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ChatGPT Suggests: Do Not Retire in These 5 Places
Written by
Sean Fisher, AI Editor
Edited by
Sean Fisher

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Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, but choosing the wrong location can turn your golden years into a struggle. Here are five places that ChatGPT suggests you might want to avoid for retirement, based on factors such as cost of living, healthcare quality, safety, and overall quality of life with data sourced from Zillow, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and more to create this comprehensive list.
New York City, New York
Median Home Price: $732,594
Average Cost of Living (single-person): $1,574Â
Average Crime Rate: 38 per one thousand residents
While the Big Apple offers a vibrant culture and endless entertainment options, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in the United States. The high cost of living, coupled with the fast-paced lifestyle, might not be ideal for retirees looking for a peaceful and budget-friendly environment.
San Francisco, California
Median Home Price: $1,236,502
Average Cost of Living (single-person): $1,488
Average Crime Rate: 67 per one thousand residents
San Francisco is known for its steep hills and steeper prices. The city’s housing market is one of the most expensive in the country, making it a challenging place for retirees on a fixed income. Additionally, the city’s homelessness crisis and property crime rates could be concerning for older residents.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Median Home Price: $787,369
Average Cost of Living (single-person): $1,479
Average Crime Rate: 36 per one thousand residents
While the idea of retiring in a tropical paradise is appealing, Honolulu’s high cost of living can be a significant drawback. Everything from housing to groceries is more expensive here, mainly due to the island’s isolation and reliance on imports.
Detroit, Michigan
Median Home Price: $68,379
Average Cost of Living (single-person): $1,196
Average Crime Rate: 66 per one thousand residents
Despite its affordable housing market, Detroit ranks low on the list for retirees due to its economic instability, high crime rates, and struggling healthcare system. The city has made efforts to revitalize, but it still has a long way to go in terms of providing a secure and comfortable environment for retirees.
Miami, Florida
Median Home Price: $558,873
Average Cost of Living (single-person): $1,287
Average Crime Rate: 4 per one thousand inhabitants
While Florida is often considered a retiree haven, Miami might not be the best choice within the state. The city’s vulnerability to hurricanes, combined with rising sea levels and insurance costs, can make it a risky place to settle down. Additionally, Miami’s traffic congestion and high healthcare costs can detract from the overall quality of retirement life.
Making the Right Choice
When choosing a retirement destination, it’s essential to consider your personal needs and preferences. Factors such as climate, proximity to family, access to quality healthcare, and opportunities for social engagement should all play a role in your decision. While the places listed above might have their drawbacks, they could still be the perfect fit for some retirees. It’s all about finding the right balance for your unique situation.
Places ChatGPT would suggest:
- Sarasota, Florida
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Prescott, Arizona
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania
- Boise, Idaho
- Green Valley, Arizona
- Roanoke, Virginia
- Port St. Lucie, Florida
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.
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