Growing up, I lived in a small town in Texas where everybody knew everyone. Depending on what you were doing, this could be good or bad. Overall rural areas of Texas are conducive to retirement and growing old. Depending on your situation, the good parts may outweigh the setbacks so do your research before you book the moving van.
What to Consider When Choosing Where to Retire
Early on in our marriage, my husband was already talking about retirement. He wants to retire in my hometown. While I love my hometown, I want us to make this decision with our eyes wide open.
Sometimes moving can mean getting closer to adult children or other loved ones. Moving closer to doctors, caregivers, or other care or guardian services and supports could be necessary. Whatever the reason, understanding the pros and cons and anticipating future needs will help ensure the move is appropriate and successful.
The Pros of Rural Texas
One of the best reasons I see for moving to rural Texas is the sense of community. This allows for relationships to develop and increases the senior’s circle of support. People both young and old look out for one another and make sure their neighbor is okay.
The cost of living in a smaller rural area of Texas is typically lower than that of a larger urban area of the state. This could mean that retirement accounts, pensions, 401Ks, or social security lasts longer into retirement.
Little to no traffic congestion is also a benefit to the senior. Typically, traffic is limited to a Friday night home football game or a tractor moving fields.
Generally, crime is lower, so the sense of safety and security is higher.
The Cons of Rural Texas
Likewise, some hurdles could make living in a rural area unappealing or even impossible.
Healthcare is a barrier for many. Specialists such as neurologists, cardiologists, and endocrinologists are not as likely to open their practice in the state’s less populated areas. A person would need to travel to a more urban area to visit a specialist.
Other goods and services are historically scarce. These include things like entertainment venues, formal transportation, home health, and durable medical equipment just to name a few. While there may be options, they are limited and not as robust as can be found in urban areas.
In more rural areas some medications could take a little more time to get, and you may have to travel to find your favorite chain restaurant.
Choosing the Best Retirement Location for You
While I believe rural living is wonderful, it is only for some. Completing a true “Pros” and “Cons” list will help you and your loved one determine if this type of living will work in your situation.
Ensuring all your needs are met as you age is the most important part of deciding to move or not. Base your decision on facts and not the excitement of wide-open spaces and the local café that serves the best pie this side of the Mississippi.
Hammerle is Here to Help with Your Retirement Plans
If you need help with navigating estate planning and retirement, schedule a consultation today. The experienced attorneys and staff at Hammerle Finley Law Firm are here to help.
Courtney Carey is a Texas Certified Guardian and a Care Manager, with experience in Texas Medicaid waiver programs for intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health, and geriatrics. Contact Hammerle Finley Law Firm to schedule a consultation: hammerle.com
The foregoing does not constitute legal advice.
