10 Affordable Cities for Retirement

These places are a bargain for retirees — and you can't beat the lifestyle

by: Sarah Mahoney, from: AARP The Magazine, Sept./Oct. 2011 issue

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Ithaca Falls is just one of many scenic destinations in Ithaca, New York. — Courtesy Flickr

Ithaca, New York

Set in the heart of the Finger Lakes' booming wine and food culture, Ithaca provides plenty to do for intellectuals — thanks to Cornell University and Ithaca College.

Ithaca Insider

Median housing price: $146,100

State tax: On pensions, partial; on Social Security, no

Sales tax: 8%

Best deal in town: Lunch at the Moosewood Restaurant, a hippie haven that launched the vegetarian movement; shop and watch street performers on Ithaca Commons.

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That said, Ithaca is also a great place for nature lovers, who are drawn to the region's breathtaking scenery.

You'll see the bumper sticker "Ithaca Is Gorges" throughout the city, for good reason: Glaciers left behind crystal-blue lakes and waterfalls, and has hiking trails that allow you to see both.

Set at the foot of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca also has plenty of kayaks and yachts, which adds to the city's appeal and outdoorsy-urban hum.

Next Page: Plentiful festivals and events and a magnet for cyclists and pedestrians. »