Six Reasons to Retire in Los Angeles

Content Produced by Fountainview at Gonda−

If you’re beginning to think about where you would like to retire, you’ve probably come across many lists that include small to mid-sized towns in the South and Midwest. Many of these guides are created around topics like cost of living and home prices—but there is so much more to consider when choosing a location that will contribute to a full, happy, and healthy life.

There are many misconceptions around what it’s like to live in, or retire to, Los Angeles. Many may assume that L.A. is out of reach for them. Below is a list compiled by Fountainview at Gonda, a continuing care and independent retirement community in Los Angeles, on what L.A. has to offer the retiring age:

Safety

Los Angeles is one of America’s safest big cities, but it has a lingering reputation regarding crime and safety. However, the idea that L.A. is a generally unsafe place to live is a myth. Crime rates in L.A. are low and have been on the decline for many years, and retiring in safety should always be a priority.

Cost of Living

Major metropolitan areas tend to have a higher cost of living compared to small towns and rural areas, but a higher cost of living indicates a location’s desirability. So while Los Angeles is generally more expensive than say, Omaha, Nebraska, that’s because L.A. is a vibrant city with near-perfect weather, delicious food, world-renowned cultural events and the highest quality education and healthcare.

Public Transit

Many Angelenos use Los Angeles’ award-winning public transportation system. Los Angeles is one of only twelve U.S. cities with a Metro rail system. Built in 1993 and expanded in 2000, it is the newest American Metro among all U.S. cities. The rail system is expansive, consisting of two rapid-transit subway lines and four light-rail lines serving 80 stations. The average weekday ridership was 333,287 as of February 2016.

It’s not just about trains – L.A. has the second-largest bus system in the country. The Metro bus system is composed of nearly 200 lines that connect people to all parts of the greater L.A. region. These buses travel to every major destination including state parks, tourist attractions, and shopping districts.

Meeting New People

When relocating to a new area, it’s important to get involved with the local social scene. Los Angeles is full of activities for all ages and offers many fun ways to meet people. The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks has organized clubs, many of which are specifically for seniors, and they offer a range of activities, from billiards and dance to nature walks and golf. In addition to these organizations, there are 27 senior centers in the area offering special events, arts and crafts and language lessons.

Medical Care

Quality hospitals and medical centers are a must when considering a new area, and many people move to and stay in Los Angeles because of the excellent medical care available to its residents. Los Angeles is a medical hub, with more than 30 healthcare centers that meet rigorous U.S. News & World Report criteria to rank among the nation’s best. Additionally, one of the best healthcare centers in the area is the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, which is ranked among the top five hospitals in the country for geriatrics, ophthalmology, and urology.

Recreation & Culture

Los Angeles is a cultural and recreation hub. It has more than 50 music venues and is a popular stop for internationally known artists as well as local musicians. The city is also home to a world-class opera and symphony orchestra. As for recreation, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Los Angeles’ year-round Mediterranean climate. Located on the Pacific coast, Los Angeles boasts miles of picturesque beaches for the sun worshipper in everyone. L.A. is also home to more than 150 hiking trails of varying length and scenery – these trails are great in the cool winter air, in the summer, seasonal waterfalls reappear, and the green mountains surrounding Los Angeles fill with wildflowers.

Climate

One of the best things about southern California is the climate. Living in sunny southern California offers a lifestyle that many people in colder and wetter climates envy. It may get a bit warmer during peak summer months in certain parts of Los Angeles, but the coastal area of Los Angeles offers cooler temps and breezes. The climate is classified as a Mediterranean climate that can only be found in a very small percentage of regions around the world. People are generally more active and happier in mild climates, another benefit of living in Los Angeles.  Staying active in retirement is important and can have an impact in your overall health status and wellbeing.

There is so much to do as a retiree in Los Angeles, and the city could easily be the best place to call a forever home.