The Florida spot where retirees on a budget thrive

Sebring, Florida, a small city located in the center of the state about 90 miles south of Orlando, stands out as an attractive and affordable retirement destination.

With a population of less than 12,000, Sebring offers a relatively low cost of living, small-town charm, a relaxed lifestyle, and a rich history. It also serves as the county seat of Highlands County.

Cost of Living in Sebring, Florida

One of the main attractions of Sebring, especially for retirees, is the relatively low cost of living.

Average housing costs in Highlands County (where Sebring is located) are $765 per month. The median home value in Highland County is $177,900, well below the national average of $419,200.

Sebring residents also benefit from Florida’s retiree-friendly tax policies. The state does not tax personal income, including investment income, Social Security benefits, and withdrawals from pensions and defined benefit plans such as 401(k)s and IRAs. It also does not impose estate or inheritance tax, which is often a concern for wealthier retirees.

Regarding sales taxes, Florida imposes a 6% tax on many items, but exempts two of the largest retirement budgets: groceries and prescription drugs. Highlands County adds an additional 1.5% sales tax, although groceries, not prescription drugs, are exempt.

Health care and accessibility

For retirees who want to know that medical care is close at hand if needed, Highlands County has at least three public hospitals within a 25-mile radius. Of the three, Advent Health Sebring received the highest overall score (3 stars out of 5) on Medicare.gov.

The province has more than 200 health care institutions. Additionally, Sebring is a short drive from major hospitals in Orlando and Tampa, both about 80 miles away. According to the Medicare website, Orlando has 15 hospitals, while Tampa has 26. At least one hospital in each of these cities was named to US News & World Report’s Best Regional Hospitals list.

Several Amtrak-operated train lines also serve Sebring. It is a stop on the Floridian Route from Chicago to Miami and the Silver Meteor/Palmetto Route from New York City to Miami.

Lifestyle and leisure activities

Sebring is perhaps most famous as the home of Sebring International Raceway, which has hosted major stock car races since the early 1950s. The track is home to the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, the popular endurance race that attracts motorsport stars and fans annually. The racetrack is also a venue for concerts when the cars are not on track.

If auto racing isn’t your speed, Sebring has a variety of attractions for retirees interested in art, culture and history. Visit the Highlands Museum of Art, local art galleries, the Naval Military Services Museum, and the distinctive circular downtown designated a 1920s Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.

Boaters and fishing enthusiasts have more than 100 area lakes to choose from, while birders, bikers and hikers can pursue their passions at Highlands Hammock State Park.

Finally, for retirees who want to enjoy Florida’s generally moderate climate but don’t spend a lot of time worrying about hurricanes and other natural disasters, FEMA’s National Risk Index rates Highlands County as “relatively moderate” in terms of risk, compared to the United States overall. In contrast, many of the state’s coastal communities are classified as either “relatively high” or “very high.”

Bottom line

While Florida has long been a prime destination for retirees looking to hang up snow shovels and relax in the sun, the small town of Sebring has received little attention. However, data suggests that it can be an attractive and affordable option.

In addition to affordability, Sebring offers a rich cultural and entertainment scene, with attractions such as Sebring International Raceway, golf courses, and many outdoor activities. The city’s healthcare options and proximity to major cities like Orlando and Tampa make it a suitable choice for retirees who value easy access. Its inland location makes it less vulnerable to the kinds of climate-related disasters that coastal communities seem to be facing more and more these days.

For retirees looking for a balanced lifestyle, Sebring offers the perfect blend of affordability, entertainment, healthcare, and community – making it a hidden gem in Florida’s retirement scene.