Minneapolis has a lot to offer seniors, especially when you know where to settle during your retirement years. You may want to downsize into a new home that supports mobility needs, or simply look for a new neighborhood to enjoy now that you have more time. Here are several things seniors should consider when house hunting in Minneapolis.

 

Affordability of the Home

 

On average, Median home prices in Minneapolis are higher than the rest of the state and nation, so seniors working with a limited retirement budget may need to look carefully at listings to find a house that works.

 

Keep in mind that groceries and health costs tend to be lower in the city than elsewhere in the nation. Plus, unemployment is lower in the city than across the nation, which means seniors who want to find part-time work to add a little income during their retirement years are likely to find job opportunities in Minneapolis.

 

 

Choosing the Right Type of Home

 

Sweeping staircases are beautiful, but they aren't always a good choice for seniors. Regardless of your current mobility, think to the future when buying a new home in Minneapolis. Seniors may want to look for single-story homes with wide halls and doorways that will support a walker or wheelchair access. If you fall in love with a two-story home, consider how easy it might be to add a stair lift if necessary.

 

Other factors that make a home friendly to retirees include walk-in showers, the ability to easily upgrade safety elements in the bathroom and built-in security systems that let you reach out to first responders in an emergency.

Some types of homes that might meet these needs include:

  • Ranch-style homes, available in many of the more suburban areas of the city
  • Condo units, available throughout the city, including some areas near downtown
  • Senior living communities, which provide on-site staff to assist seniors with a variety of needs while supporting independent, active lifestyles

Easy Access to Health Care

 

Health care is an important amenity for many seniors, and Minneapolis has a lot to offer in this area. The city is home to numerous medical campuses, many of which have geriatric care teams. In fact, Abbot Northwestern Hospital is ranked 38th in geriatric care for the entire nation by U.S. News and World Reports.

 

Midtown Phillips, Downtown East, and Uptown are a few Minneapolis neighborhoods that are close to top hospitals and boast excellent health and wellness amenities, so seniors concerned with managing chronic illnesses may want to look at homes in these areas.

 

Getting Around the City

 

If you're no longer planning to drive due to health reasons or personal preference, you can still choose a home in Minneapolis that allows you to enjoy all the city has to offer. MetroTransit serves the Twin Cities area, which means you can get bus, train or metro rides throughout Minneapolis and nearby St. Paul. Adults age 65 and up get discounted fares, paying just $1 for non-rush hour rides on local and express buses and the metro. Seniors who want to rely on public transportation should consider the proximity of transit stops to any home you're considering.

 

Choosing a new home in Minneapolis is a great way to kick off retirement years, and an experienced real estate agent can help you ensure your new residence meets the requirements important to you.