10 Best Cities for PG&E Employees Nearing Retirement

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Pacific Gas & Electric The primary healthcare provider for employees of Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) is often covered under large insurance carriers that offer comprehensive plans, including offerings from Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare; the exact provider may vary depending on the employee's specific plan and regional options available. Projected Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly due to a combination of factors. Insurers are reporting average premium increases that could exceed 20%, driven largely by ongoing inflation in healthcare services and the potential expiration of enhanced subsidies provided under the Affordable Care Act. This perfect storm of rising medical costs and diminished financial support could shock many consumers, with estimates suggesting that out-of-pocket premiums might surge by as much as 75% for individuals reliant on marketplace plans. As such, both employees and employers within PG&E should prepare for heightened expenses, taking proactive steps now to mitigate potential financial impacts. Click here to learn more

As the U.S. demographic landscape evolves, more Americans, including those at PG&E, are strategically relocating in retirement to enhance their quality of life.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population aged 65 and older is expected to rise from 17% in 2023 to 20% by 2030 . This shift highlights a growing segment of people looking to refine their living conditions during retirement.

A range of factors influence relocation when retiring from PG&E, including seeking better climates, lower living expenses, and affordable housing.  Data from HireAHelper reveals that over 338,000 Americans moved for retirement in 2023 alone, reflecting this increasing trend . Falling mortgage rates, currently at a two-year low of 6.08% according to Freddie Mac, have also made the housing market more accessible, further encouraging these moves.

Top Retirement Destinations in the U.S.

A 2023 study by SmartAsset analyzed 40 major U.S. cities, identifying retirement destinations that cater to different priorities, from tax benefits to healthcare availability . This study considered factors like the share of boomer homeowners, loan volume, and local home prices to identify the most popular choices for retirees.

Florida stands out as a top destination due to its tax advantages, including no income, inheritance, or estate taxes—factors many retirees prioritize. North Carolina also ranks highly for its healthcare infrastructure, mild climate, and tax benefits on Social Security income. PG&E employees nearing retirement may find these states particularly appealing.

Challenges in Popular Areas

While many locations attract new retirees, some areas pose challenges. San Francisco, for example, has high housing costs that create barriers for retirees. Only 0.25% of local boomers bought homes in 2023, with the median home price around $1.5 million, making it less feasible for many.

Top 10 Cities Attracting Retirees

Here are the top 10 cities that retirees increasingly favor for their financial benefits, lifestyle options, and community resources:

1. Raleigh, North Carolina  – 2.8% of boomer homebuyers chose Raleigh, resulting in 8,215 loans in 2023.

2. Nashville, Tennessee  – Attracts 2.7% of boomers, with 11,410 loans granted.

3. Phoenix, Arizona  – 2.6% of boomer purchases, totaling 27,745 loans.

4. Indianapolis, Indiana  – 2.6% home-buying rate, leading to 11,891 loans.

5. Charlotte, North Carolina  – Matching Raleigh’s rate with 15,096 loans.

6. Jacksonville, Florida  – 2.6% of boomer buyers, resulting in 10,186 loans.

7. Tampa, Florida  – 2.4% of boomers purchased homes here, with 19,878 loans.

8. Orlando, Florida  – At a similar rate, 13,892 loans were granted.

9. Featured Video

   Articles you may find interesting:

   Loading...
   • Corporate Employees: 8 Factors When Choosing a Mutual Fund
   • Use of Escrow Accounts: Divorce
   • Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
   • Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
   • 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
   • How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
   • Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
   • Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
   • Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
   • 401K, Social Security, Pension – How to Maximize Your Options
   • Have You Looked at Your 401(k) Plan Recently?
   • 11 Questions You Should Ask Yourself When Planning for Retirement
   • Worst Month of Layoffs In Over a Year!

   • Corporate Employees: 8 Factors When Choosing a Mutual Fund
   • Use of Escrow Accounts: Divorce
   • Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
   • Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
   • 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
   • How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
   • Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
   • Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
   • Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
   • 401K, Social Security, Pension – How to Maximize Your Options
   • Have You Looked at Your 401(k) Plan Recently?
   • 11 Questions You Should Ask Yourself When Planning for Retirement
   • Worst Month of Layoffs In Over a Year!

   Columbus, Ohio  – Matches the 2.4% rate, with 10,557 loans.

10. Virginia Beach, Virginia  – Similar buying rate and 9,543 loans.

These locations offer both financial benefits and lifestyle options suitable for retirees, including PG&E employees, who are transitioning to a new phase in life.

Importance of Public Transportation

Accessible public transportation is essential for retirees, as it enhances mobility and independence.  An AARP study indicates that cities with age-friendly transit options help seniors maintain autonomy without needing a personal vehicle . Raleigh and Phoenix are expanding their transit networks to increase access, making them attractive to retirees who value connectivity.

Choosing the right retirement location is a significant decision, akin to selecting a favorite fruit from an abundant market. Each option offers unique benefits: Florida, with its favorable tax policies, and North Carolina, with its moderate climate and healthcare advantages, provide appealing choices for different tastes. As retirees explore their options, they embark on an exciting new chapter, ready to embrace the benefits each city offers for a fulfilling retirement.