average of $359,892.
Casper residents also have access to quality healthcare thanks to Banner Wyoming Medical Center, the largest hospital in the state.
But Casper’s main draw is its opportunities for outdoor activities.
Casper has a population of about 59,000, about 16 percent of whom are 65 or older, according to the Census Bureau
Casper ranked third out of all 180 cities for affordability – which took into account factors such as cost of living, tax friendliness, the cost of in-home services and the cost of health care for adults
Wyoming has one of the lowest taxes in the country, and one of the lowest personal tax burdens per capita (Photo: Wyoming State Capitol)
According to Zillow, a typical property in Casper costs $290,928 – compared to the national average of $359,892
The city is dotted with beautiful parks on both banks of the North Platte River and surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Travel + Leisure reported.
Casper Mountain is crisscrossed by more than 50 miles of trails, which keep residents active, and locals can also enjoy camping and archery.
Located a short drive from downtown, Hogadon Ski Area is a family-friendly resort with multiple trails and a lodge where skiers and snowboarders of all levels can practice their favorite winter sports, the outlet said.
Also in the top ten places to retire, according to WalletHub, are Orlando, Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and St. Petersburg in Florida.
Cincinnati, Ohio, also made the top ten – alongside Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Like Casper, Minneapolis is among the coldest cities in the US, with particularly harsh winters.
But Minneapolis has all seasons, and the city’s summers are not overly hot, with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Celsius.
The city’s friendly environment, high-quality hospital system, beautiful surroundings and strong cultural life landed it third in the rankings.