Pennsylvania is known for a lot of things—its travel convenience, the Philly cheesesteak, and even its beautiful seasons. As the second-oldest state in the nation, Pennsylvania has seen its share of history, and people from all over the country travel there every year. However, in addition to its popularity with tourists, Pennsylvania is also an excellent state for retirees.
The east coast does not always bring to mind retirement images—but there are a lot of things you never knew about retiring in Pennsylvania. Before you decide to move down south, take a few of these details into consideration:
Modern-Day Attractions
Everyone knows Pennsylvania is the perfect place for history buffs. From the Liberty Bell to Valley Forge National Historic Park, relics from our country’s revolution are all over the state. However, Pennsylvania is also home to more modern sites that are just as entertaining as the historic ones.
Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania has been continuously expanding since 1906, and now it has 90 acres filled with roller coasters, water rides, kids’ attractions, and more. It’s the perfect place to take the family when they come for a visit. Plus, you’ll have more than your fill of Hershey’s chocolate while you’re there. If an amusement park is not on your agenda, you can visit a more relaxed location like the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum is a staple in the city, and it features both modern exhibits and historic artists.
Tax Exemptions
Aside from the fact that the cost of living in Pennsylvania is significantly cheaper than the states around it, retirees also get financial benefits in the form of tax exemptions. Pennsylvania does not tax retirement income for anyone over the age of 59½. This includes 401(k)s, IRAs, and Social Security benefits—and once retirees turn 65, there are rebates on property taxes as well.
These kinds of exemptions are rare in the United States. While Pennsylvania does levy an inheritance tax on estates, many retirees believe the ultimate cost is worth it when they take into account the various tax breaks. In fact, some people will work for years in neighboring states and then retire in Pennsylvania to avoid their retirement income being taxed. If you want to make the most out of your nest egg when you retire, Pennsylvania is one of the best places to do it.
New Friendships
Picking up all your belongings and starting over somewhere new can be intimidating—especially if you have lived in the same place for years. However, a Pennsylvania retirement is sure to bring you plenty of new friends to go along with your new experiences. An estimated 18% of Pennsylvania residents are 65 and older, which means there are a host of opportunities to build relationships with other retirees. If you are looking for someone to join you to hike local parks or explore new restaurants, you are sure to find people in one of the hundreds of retirement communities in this beautiful state.
When you retire in Pennsylvania, do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and make a few friends while you are there. Chances are, other retirees have some of the same motivations you do: saving money, celebrating your golden years, and having fun!
Countless Golf Courses
One of the most popular retirement activities across the country—no matter where you live—is golf. Luckily, Pennsylvania is home to some of the most popular golf courses in the country. In fact, the oldest golf course in the nation, Foxburg Country Club, has been up and running in Clarion County since 1887, and it’s still used to this day.
Because of the beautiful Pennsylvania terrain, some golf courses are even located in the mountains. You can find Jack Frost National Golf Club in the heart of the Pocono Mountains in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania, and you’ll be captivated by the natural beauty of Pennsylvania at every new hole.
Retiring in Pennsylvania
You might think you have already heard everything you need to know about Pennsylvania, but this great state is full of surprises. If you are planning your retirement, don’t discount the wonders that Pennsylvania has to offer you. Sometimes, it’s the things you never knew that end up being the most convincing.
Are you interested in a Pennsylvania retirement? We’d love to share a few more surprises about this state with you—especially when it comes to our Acts retirement communities. Schedule your tour today to learn more about all the amazing opportunities you have retiring in Pennsylvania.
