When thinking about where to live after retirement, it seems that the criteria definitely change compared to when you were younger.

It's no longer important to be close to work, and the need to consider school districts decreases. Ultimately, what matters is whether it's close to hospitals, convenient for shopping, has places to walk, and most importantly, how much money is spent each month.

In that regard, Springfield, VA is definitely worth considering as a retirement area. Its SeniorScore is 84, which is higher than the national average, and the healthcare facilities and living environment are certainly decent. However, I have to be honest about one thing: Springfield is not a cheap place to live after retirement.

The biggest factor is definitely housing prices. The typical home price in Springfield is around $600,000, and if the location or condition of the house is good, it can easily go above $700,000 to $800,000. If you've paid off your house before retirement, that changes things, but if you need to buy a new home and take out a mortgage, the monthly expenses can be quite significant.

Rent is similar. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs around $1,700 to $2,000, and apartments with good amenities can exceed $2,000. When you add in electricity, internet, car insurance, and food costs, living alone can lead to surprisingly high monthly expenses. For couples, excluding housing costs, it's reasonable to expect monthly expenses of around $2,000 to $3,000 depending on lifestyle.

Virginia's taxes are also something retirees need to consider. The good news is that Virginia state income tax does not apply to Social Security benefits. Additionally, residents over 65 who meet certain criteria may qualify for age-related deductions based on income. Conversely, retirement income from sources like 401(k), IRA, and personal pensions may be subject to Virginia state income tax, so it's not accurate to say it's a tax-friendly retirement area.

If you own a home, you will also need to continue paying property taxes in Fairfax County. Just because you've paid off your mortgage doesn't mean you won't have any expenses related to your home. When you combine property taxes with homeowners insurance, repair costs, and heating/cooling expenses, the cost of maintaining a home can be substantial. However, there is a property tax relief program in Fairfax County for qualifying seniors, so those with limited retirement income should definitely check it out.

As you age and may need assisted living, financial considerations become even more important. Senior facilities in Springfield and Fairfax County can cost thousands of dollars per month depending on the level of service, and if personal care or memory care becomes necessary, costs can rise significantly. Therefore, it's important to consider that while living in your 60s may be manageable, the burden of housing costs can suddenly increase in your 80s.

Still, for those who prioritize access to healthcare, Springfield has clear advantages. There are many hospitals nearby, and large medical institutions like Inova Fairfax Hospital are close by. Kaiser Permanente Springfield is also available, making it convenient for regular check-ups.

Additionally, having many places to spend time without spending a lot of money is surprisingly important in retirement. Walking in Lake Accotink Park, visiting Green Spring Gardens, and strolling through local parks don't cost much.

Ultimately, Springfield is not a retirement destination chosen for its low cost of living. Instead, it's a place where those with some retirement savings, who already own a home or have manageable housing costs, can enjoy healthcare, natural surroundings, and convenience all at once. After retirement, it may be more important to consider how comfortably and for how long you can live with the money you have rather than just spending as little as possible.