Who doesn’t want to live in the Golden State? California has everything you need to be happy: beach, city, desert, mountains, snow, good food and wine… what else can you ask? But, all these things are not free, and they tend to upraise the cost of living there. This is a challenge for those couples living only on a Social Security check, but, hey, who said that everything is lost?
California offers a lot of picturesque and affordable places for retirees to call home. From coastal paradises to charming inland towns, we’ve curated a list of the best five places to live in California, ensuring your Social Security retirement years are filled with tranquility, adventure, and a dash of that famous west coast charm. You won’t believe the top 1 spot: You might wanna grab your things and move there tomorrow!
California Places for Retirees to Live Comfortably on Social Security Payments
One of the favorite places for retirees is Los Angeles County, for its wonderful beaches, parks, its vibrant and wide cultural and entertainment offer and, of course, for having one of the best climates in the world. With a score of 65 out of 100 on the livability index, the community of South Gate is an excellent option for retirees living on Social Security payments. The average income is about $1,798, and the average monthly cost of living is $3,021.
If you’re a history buff, South Gate has its own unique story to tell. The city has a rich history, and you can learn about its past at the South Gate History Museum. It’s a great place to discover the roots of this beautiful community. This location also offers convenient access to the bustling city of Los Angeles. Whether you’re interested in catching a Lakers game at the Staples Center, exploring the vibrant art scene in downtown LA, or simply enjoying a day at the beach, it’s all within reach from South Gate.
South Gate, Visalia and Hanford: Nice Californian Spots to Live After Retirement
Another one of the places we have found, where you can live with Social Security checks is Visalia. This retirees-friendly city combines the best of California living with a warm and friendly community atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful San Joaquin Valley, Visalia provides a unique blend of natural beauty and city conveniences. With an average monthly rent of just $1,708, it’s much more budget-friendly compared to some of the larger cities in California. This means you can enjoy all that Visalia has to offer without breaking the bank.
The monthly total cost of living, which is around $3,111, is reasonable for a city of its size and provides a comfortable standard of living. This balance between affordable housing and living costs makes With a livability index of 71, it is an attractive destination for individuals and families alike, including single retirees and couples.
Hanford, California is a charming and welcoming city that offers a great living experience, especially for retirees relying on their Social Security checks. Nestled in the heart of California’s beautiful San Joaquin Valley, Hanford boasts a warm and inviting ambience that is perfect for those looking to enjoy their golden years. Here are a few reasons why Hanford is an excellent choice for retirees:
This location is known for its affordability, with an average monthly rent of $1,900. This is considerably lower than many other cities in California, making it easier for retirees to make their Social Security income stretch further. The monthly total cost of living in Hanford, averaging around $3,164, which is reasonable compared to the state’s standards. The are has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city sees over 300 days of sunshine per year, providing retirees with ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and soak in the sun.
These Places Are Retiree’s Dreams Come True
Social Security retirees can have one of the best possible living standards in California if they decide to settle in Chico. It is a retiree’s dream come true, especially if you’re relying on your Social Security checks to fund your golden years. Nestled in the northern part of sunny California, Chico offers retirees a warm and inviting haven for their golden years. It’s all about affordability here, with an average monthly rent of just $1,626, making it budget-friendly for those on fixed incomes. The overall cost of living, including housing, groceries, transportation, and more, is quite reasonable compared to many other Californian cities, averaging around $3,078 per month.
Finally, one of the top spots for retirees to call home is Redding, a northern location that has it all for retirees couples to live nice and comfortable. With an average monthly rent of $1,525, it’s an affordable place to call home, allowing you to fully enjoy the California lifestyle without having to rely on extra incomes.
Redding is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the iconic Shasta Lake and the picturesque Sacramento River. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll find yourself in paradise here. The city’s livability index of 75 reflects its commitment to providing a high quality of life for its residents.
The monthly total cost of living, at $2,987, takes into account the various amenities and services that Redding has to offer. You’ll find a wide range of dining options, from local eateries to international cuisine, that adds up to the local vibrant culture and entertainment scene.
How to Get More Social Security Benefits With These Easy Tricks
Your monthly Social Security retirement benefits are determined by your 35 highest-earning years. If you have fewer than 35 years of earnings, those missing years can reduce your benefit. Consider working a bit longer to fill those gaps, even if it’s part-time.
Now, this is absolutely primordial: You must verify the accuracy of your earnings record with the SSA. Incorrect information, like underreported income, can result in a lower benefit. You can check your earnings statements on the SSA website and correct any discrepancies to ensure you receive the correct benefit.
Delaying your Social Security filing until age 70 can significantly increase your monthly benefit. You can receive your full benefit at your full retirement age, which is 67 for those born in 1960 or later. However, for each year you delay beyond that, up to age 70, your benefit grows by 8%. This can help compensate for a smaller retirement savings balance.
In summary, to maximize your Social Security benefits:
- Consider working a bit longer to fill gaps in your 35-year earnings history.
- Review and correct any errors in your earnings record with the SSA.
- Delay your Social Security filing until age 70 to increase your monthly benefit.
While it’s ideal to have substantial retirement savings, understanding how Social Security benefits work and taking these steps can help ensure you receive the most from your Social Security income in retirement.