These 2 California towns were ranked as America’s best places to retire — but locals call the title ‘majorly flawed’ and of ‘no favor’ to residents. Here’s why they’re annoyed

Residents disagree with LA Times’s ranking

The LA Times considered four key factors in identifying its ranking of the best towns to retire in: The climate in the area; affordability; recreational opportunities; and health and wellness, which was measured based on factors like air quality issues and the percentage of insured adults.

Based on their assessment, they identified the top places to retire in California as Eureka, in Humboldt County, and Arcata, also in Humboldt County. These two coastal areas were tied, with the Times praising their park and beach access; low home values; and high health ratings.

Unfortunately, residents believe the Times missed some key details. Specifically, the editor of the local Senior News described health care in the county to the San Francisco Gate as “extremely problematic,” adding that “almost everyone has to travel to the Bay Area for medical treatment.”

Further, a 2023 survey of 57% of the elderly in Humboldt County described the “availability of affordable quality physical health care” as being poor, and 71% said getting necessary care was a problem. This oversight may have happened because the Times did not include access to hospitals as a factor in assigning a health and wellness score.

This wasn’t the only issue residents raised either. Demand for homes regularly exceeds local inventory, and when out-of-area buyers come in, they push prices up and force locals out. Just 22% of the households in the county now can afford the median-priced home in Humboldt County, and if more retirees from other areas flood in thanks to the article, the situation could end up getting worse.

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Always research carefully before relocating in retirement

The reaction of local residents to the LA Times rankings shows the risk of relying on third-party sources to make decisions that could shape your retirement.

One simple online search could turn up hundreds of articles telling seniors the best places to live based on various factors, from low taxes to great climates to overall quality of life. Unfortunately, no one study or survey can consider all of the things that could impact retirees in a given area. Plus, of course, individual seniors have their own priorities and goals.

Ultimately, if you’re considering moving for retirement, you'll want to carefully research details yourself including cost of living, tax rates, health care availability, weather and recreational opportunities. You should also do a test run, visiting regularly and even subletting or renting a place for several months until you’re sure the new location is right for you.

For those California residents of the two towns highlighted by the Times, hopefully anyone who’s considering relocating will do their own due diligence. If you’re looking to stretch your savings in retirement, you’re likely to have to make a few tradeoffs. But it’s important to know — and prepare for — those sacrifices in advance.