New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Why Dick's Sporting Goods Employees Should Consider These Top Retirement Locations for Affordability and Ideal Weather

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Dick's Sporting Goods Dick's Sporting Goods collaborates with various health insurance providers to offer healthcare benefits to its employees. Notably, UnitedHealthcare is among the primary healthcare providers for the company, offering various plans that cater to the diverse needs of its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, significant healthcare cost increases loom for Dick's Sporting Goods employees and retirees. With the anticipated expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies, individuals could face out-of-pocket premium hikes of over 75%. This dramatic shift is compounded by rising medical costs driven by inflation and a surge in demand for healthcare services, particularly in behavioral health. In states like New York, some insurers are requesting premium increases upwards of 66%, signaling a challenging year ahead for those relying on employer-sponsored insurance and ACA plans. As such, it is essential for employees to plan proactively to mitigate potential financial impacts. Click here to learn more

'Dick's Sporting Goods employees nearing retirement should consider cities like Cary, North Carolina, that balance affordable living, great weather, and top-tier healthcare, as these factors are essential in ensuring a financially comfortable and healthy retirement.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'Retirees from Dick's Sporting Goods companies should prioritize locations that offer both cost-effective living and excellent healthcare, such as Cary, North Carolina, ensuring a fulfilling and stable retirement experience.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The best affordable cities for retirement, with a focus on Cary, North Carolina.
How weather and cost of living are key factors for Dick's Sporting Goods employees planning their retirement.
The importance of healthcare access in choosing a retirement destination.

Combining great weather with affordability, Cary, North Carolina, has emerged as one of the top spots for Dick's Sporting Goods employees planning their retirement. Located just nine miles west of Raleigh, this charming city offers retirees a year-round climate with temperatures between 32°F and 89°F. With an average monthly cost of living of $3,615, Cary provides an excellent balance of affordable housing and beautiful weather—two key considerations for Dick's Sporting Goods employees looking to make the most of their retirement years.

Cary's exceptional quality of life is reflected in its impressive livability score of 90 out of 100. The city offers a community that supports retirees, with 12% of its population being over 65, according to GoBankingRates. The temperature is generally mild, though seasonal fluctuations are expected, with the hottest months being late May through early October. Despite some fluctuations, Cary's facilities, low crime rate, and healthcare services all earned favorable ratings, even though its cost of living score on AreaVibes was slightly lower.

Cary is not the only city with the perfect mix of affordability and great weather for retirement. For example, Metairie, Louisiana, scored 84 out of 100 on the livability scale. This city boasts a reasonably low cost of living, a mild climate, and a hint of Southern charm. For Dick's Sporting Goods retirees seeking relief from the hotter Southern U.S., Perry Hall, Maryland, is an excellent option due to its consistently milder temperatures.

With its reasonably priced housing and dry, sunny climate, Laughlin, Nevada, offers the lowest anticipated monthly cost of living on the list for retirees who are considering the desert lifestyle. In contrast, Oro Valley, Arizona, located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, is particularly attractive to retirees, with more than one-third of its population being 65 or older. The area's year-round, outdoor-friendly temperatures further enhance its appeal.

Although Florida remains a popular retirement destination, the living costs in cities like Miami and Orlando can surpass $60,000 annually. High real estate prices and increasing property taxes might deter some retirees from making the move. For those still drawn to Florida's warm climate, alternatives like Perry Hall and Metairie offer similar weather conditions but at a more affordable cost of living.

GoBankingRates compiled a detailed list of affordable and appealing retirement destinations in 2024 by evaluating cities on several criteria, including rent, weather, cost of living, and overall desirability. At the top of the list is Cary, North Carolina, with its active retiree community and temperate climate. Laughlin, Nevada, and Oro Valley, Arizona, also stand out as great retirement options, showcasing that there are plenty of affordable places to retire while still enjoying a comfortable and pleasant lifestyle.

When planning retirement, Dick's Sporting Goods employees must strike a balance between living costs and a healthy, active environment. Whether in Cary or another well-regarded location, retirement planning should factor in both lifestyle preferences and financial considerations to help create a fulfilling retirement experience.

In addition to affordability and pleasant weather, healthcare access plays a critical role in selecting a retirement location. Cary, North Carolina, stands out for its top-notch healthcare offerings, including facilities like WakeMed Cary Hospital. U.S. News & World Report (March 2024) named Cary as a top choice for retirees who value both financial stability and healthcare quality, making it an ideal place for Dick's Sporting Goods employees nearing retirement.

If you're looking for an affordable and desirable retirement destination, Cary, North Carolina, with its 90/100 livability score, is one of the best cities for retirees. Offering a mild climate, affordable living costs, and excellent healthcare services, it's a standout location. Other affordable places with favorable weather for retirement include Metairie, Louisiana, and Oro Valley, Arizona. Discover why these cities are gaining popularity due to their appealing combination of amenities, climate, and affordability.

Choosing the right retirement destination is much like selecting the perfect vacation spot: it should offer the amenities you desire, such as great weather, reasonable prices, and convenient access to the services you need. Like a year-round vacation, cities like Cary, North Carolina, and Metairie, Louisiana, provide a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and practicality, allowing Dick's Sporting Goods retirees to enjoy both financial comfort and peace of mind. These locations promise a long-term 'staycation' with affordable living, pleasant weather, and excellent healthcare throughout the year.

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Sources:

1. GoBankingRates. “12 Surprisingly Affordable Cities With Great Weather for Retirees.” GoBankingRates , October 2024, pp. 1-2.

2. U.S. News & World Report. “The 2 Best Independent Living Communities in Cary, NC.” U.S. News & World Report , March 2025, pp. 1-3.

3. Investopedia. “Why Arizona Could Be the Perfect Retirement Destination for You.” Investopedia , May 2025, pp. 1-2.

4. CarePatrol. “Beyond Cost: A Different Perspective on Choosing a Retirement Location.” CarePatrol , April 2025, pp. 1-2.

5. Nasdaq. “Retirement Relocation: Choosing the Perfect Place to Call Home.” Nasdaq , April 2025, pp. 1-2.

What type of retirement savings plan does Dick's Sporting Goods offer to its employees?

Dick's Sporting Goods offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for retirement.

Does Dick's Sporting Goods match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Dick's Sporting Goods provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plans, subject to certain limits.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Dick's Sporting Goods' 401(k) plan?

Employees at Dick's Sporting Goods typically become eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service, usually within the first year of employment.

How can employees at Dick's Sporting Goods enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Dick's Sporting Goods 401(k) plan through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What investment options are available in the Dick's Sporting Goods 401(k) plan?

The Dick's Sporting Goods 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can employees at Dick's Sporting Goods take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Dick's Sporting Goods allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Dick's Sporting Goods?

If you leave Dick's Sporting Goods, you can roll over your 401(k) savings into another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Dick's Sporting Goods plan if eligible.

Is there a vesting schedule for the 401(k) matching contributions at Dick's Sporting Goods?

Yes, Dick's Sporting Goods has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.

How often can employees at Dick's Sporting Goods change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Dick's Sporting Goods can typically change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's rules.

Does Dick's Sporting Goods provide financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Dick's Sporting Goods offers financial education resources and workshops to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Dick's Sporting Goods offers a comprehensive retirement plan through the Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc. Smart Savings 401(k) Plan. This plan is a defined contribution plan that allows employees to defer part of their compensation into the plan. Employees at Dick's Sporting Goods can contribute a portion of their earnings to the 401(k), which is matched by the company. This plan is typically available to all eligible employees who are 21 years of age or older, with specific eligibility and vesting rules depending on the years of service and the role within the company (YCharts). The pension plan details are integrated within the company's expense reporting, covering historical data on pension and employee expenses. While specific details about the pension formulas and age qualifications for eligibility in recent years are less explicitly outlined in publicly available documents, the company has consistently reported quarterly expenses related to pension and employee benefits. These figures suggest ongoing commitments to retirement benefits

Restructuring & Layoffs: In early 2024, Dick's Sporting Goods announced a restructuring plan involving a significant reduction in corporate office staff. This decision was influenced by ongoing economic uncertainties and changing consumer behavior. The company aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency in response to fluctuating market demands. Company Benefit Changes: As part of the restructuring, Dick's Sporting Goods adjusted several employee benefits. Changes include modifications to health insurance plans and adjustments to the company's 401k matching contributions. These updates were made to align with the company’s new financial strategy and to ensure sustainability amidst economic challenges. Pension & 401k Changes: Dick's Sporting Goods has also made changes to its pension plan. The company has shifted from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan, impacting long-term retirement benefits for employees. Additionally, the 401k matching percentage was revised, reflecting the company's need to manage expenses more effectively in the current economic climate. Importance of Addressing This News: It is crucial to stay informed about these developments due to the current economic and investment climate, as well as ongoing political and tax changes. Understanding these changes helps employees navigate their financial planning and adjust to potential impacts on their retirement savings and benefits.

2022:Stock Options: Dick's Sporting Goods offered stock options to executives and certain employees as part of their compensation package. The stock options typically have a vesting period and are tied to performance metrics. RSUs: Restricted Stock Units were granted to senior management and key employees. RSUs generally vest over a period of time, often tied to continued employment or specific performance goals. 2023:Stock Options: In 2023, Dick's Sporting Goods continued to provide stock options to its senior leadership team and other designated employees. The options were designed to align employee interests with company performance. RSUs: RSUs were granted based on performance targets and time-based vesting schedules. They were available to high-level employees and those with critical roles. 2024:Stock Options: Dick's Sporting Goods expanded the eligibility for stock options in 2024 to include mid-level management. This aimed to incentivize broader employee participation. RSUs: The company issued RSUs as part of a long-term incentive plan, with a focus on retaining top talent and rewarding performance. Eligibility extended to executives and select high-performing employees.

Dick's Sporting Goods Careers Information to look for: Benefits section, employee health benefits, recent updates on healthcare policies. Employee reviews and posts related to health benefits, updates shared by employees or HR. Employee reviews focusing on health benefits, recent updates, and changes in healthcare plans. Employee reviews, specific comments about health benefits, and updates on healthcare plans.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Dick's Sporting Goods at 345 Court St Coraopolis, PA 15108; or by calling them at (724) 273-3400.

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