Discover Milwaukee's Charms: A Perfect Retirement Base
Unrivaled Travel Connectivity
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) stands out for its efficiency and widespread connections. As a mid-sized airport, MKE provides access to over 30 direct flights spanning the United States, Mexico, and Canada, serviced by nine major airlines. This ensures competitive fares and abundant route choices. The airport's moderate size also means less time spent in security lines and easier parking compared to more bustling hubs. Conveniently situated just eight miles south of the city center, it's merely a 15-minute drive for local residents.
Effortless Local Transportation
Milwaukee’s compact urban design promotes walkability, allowing residents to explore much of the city on foot. The Milwaukee RiverWalk, a three-mile pedestrian path, meanders through key downtown areas and vibrant neighborhoods. For those preferring public transport, the city's bus network, including the modern Connect 1 Bus Rapid Transit Line, covers the entire county. The Hop, a complimentary two-mile streetcar, offers a convenient way to navigate popular districts. Biking has also gained popularity, supported by the Bublr Bikes share program with numerous stations across downtown and Wauwatosa.
Diverse Transit Networks
Beyond air travel, Milwaukee provides a variety of transportation alternatives. Amtrak’s Hiawatha service offers multiple daily round trips to Chicago, facilitating easy access to O’Hare for international flights. The Empire Builder line extends westward to Seattle, offering scenic long-distance journeys. From May through October, the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry connects Milwaukee to Muskegon, Michigan, presenting a distinct travel experience while circumventing Chicago's notorious traffic. Positioned at the nexus of three major interstates (I-94, I-43, and I-41), Milwaukee offers excellent road trip possibilities throughout the Midwest. Additionally, the Port of Milwaukee welcomes Great Lakes cruise ships during summer, adding another unique travel dimension.
Cost-Effective Living
A significant advantage of choosing Milwaukee for retirement is its affordability, which can free up more resources for travel. Housing costs in Milwaukee County are notably lower than the national average, with a median monthly expense of $1,156, significantly less than the national median of $2,120. This allows retirees to potentially downsize from pricier locales and allocate the savings towards their travel aspirations.
Affordable Daily Expenses
Everyday costs, including transportation and food, remain reasonable. Residents typically spend around $653 monthly on food and $1,083 on transportation. The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) provides reduced fares for seniors, further enhancing affordability for public transit users.
High-Quality Healthcare Access
Wisconsin is recognized for its healthcare quality, ranking 26th nationally by U.S. News and World Report. While specific healthcare access scores for Milwaukee County are noted at 35/100, residents benefit from proximity to Chicago’s extensive medical facilities. Fidelity estimates that a 65-year-old retiring in 2024 might need approximately $165,000 for post-tax healthcare expenses, with the average 65-year-old couple spending about $12,800 in their first year of retirement, making Milwaukee’s excellent healthcare systems a valuable asset.
Enriching Lifestyle Opportunities
Between travels, Milwaukee offers an impressive array of activities and amenities designed to enrich retirement. The city boasts over 300 arts and entertainment venues, including 28 museums, such as the renowned Milwaukee Art Museum. The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Ballet, and various theater companies provide world-class performances. Known as the “City of Festivals,” Milwaukee hosts over 100 annual events, ensuring there’s always something engaging to do.
Abundant Outdoor Activities
Milwaukee caters to both urban dwellers and nature lovers. With direct access to Lake Michigan, the city features 1,400 acres of beaches and lakefront parks, 15,000 acres of parkland, and over 135 miles of trails. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing, offering year-round outdoor enjoyment.
Climatic Considerations
Milwaukee experiences distinct four-season weather. Winters can be severe, with an annual snowfall exceeding 48 inches. Summers are generally pleasant, averaging 80°F, while spring and fall offer mild and picturesque conditions. Prospective residents should consider how these varied climates align with their preferences.
Thriving Community Life
Approximately 15% of Milwaukee’s population is over 65, and the metro area offers numerous adult and retirement communities. The city is characterized by strong neighborhood associations and community centers that actively foster social engagement and connection among residents.
Exceptional Healthcare Infrastructure
Milwaukee provides top-tier healthcare services. Froedtert Hospital is ranked as the leading hospital in the Milwaukee metro area and second across Wisconsin by U.S. News & World Report. The county is equipped with 35 hospitals and over 1,400 healthcare establishments, ensuring comprehensive medical care for its inhabitants.
Tax Implications
Wisconsin offers favorable tax conditions for retirees, exempting Social Security benefits and providing property tax relief through a homestead credit for seniors. While income tax rates range from 3.50% to 7.65%, which may be higher than some other retirement destinations, Wisconsin does not impose an estate or inheritance tax at the state level. County taxes average around $615 per month.