According to a new Associated Press-LifeGoesStrong.com poll, most baby boomers would like to retire somewhere close to family, medical care, a warmer climate and convenient to services and amenities. However, the economy has waylaid their plans. In fact, 60 percent of boomers said they lost money during the recession as a result of workplace retirement plans, personal investments and real estate all taking a hit. Many baby boomers reported they expect to stay where they are given the economy. Seventy-three percent said they planned to keep working into their retirement years, up from 67 percent in a March poll.

A population some 77 million-strong, baby boomers are comprised of the generation born between 1946 and 1964.  Boomers who plan to or want to move when they retire seek the following: a smaller place (40%), be closer to medical offices or hospitals (39%), live in a different/warmer climate (30%) or switch to a more affordable house (25%). Fifteen percent said they planned to move to be closer to family, and 10 percent wanted a city with more services.

Whether they are likely to move or not, boomers’ priorities for choosing a retirement home is to be near their children (50%), not have any stairs (46%), and close to medical care (39%) and shops and services (38%).

In Northeast Florida, boomers continue to be one of the strongest segments of the home buying market.  Says Davidson Realty President Sherry Davidson, “Having the esteemed Mayo Clinic located in Jacksonville as well as other superior facilities like Baptist South which opened just north of St. Augustine gives older homeowners peace-of-mind.”  Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida’s temperate year-round weather and low cost of living have also helped to influence baby boomers retirement choices.  Master-planned communities like World Golf Village offer 55+ neighborhoods like The Cascades and assisted living communities like Glenmoor with healthcare and on-site doctor visits available.