Is Tallahassee a Good Place to Live? A Senior’s Guide to Florida’s Capital City

Nestled in the heart of Florida’s panhandle, Tallahassee often flies under the radar. But with its unique blend of Southern charm, affordability, and vibrant culture, Florida’s capital has been quietly gaining popularity as a retirement destination. 

Almost 11% of Tallahassee’s population is aged 65 and older, a number that continues to grow as more baby boomers discover this hidden gem.

So, what makes Tallahassee so appealing? Is it truly a good place to live for boomers? 

Discover Tallahassee’s low cost of living, tax-friendly policies, warm climate, top-notch healthcare, and thriving arts scene. But weigh potential drawbacks like hurricane risk, transportation limitations, and crime rates. Is Tallahassee your ideal spot for the next chapter? Find out!

Tallahassee’s Cost of Living for Seniors

One of the most compelling reasons to consider Tallahassee for your retirement is its affordability. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), the cost of living index for Tallahassee is 93.4. This means living in Tallahassee is approximately 6.6% cheaper than the national average, set at 100. This can lead to substantial savings for seniors with a fixed income over time.

Let’s break down some of the specific costs you can expect in Tallahassee:

• Housing: The median home price in Tallahassee is $297,000, which is 28% lower than the national median of $412,300 as of Q2 2024 according to the Motley Fool. Renting is also affordable, with a median rent of $1,027 for a two-bedroom apartment.
• Groceries: Food costs in Tallahassee are about 3% lower than the national average.
• Utilities: Due to the high summer temperatures, expect to pay around $248 per month for energy bills, slightly higher than the national average.
• Transportation: Gas prices in Tallahassee tend to be lower than the national average, and the city’s compact size means you won’t have to spend as much on fuel.
• Healthcare: Costs for healthcare services in Tallahassee are about 4% lower than the national average.

In addition to these everyday expenses, Florida offers some attractive tax advantages for retirees. There is no state income tax, which means you can keep more of your retirement income. Florida also offers generous homestead exemptions that can lower your property tax bill.

Tallahassee has a range of affordable choices for boomers looking for senior-specific living options. Independent living communities like Mulligan Park and Allegro have monthly rents starting around $2,500, which includes amenities like dining, housekeeping, and transportation. Assisted living and memory care facilities are cheaper than in other Florida cities.

To stretch your retirement budget further, take advantage of senior discounts at local restaurants, retailers, and cultural attractions. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Florida State University offers classes for seniors at reduced rates, and many of Tallahassee’s parks and outdoor activities are free or low-cost.

While Tallahassee is not the cheapest in Florida, its affordability and high quality of life make it an attractive option for budget-minded boomers.

Tallahassee’s Job Market and Economy

While many retirees plan to leave the workforce behind, others envision a retirement that includes part-time work, consulting gigs, or entrepreneurial ventures. If you fall into the latter category, Tallahassee’s stable and diverse economy offers the opportunity you seek.

Government and education are the cornerstones of Tallahassee’s economy, with the State of Florida and Florida State University serving as the city’s largest employers. These institutions provide a reliable base of jobs and help insulate Tallahassee from economic downturns.

Healthcare is another major industry in Tallahassee, with providers like Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare and Capital Regional Medical Center employing thousands of professionals. The city’s growing aging population has also created demand for senior care services, opening up opportunities for boomers with experience in healthcare or eldercare.

In recent years, Tallahassee has emerged as a hub for technology and innovation. The city is home to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the world’s largest and highest-powered magnet lab, which has spawned numerous research and development companies. Tallahassee is also a designated Florida TechHire community, with programs designed to train workers for high-demand tech jobs.

The Tallahassee metro area has seen steady job growth recently, with employment increasing by 2% last year.

For boomers with an entrepreneurial spirit, Tallahassee offers a supportive environment for starting and growing a business. The city has a network of resources for small businesses, including the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship at Florida State University and the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality, which provides entrepreneurs training, funding, and mentorship.

While Tallahassee may have a different breadth of job opportunities than larger cities, its thriving economy and entrepreneurial spirit offer plenty of possibilities for boomers looking to stay active and engaged in retirement. With a growing healthcare sector, cutting-edge research institutions, and a supportive small business community, Tallahassee is a city where retirees can live well and continue to thrive professionally.

Education and Lifelong Learning in Tallahassee

For baby boomers who value education and intellectual stimulation, Tallahassee offers many opportunities to continue learning and growing in retirement. The city is home to two major universities, Florida State University (FSU) and Florida A&M University (FAMU), as well as Tallahassee Community College (TCC).

FSU and FAMU offer a variety of academic programs, cultural events, and sports activities that are open to the public. Retirees can attend lectures, concerts, art exhibits, and football games, taking advantage of the vibrant college atmosphere without the stress of homework or exams.

For those seeking more structured learning opportunities, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at FSU offers classes and workshops for adults 50 and older. OLLI courses cover a wide range of subjects, from history and literature to science and technology, and are taught by FSU faculty and other experts in their fields.

TCC also offers continuing education courses for adults, including classes in computer skills, foreign languages, and the arts. Many of these courses are available at reduced rates for seniors.

In addition to formal educational institutions, Tallahassee has a thriving network of libraries, museums, and community organizations that offer lifelong learning opportunities. The Tallahassee Senior Center hosts regular classes, workshops, and discussion groups on topics ranging from genealogy to current events.

Does Tallahassee Have Good Weather for Seniors?

One of the main draws of retiring in Florida is the warm, sunny weather, and Tallahassee is no exception. The city enjoys a mild climate with hot summers and cool winters, making outdoor activities possible year-round.

Tallahassee’s average annual temperature is 67.2°F (19.6°C), with July being the hottest month (average high of 92.1°F/33.4°C) and January being the coolest (average low of 39.8°F/4.3°C). The city receives an average of 59.21 inches (1504 mm) of rainfall annually, with the wettest months being June through September.

While the summer heat and humidity can be intense, Tallahassee’s many parks and tree-lined streets provide ample shade and opportunities to cool off. The city’s proximity to the Gulf Coast also means that retirees can enjoy beach trips and water activities during the warmer months.

It’s important to note that Tallahassee is located in a region that is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms. The city has experienced several major hurricanes, including Hurricane Michael in 2018. However, Tallahassee has a robust emergency management system and a strong community spirit of preparedness and resilience.

Is Tallahassee Safe for Seniors?

Like any city, Tallahassee has its share of crime and safety concerns. Seniors should carefully consider these figures.

According to NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI-reported crime data, Tallahassee could have better crime statistics. 

• The property crime rate in Tallahassee is 25.36 per 1,000 residents (2,536 per 100,000 residents). 
• Tallahassee’s overall crime rate is 30.54 per 1,000 residents, higher than the national average.
• The crime rate of Tallahassee is higher than 87% of Florida’s cities and towns of all sizes.

However, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement reported that Leon County’s (which includes Tallahassee) overall crime rate fell by 4.7% in 2021 compared to 2020. Specifically, the property crime rate was down 6.6% in 2021.

Retirees can take steps to enhance their safety and security, such as:

• Choosing to live in a gated community or a neighborhood with a low crime rate.
• Installing home security systems and outdoor lighting.
• Participating in neighborhood watch programs and getting to know their neighbors.
• Being aware of their surroundings and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
• Reporting any suspicious activity to the Tallahassee Police Department.

While crime is a concern in any city, Tallahassee has many safe and welcoming neighborhoods that offer a high quality of life for retirees.

Enjoying the Best of Tallahassee

One of the greatest advantages of retiring and moving to Tallahassee is the city’s rich cultural scene and vibrant lifestyle. From outdoor recreation to the arts, there’s always something to do and enjoy in Florida’s capital city.

Nature lovers will appreciate Tallahassee’s many parks and green spaces, such as Cascades Park, which features an amphitheater, walking trails, and a splash pad for grandchildren. The city also has several lakes and rivers that offer fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities.

Tallahassee has a thriving arts and culture scene for those who prefer indoor activities. The city is home to several museums, including the Tallahassee Museum, which features exhibits on local history and wildlife, and the Museum of Fine Arts at FSU, which showcases rotating exhibits of contemporary and classical art.

Tallahassee also has a vibrant performing arts community, with several theaters and music venues that host plays, concerts, and other live events throughout the year. The Florida State University School of Music offers free, low-cost concerts featuring talented students and faculty.

Foodies will find plenty to love in Tallahassee. The city’s growing restaurant scene offers everything from farm-to-table Southern cuisine to international flavors. It also has several farmers’ markets and food festivals throughout the year.

Tallahassee is a vibrant college town and a haven for sports enthusiasts, especially those passionate about football. The city is home to genuine fans who support the FSU Seminoles and the FAMU Rattlers. For any retiree who enjoys the thrill of college sports, attending a game at Doak Campbell Stadium or Bragg Memorial Stadium is an absolute must.

Healthcare and Senior Services: Staying Healthy and Supported

Access to quality healthcare is a top priority for many retirees, and Tallahassee has a robust medical community that serves the needs of its aging population. The city has several hospitals and medical centers, including Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare and Capital Regional Medical Center, which offer a wide range of services from primary care to specialized treatments.

Tallahassee also has several highly rated assisted living facilities and nursing homes for seniors who need additional support. Many of these facilities offer amenities such as fitness classes, social activities, and transportation services to help residents stay active and engaged.

Tallahassee has several home health agencies and senior service organizations that provide in-home care and support for seniors who prefer to age in place. The Tallahassee Senior Center offers a variety of programs and services for seniors, including wellness classes, social activities, and transportation assistance.

Retirees in Tallahassee can also take advantage of the city’s many parks and recreational facilities to stay active and healthy. The city has several community centers that offer fitness classes, swimming pools, and other amenities for seniors.

Transportation and Travel: Getting Around and Getting Away

While Tallahassee is a relatively car-dependent city, it does have several transportation options for seniors who prefer not to drive. The city has a bus system, StarMetro, that offers reduced fares for seniors and operates throughout the city and surrounding areas.

For those who need additional assistance, Tallahassee has several senior transportation services that provide door-to-door rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations. Many of these services are offered at low or no cost to seniors.

Tallahassee’s compact size and flat terrain make it a relatively walkable and bikeable city. Several neighborhoods offer easy access to shops, restaurants, and other amenities.

For retirees who love to travel, Tallahassee’s international airport offers direct flights to several major cities, including Atlanta, Charlotte, and Dallas. The city is also within driving distance of several popular Florida destinations, such as the Gulf Coast beaches and the theme parks in Orlando.

Retiring in Tallahassee: Making the Most of Your Golden Years

Retiring in Tallahassee offers a unique blend of affordability, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it an attractive option for many baby boomers. While the city may have a different name recognition than some of Florida’s larger retirement destinations, it offers a high quality of life and a sense of community that many retirees find appealing.

Of course, no city is perfect, and Tallahassee has challenges, such as the risk of hurricanes and the limited public transportation options. Tallahassee can be one of the best places for retirees open to embracing the city’s unique charms and adapting to its limitations, making it a wonderful place to spend their golden years.

Tallahassee: A Capital Choice for Your Retirement Dreams

When deciding where to retire, it’s important to consider your priorities and circumstances. Tallahassee is worth considering if you’re seeking a city that offers affordability, natural beauty, cultural richness, and community spirit.