In a world where retirement options abound, one destination stands out from the crowd: Citrus County. In 2020, Where to Retire, America’s leading Retirement Relocation magazine, declared this as one of the top places to spend your golden years.
Nestled in Florida’s Nature Coast, this hidden gem offers retirees the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. From pristine waterways to charming downtown areas, Citrus County boasts a unique blend of old Florida charm and modern amenities.
So why choose to retire here? In this article, we explore the top seven reasons that make this destination a retiree’s paradise.
Quiet, Relaxed Location
Citrus County is conveniently located about an hour and 15 minutes from Tampa and an hour and 45 minutes from Orlando International Airport. Only these two locations are the busiest. The rest of the county, including Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City, offers a quiet and relaxed lifestyle.
Furthermore, Citrus County is a semi-rural community with a population of around 154,000. The county has a total area of 584 sq. mi, with half of it dedicated to natural forests, wildlife refuges, and state parks.
Meaning, even if the area were fully developed, it would still be smaller than other counties, providing an escape from the crowds and traffic.
Low Cost of Living
Citrus County constantly ranks among the cheapest places to live in Florida. There is no income tax in the state and by extension, Citrus County.
This means income generated from stocks, mutual funds and 401(k)s are not taxed on the state level. Plus, the maximum sales tax in the county is capped at 6.5%, with food and prescription drugs exempted.
Citrus County also offers an affordable lifestyle. A recent survey by the American Chamber of Commerce Researchers Association showed that living in Citrus County is significantly cheaper than in major metropolitan cities.
For instance, according to the survey, living in Citrus County costs 25% less than in Chicago, 43% less than in Boston and a remarkable 56% less than in New York City.
Excellent Senior Services
Accessibility to quality healthcare services right near your home means peace of mind during your retirement. Living in Citrus County will give you convenient access to wonderful Senior Programs that provide a wide variety of essential senior services through federal, state, and locally funded budgets.
Apart from that, Citrus County is home to two nationally recognized hospitals: Bravera Health Seven Rivers, one of the best providers of senior services in Crystal River and HCA Florida Citrus Hospital in Inverness.
And with hundreds of highly regarded diagnostic centers and specialty physicians, you’re sure to get all the quality services you desire.
Idyllic Weather
Citrus County sees an average annual temperature of 70 degrees with 65% humidity. Approximately 274 days, on average per year fall within the “comfort zone”, where temperatures range between 65 and 75 degrees.
Still, Citrus County sits on the Central Ridge, about 260 feet above sea level, and thus benefits from the cool breeze that blows in from the Gulf of Mexico. And surprisingly, there is no snow here!
Fabulous Outdoor Activities
As we mentioned earlier, more than half of Citrus County is set aside as public and protected land. That means you can get whatever outdoor activity you could ever imagine as long as it doesn’t involve snow.
Individuals and families can go swimming with the manatees, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, biking, bird watching, and fishing (salt & freshwater), just to name a few.
Amazing Culinary Scene
Florida’s Citrus County is a coastal paradise rich in fantastic food choices. No matter what type of food you crave, you can almost always find a restaurant near you that offers it.
From the classic American burger to unique tacos to freshly caught seafood, you’ll certainly find something to delight your taste buds.
Unparalleled Quality of Life
Living in Citrus County feels like living in a sophisticated suburb of some of the world’s major metropolitan areas. It’s situated about 75 minutes from Tampa or Orlando, so it’s close enough to visit these amazing cities, but still far enough to escape the hustle and bustle of big-city life.
Likewise, Citrus County is 45 minutes from Gainesville, renowned for the University of Florida, and only 30 minutes from Ocala, where dozens of thoroughbred horse farms are found.
And with its proximity to 7 crystal clear rivers, 22 miles of lakes, mature Oaks and Pine Trees and uncrowded rolling hills, you’re just minutes from amazing outdoor activities.
Wrap-up
With its picturesque landscapes, warm climate, and welcoming community, Citrus County is a retirement haven that ticks all the boxes. From exploring the natural wonders to indulging in the local culinary delights, this destination offers a life that’s both fulfilling and relaxing.
So if you’re ready to embark on a new adventure in your golden years, then Citrus County is the place to be!
