Number One: Orlando, FL
While thousands of snowbirds are flocking to Ft. Lauderdale and other locations in South Florida, try Central Florida instead. The whether is milder than Miami and the Keys, and the cost of living is a lot more reasonable.
Number Two: Columbia, MO
This city tends to make top ten lists of the “most educated” or “best towns to live in” year after year. Being located in a college town, this city hosts an array of cultural activities and lively events year around. Not to mention, the cost of living is quite below the national average.
Number Three: Bowling Green, OH
Cited as one of Ohio’s best cities in which to live, Bowling Green, Ohio has a lot to offer. It’s a college town with decent housing prices and activity gallore. There are restaurants, a county library, and interesting shops lining the main street of downtown. The most appealing factor about Bowling Green is that it is uniquely situated. It’s only an hour away from Detroit, a hop and a skip away from Ann Arbor, and not too far from Ohio’s other major cities such as Columbus.
Number Four: Northampton, MA
Again location is one of the best features of Northampton. Located in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, it is only hours away from Boston and a train or bus ride from New York City. The town itself is quirky and vivacious. Home to Smith College and only a bus ride away to four other colleges, Northampton is known for its culture, live music events, and truly unique individuals.
Number Five: Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic
Jarabacoa is breathtaking in its beauty. Located in nearly the center of the Dominican Republic, it’s a relatively small city that is known for its waterfalls and is home to the tallest mountain in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte. No matter if you’re looking to go white water rafting, hang out with some locals, or experience the breathtaking environment, Jarabacoa is an ideal location. Furthermore, the cost of living is low and for $250,000 you can build yourself a very handsome home.
Overall, if you’re interested in settling in a college town, a foreign country, or a place that gives you all the amenities of a big city, but in a small town atmosphere, then any of the above places are surely worth a try. So have fun, you deserve it, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
