Trying to find a place where you can retire cheaply and live big?

Everyone can agree a low cost of living makes it easier to retire with a small budget. But where you can retire big time for a discount?

Florida, Arizona and Colorado are frequently mentioned as among the most ideal states to retire. Colorado has good air quality and a free public transportation system. The lack of state income taxes in Arizona and Florida are a major perk for those who may have a taxable income stream. All of them are attractive for their scenery and their potential for cost savings.

The great thing about a country as large and diverse as the United States is that there are plenty of great options for retirees who are looking to change things up a bit and relocate to an environment that they find is ultimately more affordable, more accessible, and more enjoyable.

There are quite a few American states noted for their large communities of retirees -- from Florida to Pennsylvania, Delaware to southern California. But one of the most overlooked states for retirees is Wyoming. As the least-populated state, it's the perfect choice for urban and suburban professionals who are seeking a slower-paced lifestyle amid the natural beauty of America's famous "wild west" landscape. Wyoming offers several advantages to retirees that other states simply cannot match.

Friendly Tax Policies and a Low Cost of Living in Wyoming

Retirees hailing from either coast are likely familiar with the problems that can be presented by high taxes, especially on people who are no longer earning their primary source of income and are instead relying on savings and investments to help them enjoy their golden years. Many people wonder how to retire comfortably with such lofty and unfriendly tax policies. That's why Wyoming is a great choice for retirees: it has some of the friendliest tax policies in the United States.

First and foremost, Wyoming has no income tax at all. That's a boon to retirees who still think they'd like to seek part-time employment to help them pass the time and maybe even make new friends in their new locale. It means that more of each paycheck goes directly to the earner, rather than through the state. And that means it's easier to earn supplemental income in Wyoming than it is in almost any other state.

The expense and availability of nearby hotels, added to the higher cost of airline tickets and rental cars, can make a visit to Grandma and Grandpa a trip that few young families can afford on a regular basis. It is also true that the cost of living in many rural, resort destinations can be higher all around. Property taxes, insurance rates and basic goods such as groceries are often higher in some coastal areas than in other areas of the country.

But don’t count yourself out of that glorious, retirement experience you’ve been dreaming of, just do your research. You never know where you will find the little town where you can retire your way.

First, if a traditional, main stream ‘resort’ destination is not among your requirements, explore the amenities in more out-of-the-way, less commercialized communities. If you can live without a premier selection of entertainment, dining, and shopping you might be surprised with the alternatives you will find.  But do remember to take into account access to medical services, senior care alternatives, and ‘flex-tirement’ work options (in case you might need an income boost) if you’re considering such a locale -- your health¸ safety and financial security should obviously be at the top of your list.

If frequent visits from family and friends who will remain far away will be important, do your research on the proximity and quality of the nearby airports. Retiring to the country can often mean giving up access to a nearby airport.  However there are many communities with smaller or rural airports which, although perhaps limited to fewer carriers, do still have non-stop or connecting flights to your destination ‘short list’ at prices you can afford..

When investigating air travel options do take into account factors such as potential government spending cuts in subsidized flights to and from smaller airports. Some of these flights are already on the chopping block and cutbacks could continue to take place. If there is only one carrier and one flight in and out of an airport going to a city important to you, you might decide to evaluate other areas where transport in and out is more likely to remain in service.

Another facet of the destination a potential snowbird who plans on plenty of visitors should consider is a place for those visitors to stay. Rural areas often do not have an abundance of hotels, and resort areas such as those along beaches can be expensive or crowded during peak tourist seasons. If this is a concern, look for off-the-beaten-path locales that may have great moderately-priced bed and breakfast places.  A somewhat less ‘popular’ area very well could have a lower cost of living that will allow for a home with room for a visitor or two and also room in the budget to have a house cleaner keep it tidy and maintained.

Public transportation, such as buses and commuter trains are often not found in all those sleepy beach towns or mountainside retreats. While many people who own cars do not think about their city’s public transportation, you should investigate what is available (especially special services available for senior citizens) and determine how walk-able the area is if walking is the only real alternative for short jaunts.

There are many research options out there for those that wish to investigate their dream retirement locale.  Bookstores, the web and libraries are filled with information to help you.  Thoroughly exploring your options well in advance is well worth your investment in time and can eliminate some of these unwanted outcomes snowbirders encounter, putting you on the path to your happiest and most fulfilling retirement possible.