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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Iron Mountain: Iron Mountain does not directly provide healthcare services. Instead, it is known for its information management and data storage services. However, Iron Mountain's employee health benefits are generally managed through various insurance providers depending on their employment policies. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As 2026 approaches, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, creating challenges for employers and employees alike. Record increases in health insurance premiums, particularly within the Affordable Care Act marketplace, could exceed 60% in some states. A recent PwC survey forecasts healthcare costs for businesses to climb by 8.5%, prompting many employers to shift more expenses onto employees. This environment of soaring premiums, coupled with the potential expiration of federal premium subsidies, places added financial strain on millions of insured individuals, as out-of-pocket healthcare costs could rise dramatically. Click here to learn more

'Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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, Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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 Iron Mountain 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.

Featured Video

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 is the Iron Mountain 401(k) plan?

The Iron Mountain 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save and invest a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How can I enroll in Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance on the enrollment process.

What is the employer match for Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan?

Iron Mountain offers a competitive employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

At what age can I start participating in Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan?

Employees at Iron Mountain can typically start participating in the 401(k) plan as soon as they meet eligibility requirements, which usually begins after 30 days of employment.

How much can I contribute to Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan annually?

The contribution limits for Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan align with IRS guidelines, allowing employees to contribute up to the maximum limit set for the year.

Does Iron Mountain offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Iron Mountain provides a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions that can grow tax-free.

Can I take a loan from my Iron Mountain 401(k) plan?

Yes, Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan allows eligible employees to take loans against their account balance under certain conditions.

What happens to my Iron Mountain 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Iron Mountain, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with Iron Mountain.

How often can I change my contribution amount to Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically change their contribution amount to Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

Are there any fees associated with Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Iron Mountain's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed 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.

Iron Mountain offers a defined contribution plan known as The Iron Mountain Companies 401(k) Plan. This plan, a profit-sharing arrangement, allows participants to direct the investment of their retirement accounts. Employer contributions under this plan are variable and depend on the company's quarterly or annual profits. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, employees of Iron Mountain could elect to defer part of their compensation, contributing to their 401(k) account. This plan includes automatic enrollment for employees and features elective contributions that are deducted directly from payroll (Iron Mountain) (QDRO.com). The Iron Mountain 401(k) Plan permits employee-directed accounts, meaning that if an employee does not select investment options, their assets are placed in a default investment account. Employee contributions are matched up to 6% by Iron Mountain, encouraging employees to take advantage of this benefit (Iron Mountain). The plan is a classic example of a cash or deferred arrangement under Code section 401(k).

In 2023 and 2024, Iron Mountain experienced notable changes that impacted both its workforce and employee benefits. Two significant WARN notices were filed, leading to the layoff of 132 employees across Indiana and Virginia (Iron Mountain) (Yahoo Finance). This restructuring aligns with the company's broader strategic focus on integrating new acquisitions, such as Regency Technologies. While Iron Mountain remains committed to long-term growth, these layoffs suggest a tactical pivot amid shifting customer demands and the broader economic environment. The layoffs highlight the need for Iron Mountain to adapt to both the evolving information management sector and the external economic pressures. It is crucial to address this news due to the complex economic, investment, tax, and political environment that drives restructuring efforts today.

Iron Mountain provides stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to eligible employees as part of its compensation strategy. In 2022, Iron Mountain expanded its use of RSUs to attract and retain key talent, emphasizing its shift toward equity-based compensation. Stock options are generally offered to senior management and top performers, giving them the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, while RSUs are granted to employees across various levels as part of their long-term incentive plan. These RSUs typically vest over a period of three to five years, aligning with Iron Mountain’s long-term performance objectives (Iron Mountain) (Iron Mountain) (Iron Mountain). In 2023, Iron Mountain continued to emphasize RSUs, especially for employees involved in strategic growth areas such as data centers and digital transformation. The focus was on retaining talent critical to the company's innovation-driven goals. In 2024, Iron Mountain further increased the scope of RSUs to mid-level employees, broadening participation in equity programs across the organization. Stock options and RSUs are accessible to top-performing employees, senior management, and those in strategic growth roles at Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain offers a range of health benefits for its employees, with specific provisions evolving over the years 2022 to 2024. Their benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance options, along with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), which are widely used across the company (Iron Mountain Daily News). The healthcare-related acronyms and terms commonly referenced by Iron Mountain employees include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program). Telehealth options are also part of their healthcare benefits, providing access to virtual care services

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Iron Mountain employees

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

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-tax-treatment-amp-strategies/c71vBJZ2B https://carlsoncap.com/articles/nua-net-unrealized-appreciation/ https://creativeplanning.com/insights/financial-planning/how-to-use-the-net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-strategy-in-your-401k/ https://www.ironmountain.com/resources/solution-guides/p/powering-precision-in-retirement-and-pension-plans https://qdro.com/retirement-qdro/THE-IRON-MOUNTAIN-COMPANIES-401K-PLAN/ https://www.principal.com/businesses/trends-insights/2023-pension-lump-sums-dropping-new-years-ball https://investors.ironmountain.com/news-and-events/press-releases/press-release-details/2024/Iron-Mountain-Reports-Fourth-Quarter-and-Full-Year-2023-Results/default.aspx https://www.foxrothschild.com/publications/interest-rate-hikes-present-challenge-for-fully-funded-pension-plans https://reason.org/data-visualization/2022-investment-results-for-state-pension-plans/ https://investors.ironmountain.com/news-and-events/press-releases/press-release-details/2024/Iron-Mountain-Reports-Fourth-Quarter-and-Full-Year-2023-Results/default.aspx https://stockanalysis.com/stocks/irm/employees/ https://finance.yahoo.com/news/iron-mountain-reports-third-quarter-104500518.html https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/iron-mountain-to-acquire-itrenew-for-725-million/ https://www.ironmountaindailynews.com/news/local-news/2022/02/im-eyes-savings-in-retiree-health-costs/ https://www.warntracker.com/company/iron-mountain https://intellizence.com/insights/layoff-downsizing/leading-companies-announcing-layoffs-and-hiring-freezes/ https://www.marketbeat.com/stocks/NYSE/IRM/dividend/#google_vignette https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/2023-lump-sums-defined-benefit-plans-much-lower-as-interest-rates-rise https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/cash-balance-pension-plan-options