Lifestyle, Weather, and Care: Best Places to Retire in California

The best places to retire in California depend on your budget, retirement goals, and other preferences, but Ventura and Carlsbad are two options near the top of the list. Retiring in California is a great idea if you want to stay close to family or if you have dreamed of living in the Golden State. 

California is a fantastic state to retire in, Kiplinger reports. Benefits such as no tax on Social Security benefits and beautiful weather make it difficult to resist the pull of the Golden State and its unique and idyllic lifestyle. 

For seniors in Ventura, CA, it may be difficult to decide where to lay your roots in the final years of life. In this guide, we will explore some of the most sought-after California senior destinations and why The Palms at Bonaventure Senior Living is an ideal choice. 

Is Retiring in California a Good Idea? 

It can be. There are some tradeoffs that seniors make to enjoy the lifestyle of California due to its high cost of living. However, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. 

Most of California, notably Southern California, has beautiful weather year-round, limiting the occurrences of seasonal affective disorder. With more sunny days than not, seniors can explore the outdoors and experience the benefits of fresh air. 

Where Is the Best Place to Live in California for Retirees? 

Your ideal California location depends on many factors, such as your budget and your living preferences. For instance, seniors who want a more affordable option may see cities like Sacramento or Palm Springs as more attractive. If you want to experience a more weather-friendly retirement, consider California senior destinations such as Carlsbad or Carmel-by-the-Sea. 

Ventura

Ventura offers the perfect mix of coastal charm and Southern California culture. Its location is great if you want easy access to the hustle and bustle of urban Los Angeles, as well as the idyllic opulence of Santa Barbara. 

Consider taking your yoga practice or other wellness activities outdoors to take full advantage of the coastal atmosphere. You can also tour the town's many unique businesses, such as breweries, as well as Channel Islands National Park.

Carlsbad 

Carlsbad is another coastal town just north of San Diego, and about an hour from the United States-Mexico border. The city offers popular entertainment options suitable for families, such as:

• Legoland
• Strawberry picking
• The Flower Fields
• The Museum of Making Music 

Carlsbad also features a stunning seven miles of coastline, with endless options for the perfect beach getaway. 

Sacramento

Though it is the state capital of California, Sacramento is surprisingly affordable for seniors who seek a central location with plenty of things to do. The city is a hub of California culture, from a plethora of museums to California Gold Rush experiences. 

Sacramento's location is also appealing to those who love to travel. Some of the locations that are a short drive from Sacramento include: 

• Yosemite
• Napa Valley
• San Francisco
• Lake Tahoe 

Orange County

Encompassing a large portion of Southern California south of Los Angeles, Orange County is a sprawling area that offers plenty of activities and entertainment for seniors. Orange County has numerous beaches to explore, along with high-end shopping and plenty of outdoor experiences. 

Orange County also has a more relaxed suburban feel than other areas of California. With Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south, its location is perfect for seniors who want to explore more of Southern California during retirement.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Retirement Age in California? 

Coastal Wealth Management reports that the average senior in California retires at age 64. It is higher than many other states due to California's high cost of living and career-oriented atmosphere. 

The retirement age in California may continue to climb due to rising costs of living. Additionally, as the human lifespan increases, seniors tend to work later in life, rather than retire at an early age. 

Are the Regions of California Different From One Another? 

Yes. California is the largest state in the continental United States, which makes it incredibly diverse. Different regions have distinct cultural and geographical features.

For example, Southern California has a more desert-like atmosphere, with a bustling culture, while Northern California is more laid back with denser forestry. Central California, the location of the state's capital, is home to much of the country's produce. 

The region you choose also impacts your cost of living. Central and inland California tend to be more affordable, while coastal cities are typically more expensive. 

How Can I Make Living in California More Affordable? 

Tens of millions of people call California their home, including millions of seniors. Budgeting is crucial. If you have lived in California, it may be easier to continue your lifestyle, rather than moving to the state from somewhere with a significantly lower cost of living. 

Calculate your monthly budget using distributions from sources such as: 

• Social Security
• Pensions 
• Retirement accounts, like IRAs and 401(k)s 
• General brokerage dividends 

If you plan on moving into a senior living community, such as assisted living or memory care, you may need to liquidate other assets, like your property. Consider downsizing and selling excess furniture and other items you will no longer need. 

The Best Places to Retire in California

If you are still wondering about the best places to retire in California, look no further. With this guide, you can make an informed decision for your golden years. Whether you already reside in California or you are new to the Golden State, California has a place for everyone. 

At The Palms at Bonaventure, we offer premier assisted living and memory care programs for our residents. Located in beautiful Ventura, CA, our proximity to Los Angeles is essential for our residents to lead productive and fulfilling lives. Amenities such as chef-prepared dining and weekly housekeeping services take the chores off your plate, so you can enjoy your retirement near the ocean. 

Are you ready to experience the thrill of coastal aging communities and the Ventura, CA lifestyle? Reach out to us today to learn more about our community. We can't wait to meet you!