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

Discover the Best Places for APA Employees to Retire in New England

Healthcare Provider Update: Provides medical plans through Kaiser Permanente and Aetna, along with dental, vision, HSAs, FSAs, and EAP services 4. APAs HSA-compatible plans align well with ACA trends, offering tax-advantaged savings as premiums and deductibles increase in the marketplace. Click here to learn more

Despite New England's reputation for high living costs, difficult tax laws, and harsh winters, this region continues to attract retirees with its beautiful seasons and rich historical backdrop. According to a national movers research conducted annually by United Van Lines, Vermont and Rhode Island were the most popular retirement locations in the United States in 2023. This realization inspires a closer look at the area's retirement appeal, considering factors such as cost of living, safety, access to healthcare, and cultural vibrancy, especially for APA employees.

Connecticut: The Twofold Allure of Middletown

Beginning in Connecticut, Middletown, with an average family income of $90,731, is a prime example of the typical high-cost Northeastern municipality. The average income for residents 65 years of age and above is $47,599. Despite these figures, Middletown continues to attract retirees, especially because of its connection to Wesleyan University. By providing low-cost and free educational options through the Wesleyan Institute for Lifelong Learning, the university enriches the town's cultural landscape. With violent crime rates at a low 0.99 per 1,000 population, this area is significantly safer than nearby Hartford, where rates are 5.68 per 1,000.

Maine: The Urban Charm of Portland Amid Natural Magnificence

Portland, Maine, offers a desirable blend of access to the outdoors and metropolitan conveniences. Its downtown is lively, home to theaters, museums, and a wide variety of restaurants. The famous L.L. Bean store in Freeport, which is near the city, attracts both residents and visitors. In addition to beaches, the area provides winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as outdoor pursuits like fishing and kayaking, making it an attractive spot for APA employees seeking an active retirement.

Massachusetts: The Affordability of Pittsfield in a Cultural Center

In an otherwise pricey state, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, offers a more affordable option. The cost of living in the town is significantly less than that of large cities like Cambridge and Boston. Here, the average home value is $282,706, substantially less than the statewide average. Pittsfield is also known for its vibrant cultural environment, further enhanced by neighboring establishments like the Tanglewood Music Center and MASS MoCA.

Laconia, New Hampshire: Lakeside Living

With Gunstock Mountain Resort close by, Laconia, New Hampshire, nestled between Lake Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam Lake, offers a wealth of recreational possibilities. The local crime rate reflects the low state average of 1.26 crimes per 1,000 residents. Notable tax perks also exist here; New Hampshire grants exemptions from the state's interest and dividend taxes in addition to not taxing Social Security benefits, making it an attractive location for APA retirees.

Rhode Island: The Creative and Intellectual Offerings of Providence

For retirees engaged in creative and intellectual endeavors, Providence, Rhode Island, is a notable destination. The city is home to the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University, and it boasts a booming restaurant scene, numerous cultural events, and educational options. With Providence's average home value of $382,032 and the state's average effective property tax rate of 1.53%, retirees should exercise caution when considering the state's higher-than-average property tax rates.

Vermont: The Academically Rich and Eco-Friendly Burlington Environment

Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington, Vermont, is popular among environmentally conscious retirees due to its thriving local food movement and establishments such as Seventh Generation. Numerous outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, and water sports, are available in the city. Vermont is financially challenging due to its high taxes and cost of living. In Burlington, the average home value is $512,485, and nursing home costs are very high. Nonetheless, a significant educational benefit is added by the University of Vermont, which grants free tuition to state residents 65 and older, a great perk for APA employees seeking continued learning.

Decisions Driven by Data

These decisions are supported by thorough data analysis:

Costs of living information is sourced from Payscale.com.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Point2homes.com provides average income figures for those 65 years of age and above.
The U.S. Census Bureau provides information on healthcare facilities, household incomes, and poverty rates.
The scores for physical and community well-being are from Sharecare and Gallup, components of the larger Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index.

This comprehensive analysis of retirement locations in New England reveals a complex yet alluring world for seniors. When weighing economic and safety factors against cultural diversity, scenic beauty, and educational options, New England presents a compelling option for APA employees seeking a rewarding post-retirement lifestyle.

New England boasts some of the best healthcare facilities in the country, an important consideration for retirees. Boston's Massachusetts General Hospital ranked among the country's top five hospitals in U.S. News & World Report's 2023 rankings. For retirees who place a high value on their health and wellness, proximity to first-rate medical care ensures access to excellent healthcare services as they age.

Choosing the right retirement location in New England is akin to selecting a fine vintage wine. Retirees appreciate Middletown, Portland, Pittsfield, Laconia, Providence, and Burlington for their rich cultural offerings, historical significance, and tranquil landscapes, just as a connoisseur values a wine's complex flavors, elegant aging process, and regional characteristics. Each location promises a fulfilling retirement with its own balance of safety, healthcare accessibility, and recreational options, making them excellent choices for APA employees.

What is the APA 401(k) plan?

The APA 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees of APA to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis.

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

Employees can enroll in APA's 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form available on the APA employee portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

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

APA offers a matching contribution of 50% on the first 6% of employee contributions to the 401(k) plan.

When can I start contributing to APA's 401(k) plan?

Employees at APA can start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing 30 days of employment.

What types of investments are available in APA's 401(k) plan?

APA's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

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

Yes, APA allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions. Employees should consult the plan documents for specific terms.

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

If you leave APA, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, leaving it in the APA plan, or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

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

Employees can change their contribution amount to APA's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

Is there a vesting schedule for APA's employer match?

Yes, APA has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which means that employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the employer match.

How can I check my balance in APA's 401(k) plan?

Employees can check their 401(k) balance by logging into the APA employee portal or by contacting the plan administrator.