Finding the ideal retirement town can be a daunting task. Focus on balancing quality of life issues and financial security. Relocating to save money can be a shocking reality, especially if it takes you far from family and friends. You don't want to be so far away that it becomes cost prohibitive to maintain your most important relationships.
Give a prospective new town a trial run. Rent a home or condo for a few months to make sure you get a true sense of what the community is like. If you have your eye on an area that's very popular in the winter, spend some time there in summer. Maybe you will love the quiet - or maybe you'll find climate prohibitive when the low-season kicks in.
Make sure wherever you move lets you continue to pursue your favorite hobbies or pastimes. If you are a big theater fan or love big city lights, moving to the boonies might not be a good fit.
Make sure good health care is nearby.
Consider the diversity of the area's economy. A region or town with only one or two companies or industries could cause home prices to fall quickly if that company/industry decides to relocate or close its doors.
Money's list of best places to retire can help you weigh the options throughout various cities and towns across the U.S.
