Though Florida boasts numerous underrated beach towns and holds appeal for spending one’s retirement in the Sunshine State, choosing Arizona might be a wiser option.
Arizona offers several cost-effective and secure small towns, abundant opportunities to explore stunning nature, and a top-tier healthcare system. If you’re weighing the decision between these two states for your retirement, it’s essential to take these factors into consideration.
Reduced Occurrences of Natural Disasters
Although Florida is a beautiful state, it is also one of the most vulnerable to natural disasters. Florida is a hurricane-prone state due to its location on the Atlantic Coast, whereas Arizona has less extreme weather events.
Arizona has a more arid environment than Florida, which offers people continuous sunshine and a decreased chance of weather-related mishaps.
This is in contrast to Florida’s changeable weather. The state’s magnificent canyons, recognizable saguaro cacti, and stunning desert vistas all add to its special and tranquil atmosphere.
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Lower Living Expenses
Arizona offers a lower cost of living than Florida. Phoenix has a $3,269 average cost of living compared to $4,821 in Miami, Florida. This implies that you will be able to enjoy the benefits of a work-free life, such as travel and leisure activities, and that your retirement funds will go a lot further.
Great Healthcare Facilities
When it comes to healthcare, Arizona offers some truly excellent hospitals, so you won’t have to worry about cutting corners when you retire here. There are several of these in Phoenix, which is also home to some incredible activities.
In addition to guaranteeing that retirees have access to first-rate medical facilities, Arizona’s healthcare system, especially in Phoenix, enhances the general well-being of the area. Arizona ranks admirably at number eight among the states in the union for hospital quality. Florida, meanwhile, comes in less positively at No. 13.
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You Can Enjoy All The Seasons
Most likely, beautiful desert vistas come to mind when you think about Arizona. Despite the abundance of those, this state still boasts some excellent skiing, such as at Arizona Snowbowl.
A dusting of snow and pleasant, dry temperatures make for an ideal combination that’s hard to beat. Florida, on the other hand, has a subtropical climate, meaning that the summer is its wet season and the winter is its dry season.
Unlike many other places, the state does not experience the typical four seasons, which include clear changes between spring, summer, fall, and winter.
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Reduced Taxes of Real Estate
Arizona enjoys a lower effective property tax rate than Florida when it comes to median real estate taxes. Arizona’s typical real estate tax is $1,707, which is $631 less than Florida’s $2,338 each year.
Proposition 108 in Arizona, which caps the overall property tax rate on owner-occupied homes, is partially to blame for this discrepancy.
The increasing median property values in Florida also add to the increased tax burden. For inhabitants of Arizona, this cost benefit may result in more affordable homes and even have an impact on where people choose to buy real estate.
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To Conclude
Arizona proves to be a strong substitute for retirees, even though Florida has beaches and Sunshine State charm. Its moderate climate, abundant natural beauty, outstanding healthcare, and affordability all come together to create a safe and satisfying retirement retreat.
Arizona has a plethora of advantages that surpass those found in Florida, making it an extremely intelligent choice for your golden years.
These benefits range from cheaper taxes and cost of living to breathtaking landscapes and first-rate medical facilities. So gather your belongings, enjoy the weather, and explore the wonders that Arizona has in store!
