<p>While I have many years (I hope) until I retire, I am giving thought to retirement in a college town.</p>
<p>As much I love having four seasons, I realize that when I retire that I don't want to deal with shoveling snow, walking on icy sidewalks or driving on slick streets. I would like to find a community where winter is almost non-existant.</p>
<p>I would also like to find a college town where there are a lot cultural events, when locals are considered a part of the community.</p>
<p>Most importantly, I am looking for an affordable community where one could live on a fixed income.</p>
<p>I have a few ideas (Edinburg TX, San Marcos TX, Arcata CA), but I would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks!</p>
<p>Edinburg, TX is not a typical college town...it's more like a town that has a college in it. Personally, if I were looking to live in the Rio Grande Valley, I would live in McAllen or Harlingen. However, I would recommend that you check into the towns yourself and make a choice based on your preference.</p>
<p>If you are looking in Texas...think San Marcos, Bryan/College Station, Lubbock, or Waco. One town I can think of that has a college atmosphere, though there is no college there, is New Braunfels. It has a wealth of cultural opportunities, is experiencing tremendous growth right now, and is a very short drive from San Marcos and San Antonio. The only negative is tourist season - New Braunfels is a tourist destination.</p>
<p>Take a look at Gainesville, FL, Tallahassee, and Athens, GA.</p>
<p>Ann Arbor was recently ranked #2 as a retirement city by Money Magazine, which shocked me because Michigan winters can be pretty brutal for older folks. Colorado Springs, Austin, Walla Walla and Williamsburg were also rated among the best places to retire.</p>