As a lifelong Lancaster County resident, it doesn’t surprise me that Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is recognized as a best place to retire!
Our family has lived in Lancaster for generations, and I feel lucky to be part of a growing community with deep roots and room to flourish.
Here are the top five reasons retirees should add Lancaster to their list of places to retire.
1. Friendly state taxes.
In Pennsylvania, retirees generally enjoy tax-free Social Security income, pension income, and 401(k) and IRA distributions. Pennsylvania state sales tax is currently a moderate 6%. We plan state taxes strategically for our clients who are deciding which state to live in, as other states do not always offer the same state tax benefits in retirement.
2. Top retirement communities.
For retirees planning for their future healthcare needs, Lancaster County is home to more than a dozen continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). Our county boasts a concentrated network of support for retirees looking to relocate. Our retirement community specialists help clients and their families determine which opportunities match their goals, lifestyle, and budget.
3. Rich history and culture.
From our local Amish community to the oldest continuously operating public farmer’s market and lively downtown arts scene, retirees and families alike find never-ending adventures in their own backyard. Our welcoming small-town feel is something that retirees seek when their work relationships weaken after retirement.
4. Low-cost outdoor recreation.
The natural beauty of our parks and outdoor recreation areas shines when compared to less moderate climates in the U.S. Biking or walking on the Enola Low Grade Trail is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Many of our clients enjoy e-biking on the trails with their spouse or friends. Fortunately, an intentional land preservation strategy from various organizations like Lancaster Conservancy and Lancaster Farmland Trust ensures that our parks and farmland will be protected for generations.
5. Easy access to major metropolitan areas.
Residents can easily find their way to Philadelphia, Baltimore, New York, DC, and beaches in Delaware and Maryland in just a few hours by car, bus, or train. The family-friendly nature of transportation around Lancaster County makes it a destination that kids and grandkids can visit throughout the year. Family support and strong connection are the keystone in fulfilling a retirement dream.
If you consider Lancaster County an intriguing place to live in your retirement years, we’re here to help plan for that next step.
Kristina is a Senior Financial Advisor with Greenspring Advisors. She is a Certified Financial Planner ® and an Enrolled Agent. Outside of her work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and toddler on their quiet property in Southern Lancaster County.
For questions or commentary about the articles written by Kristina, or ideas for future topics you’d like to see addressed, email her at: kristina.groff@greenspringadvisors.com
Resources:
https://taxfoundation.org/data/all/state/sales-tax-rates/
https://lancoaging.org/168/Continuing-Care-Retirement-Communities
https://exploreretirementliving.org/about/
https://centralmarketlancaster.com/
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