Does it make sense to retire away from a big family with great grandkids?

[mercedesmarcelina158]

I have had this same dilemma as we are very involved with our grandchildren. However, we are aware that in a few years, they will be very busy with their own friends and activities. We have decided to stay put and continue to travel, as well as do things we enjoy as a couple, while continuing to enjoy our grandkid time, fully aware that this will change in the future. As we both enjoy traveling and visiting other family members in other parts of the US, we will likely be doing more of that in the future.
Our home here is paid off and although we live in a fairly high COLA we are doing ok so far. At this point we see no reason to move elsewhere.

[GeoffD]

Originally Posted by Julian658

I am fully aware that this current situation of constant contact with closeby kids and grandchildren can change. I live outside Washington DC and love the area. This is not the retirement capital of the world and I still work full time despite being 68.

I hear many stories about people moving to Florida and hating it. I may consider moving to the Annapolis area for retirement.

I would consider staying in my current home but the mortgage would not be paid in full. If I sell and buy elsewhere i can buy a house in cash with no mortgage.

Why wouldn't you stay within striking distance of DC and downsize so your home is paid-for and has low ownership costs? At age 68, you don't need a town with a top school system. You want safe, convenient, access to top health care, and good public transportation options so you don't have to drive to see family. There's constant bus service from Annapolis to MARC/Metro. You can certainly buy a modest house in Annapolis for a fraction of what DC costs. Looking on Zillow, I see several single family homes a bit over $300K close to DC commuter bus stops.

[M3 Mitch]

Originally Posted by BumbleBeeHunter

10k is low for property taxes.

That's a matter of perspective. To me 3K is high.

[AlexandriaVa11]

Originally Posted by Sand&Salt

To me, the DMV is Dept. of Motor Vehicles. What is the acronym to which you refer?

DC
Maryland
Virginia

It's a bit of a tri-"state" area.