I can retire in March 2013 at 62 but it would be the lowest SS payment of about $1200. I’m fighting in court to keep my house (BofA is attempting foreclosure). I’m in Pgh PA and have been all my life. If I lose my court case, I’m thinking of retiring and relocating to a red state. Maybe rent a little place for me and my dog and get a part-time job.
When I was looking for housing options in Texas I considered renting, buying a condo, or buying a house. I chose the house. Housing prices are very low in Texas. My son and I both said we sold shacks in RI,Conn, and bought mansions in Texas. Rents , on the other hand, are high and there are monthly fees that can make it more expensive than a mortgage. My development in North Fort Worth is building like crazy. The houses start at about $130. If that is over your price range you can look at existing homes around $110 and up. These are house less than 10 years old so they have all the bells and whistles, and you will have your own yard for your dog to play in. Good Luck.