For empty nesters, recent retirees and restless travelers alike, the idea of putting down roots in a new hometown is both thrilling, liberating and… terribly overwhelming.
If given carte blanche to move anywhere in the country, where would you go? Near grown children? Or just close to an airport? Where the sun shines 300 days a year? Or on a remote ski slope somewhere? On a quiet country road? Or smack dab in the middle of it all?
No cookie-cutter guide can help you make these -- and scores more -- very personal decisions about your big move, but the lists below can provide a starting point. These are the best of the best-of lists -- the most robust and helpful guides assembled by respected magazines helping their readers choose the best place to retire, to become an entrepreneur, to find adventure or just to meet really smart neighbors.
And if a mass-produced list simply won't do, try a fun, fruitful quiz from Find Your Spot or from AARP: The Magazine. Once you've found an ideal locale, research the cost of living, school system, housing landscape and climate via Sperling's Best Places -- a great resource.
CNN/Money
Best Places to Live 2005
Kiplinger's
50 Smart Places to Live
Men's Journal
50 Best Places to Live
Outside Magazine
The New American Dream Towns
AARP Magazine
15 Best Places to Reinvent Your Life
CNN/Money
Best Places to Retire
Inc Magazine
Top Places for Doing Business in America
Entrepreneur.com
Best Cities for Entrepreneurs
Forbes
Best Places for Business and Career
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