Find Your Hoosier Spirit in Indiana

What makes Indiana a great place to retire? Becoming a fellow 55+ Hoosier means living in a state rich in natural beauty, exciting outdoor recreation, and a wealth of historical landmarks. Being young at heart is easy to do considering there’s a town called Santa Claus, plenty of sports venues to visit, and endless outdoorsy destinations for an active adult lifestyle. From the urban capital of Indianapolis to the suburb of Carmel, boomers, and retirees have 128 active living communities to call home. Proving that the mid-west is more than just waving fields of grain, Indiana is not to be overlooked.

A varied climate that boasts four seasons is perfect for boomers, and retirees to enjoy everything from snowmobiling, to strolling through fragrant botanical gardens. Indiana’s climate is made up of cold winters, and warm humid summers with a distinct transition from one season to the next. The Ohio River, and Lake Michigan border this agriculturally rich state whose fertile farmland is a top producer of products such as corn, soybeans, and dairy. Locals say Indiana is to be seen not merely flown over, or driven through. Autumn in particular is a vibrant display of color with beautiful leaf-strewn roads that attract visitors, and residents alike.

Retirees considering moving to an active adult community will find Indiana to be affordable, and relatively tax-friendly. There is no social security, estate, or inheritance tax, and folks sixty-five or better earning $25,000 or less are eligible for tax reductions on properties $182,430 or under. The military pension can also be excluded for up to $5000 for active adults 60+. According to Sperling’s Best Places, Indiana’s cost of living is 13.6% lower than the national average, and many active lifestyle communities across the state offer more square footage at a price generally lower than other parts of the nation. Cost of living is important when deciding on a retirement destination, and some of Indiana’s top cities for affordability, and livability include Bloomington, Carmel, and South Bend.

For the 55+ active outdoor enthusiasts, Indiana offers everything from PGA tour events, and beaches, to gorgeous state parks ideal for hiking, mountain biking, or getting out onto the river in a kayak. If a leisurely outdoor experience is more your style, active adults can explore one or all of 31 historic covered bridges, be spectators at an Indy 500 event, or witness a simpler way of life in Nappanee’s Amish country.

Once the home of James Dean and Abraham Lincoln, Indiana is a treasure trove of art, culture, and entertainment. The 55+ active adult community of Hadley Grove in Carmel is located near amenities such as the Palladium, and Carmel Arts and Design District. History comes alive at the State Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Indianapolis, and antiquing along Antique Alley involves sixty miles of retro paradise featuring around 1000 vendors. Attending the annual covered bridge festival, or being a die-hard basketball fan, Indiana puts the quality back into retirement living.