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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Graham Holdings Graham Holdings does not operate a direct healthcare provider but has significant involvement in the healthcare sector primarily through Graham Healthcare Group, which provides home health and hospice services. This segment has seen substantial growth, contributing to the company's overall revenue. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As 2026 approaches, notable increases in healthcare costs, particularly for those enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans, are projected. Premiums could rise sharply, with some states experiencing hikes over 60%. The combination of increased medical costs, the expiration of enhanced premium subsidies, and substantial rate requests from major insurers may lead to out-of-pocket premiums surging by up to 75% for many Americans. These shifts underscore the importance of preparatory measures in 2025 to mitigate financial impacts, particularly for consumers facing high deductibles and limited coverage choices. Click here to learn more

'Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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, Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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 Graham Holdings 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 retirement plans does Graham Holdings offer to its employees?

Graham Holdings offers a 401(k) Savings Plan as part of its retirement benefits for employees.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan at Graham Holdings?

Employees can enroll in the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Graham Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Graham Holdings provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which enhances the savings potential for employees.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) Savings Plan at Graham Holdings?

The maximum contribution limit for the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan aligns with IRS regulations, which may change annually.

When can I start contributing to the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can typically start contributing to the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan after completing their initial onboarding period.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) Savings Plan at Graham Holdings?

Yes, employees at Graham Holdings can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What investment options are available in the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for the matching contributions at Graham Holdings?

Yes, Graham Holdings has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which means employees must work for the company for a certain period to fully own those contributions.

How can I access my account information for the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can access their account information for the Graham Holdings 401(k) Savings Plan through the plan’s online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to my 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave Graham Holdings?

If you leave Graham Holdings, you will have several options regarding your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account or leaving it in the plan, depending on the balance.

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

Graham Holdings provides both pension plans and 401(k) plans for its employees. In terms of their pension plan, Graham Holdings offers a defined benefit pension plan, which provides monthly retirement income based on a formula that considers factors such as the employee's years of service and final average pay. Employees are typically eligible for this pension plan after completing a certain number of years of service, with full benefits generally available at retirement age. The pension plan also includes specific spousal and survivor benefits, ensuring that a portion of the pension may continue to be paid to the surviving spouse. The 401(k) plan at Graham Holdings allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, with the company often providing matching contributions up to a certain percentage. The plan has annual contribution limits set by the IRS, with additional catch-up contributions allowed for employees aged 50 and above. The company's 401(k) plan is designed to complement the pension plan, providing a defined contribution savings option that employees can invest in various funds offered by the plan.

News: In 2023, Graham Holdings continued to restructure its workforce, affecting various divisions. Alongside this, the company implemented changes in its employee benefit plans, including adjustments to pension offerings and 401(k) contributions. A notable development was the purchase of a group annuity to transfer some pension liabilities, reflecting the company’s effort to manage its long-term financial obligations. Importance: This news is crucial to monitor because of the current economic uncertainties, rising interest rates, and potential tax implications. Addressing these changes is essential for employees to make informed financial decisions amidst a volatile political environment.

Graham Holdings Company (GHC) offers a variety of stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees as part of its compensation and incentive programs. These equity compensation tools are designed to align employee interests with those of shareholders, providing long-term incentives tied to company performance. For stock options, Graham Holdings uses Incentive Stock Options (ISOs), which allow employees to purchase shares at a set price, often the market value at the time the option is granted, after a specific vesting period. These options are typically available to full-time employees and senior executives, and the vesting schedule often spans several years. The ISOs are subject to specific tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code, which can provide tax benefits if the options are held for a certain period before being sold. Regarding RSUs, Graham Holdings grants these units as a form of deferred compensation. RSUs represent a promise to deliver shares of the company's stock at a future date, contingent on vesting criteria such as continued employment or the achievement of performance targets. RSUs at Graham Holdings are generally awarded to executives and key employees, with vesting schedules that typically range from three to five years. Once vested, the RSUs convert into actual shares, which can then be sold or held by the employee. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Graham Holdings continued to offer these stock options and RSUs as part of its compensation package, with the specifics of each grant detailed in the company's annual reports and proxy statements. The availability of these equity incentives is typically tied to the employee's role within the company, with higher-ranking positions generally receiving more substantial grants.

Graham Holdings offers a range of health benefits designed to support its employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. The company uses specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms such as Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Employees have access to various health plans, including those with high deductibles coupled with HSA options, which allow pre-tax contributions to cover medical expenses. The company's benefits site provides detailed annual reports on its health plans, highlighting key financial aspects and changes over the years. For example, the 2022 Summary Annual Report outlines the coverage for medical expenses and the associated financial performance of these plans. Graham Holdings also complies with the Transparency in Coverage rule, making it easier for employees to compare in-network and out-of-network costs for medical services.

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

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