While some retirees envision settling along the coastline, others are looking for an alternative to crowded beaches. If you’d still like to enjoy a warm summer, mild winter, and sunny skies, it might be time to consider other up-and-coming retirement destinations along the country’s Sun Belt.
In Longview, Texas, for example, retirees are finding a surprisingly affordable retirement destination with an active community centered around small-town charm and natural appeal. Located in Gregg County, with a population of just over 83,700, Longview is quiet enough to provide a relaxing retirement backdrop without limiting access to resources like health care, entertainment, and restaurants.
Key Takeaways
- Longview, TX, offers a lower living cost than other parts of Texas and the U.S.
- Longview’s monthly housing costs are still less than half the national average ($1,017 vs $2,120 nationwide).
- The city boasts rich cultural and historical attractions that appeal to retirees, such as The Longview Museum of Fine Arts.
- Longview offers abundant outdoor and recreational activities with nearby lakes and parks.
- Gregg County, where Longview is located, is home to 10 hospitals and 330 health care establishments.
Cost of Living in Longview, TX
The general cost of living in Longview, TX is lower than the national average, which is a benefit for those in retirement concerned about managing expenses on a fixed income.
The median household income in Gregg County, where Longview is located, is $64,809, about $15,800 less than the national median. Median monthly housing costs for the county are relatively low as well, coming in at just a little over $1,000 a month. While the housing and rental markets vary greatly across different regions, Longview’s monthly housing costs are still less than half the national average ($1,017 vs $2,120 nationwide).
Even within the Lone Star state, Longview is a relatively affordable city compared to other larger, more metropolitan areas (like Houston and Dallas). While the state’s median home price is around $337,800, houses in Longview have a median value of $185,800. This is also less than the national average of $419,200. For budget-conscious retirees looking to make the most of their resources, Longview’s relatively low housing costs and home values can be an attractive option for retirement.
Health Care and Accessibility
When selecting your ideal retirement destination, be proactive and realistic about what type of care, support, and services you could require in the coming years. As adults age, they will likely need ongoing medical treatment and specialized care. Around 85% of adults 65 and older have at least one chronic disease, such as heart disease, that requires ongoing management and treatment.
While Longview is a relatively small city, it offers retirees access to several large hospital networks. Gregg County is home to 10 hospitals and 330 health care establishments.
Tip
Keep in mind that when you move to a new state or city, you may need to obtain new health insurance coverage, even if you’re on Medicare or Medicaid. As you consider providers and coverage options, take a look at what’s largely accepted in Longview.
In terms of transportation, Longview’s options are limited. Owning and driving your own car may be best, considering the area surrounding Longview is relatively rural. You will, however, be able to access ride shares like Uber or Lyft if you don’t want to drive. Taxis are also available, but you’ll need to make arrangements ahead of time and expect longer wait times. Unlike major cities like New York or Los Angeles, they aren’t easily accessible from every street corner.
The Longview Transit bus system runs several routes daily, except Sundays and holidays. If you live outside the main city limits, however, you may have difficulties finding a stop near your home or destination, depending on where you’re headed.
If you plan on traveling often (or plan to host family from out of town often), keep in mind the closest airport to Longview is in Dallas, about two hours away.
Lifestyle and Recreational Activities
What’s a retirement destination without fun things to do? Longview has more to it than meets the eye, and retirees may be pleasantly surprised at the variety of activities and community events happening all year.
The residents of Longview celebrate big in true Texas fashion, from its springtime rodeo lineup to the Great Texas Balloon Race, Gregg County Fair, Fireworks & Freedom Fourth of July Celebration, and more. Longview hosts celebrations, festivals, and events every single month, making it an active, vibrant community hub for retirees looking to get involved and have some fun.
If you enjoy a bit of learning while taking long, leisurely walks, you’ll want to visit must-see museums like:
Or, when the sun’s shining, and you’re looking to spend some time outdoors, go for a stroll through the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center.
For those looking for a little more activity in retirement, Longview is within easy driving distance to Lake O’ the Pines, an 18,700-acre lake encompassing 9,000 acres of forest and land that offers prime opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and even bird watching.
Like many other southern cities, Longview boasts mild winters and hot summers, making it an optimal spot to enjoy outdoor activities nearly all year long. That said, those moving to Texas for the first time should be aware of the potential climate risks, including tornadoes, severe heat, and wildfires. Due to these potential concerns, FEMA ranks Longview’s climate risk as relatively moderate.
The Bottom Line
The Sun Belt region is home to many warm and inviting retirement destinations, but few offer the unique blend of affordability and entertainment that Longview does. With its sense of small-town community, combined with easy health care accessibility, it may just be an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy their retirement in a quiet and relaxed setting.
Leave a Reply