AARP Magazine ranks Charleston in top five cities for retirees

AARP Magazine has named Charleston one of five cities in the country with the best amenities for retirees.

Retired residents of each city were interviewed for the “Dream Cities” article in the magazine’s July/August issue.

The magazine researched cities across the country in a hunt for areas offering a mix of retiree-friendly amenities, including cultural activities, pleasant weather and affordability.

Keeping company with Charleston on the list are Las Cruces, N.M.; Rehoboth Beach, Del.; Memphis, Tenn.; and St. George, Utah.

Charleston was termed “a bargain” by the magazine because Social Security is tax exempt in South Carolina and income tax deductions for people age 65 and older are $15,000 (single) and $30,000 (joint).

Other favorable aspects included the city’s history, its colleges and its senior education programs, the annual number of sunny days in Charleston and the area’s proximity to first-class golf courses, including those at Kiawah and Seabrook islands, Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach.

A retired couple interviewed for the article said they had purchased a 3,000-square-foot lakeside home in a Charleston suburb last year for $350,000.

Among lifestyle perks, the article mentioned Charleston’s grace and charm, noting one etiquette expert has voted Charleston the most polite city in the nation for 10 years running