Is Huntsville a Good Place To Retire?
When it’s time to retire, you probably have a list of requirements as long as your arm. Great weather, good culture, affordable cost of living and easy to get around … among other things. As you’re seeking out different destinations, there’s one city that has everything you want that may not be on your radar: Huntsville, Alabama.
“Huntsville isn’t as well-known as Birmingham or Montgomery, but we’re a great town with a lot to do that people are beginning to notice,” says Allison Yancey, Executive Director of Residences at Wellpoint, an Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care community in Huntsville, Alabama. “We have lots of social and cultural options, a thriving economy, a vibrant history and, of course, classic Southern charm.”
And that’s just for starters. Huntsville (Madison County) has a highly educated population, thanks to the fact that NASA is located there (it’s considered to have the highest per capita PhD population in the United States). There are natural wonders galore, an affordable cost of living and some great craft beer breweries. With all that going for it, it’s no wonder that Grandparents.com named Huntsville as one of the up-and-coming best places to retire!
“If you’re a retiree who also wants to be a trendsetter, there’s no better place for you to craft a perfect retirement than moving to our fair city,” jokes Allison.
The “Rocket City”
The Huntsville tourism department’s tongue-in-cheek tagline is, “We’ve Got Space!” – a perfectly clever nod to the city’s long and storied history in the fields of aerospace, defense and biotech. Huntsville assisted in launching the mid-century “Space Race” when NASA and the Marshall Space Flight Center were established there. Huntsville helped develop many satellites, rockets and other technologies that helped put astronauts in orbit.
Because of this science-heavy background, Huntsville quickly became known as a hotspot for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) disciplines. However, space, science and engineering aren’t the only highlights of this city. You’ll also find a thriving arts scene filled with both local and national artists. Huntsville is home to the largest privately owned arts center in the southern United States – Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. This former factory building has been redesigned and developed to now include 152 studios for 200 artists. It also boasts performance venues, a multiuse theater and seven fine art galleries.
Outdoor Adventure
Huntsville is perfectly situated in the Tennessee River Valley, which is why it’s surrounded by large hill systems, plateaus, caves and overall gorgeous outdoor options. Monte Sano State Park is a local favorite with more than 2,000 acres of pristine forest perfect for hiking, biking, camping and general outdoor fun.
There are many opportunities to hike and bike in Huntsville, thanks to numerous parks and greenways such as Fern Bell and Big Spring Park. There is so much outdoor enjoyment that REI named Huntsville Number 6 in the country for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors! (Don’t forget to ask us about our baseball team, of which we’re ridiculously proud.)
Weather and Taxes
Let’s get down to brass tacks. Beyond the benefits we’ve mentioned, Huntsville makes a great place to retire due to its tax-friendly government and moderate winters. For retirees looking for milder climates without having to pay the cost of living in places like Florida and California, Alabama is a perfect place in terms of weather.
It’s also a perfect place in terms of tax-friendliness. According to a recent report from U.S. News & World Report, the state of Alabama is incredibly friendly for retirees because it doesn’t tax Social Security benefits, excludes traditional pension payments from taxable state income, has low property taxes and has one of the lowest sales tax rates in the country (around 4%).
Enjoyment Awaits!
There are many benefits to living in Huntsville, no matter what your retirement plan is. “When it comes to a city in Alabama, Huntsville provides many retirement benefits, retirement savings, retirement income and other benefits that will make you glad you moved to Huntsville,” says Allison. “When it comes to security, retirement benefits, real estate taxes and others, you’ll be pleasantly thrilled to retire to the city of Huntsville in North Alabama.”
Whatever your desires for moving to Huntsville: hospital options, cultural options or anything else, we welcome your questions. Contact us for any information on the city you’ll love to call home.
Where It All Comes Together
At Residences at Wellpoint, we provide an exceptional experience for those who desire Independent Living, Assisted Living or Memory Care in the Huntsville area. As part of the broader Wellpoint Community “campus,” we cultivate an engaged, intergenerational community unlike any other. Here, we celebrate well-being with an array of social programs; innovative, on-site medical technology; a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle and so much more.
Here, our residents enjoy complete freedom of choice as well as the ability to plan their days however they choose. This is because we take the tedious routines of everyday life off your hands so that you can enjoy your life any way you wish. Go on an outing, enjoy the community, get fit in the fitness center, enjoy our dining bistro or shoot a game of pool in the sports/billiards bar. It’s all waiting for you.
No matter what your needs are, we can meet them. Our lifestyle philosophy supports every need along your journey, whether you desire Independent Living, need the assistance of our Assisted Living program or begin to need Memory Care. However your needs may change, we offer on-site medical assistance and supportive services so you can continue enjoying the engaging lifestyle you love. Contact us to learn more!
Call us at 256.274.5312 for more information or to schedule a personal visit today.