Harlingen is not your grandmother’s retirement community. It’s much better, and a perfect match for the new generation of active, independent retirees. The city qualified as a Texas Certified Retirement Community in 2008 after completing a stringent review of its numerous assets: medical, recreational, cultural, continuing education, security and employment. In addition, the year-round pleasant weather is a bonus.

Baby Boomers

Drawn by the city’s affordability, amenities and friendliness, Baby Boomer retirees are moving to Harlingen and embarking on active lifestyles in neighborhoods and over-55 communities.

Conveniences

Harlingen is the region's acknowledged medical hub, with two hospitals, one with a five-star stroke center. The region also features a low cost of living, and Texas has no state income tax. Southwest Airlines flies from Harlingen's Valley International Airport, making travel easy. Two University of Texas campuses are less than an hour away, and Texas State Technical College is in Harlingen.

Center for Creative Retirement

The nonprofit Center for Creative Retirement arranges stimulating lectures and trips. Leisure activities include golfing, fishing and boating. Retirees can attend concerts and performances, and the beauty of South Padre Island is nearby. Several retiree-based bus trips are organized for travel to and from interesting shops in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico.

Neighborhoods

Retirees may choose from several living options in Harlingen, including the city’s 15 RV parks – springboards for Winter Texans who want to live here on a part-time basis. Permanent homes are also an affordable option for retirees moving to Harlingen. The average price for a new, landscaped, three-bedroom home is approximately $135,000; homes in the city's five most popular neighborhoods for retirees range in price from $115,000-$151,000. Perhaps the top-of-the-line and most popular option is Cottonwood 21, an established, gated retirement community with a golf course.

Downtown Harlingen

Downtown Harlingen is appealing to a growing number of Baby Boomers and senior citizens who enjoy a little more hustle and bustle in their lives. Thanks to apartment investment efforts of building owners and city administrators, Downtown Harlingen is thriving both residentially and commercially.