Green Retirement in California

     California has as many top retirement communities as any state in the nation. Its climate is exceptional and so is its beauty. On the downside, other states generally offer better value for your retirement dollar. Real estate and the cost of living here is significantly higher than almost any state. Luckily, there are some affordable places to retire in California. On another positive note, recreational activities are exceptional in this state, beginning with the exquisite Pacific Ocean coastline. It also has a propensity for progressive, green ideas. It is a pleasant place to retire and spend life being green.

     Among the state’s green programs, there is Green California. Under the direction of Governor Schwarzenegger, California is leading by example with energy efficiency and conservation, sustainability, green building and green purchasing practices. The state has a large population to support, so making green innovations work for the state will have long-term payoffs for Californians and the rest of the world.

     There are several towns that are already being built to serve seniors as well as all age groups. Walnut Creek is designed to help seniors, approximately one third of the city's population, get around town. A local bus system with senior discounts makes it possible to go carless. A free trolley connects downtown Walnut Creek to the local BART (the San Francisco transit system) station, where seniors can catch a subway ride to San Francisco and back for about $9. Locals who pay $7 annually to join the city's Senior Club become eligible for a city-owned minibus service that will transport retirees anywhere within the city limits for $1 each way. These are just a few of the efforts cities are making to be green and support their aging population.

     Redding, California is a bit underrated as a retirement destination. Compared to other cities in California, Redding offers affordable housing. While the average home price in many parts of the state is over half a million dollars, you can buy a nice house in Redding for under $300,000. In addition, the city offers retirement communities and assisted living facilities. Located in the Sacramento Valley, Redding is surrounded by mountains and farms. There are great senior centers that offer organic gardening and other activities to keep you green and also living a healthy lifestyle.

     California is an excellent place for the green retiree. Its focus on eco-friendly policies statewide has many retirees choosing California to spend their golden years.