The top three states for retirees are New Mexico, Florida and Arizona. But have you ever considered retiring in New York City? The Upper West Side is a beautiful part of the city that’s rich in culture, cuisine and entertainment. You don’t have to resort to a modest studio apartment, either. There is plenty of affordable luxury living in the area that allows you to unlock the best of the neighborhood.
Why Retire to the Upper West Side?
According to this op-ed article, the Upper West Side is a naturally occurring retirement community. Elderly folks have been flocking to the area in droves. The population of adults over age 60 increased by more than 12 percent from 2000 to 2010.
Many of these individuals are people who have lived in the city for ages. They may be lucky enough to have scored a rent-controlled apartment, and they’re living the good life on a reasonable budget. Others have visited the city for decades and are tired of the commute. They’re no longer willing to seek out the action; they’re ready to live in a place where the action comes to them.
As you age, you might not feel comfortable driving anymore. That’s not a problem in a city like New York, where public transportation is spectacular. You can take a subway, train or bus almost everywhere. Taxis and ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are reliable and easy to access. You can even rent scooters and bikes on one street corner and drop them off on another.
Living in the city also prevents you from feeling isolated. When you step outside of your home, you’ll always run into someone. There’s a myth that New Yorkers are cold and unfriendly. If you want to chat with someone at a market, restaurant or bar, the option is always available in the city.
Active folks who enjoy being around people will find life in the city particularly fulfilling. You don’t have to drive across the county to find something to do. If you want to visit a museum, see a performance or grab a great meal, you don’t have to leave the neighborhood.
Many baby boomers are returning to New York City to be closer to their children or grandkids. Younger generations are more likely to stay put in the city instead of moving to the suburbs. Therefore, the grandparents are coming to meet them, and they’re choosing to stay.
Things to Do in the Upper West Side for Retirees
Living in the Upper West Side puts you in the center of New York City culture. However, you still have plenty of green space in which to relax. The area has a neighborhood feel but is never boring.
Nightlife
Retirees probably don’t party like they used to. However, many enjoy getting out with friends or listening to excellent music. Dizzy’s Club at Lincoln Center is a jazz club that overlooks Columbus Circle. It has live music every night at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. From Tuesday through Saturday, you can catch a late-night session at 11:15 p.m. The bar also serves craft cocktails and southern-inspired food.
Tavern on the Green is a historic eatery in Central Park. Although it’s not open late, it’s a great place to grab a drink or bite to eat alone or with friends. The wine list is extensive, and the classic cocktails are always in season.
Bar Thalia is the ideal place to grab drinks before a show at Symphony Space. However, you can head there any time to nosh on the American menu or try a signature cocktail. The place doesn’t get too busy, and it attracts people from all walks of life. It also offers live music, comedy nights, poetry readings and wine tastings.
Culture
If you’d like to take in some culture, you can head to the American Museum of Natural History. The exhibitions and programs are just as appropriate for adults as children. Therefore, this is a wonderful place to bring the grandkids.
Lincoln Center is also in the neighborhood. The performance venue is home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic and the New York City Ballet. Even if you’re not attending a performance, you can stroll around the campus or hang out at Damrosch Park.
Leisure
Central Park is perhaps the most well-known green space in New York City. It happens to be around the corner from Lincoln Towers in the Upper West Side.
The park has so much to do that you could go every day without getting bored. See the Belvedere Castle, visit the Strawberry Fields memorial or row across Central Park Lake. Even if you just sit on a bench and feed the birds, you’ll enjoy getting some fresh air.
Central Park isn’t the only place to go for a walk or a picnic, though. Riverside Park extends four miles along the waterfront. It’s a tranquil way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Where to Live in the Upper West Side
If you’re planning to retire in the Upper West Side, you might wonder where you should live. Should you rent or buy?
A property that is conveniently located and offers plenty of amenities can help you retire in comfort and style. Lincoln Towers feature plenty of services that appeal to retirees.
If you’re retired in New York City, you might want to look for a building with a 24-hour doorman who serves as added security and can help you with anything that you need. Elevators prevent you from having to maneuver your way up and down flights of stairs every day. On-site laundry services are convenient and reliable even when things are hectic.
You might want to rent until you’re sure that you’d like to stay in the neighborhood. Looking for a coop situation allows you to find affordable housing whether you rent or buy.