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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: For Genesco, the healthcare provider is primarily through Aetna, which is part of CVS Health and provides a range of health insurance plans and services tailored to meet the needs of Genesco employees and their families. In 2026, the healthcare landscape could see significant challenges for Genesco due to anticipated insurance premium hikes driven by multiple factors. With the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans, over 22 million Americans could face out-of-pocket premium increases of more than 75%. In addition, rising medical costs, including hospital and prescription drug prices, are expected to further burden employees, potentially leading Genesco to reconsider its benefits strategy, such as shifting more costs onto workers to mitigate rising expenditures. These cumulative factors suggest a critical need for strategic planning in navigating the financial impact of healthcare in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'Genesco 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 Genesco 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 Genesco 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 Genesco 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 Genesco 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 Genesco 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, Genesco 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 Genesco 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 Genesco 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 is the primary purpose of Genesco's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Genesco's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by providing a tax-advantaged way to set aside money.

How can Genesco employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Genesco employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's designated benefits portal.

Does Genesco offer a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Genesco offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps enhance retirement savings.

What types of investment options are available in Genesco's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Genesco's 401(k) Savings Plan typically includes a variety of investment options, such as mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can Genesco employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Genesco employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to certain guidelines.

What is the minimum age requirement for Genesco employees to participate in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Genesco employees must be at least 21 years old to participate in the 401(k) Savings Plan.

Are there any fees associated with Genesco's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment fees associated with Genesco's 401(k) Savings Plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can Genesco employees access their 401(k) account statements?

Genesco employees can access their 401(k) account statements quarterly through the benefits portal.

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

If Genesco employees leave the company, they can roll over their 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement account or withdraw the funds, subject to tax implications.

Does Genesco allow for loans against the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Genesco allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.

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

Genesco offers its employees both a 401(k) plan and a pension plan to support their financial future. The company provides a matching contribution for the 401(k), with eligible employees receiving a match of $1 for every $1 contributed up to 3%, and an additional $0.50 for every $1 contributed on the next 2% of salary. This creates a significant incentive for employees to maximize their savings within the plan. The company offers several investment options for employees to allocate their funds. In terms of the pension plan, the Genesco Master Plan has been structured to provide long-term benefits for employees who meet specific age and service requirements. Eligibility typically involves full-time employees who have completed a certain number of years of service, though exact details of the formula and qualifying criteria may vary depending on the employee's role and hire date

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Genesco announced a significant restructuring plan involving the closure of several retail locations and a reduction of their workforce by approximately 10%. This move is part of their strategy to streamline operations and improve financial performance amidst a challenging retail environment.

Genesco provides stock options and RSUs primarily to its executives and key employees. The stock options are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price on the grant date, while RSUs vest over four years. Genesco's RSUs and stock options are designed to reward long-term performance and retention.

Benefits Overview: Genesco’s official website provides an overview of their employee benefits, including healthcare coverage. Check the company’s careers or benefits section for detailed information on health plans, coverage options, and employee resources. Healthcare Terms: Look for specific terms like PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), and HRA (Health Reimbursement Account). Glassdoor Employee Reviews: Employees often share insights about their healthcare benefits on Glassdoor. Look for reviews mentioning health insurance plans, deductibles, and employee satisfaction with the benefits package. Healthcare News: Check for any recent changes or updates in the benefits package as mentioned by current or former employees. Indeed Company Reviews: Indeed provides reviews from employees that might include information on health benefits. Look for specific mentions of health insurance options, provider networks, and employee feedback. Benefits Information: Sometimes, benefits information is summarized in company reviews or Q&A sections. LinkedIn