5 Places To Retire That Are Just Like Ski Resorts but Way Cheaper
If you haven’t noticed, real estate prices have skyrocketed over the past five years. Whether you’re looking to buy a home in the Midwest or the Deep South, prices are considerably higher than they’ve ever been.
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However, some of the country’s most expensive real estate can be found in some of the most popular ski towns. In 2023, an estate outside Aspen, Colorado, was listed for $105 million.
If you’ve had your heart set on moving to a ski town, but it’s not quite within your budget, here are five alternatives you can consider.
Also see five tips for retirees looking to buy a home.
Bozeman, Montana
Like many other locations, Montana has seen a significant increase in popularity. Even so, Bozeman, located in the southern part of the state, just north of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, is an excellent alternative to your traditional ski town.
Not only will you be within driving distance of ski resorts, but you’ll also have an endless supply of outdoor activities like hiking, biking and rafting. Given that it’s also home to Montana State University, it has a very vibrant restaurant and entertainment scene.
“For years, I’ve explored some of America’s premier destinations. And I can tell you from experience that Bozeman has the natural beauty and amenities that can match any high-end ski resort town,” said Wayne Kask, travel expert and founder of Discover West Central Florida. “The sunny weather and low humidity make Bozeman a more enjoyable retirement destination than many others.”
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Bend, Oregon
For any outdoors enthusiast looking to avoid the high cost of living in other areas, Bend, Oregon, is a great alternative. Located near the Cascade Mountains, it offers plenty of skiing and hiking terrain. Plus, Bend built Oregon’s first urban whitewater park on the Deschutes River. Oh — and did I mention that Bend receives an average of 300 days of sunshine each year?
“Situated in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Bend offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and small-town charm,” said Neal Shah, founder and CEO of CareYaya.
“The city is home to the Mt. Bachelor ski resort, which boasts over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain,” he said. “Retirees can enjoy hiking, fishing and golfing in the surrounding area in the summer. Bend also has a thriving craft beer scene and a variety of cultural events throughout the year. While the cost of living in Bend is higher than the national average, it is still much more affordable than living in a traditional ski resort town.”
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a great option for those living on the East Coast. Located within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has a lot to offer beyond the plentiful outdoor activities. It has a thriving food scene and a huge craft beer community. Plus, although the cost of living is slightly above the national average, it’s still significantly below many traditional mountain ski towns.
Ogden, Utah
For those wanting to be close to the Park City Ski Resort without actually paying Park City prices, Ogden is a winning option. Located just north of Salt Lake City, Ogden gives you access to the small mountain town feel you crave and everything a larger city offers.
“The city has a vibrant downtown area with great restaurants, shops and cultural attractions,” Shah said. “Retirees can enjoy skiing at nearby resorts like Snowbasin and Powder Mountain, while also taking advantage of the city’s many parks, trails and golf courses during the warmer months. The cost of living in Ogden is significantly lower than in places like Park City or Aspen, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious retirees.”
Burlington, Vermont
With a median home sales price of $338,750, Burlington, Vermont, is the most expensive city on this list. However, it’s still less than most ski resorts and should definitely be considered. This smaller mountain city is located on Lake Champlain and is within a short distance of several ski resorts. You’ll also have endless biking and hiking trails for summertime adventures.
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