Not everyone dreams of retiring to Florida. Some people actually like snow, four seasons and the kind of cold that makes you appreciate a warm house. If that’s you, good news, there are plenty of affordable retirement spots where winter is part of the package, not a dealbreaker.
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These five cities offer lower costs of living, access to healthcare and community amenities without the premium prices of warmer climates. Yes, you’ll need a good winter coat. But you’ll also keep a lot more money in your bank account.
Fargo, North Dakota
Fargo’s cost of living sits about 6% lower than the national average overall, making it a great deal for the retiree who likes it chilly in the winter.
The four-season city offers cultural institutions, local colleges that bring community events and classes, and amenities that matter when you’re living somewhere full time. For retirees on fixed incomes, the lower housing and utility costs add up to real savings over time.
The winters are cold. Really cold. But if you’re OK bundling up and embracing four distinct seasons, Fargo delivers solid value without sacrificing access to services and community.
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Bismarck, North Dakota
Bismarck takes affordability a step further. The overall cost of living runs about 10% lower than the national average.
Utilities also cost less here too, running about 10% below the national average. That matters when you’re heating a home through a North Dakota winter.
Bismarck has been named among the most affordable places for retirees who don’t mind cold weather. The city is quieter than Fargo, which appeals to people looking for a slower pace without giving up access to healthcare and basic services.
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines combines affordability with more urban infrastructure. The cost of living runs about 15% below the U.S. average.
What makes Des Moines stand out is the balance. You get museums, arts venues, quality healthcare and more dining options than smaller towns, all at prices well below what you’d pay in bigger cities.
Winters are cold but not as brutal as North Dakota. If you want four seasons without feeling completely isolated from culture and entertainment, Des Moines hits the sweet spot.
Mankato, Minnesota
Mankato’s cost of living sits about 5% below the national average, though housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
This is a smaller, slower-paced city with a growing local economy and manageable expenses. For retirees comfortable with snow and a quieter lifestyle, Mankato works as an affordable middle ground between rural isolation and big-city costs.
The winters are real. Expect snow from November through March. But if you’re looking for a place where your retirement savings stretch further and you’re OK with a slower pace, Mankato delivers.
Rochester, Minnesota
Rochester is a popular affordable cold-weather retirement spot, with housing and living costs lower than many U.S. urban areas. The city is home to the Mayo Clinic, which means access to world-class healthcare — a major consideration for retirees.
Four-season living means cold winters, but the trade-off is lower costs and excellent medical infrastructure. For retirees who want proximity to top-tier healthcare without paying premium prices, Rochester is worth considering.
What To Expect With Cold-Weather Retirement
These cities save you money, but cold climates come with their own costs. Heating bills are real, especially during long winters. Snow removal, winter maintenance and home winterization add up over time.
Smaller cities may also have fewer cultural amenities, less dining variety and longer drives to specialized healthcare depending on your needs. If you want constant sunshine and nightlife, these places won’t work.
But if you’re comfortable with cold weather and value affordability over tropical temperatures, these five cities let you retire comfortably without draining your savings.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Affordable and Great Places To Retire If You Can Handle Cold Winters
