Providence One of the Best Places to Retire
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Providence has staked out a reputation as a great city for singles and young professionals.
It turns out that it also is one of the best places to retire.
With a sprawling 1,200-acre park system, a rich arts and cultural scene, and proximity to the coast, U.S. News and World Report has concluded that Providence is one of the best places to retire.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTIn fact, many of the things that make Providence appealing to younger people—such as its restaurant scene and proximity to beaches—also make it attractive to the older set, said Scott Wolf, executive director of Grow Smart RI.
“Providence has much to attract retirees, from vibrant arts and cultural offerings to world-class health care institutions to a community that reflects many creative interests and occupations, as well as a diverse demographic,” said Karen Watts, Director of Communications for Providence Mayor David Cicilline. “It’s a liveable, walkable, vital city that also has appealing proximity to oceanside destinations. Frankly, it can’t be beat.”
All together, those things make for a quality of life that is unlike any other are in the United States, according to Wolf. “I don’t think you’ll find another state … that has all these things in close proximity to each other and in such high volume,” he said.
The quality of life is one reason both his parents, who are in their 90s, moved back to Providence, after spending ten years in Florida, Wolf said.
Its density is a particular plus for retirees. “I think it’s a great place to retire because there’s so much to do and there’s so little hassle in doing it,” he said.
Another selling point for the older crowd is a dining scene that Wolf described as one of the best in the country. Other retirees may be drawn to the theatrical attractions like the Trinity Repertory Company and the Perishable Theatre or to the many cultural events open to the public at colleges like RISD and Brown University.
Plus, there are several casinos within an hour drive of the city, Wolf added.
“Almost no matter what you like, there’s a lot to offer here,” he concluded.
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