As 401(k) participants approach retirement age, concerns undoubtedly shift away from optimal asset allocation and appropriate contribution rates toward thoughts about where to live and how much to spend.
For the most successful retirement savers, GoBankingRates rounded up a list of luxurious places to retire, and tallied the cost of living the good life.
Here are the top five:
- Solivita, Kissimmee, Fla.
Residents cruise around this community in golf carts (whether or not they decide to play a round), taking in its beautiful lake-ridden landscape and enjoying its wealth of amenities. It’s easy to keep active with a 32,000-square-foot on-site Riviera Spa and Fitness Center, featuring indoor and outdoor pools and a complimentary goal-oriented wellness program. And for the appreciators of the arts, there’s an on-site gallery and studios for ceramics, sculpture and painting. Home prices range from $150,000 to $500,000, according to GoBankingRates estimates.
- Covenant Shores, Mercer Island, Wash.
This waterfront community is a bridge away from downtown Seattle and boasts a private marina, watercolor painting classes and—of course—an on-site cafe. If Covenant’s 12 acres of scenery isn’t enough, there are nearby walking trails and Luther Burbank Park, a known haven for birdwatching. For one- and two-bedroom apartment homes, residents pay an entrance fee of $91,000, and a monthly fee from $1,930 on up.
- Del Webb at Lake Oconee, Greensboro, Ga.
Two hours outside of Atlanta, boredom is practically impossible at this lakeside community. In addition to a gym, pool and tennis courts, residents can enjoy fishing, boating, bocce ball, ping pong, billiards and croquet. What more could anyone want? Nearby walking trails and planned community activities? Check and check. Ranch-style homes begin at $269,990.
- The Clare, Chicago, Ill.
There are views for days from this high-rise community smack dab in the middle of the Windy City. Just a few blocks from Navy Pier, living at The Clare includes complimentary continental breakfast, concierge services and a doorman. Plus, healthcare is an elevator away at The Terrace, a medical care provider housed in the same building. One- to three-bedroom floorplans are available for prices ranging from $300,000 to $1.5 million.
- The Samarkand, Santa Barbara, Calif.
Mountains on one side, the Pacific Ocean on the other and perfect weather to boot, Samarkand lives up to its meaning: “land of heart’s desire.” From its hilltop apartment buildings, retirees can enjoy the picturesque landscape, or opt to lounge by the outdoor pool, grab a bite in the Mountain View Café or take a shuttle ride to downtown Santa Barbara. According to GoBankingRates, entrance fees start at $119,000 and monthly fees at $2,235.
Jessa Claeys is a writer, editor and graphic designer.
