Forget Florida, Retire To This Midwestern Gem With Rolling Hills, Affordable Living, And Rustic Vineyards

Imagine a journey filled with sand(hills) beneath your feet, the sun beating down on your face, spending hours gazing at seas (of cornfields) and sipping a delightful glass of local wine. The idyllic verbs that make up a retirement or longer in the Sunshine State have their counterparts in a Midwestern gem, which may not be the top of many "places to retire" lists. Yet the rolling hills, rustic vineyards, and affordable living available in Nebraska could make one forget Florida and consider spending golden years among golden ears of corn.

Yes, Nebraska. The Cornhusker State's appeal for retirees and travelers lies in all the benefits of living in an unassuming, oft-overlooked Midwestern locale, and the joys that entail. Sure, Florida has azure and turquoise waters, as well as a long history of luring silver-haired residents. Nebraska offers much of the same, replacing the coastal life with an accessible outdoor lifestyle and the charms of a distinctly rural and suburban vibe. Think friendly neighbors, big skies, and the quiet of living far away from the bustle of a metropolis. Retirees will be met with their own kind, too. About 18% of the state's population is 65 or over, according to the Census Bureau. They flock here for good reason.

Consumer Affairs lists the average cost of living at about $52,000 in annual expenses, making living on a fixed income much more doable. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center ranked Nebraska 12th overall in the country for cost of living, with common expenses like utilities, healthcare, and groceries helping keep costs down (for reference, Florida ranked 32nd). Housing costs are also significantly below the national average, though they're growing, according to Zillow. Those savings can translate to a more active retirement or visit.

Nebraska falls under the umbrella category of "flyover states," that dismissive moniker given to the meat in America's coastal sandwich. Yet that flippancy ignores a stunning landscape, covered in rolling hills and diverse landscapes (and corn). Retirees who are tired of the din of modern life can escape to the Niobrara Scenic River, a gorgeous, remote river trail that's also one of the quietest places on Earth. 

The natural diversity goes beyond the geology to a mix of natural wonders. The sandhill crane's migratory pattern over Nebraska's Platte River Valley was one of Dr. Jane Goodall's favorite spots in the Midwest. It can still enrapture birders staying in Nebraska for a while. Perhaps the natural phenomenon can be found in the state's Sandhills, a 19,000-square-mile expanse of green with 1.3 million acres of wetlands thrown into the mix. Its sloping vistas and arresting vibes make the ruckus of civilization seem alien. It's a teleportation device that can leave one thirsty. Thankfully, Nebraska's humble but burgeoning wine scene can provide a bit of flavor to any visit.

That's right, wine (you were probably expecting something corn-related). Nebraska's rustic vineyards have developed a reputation for excellent edelweiss wines, a white wine that pairs well with chicken or seafood. To get a sip of the local specialty, head over to James Arthur Vineyard. The top-ranked vineyard in the state on Tripadvisor covers 400 acres of fly-over state heaven, about 20 minutes away from Lincoln. The vineyard hosts events to go along with its bottles. Those looking for a wider menu should head to Mac's Creek Winery and Brewery just outside Lexington, which produces craft beer and hard ciders to go along with its dozen varieties of wine.

Retirees looking for a place to call their new forever home have several options in Nebraska. The state's capital, Lincoln, distills the state's appeal for retirees with endless outdoor fun and affordable, healthy living. The personal finance site SoFi ranked Beatrice (population: 12,000) as the best place in Nebraska for retirees. The town's proximity to Lincoln, about 50 minutes away, put it in the Goldilocks Zone for accessing vital services like healthcare, but just far enough to provide some distance from city life. Nebraska is also comparatively safe, ranking 19th among all states in U.S. News & World Report's national public safety rankings.

Despite all the upsides, Nebraska may not be welcoming for all retirees. Its admittedly nippy winters may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health issues like diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or thyroid problems. It's doubly problematic when considering Nebraska's issues with healthcare access. The state's lower healthcare prices come at a cost, as healthcare accessibility and outcomes remain plagued by disparities. Rural parts of the state face an uphill climb in improving patient access, though strides are being made. If proximity to a doctor is vital, choosing where you set up shop in the Cornhusker State may ultimately determine the wisdom of your move.

If seeing family regularly is a must, Nebraska may leave you in the lurch. Though domestic airlines serve Omaha, Lincoln, and a handful of others, the state lacks a major international travel hub — but it is investing heavily in improving connectivity. Regardless of how long you plan on staying, bring a car. Nebraska's cities and towns aren't exactly known for their walkability, nor do they have sterling public transportation options.