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Why Foot Locker Employees Should Consider These Top Retirement Locations for Affordability and Ideal Weather

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Foot Locker: Foot Locker primarily offers health insurance coverage through a partnership with UnitedHealthcare. This collaboration allows Foot Locker employees access to a variety of health benefits, ensuring comprehensive coverage for their medical needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As we approach 2026, Foot Locker employees may face significant healthcare cost increases, largely driven by the anticipated expiration of enhanced subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. Insurers are projecting premium hikes of up to 66% in specific regions, and without congressional intervention to extend these subsidies, many employees could see their out-of-pocket costs rise dramatically-possibly exceeding 75%. This combination of heightened medical expenses and the loss of financial support from federal initiatives presents a challenging landscape for Foot Locker employees relying on ACA coverage. As these costs escalate, proactive financial planning becomes crucial for affected individuals. Click here to learn more

'Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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, Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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 Foot Locker 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 types of contributions can employees make to the Foot Locker 401(k) plan?

Employees at Foot Locker can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and catch-up contributions if they are eligible.

Does Foot Locker offer any employer matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Foot Locker provides an employer match on employee contributions up to a certain percentage, which is outlined in the plan details.

When can employees at Foot Locker enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Foot Locker 401(k) plan during their initial onboarding or during the annual open enrollment period.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions in Foot Locker's 401(k) plan?

Foot Locker has a vesting schedule that typically requires employees to work for a certain number of years before they fully own the employer contributions.

Can employees take loans against their Foot Locker 401(k) savings?

Yes, Foot Locker allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions as specified in the plan.

How can Foot Locker employees access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their Foot Locker 401(k) account information through the plan's online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

Are there any fees associated with Foot Locker's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Foot Locker's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

What investment options are available in Foot Locker's 401(k) plan?

Foot Locker offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can Foot Locker employees change their contribution amounts?

Employees can change their contribution amounts to the Foot Locker 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What happens to Foot Locker employees' 401(k) savings if they leave the company?

If Foot Locker employees leave the company, they can roll over their 401(k) savings to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Foot Locker plan if eligible.

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

Foot Locker's Pension Plan: Foot Locker offers a Defined Benefit Pension Plan to long-tenured employees. This plan is based on the Final Average Pay (FAP) formula, which considers an employee's highest five consecutive years of earnings in the last ten years of employment to determine the benefit payout. The retirement benefits under this plan are calculated using the employee's length of service and final average pay. Foot Locker requires employees to have completed at least five years of service to be vested in the pension plan. The qualifying retirement age is typically 65, with early retirement options available starting at age 55 with applicable reductions. Foot Locker's 401(k) Plan: Foot Locker's 401(k) plan, known as the Foot Locker Savings Plan, allows employees to make pre-tax contributions from their salary. Foot Locker matches contributions up to 5% of the employee's salary for eligible employees who have completed one year of service. The plan also offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing after-tax contributions. Employees are immediately vested in their own contributions, while company matching contributions vest over a period of three years. The plan includes a range of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds

Restructuring Layoffs: In 2023, Foot Locker announced several significant layoffs as part of their broader effort to simplify their business operations. These layoffs included corporate and support roles aimed at saving approximately $18 million annually. Additionally, the company decided to shutter its Sidestep banner in Europe and sell off other non-core business units like the Eastbay Team Sales division. This move reflects the broader trend in the retail industry where companies are trimming their workforces to bolster the bottom line against inflation and economic uncertainties. It's essential to address these changes due to the current economic and investment environment, where companies are increasingly focusing on efficiency to navigate challenges.

Foot Locker offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its compensation package to incentivize and retain key employees. The company typically grants these awards to executives and certain high-level employees, with eligibility and specific terms determined by their role and performance. Foot Locker's stock options allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, usually after a vesting period. RSUs, on the other hand, are awarded as shares of stock that vest over time, providing employees with ownership once the vesting criteria are met. These stock awards are key components of Foot Locker’s executive compensation strategy, aligning the interests of employees with those of shareholders by linking compensation to company performance.

Foot Locker offers a comprehensive health benefits package to eligible employees, which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. The company focuses on providing flexible and affordable healthcare options, emphasizing whole-person health, which includes physical, mental, and financial well-being. Employees have expressed satisfaction with the coverage, particularly the inclusion of mental health services, which has been a growing trend in employee benefits. Additionally, Foot Locker's healthcare plan covers prescription drugs, although rising costs have posed challenges for employees (USA Insurance Leaders) (USA Insurance Leaders).

Additional Articles

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Foot Locker at , ; or by calling them at .

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