FOLEY — Foley is ranked No.1 in a national study for the most cost-effective retirement destination across the United States.

A study conducted by GOBankingRates analyzed 100 cities nationwide with a substantial population aged 65 or older. The study used various metrics, including average home value, property taxes, home health costs, grocery prices and utility expenses. Additionally, the study factored in whether the state levied taxes on Social Security benefits. Foley excelled in these criteria, earning its position as a premier retirement spot.

From the historic character of the city to theme parks and locally owned restaurants, one group of retirees can attest to the study's findings.

All from different parts of the United States, a group of 10 retirees found their way to Foley, noting that the city is not just affordable but is a dream that became a reality.

After vacationing in the Foley area, the couples decided to make a permanent move and spend the rest of their years close to the beach.

"We came down for 30-plus years, and it has aways been our dream to live here," Karen Linto said. "Foley just turned out to be the best little town."
While the white sand and blue waters played a role in bringing these 10 individuals to the Alabama Gulf Coast, other factors have kept them satisfied with their decision.

AFFORDABILITY

"I came from Nashville, Tennessee, and it had lost its glitter over the past eight years," Gene Breick said. "Prices were stupid high, and the city had raised property taxes over 30%. The same home that I bought down here in Foley was for sale in the suburbs of Nashville for another $170,000."

Breick noted that property taxes in the Nashville suburban subdivision was $3,200 versus the $900 that it is in Foley.

Foley has relatively low expenses, with an annual expenditure of $46,218 for a home health aide, $4,326 for groceries and $3,858 for utilities.

SAFETY
The retirees said that not only is Foley affordable, but they feel a sense of safety.

"That was one of the first things that I noticed," Darrel Edmonson said. "You are constantly seeing the presence of the police; they are all over the place. To me, that is comforting to know that they are out there watching."

According to the Best Places website, Foley's crime rate is 15.1, which is lower than the U.S. average of 22.7.

MEDICAL CARE
These retirees noted that good medical care is important to them.
"We have been very pleasantly surprised with the quality," Linto said. "We were told it was not good, but it is."

Most of the group said they have either had surgery or been to the doctor and have been pleased with not only the quality of the service they receive, but also with the medical staff.

"The people are friendlier, so you get good care with nice people," Rick Linto said.

His wife echoed his statement, noting that after her surgery three years ago, her surgeon personally called her to ensure she was well.

While the group expressed appreciation for the hospitality and service provided by the local medical facilities, retirees noted the challenges posed by population growth in accessing doctor appointments.

"I think the doctors are great, but we need a lot more doctors," Breick said. "We (retirees) are coming down faster than the doctors are getting here, but my experience is that it takes an awful long time to get in to see a doctor, particularly if you are coming down and you are a new patient."

COMMUNITY CARES
After befriending one another, the group of retirees found they all live in the same neighborhood. This not only created a strong bond between the friends, but also allowed them to look out for one another.

"Someone said one time that being in our neighborhood was like going back to college without tests," Gail Edmonson said. "Everybody has fun, and we look out for each other."

Linto said this friend group has people reach out and check on you during storms or hurricanes.

In Foley, the affordability, safety, quality health care and a supportive community has transformed the retirement dreams of these 10 individuals into a fulfilling reality, showcasing Foley as not just a top-ranked destination, but a place to call home.