Why Should You Retire in a College Town
The youthful enthusiasm and vibrancy of a college campus often energize the surrounding community, an attractive factor in the search for a desirable retirement location. Many campuses are adjacent to their own thriving retail areas – a mix of restaurants, bookstores, unique shops and grocery stores – which often include an active nightlife scene.
Non-retail businesses, such as banks, clinics, post offices and fitness centers, are also within walking distance, as are a wide range of housing options. Most schools also offer a variety of cultural events that are usually open to the public, including lecture series, visiting scholars and concerts, as well as a plethora of sporting events. Many institutions offer continuing education programs, often with discounts or free registration for retirees. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to reasons why you should retire in a college town.
Amenities Matter
The variety of those amenities, individually and collectively, is an attractive consideration for many retirees.
Among the college-town lifestyle and amenities she cited are:
- Friendly communities where one can stay engaged in civic and social life
- Lifelong learning opportunities through course audit and other opportunities
- Cultural events and good dining, often without the cost and inconvenience of those found in larger cities
- Access to excellent health care
College towns often benefit from the economic support of a university and its associated medical facilities and programs, which help sustain economically viable downtowns. Combine that with a transportation philosophy that accommodates students (think bike and bus-friendly places, like Madison, WI!). Residents of all ages can enjoy the vibrancy and fun of Main Street.
Americans of all ages value and seek out a clean, healthy environment with walkability, and older adults, in particular, place a premium on safety. Small towns are often associated with non-negotiables, such as healthy living and safe communities.
Is Oxford, MS, the Perfect Place to Retire?
Other things retirees are looking for? Affordability. The cost of living becomes increasingly important on a fixed income, so the overall affordability of a city, including state and local taxes, as well as weather and climate, are all critical considerations.
One standout? Oxford, MS!
This small southern city is home to the University of Mississippi, which contributes to the community’s active lifestyle, abundance of amenities and overall sense of belonging.
But it’s not just students and sports enthusiasts who are making the move to Oxford. This North Mississippi city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, excellent restaurants, a variety of outdoor activities and top-notch shopping. There are a variety of neighborhoods to pick from, giving retired residents the option to choose a quiet, sleepy street or the quaint character of downtown.
Oxford and Lafayette County also offer a standout quality of life, characterized by a healthy business climate and a reasonable cost of living. The median home price for single-family residential is $312,068. Another appeal to Oxford? Mississippi offers no state income tax on retirement, so your dollar will stretch further. It has history, beautiful architecture and Southern charm (as seen in the historic downtown square). And, Oxford places a premium on helping newcomers get connected.
The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce offers a program called the Oxford Newcomers and Friends, which aims to help both newly relocated retirees and those not yet retired learn about the community and all that Oxford has to offer. Plus, the program provides a built in community through its variety of social networking events, including happy hours, a book club and bridge groups.
A Place for Lifelong Learners
Continuing education opportunities are also important for many retirees.
“Some colleges offer not only continuing education, but you can audit regular classes with other young college students,” said Beth Baker, author of the book, With a Little Help from Our Friends–Making Community as We Grow Older. “As an older adult, they offer you free tuition to audit. That’s another great way to engage with younger people.”
Oxford has a history of being a vibrant and safe community, offering residents access to unparalleled culture, social and educational opportunities. For lifelong learners, the university opens its course calendar to the community and allows residents aged 65 and above to take one course per semester at no cost.
Numerous college towns throughout the country offer retirees opportunities for continuing education through university programs, including Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes at places like:
- Clemson University in Clemson, SC
- Iowa State University in Ames, IA
- University of Georgia in Athens, GA
“I just recently came across a study that showed that a really effective way to fight ageism, if you’re a young adult, is to have a friend who’s an older person,” Baker said. “It breaks down the stereotypes that we have culturally about old people. That’s an important piece of all this.”
Health Care Coverage is Key
Another non-negotiable for retirees? Access to and availability of quality health care. Many universities, especially those with a medical college, are affiliated with local hospitals.
An AARP survey and publication, What is Livable? Community Preferences of Older Adults found that access to medical facilities is important.
Quality health care is important for managing increased and complex health needs that come with age. These facilities enable independence and a higher quality of life by treating a variety of conditions and providing access to preventative care and education. A healthy community with comprehensive and personalized care can lead to better health outcomes, increased life expectancy, reduced hospitalizations and overall improved mental, physical and emotional well-being.
Note: This article was originally published on February 21, 2017, but has been updated and fact-checked.