The 5 Best Retirement Cities in India

Editor’s Note: Enjoy this special encore post which was one of our readers’ favourites in 2018.

Imagine living in a home surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. You wake up to the sound of chirping birds. Imagine spending evenings sitting by the fireplace and reading a book. Isn’t this our idea of a perfect retirement life?

If you too envisage your retired life as an extended vacation, investing in the right city is very important. After all, we spend half of our lives working hard to live a comfortable retired life.

So, what are the factors that one must consider while selecting a retirement city? Experts suggest considering;

• Cost of living
• Access to healthcare facilities
• Climate

To help you in finalising the right city, we’ve scoured the map to find the five best options for you.

5. Chandigarh

At the fifth spot, we have Chandigarh.

The first planned city in India after Independence, Chandigarh boasts of several factors that have made it popular among retirees.

These include:

• Sound infrastructure
• Good connectivity to Delhi
• Ample healthcare facilities

PGI Chandigarh and Fortis Mohali are two prominent hospitals in the city. Apart from several malls, it is also known for its Rock Garden and Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, the largest of its kind in Asia.

4. Coimbatore

Next, we have Coimbatore.

Situated on the banks of the Noyyal River and surrounded by the Western Ghats, this city has a pleasant climate throughout the year.

Hospitals like KG Hospital and Kovai Medical Centre have made it a popular healthcare destination in Tamil Nadu.

But what makes the Manchester of the East a great place to retire?

• Low cost of living
• Serene environment with less pollution
• Excellent connectivity and rapid infrastructure growth

On RoofandFloor, there are over 900 properties for sale in Coimbatore. Some of the leading developers like Salarpuria Sattva, Casagrand Builder Private Limited, and Sobha Limited have recently launched their projects in the city.

3. Mysore

On the third spot, we have Mysore. It is a practical option for people whose children are settled in Bangalore.

Located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills, it is India’s cleanest city, as per the Urban Development Ministry.

Additionally, the grand Mysore Palace and a relatively calm vibe compared to Bangalore have earned it the sobriquet Cultural Capital of Karnataka.

So, why Mysore?

• Low cost of living
• Amicable weather
• Ideal for yoga enthusiasts

2. Goa

Surprised? Well, you shouldn’t be! A retreat for artists and beach-lovers, Goa is a great place to spend one’s golden years of life.

Wondering why? The beautiful beaches? Yes, but there’s much more.

• Cosmopolitan culture
• Affordable rentals
• Serene environment

Some of the famous retirement colonies in Goa are Siridao near Bambolim and Nachinola near Mapusa.

1. Dehradun

On the first spot, we have Dehradun.

With robust infrastructure and pleasant climate, the Himalayan town of Dehradun offers the best of both worlds – convenient lifestyle and peaceful living.

Additionally, the serene environment, connectivity to hill stations like Mussoorie and Dhanaulti, and proximity to spiritual towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh make it a place right out of a travelogue.

The checklist

Now that you know of the cities to retire, here are some things you should keep in mind while finalising a home.

The cost: Home loan is an option but not a viable one. Thus, draw a comfortable budget and stick to it. Since a significant chunk of your savings will be exhausted in buying an apartment, go for a project that offers amenities you (really) need. Also, buying a larger space is not advisable for maintenance reasons.

Amenities: A project that offers ample open space would be an ideal investment. These days several real estate projects provide dedicated areas for senior citizens for socialising.

Security: It is crucial to have a security system in place with burglar alarms and emergency response systems in buildings.

Safe designs: Look for an apartment where you can make specific changes. For instance, installing handlebars across the bathrooms, anti-skid tiles or low-height shelves.

Accessibility to medical care: Do ensure that the project has a hospital or a clinic close by.

If you are looking to invest in a retirement community, do consider our ready checklist.