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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Landstar System Landstar System, Inc. partners with various healthcare providers to offer health insurance benefits to its employees. While the specific healthcare provider can vary depending on the insurance plan chosen by employees, Landstar commonly collaborates with major national insurers such as Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and UnitedHealthcare to provide comprehensive health coverage. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As employers brace for steep healthcare cost increases in 2026, the outlook looks particularly daunting due to multiple economic pressures. With projections of medical costs rising by 8.5% and insurers requesting average premium increases of over 20%, workers can expect to see their out-of-pocket expenses soar as enhanced federal premium subsidies expire. The confluence of increased treatment costs, an aging workforce, and overall inflation is exacerbating these challenges, leaving many employees concerned about their ability to afford necessary healthcare services. Without proactive measures, more individuals could find themselves priced out of adequate coverage, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic planning ahead of these changes. Click here to learn more

'Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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, Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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 Landstar System 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 plan does Landstar System offer to its employees?

Landstar System offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees of Landstar System enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Landstar System can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal.

Does Landstar System provide any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Landstar System offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Landstar System 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Landstar System 401(k) plan is subject to IRS guidelines, which can change annually.

Can employees of Landstar System choose between traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees of Landstar System have the option to choose between traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions based on their financial goals.

When can employees of Landstar System start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts?

Employees of Landstar System can start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts at age 59½, subject to certain conditions.

Is there a loan option available for the Landstar System 401(k) plan?

Yes, Landstar System allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts for the Landstar System 401(k) plan?

Employees of Landstar System can change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's rules.

What investment options are available in the Landstar System 401(k) plan?

The Landstar System 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and other investment vehicles.

How does Landstar System communicate changes to the 401(k) plan?

Landstar System communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through official company emails, newsletters, and the employee benefits portal.

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

Landstar System offers a defined contribution retirement plan in the form of a 401(k) plan for its employees. The Landstar System, Inc. 401(k) Savings Plan had assets of $159,548,262 at the end of 2022 and serves a substantial number of participants (Landstar System, Inc. - IR site). The company does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan; instead, the focus is on their 401(k) plan. In the Landstar System 401(k) Savings Plan, employees are automatically enrolled and can choose to invest in a variety of funds, including target-date retirement funds and other mutual funds. A notable feature of the plan is the default investment option, which automatically places participants' contributions into a predefined investment account if they do not actively select one. Landstar also provides matching contributions up to a certain percentage of an employee’s salary. Eligibility for the plan typically requires employees to complete a short service period (often one year) to receive matching contributions (Landstar System, Inc. - IR site). Participants in the Landstar System 401(k) plan are vested in company contributions after a specified period of continued employment. These contributions are designed to help employees save for retirement over the course of their career at Landstar (Landstar System, Inc. - IR site). The information was sourced from company financial reports and official retirement plan documents. Details regarding the vesting schedule and contribution limits can be found on pages 3-4 of the official Landstar System employee benefits handbook (Landstar System, Inc. - IR site).

Landstar System has not experienced major restructuring layoffs in 2023 or 2024. The company has maintained its asset-light business model, focusing on logistics and transportation services without reducing its workforce significantly (Landstar System, Inc. - IR site) (Landstar). Landstar has enhanced its benefits and 401(k) plan offerings, including improved health insurance options and better retirement matching contributions. These changes were part of their effort to remain competitive in retaining talent. It is important to address this news due to the ongoing economic uncertainties, which affect investment strategies, tax policies, and political decisions (Landstar System, Inc. - IR site) (Landstar).