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In recent decades, workforce researchers have noted that people are delaying retirement. Economists speculate that this is due to improved health, changes to social security, economic downturns and less stable retirement plans. However, it can be challenging for people over 50 to find work due to discrimination and increased competition from younger workers willing to accept lower wages.
Rapid changes have taken place in the workforce due to the recent pandemic, such as working from home. These changes have left many older workers displaced. Therefore, it’s imperative that experienced workers seek out locations that provide the best career opportunities and lifestyles. Coventry Direct collected data from the U.S. Census, AARP, and Numbeo to determine the best cities for workers over age 50. This data was based on factors such as the job market, cost of living, the population of people over 50, and more.
The Top 25 Cities for Workers Over 50
- Denver, CO
- Tampa, FL
- Minneapolis, MN
- San Francisco, CA
- New York, NY
- Baltimore, MD
- Seattle, WA
- Philadelphia, PA
- Portland, OR
- Atlanta, GA
- Columbus, OH
- Washington, DC
- Phoenix, AZ
- Cleveland, OH
- Dallas, TX
- Jacksonville, FL
- Charlotte, NC
- Kansas City, MO
- Louisville, KY
- Boston, MA
- Nashville, TN
- Chicago, IL
- Detroit, MI
- Miami, FL
- Milwaukee, WI
Key Findings
- Minneapolis, MN and San Francisco had the highest AARP livability scores, while Bakersfield, CA had the lowest.
- New York, NY had the most AARP open jobs, while Bakersfiled, CA had the fewest.
- Denver, CO had the top overall city score, while Fresno, CA had the lowest.
- Oklahoma City, OK had the lowest average unemployment rate for workers over 45, while Fresno, CA had the highest.
- Tampa, FL had the highest percentage of population over 45, while Bakersfield, CA had the lowest.
- Virginia Beach, VA had the lowest cost of living (% lower than New York City), while Los Angeles, CA had the highest.
Even if you aren’t over 50, it’s good to have a long-term plan in place for your career and retirement. Your location can be a huge factor in career success and financial security as you age. See the full study here: https://www.coventrydirect.com/blog/best-cities-for-older-workers/