If you're trying to decide where to retire, one of the nation's best options is closer than you might think, according to Forbes' annual list of The 25 Best Places to Retire in 2016.
This year's picks are scattered across 19 states, and the only Georgia town to score a spot is Athens.
Numerous financial, economic, and community/cultural factors were considered as Forbes compiled the list from information on about 500 communities. For example, many adults say they might continue working part-time after retirement, so low unemployment rates are key for that.
The cost of living, accessibility to healthcare and opportunities that encourage active retirement also helped towns' scores.
Average home price, tax benefits for retirees, and the "walkability" potential (the ability to do shopping and perform errands by walking, but not too far) all contributed to Athens being on the list. Another bonus was the fact that it's a college town, with plenty of cultural and educational opportunities through the University of Georgia.
Click here to see the full list and learn more about each town.
Click here to read how Forbes determined the final 25.
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/P7DYBH6TO7FEKG4SUXQQKADRXE.jpg)
