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It wasnt easy, but Sheila found some big money reasons to retire somewhere else.
I never thought Id leave Arizona, Sheila shared.
Heres why Sheilas planning to retire outside of Arizona.
I bought my first Tempe house for a steal 30 years ago, Sheila said.
Even if I sold my place, I couldnt afford a nice spot in a retirement community.
And dont get me started onproperty taxes and insurance!
Truly, do not.
My kids complain about it.
Sky-High Air Conditioning Bills
Arizona heat means youre always running the AC, which isnt cheap.
My summer electric bills are high, Sheila shared.
And its only getting hotter.
I worry about keeping my house cool enough when Im older without going broke.
Water Worries
The Southwests ongoing drought means water might get scarce and pricey.
Water bills keep going up, Sheila explained.
With Lake Mead drying up, who knows how bad itll get?
I dont want to stress about having enough water inmy golden years.
Getting Around Is Tough Without a Car
Most Arizona cities dont have great public transportation.
Thats a problem if you cant drive anymore.
I drive everywhere now, said Sheila.
But what happens when I cant?
Withoutgood buses or trains, I might end up spending a fortune on Ubers or taxis.
Healthcare Costs Might Skyrocket
Arizona has some good hospitals, but Sheilas worried about future healthcare costs.
Our state hasnt done as much as others to keep healthcare affordable, Sheila shared.
Ive got afew health issues, so I need to think about medical bills down the road.
Sheila admits its not just about money.
The politics here are getting too conservative for me, she said.
Plus, the idea of 110-degree summers when Im 80?
As my grandkids say, thats a hard pass.'
Even though shes leaving, Sheila still loves Arizona.
Ill miss the sunsets and the desert, she shared.
But I need to do whats best formy bank accountin retirement.
Sheilas story shows how tricky retirement planning can be.
Yeah, we dont pay tax on Social Security, but thats not the whole picture.
Think about all your costs, now and in 20 years.
You want to enjoy retirement, not worry about money all the time.
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