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Why Expeditors Intl. of Washington Employees Should Consider These Top Retirement Locations for Affordability and Ideal Weather

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Expeditors International of Washington Expeditors International of Washington primarily partners with major healthcare providers to offer employee health benefits. Typically, these include national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem (Elevance Health), and Kaiser Permanente, among others. Employees are encouraged to choose plans that fit their specific healthcare needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are expected to surge significantly for employees of Expeditors International of Washington, largely driven by the anticipated expiration of enhanced premiums under the Affordable Care Act. Without these subsidies, many individuals could face premium increases exceeding 75%, impacting affordability and access to care. Coupled with rising medical costs and higher drug spending, these changes may create substantial financial burdens for employees and retirees alike, necessitating proactive budgeting and health planning. Click here to learn more

'Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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, Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington 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 Expeditors Intl. of Washington offer to its employees?

Expeditors Intl. of Washington offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington by completing the enrollment form available through the HR portal.

Does Expeditors Intl. of Washington match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Expeditors Intl. of Washington provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington follows the IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage at any time through the HR portal or by contacting HR at Expeditors Intl. of Washington.

When can I start withdrawing from my 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

Employees can typically start withdrawing from their 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington after reaching the age of 59½, subject to plan rules.

Are there any penalties for early withdrawal from the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

Yes, early withdrawals from the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington may incur penalties and taxes, as per IRS regulations.

What investment options are available in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

The 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds.

How often can I change my investment options in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

Employees can change their investment options in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington as often as they wish, typically with no restrictions on frequency.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?

Yes, Expeditors Intl. of Washington has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which employees should review in the plan documents.

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

Expeditors International of Washington, Inc. offers a robust 401(k) plan with automatic enrollment and company matching contributions. At the end of 2022, Expeditors' 401(k) plan had total assets of $839,061,386, with 9,224 participants. The average retirement account value per participant in 2022 was $90,965. Employees contributed an average of $6,619 annually, with the company matching approximately $1,947 per employee, amounting to 30.92% of employee contributions (Smart 40K Plus). The plan includes automatic enrollment and default investments for employees who do not actively manage their account allocations. Expeditors does not appear to have a defined benefit pension plan but operates a defined contribution plan, making the 401(k) plan their primary retirement vehicle. The company encourages long-term saving by offering a straightforward employer match, providing employees with additional retirement security. Expeditors' matching contributions totaled $17,965,349 in 2022. The investment growth rate in 2022 was notably affected by market fluctuations, showing a -14.04% growth rate

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Expeditors International of Washington announced a strategic restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This plan included a reduction in workforce across several departments. The decision was driven by the need to adapt to shifting market conditions and optimize operational costs. It is crucial to follow this news due to the current economic environment, which is characterized by volatility and uncertainty in global trade and logistics. Understanding these changes can provide insights into broader industry trends and potential impacts on job security and organizational stability.

Expeditors International of Washington offers stock options and RSUs to certain employees. Stock options are granted based on performance and tenure, while RSUs are typically awarded to senior management and key employees. According to the 2023 Proxy Statement (page 45), the company provides these incentives to align employee interests with company performance.

Health Benefits Section: The website should provide detailed information about the health insurance plans, types of coverage, and any recent changes for 2022-2024. Business and Financial News Websites: Recent Articles: Search for any news articles on employee benefits changes, cost adjustments, or healthcare-related updates. Job Review Sites: Employee Feedback: Review employee testimonials and ratings for insights into healthcare benefits and satisfaction. Industry News Websites: Trends and Comparisons: Investigate if there are any reports on how Expeditors' benefits compare with industry standards. Healthcare Benefit Platforms: Benefit Analysis: Look for any detailed reports or reviews on healthcare plans provided by Expeditors International.