2012 to 2020. I was able to work in jeffersonville indiana, Mishawaka indiana, elkhart indiana and sheperville Kentucky and waxahachie Texas for extra credit. To be honest the weather , the weather, that killed it for me. I am back home in Downey California I love waking up and enjoying another perfect day. I dont have to hear the weather may. Change today. Yes, it is diverse and happy. Gratitude.
Yes, the weather is lovely. But, the SoCal weather will not help you when your electricity bill goes up by 30% in one month. The balmy days will do little for you when property taxes have increased, when the pols raised the gas tax again, when they raised the minimum wage again (causing prices to increase). All making your Social Security worth less and less.
Absolutely, there's something truly special about coming back to California, especially after experiencing the unpredictable weather in other states. The consistency of the beautiful weather, along with the diversity and vibrant energy here, is indeed something to be grateful for.
@san209nha9 - If your house in Texas is $400K and your house in California is $850K. That's alot of electricity bills before that extra cost compares. Our rates in California are 2Xs a Kwhr compared to Texas. The utilities, in California are in talks to raise the rates much higher. They were going to raise it based on how much your gross household salary was.
@@eu7435 after living in Waxahachie texas and the weather going from cold to hot and never having a staight answer. Then the tornatos and rain and rain. I Love LA.
As part of my retirement plans and also owing to the very shaky housing market now, I just sold a property in Philly and I'm thinking to put the cash in stocks, I know everyone is saying its ripe enough, but Is this a good time to buy stocks? How long until a full recovery? How are other people in the same market raking in over $200k gains in months, I'm really just confused at this point.
Yes, a good number of folks are raking in huge 6 figure gains in this downtrend, but such strategies are mostly successfully executed by folks with in depth market knowledge, And it also all depends on how long you're willing to hold for, stocks might likely tank further, but making serious gains in this downtrend wouldn't be a problem if you're a pro.
Reason I decided to work closely with a broker ever since the market got really tensed and the pressure became so much(I should be retiring in 17months) so I've had an brokerage-adviser guide me through the chaos, its been 9months and counting and I've made approx. 650K net from all of my holdings.
This is precisely why I like having a portfolio coach also to guide my day-to-day market decisions: with their extensive knowledge of going long and short at the same time, using risk for its asymmetrical upside and laying it off as a hedge against the inevitable downward turns, their skillset makes it nearly impossible for them to underperform. I've been utilizing a portfolio coach for more than two years, and I've made over $800,000.
This is precisely why I like having a portfolio coach guide my day-to-day market decisions: with their extensive knowledge of going long and short at the same time, using risk for its asymmetrical upside and laying it off as a hedge against the inevitable downward turns, their skillset makes it nearly impossible for them to underperform. I've been utilizing a portfolio coach for more than two years, and I've made over $800,000.
A very informative video - learned a lot, thanks! Currently my wife and I are owning a house and living in beautiful Irvine, California and love every minute of it as you’ve described in video - a few minutes to beautiful beaches, i.e. Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, etc., while enjoying snowboarding on local mountains, Mountain High, Snow Summit, or spending Christmas throughout New Year time at beautiful Mammoth Mountain, my dream winter wonderland place! My wife is already retired from RN, and I’ll be soon following her footsteps. Thanks!
Thank you for sharing your story and for leaving a comment! We are very lucky to be able to live in a place as beautiful as sunny California. Enjoy retirement!
Thank you . 90% youtubers bashing California as a hell state. But your video is the Great informative video about California. California is not perfect but it's great enough for the rest of my life.
I’m a 5th generation Californian and the first to leave my Golden State for Washington state 2 1/2 years ago. I’m still so conflicted. I live on a mainland connected island on the Puget Sound where the views are beautiful, water, Olympic Peninsula, my house backs to a forest where I feed deer, squirrels, all types of birds. Crime is almost non-existent, but, truthfully, I’m very lonely away from close friends, cold 99% of the time. The fireplace is burning in July. The island is remote so going to Costco takes half of a day. Produce is very expensive and rain with oppressive clouds 9 months of the year is beyond depressing. Property tax is $2,000 less than CA and half the cost for insurance for car and home. There’s no state income tax. Sales tax is about 9% or more. I just returned from my former home in Rocklin, spent 2 weeks in Pacific Grove and was extremely happy. However, I toured a modest 1500 s.f. 1960’s home, superficially updated in a good area of PG/Monterey for $2.4 million. I ask myself where I want to spend my last years, here in WA or where my heart is, in CA? What good is money if one is isolated, lonely and depressed?
Thank you for sharing your story. California's sunshine and your close connections there sound irreplaceable. It's important to listen to your heart - happiness might be worth the trade-off.
I’m a people person so that life style is not for me. There are a lot of poor people here in California and are surviving. I’d rather be poor in California than where you are.
I am a Californian and really enjoyed all your videos. I thought in CA, when one of a couple died, you can only step up the cost basis on 1/2 of the jointly owned appreciated stocks! At least, that was what a Charles Schwab representative told me! Would you please clarify that?
Assets titled as “joint tenants” do NOT get a 100% adjusted cost basis at death. In the case of married people, it’s important to remember that “title controls” under California law. This sounds like a good webinar topic!
Thanks for the video and insights, but honestly for me the total cost of living (including housing and taxes) is the real killer as I compare alternatives. Grant it we all have to define our "retirement life", so for some folks the Pros your pointed out are enough for them to enjoy. I do love SoCal and wish I could stay, but when I compare my options for the house I could own, the location and proximity to activities, overall lifestyle and financial freedom Cali is just too expensive for my retirement lifestyle.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. It's true that the cost of living in California, especially factors like housing, can significantly influence where one chooses to retire. Finding that balance between the lifestyle you love and what's financially feasible is key, and it sounds like you're considering all angles to make the best decision for your retirement. I would encourage you to watch the section on retirement taxes since there are ways to pay very little if you are retired!
Great info. Thank you. Regarding Medi Medi. Mother in law in LTC memory care., 8k per month. LTC insurance will run out soon. Gets about 2K in SS, and 5k in rent. Does rent count as income?
Generally, rent is considered income. I would speak with the accountant to have a better understanding on what type of deductions that the person is claiming on his/her tax returns.
As Californian retiring from the Army soon, I've decided to return home to California for now. I still may leave if I do find another state, but unfortunately, most look unappealing, despite considering I'm a world traveler. And California has a great veterans program, too. Not many states can compare. Ultimately, the diversity in people, cultures, weather, and opportunities are the main reasons for my return. The only cons for me are the poor public schools and health care in rural or poorer communities. I don't have to worry about public schools or health care since I'm going to be a veteran, but I know these two topics are a big deal in a state as huge as California. Thanks for making this video. It's very informative.
Considering California is the most populous US state, I'd say it makes sense that we sometimes have to have patience with the healthcare system. California has many nationally ranked specialties at hospitals like Stanford Health Care, UCLA Medical Center, UC San Diego Health, UCSF Medical Center, UC Davis Medical Center, and many more. Other states may be able to admit you to the hospital faster, but California has a wealth of medical knowledge and expertise- and as a Californian, you have access to these specialists!
People think just because you have food healthcare means no wait times or you can choose. If you're in a traffic accident you don't choose which hospital to go to. The paramedics take you to the closest county contracted hospital with an open room.
If I were 72 and making $53 K per year from Social Security and a pension, Is it possible that if I needed to go into a long term care facility that I'd qualify for Medical assistance if I didn't have long term care insurance?
In California there is no longer an asset test. Your income (minus $35) forms your share of cost. As of January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal will no longer count assets to determine eligibility. This means that anyone, regardless of how much they own, may receive Medi-Cal benefits, including: Individuals in skilled nursing or intermediate care facilities or those who qualify for home and community based services; people who are 65 or over, blind or disabled, low-income persons with dependent children; children under 21; pregnant women; and SSI and other categorically-related recipients are also automatically eligible for Medi-Cal. canhr.org/overview-of-medi-cal-for-long-term-care/
Many people have chosen this path. Be sure to do your research: www.calpers.ca.gov/page/active-members/retirement-benefits/service-disability-retirement
@flapoverspeed wrong. If you live in Nevada and work in California, you still owe CA state income taxes. Once you retire CA can't tax your income. Research tax laws.
Kentucky is gorgeous but winters are brutal. I notice in my own area most of the newcomers are from one of three places; LA, SF or NYC. The ones I've talked to claim they'd never move back. NYC people because of the crime but Cali people say because of the cost of living.
The cost of living can be steep here in California, but everything comes with a price. For many, the higher cost of living is worth it. Thanks for commenting and sharing your perspective!
@@CunninghamLegal True. The only place that even comes close to the Southern California Coast in USA might be some places in Florida and along the Georgia Coast. But then you get too many mosquitoes and alligators. The only place I know is exactly as nice as SoCal is Gold Coast near Brisbane. But it too is extremely expensive these days.
It's important to note that assets are not income. Assets represent what you own, such as property, while income is the money you earn or receive, like salaries or dividends. Granny could own a home outright, ($1M) and a collection of antique jewelry valued at $2 million, but if she's retired and not selling her assets, her only income might be a modest pension, placing her in a low-income bracket despite her considerable assets. Additionally, distributions from a ROTH IRA isn't generally considered income, so instead of a $2M jewelry collection, Granny might have a $2M IRA account.
We like to say that retirement brings freedom. Here's some parts of the video I encourage you to check out: 10:25 Retirement Brings Freedom 27:35 No Income Taxes on SSI (CA PRO) 36:05 CA Can be a Good Place for Low Income Retirees
Interesting how homelessness wasn't mentioned as a con. California has the largest population of unhoused people, which explains some of the crime epidemic. Not to mention the totally soft on crime politicians. I have lived in CA my entire life, and it has some beautiful areas, but in my opinion, the state as a whole has been deteriorating, and I don't see anything coming from our politicians that will make it better. Nearing retirement now, and I think I'll look for a better quality of life elsewhere. As long as you don't mind aggressive panhandling or having to sidestep some tents on the sidewalk, you'll love it here. The weather is great.
I agree with you that California does have a higher than average percentage of homeless people. Statistically, however, the homeless population is rather consolidated to major areas: The homeless population in cities is more than ten times the rural homeless population. These cities in California hold the largest homeless populations, totaling 64% of the state’s homeless population: Los Angeles (38%), San Jose (5.8%), Oakland (5.7%), Sacramento (5.4%), San Diego (4.9%) and San Francisco (4.5%). [SOURCE: www.ppic.org/blog/homeless-populations-are-rising-around-california/#:~:text=The%20largest%20cities%20and%20CoCs,Francisco%20(4.5%25)%20far%20behind.]
CA not only has the highest homeless population, but also the highest amount of poverty and illegal immigrants. CA is going to give illegals free healthcare. Who's going to pay for that? Don't be shocked to see Prop 13 repealed to pay for all the handouts in another decade or two.
As a public employee, (firefighter) and a native California resident, I'm worried about CA taxing my pension to death! Ugh! I don't want to move! How can i protect my pension?
Our firm offers a variety of tax planning strategies that can reduce overall taxation. The best thing to do is reach out to our firm to get the process started. You can contact us at: www.cunninghamlegal.com/california-law-offices/contact/ or call us at 866.988.3956.
You forgot to accompany those beautiful pictures of the mountains in California with the corresponding fire insurance bills. I’m paying $11,000 a year for fire alone. That doesn’t include any other property damage or earthquake insurance.
Yes, while California isn't often plagued by tornadoes, damaging hail, negative temperatures, hurricanes, and rainforest-level rainfall, we do have fire to contend with!
Well, it definitely looks like California is not a bad state to retire. I am curious though if California is a good state to retire from if I go to spend my golden years abroad.
You are not alone in looking to retire abroad! Be sure to do your research. Depending on where you plan to retire, your tax responsibilities may differ, and the Social Security and Roth IRAs might not be tax-free in your new country (like Italy or Spain). Here's a head start: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/while-abroad/retirement-abroad.html
There is another benefit. Medical providers like doctors and hospitals cannot go after patients for charges not paid by their medical insurers. The battle is between the insurers and the medical providers. Patients are responsible only for the deductible. That’s significant for example if you rack up over 100k in hospital ICU ward. You’re only responsible for the deductible. Only about 5 states have this patient protection.
I moved to Thailand from Los Angeles-$400 per month condo-with all utilities-furniture-6 blocks from the beach-younger pretty GF! Pools-sauna-jacuzzi-healthy food-lost 30 pounds
Crime is so high in the Golden State, retiring there means your chances of becoming an elderly victim is only a matter of "when". In the meantime, your pension and 401K will be eaten alive by 13% state income tax, 10% sales tax, among many others. You'd have to be out of your mind to retire here.
California actually isn't so bad! It's beautiful, to start. As we explained at 23:41, crime rate can vary greatly depending on where you live! Los Angeles County has 9.6 Million people, so of course crime will be more common there than in Alpine County, CA with a population of 1 thousand people (and not a lot of crime). If you have a Roth IRA or SSI, you won't have to pay any taxes! (And you can do a 401k to Roth Conversion here in the US). Income tax brackets are graduated, so the tax you pay depends on how much you make! (explained at 16:55) If you were paying 12.3% in state income tax, you would have to be earning over $698,271 in 2024. And sales tax is actually 7.25% in California. Here's a refresher of CA's tac brackets: www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/california-state-tax
so most people who move to CA is from the worst states? that is not a good thing...if you move from the worst state, then anything is better...i've lived in CA since i came in US, but with all the things i've seen since, i can tell you everything is going down...outdoor activities are getting more limited, budgets are down for public services, taxes are going up, more unqualified people to receive social services are getting them easier than legal tax payers, crime is higher each year, middle class is getting destroyed, tax payer is getting less out of their taxes...long term, retirees are better off some other state...i would keep my property in CA as second home because i still think it's got the best in overall living condition, but would rather live in middle class friendly states...the key i take here is that CA is good for low income earners which makes the point that CA hates middle class...who wants to stay in low income earner just to live in CA?
Here's a list in the video of all of the reasons someone might want to stay in CA, but I noticed that you had your own reasons for staying in this beautiful state: 04:46 Reasons to Retire in California (PRO: The Arts) 06:00 More Reasons to Retire in California (PRO: Education & Outdoors) 06:51 Even More Reasons to Retire in CA (PRO: Food & Recreation) 25:27 Retiring in California PROs 25:49 Prop 13 Protections (CA PRO) 27:35 No Income Taxes on SSI (CA PRO) 30:33 No Death Taxes (CA PRO) 32:41 Adjusted Cost Basis (CA PRO) 36:05 CA Can be a Good Place for Low Income Retirees
Pro- the weather, Con-Anything else you can think of. I've got two more years in this hellhole. It's a great place to make money, but a horrible place to live.
Thank you for sharing your perspective; it's valuable to hear all sides. While there are certainly challenges to living in California, its unbeatable weather and diverse opportunities still make it an attractive place for retirement for many.
The politics of California can be difficult for many to overcome. I agree with you though, that the weather is unbeatable. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Politics are a dream killer and have caused many of my family & friends to do stupid things they live to regret like leave CA 😂They leave and can’t afford to come back. Politicians don’t give a darn about anyone but themselves.
The reality is that when you retire, you have fixed income fueled by Social Security. In most areas of CA, (especially in LA) the prospect of selling your older home and buying a new one is near to impossible. Therefore, this sets up the protocol of migration from CA to States such as AZ. When your HOA fees are half the cost of your 3.2% mortgage of a building that is falling apart and over 60 years old. Then there is property tax; a single family house in PHX is a 1/3 rd of the cost of my 1 bed condo in SoCal. No doubt, CA is the place to live. However, if you want to buy a house in new retirement in SoCal for most, forget about it! Since living in CA, my 60 year old decaying house has experienced many earthquake tremors manifesting damage.
It's true that for many, the financial realities of retiring here, especially on a fixed income from Social Security, can make the dream of a comfortable retirement in California tough to achieve, pushing some to consider more affordable states. But you're right- despite these challenges, California's beautiful scenery and lively culture still make it a wonderful place to be.
Many of our clients have this same concern. Here is a video we did on TOP 10 STEPS SO YOU DON’T OUTLIVE YOUR MONEY IN RETIREMENT: www.cunninghamlegal.com/top-10-steps-so-you-dont-outlive-your-money-in-retirement/
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, "California is often considered quite liberal, with strong support for the Democratic Party-but the state encompasses many people with differing political views." Here's the full research report: www.ppic.org/publication/californias-political-geography/
What planet have you’ve been living on🤷🏽♂️you said “cost of living could be higher pending where you live” No the cost of living in California is definitely higher regardless of where you live. Plus I’m shocked and appalled that in your Con’s category…you left off Homelessness which is a humongous problem in California🤷🏽♂️
Here's some of the counties with the lowest median home prices in California: www.kiplinger.com/taxes/cheapest-places-to-live-in-california (Rural areas of the state generally offer more affordable living than highly populated areas) And here are some towns to consider with statistically the lowest cost of living in California: fox5sandiego.com/news/california-wire/places-with-the-lowest-cost-of-living-in-california-study/
2012 to 2020. I was able to work in jeffersonville indiana, Mishawaka indiana, elkhart indiana and sheperville Kentucky and waxahachie Texas for extra credit. To be honest the weather , the weather, that killed it for me. I am back home in Downey California I love waking up and enjoying another perfect day. I dont have to hear the weather may. Change today. Yes, it is diverse and happy. Gratitude.
Yes, the weather is lovely. But, the SoCal weather will not help you when your electricity bill goes up by 30% in one month. The balmy days will do little for you when property taxes have increased, when the pols raised the gas tax again, when they raised the minimum wage again (causing prices to increase). All making your Social Security worth less and less.
@@eu7435 I paid $500/month electric bill for 4 months of summer in Arizona. I imagine Texas and Florida are the same.
Absolutely, there's something truly special about coming back to California, especially after experiencing the unpredictable weather in other states. The consistency of the beautiful weather, along with the diversity and vibrant energy here, is indeed something to be grateful for.
@san209nha9 - If your house in Texas is $400K and your house in California is $850K. That's alot of electricity bills before that extra cost compares. Our rates in California are 2Xs a Kwhr compared to Texas. The utilities, in California are in talks to raise the rates much higher. They were going to raise it based on how much your gross household salary was.
@@eu7435 after living in Waxahachie texas and the weather going from cold to hot and never having a staight answer. Then the tornatos and rain and rain. I Love LA.
I live in California. Love it! Been here for years! ❤
That's great!
As part of my retirement plans and also owing to the very shaky housing market now, I just sold a property in Philly and I'm thinking to put the cash in stocks, I know everyone is saying its ripe enough, but Is this a good time to buy stocks? How long until a full recovery? How are other people in the same market raking in over $200k gains in months, I'm really just confused at this point.
Yes, a good number of folks are raking in huge 6 figure gains in this downtrend, but such strategies are mostly successfully executed by folks with in depth market knowledge, And it also all depends on how long you're willing to hold for, stocks might likely tank further, but making serious gains in this downtrend wouldn't be a problem if you're a pro.
Reason I decided to work closely with a broker ever since the market got really tensed and the pressure became so much(I should be retiring in 17months) so I've had an brokerage-adviser guide me through the chaos, its been 9months and counting and I've made approx. 650K net from all of my holdings.
This is precisely why I like having a portfolio coach also to guide my day-to-day market decisions: with their extensive knowledge of going long and short at the same time, using risk for its asymmetrical upside and laying it off as a hedge against the inevitable downward turns, their skillset makes it nearly impossible for them to underperform. I've been utilizing a portfolio coach for more than two years, and I've made over $800,000.
This is precisely why I like having a portfolio coach guide my day-to-day market decisions: with their extensive knowledge of going long and short at the same time, using risk for its asymmetrical upside and laying it off as a hedge against the inevitable downward turns, their skillset makes it nearly impossible for them to underperform. I've been utilizing a portfolio coach for more than two years, and I've made over $800,000.
@@fadhshf Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach you using their service?
I had Basel cell cancer on my nose and my surgeon was amazing! I live in Orange County and I’m staying here to retire.
I'm glad to hear your experience with California's medical care was a good one! We are lucky to have so many specialists here in CA.
Thank you… not leaving CA after watching your video. We have been frugal and invested/saved consistently… now we’ll enjoy California… living in Napa.😊
Wonderful! I'm glad this video helped open your perspective. Napa is truly beautiful.
Are you home paid off or are you renting?
Love Napa ❤
A very informative video - learned a lot, thanks! Currently my wife and I are owning a house and living in beautiful Irvine, California and love every minute of it as you’ve described in video - a few minutes to beautiful beaches, i.e. Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, etc., while enjoying snowboarding on local mountains, Mountain High, Snow Summit, or spending Christmas throughout New Year time at beautiful Mammoth Mountain, my dream winter wonderland place! My wife is already retired from RN, and I’ll be soon following her footsteps. Thanks!
Thank you for sharing your story and for leaving a comment! We are very lucky to be able to live in a place as beautiful as sunny California. Enjoy retirement!
Congratulations I also love to live closer to beaches.some day probably
Thank you .
90% youtubers bashing California as a hell state. But your video is the Great informative video about California.
California is not perfect but it's great enough for the rest of my life.
Glad you enjoyed the video! We sure do love California too.
We left a few years ago and miss it dearly! Hope to come back.
I’m a 5th generation Californian and the first to leave my Golden State for Washington state 2 1/2 years ago. I’m still so conflicted. I live on a mainland connected island on the Puget Sound where the views are beautiful, water, Olympic Peninsula, my house backs to a forest where I feed deer, squirrels, all types of birds. Crime is almost non-existent, but, truthfully, I’m very lonely away from close friends, cold 99% of the time. The fireplace is burning in July. The island is remote so going to Costco takes half of a day. Produce is very expensive and rain with oppressive clouds 9 months of the year is beyond depressing. Property tax is $2,000 less than CA and half the cost for insurance for car and home. There’s no state income tax. Sales tax is about 9% or more. I just returned from my former home in Rocklin, spent 2 weeks in Pacific Grove and was extremely happy. However, I toured a modest 1500 s.f. 1960’s home, superficially updated in a good area of PG/Monterey for $2.4 million. I ask myself where I want to spend my last years, here in WA or where my heart is, in CA? What good is money if one is isolated, lonely and depressed?
Thank you for sharing your story. California's sunshine and your close connections there sound irreplaceable. It's important to listen to your heart - happiness might be worth the trade-off.
I'm right there with you myself. 🙏
How the weather today? Another perfect day in California between 100 to 40. That is perfect weather for me all y ear long…
Love Cali won’t traded for any state right now ❤
I’m a people person so that life style is not for me. There are a lot of poor people here in California and are surviving. I’d rather be poor in California than where you are.
I am a Californian and really enjoyed all your videos. I thought in CA, when one of a couple died, you can only step up the cost basis on 1/2 of the jointly owned appreciated stocks! At least, that was what a Charles Schwab representative told me! Would you please clarify that?
Assets titled as “joint tenants” do NOT get a 100% adjusted cost basis at death. In the case of married people, it’s important to remember that “title controls” under California law. This sounds like a good webinar topic!
I see. So, how should we title the brokerage accounts such that when one spouse died, the other spouse will get the full step up of basis?
I moved to CA from a state with a low flat tax and paid less state tax in California because of the graduated tax rates.
That's great to hear!
Thanks for the video and insights, but honestly for me the total cost of living (including housing and taxes) is the real killer as I compare alternatives. Grant it we all have to define our "retirement life", so for some folks the Pros your pointed out are enough for them to enjoy. I do love SoCal and wish I could stay, but when I compare my options for the house I could own, the location and proximity to activities, overall lifestyle and financial freedom Cali is just too expensive for my retirement lifestyle.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. It's true that the cost of living in California, especially factors like housing, can significantly influence where one chooses to retire. Finding that balance between the lifestyle you love and what's financially feasible is key, and it sounds like you're considering all angles to make the best decision for your retirement. I would encourage you to watch the section on retirement taxes since there are ways to pay very little if you are retired!
@@CunninghamLegal Thank you for the follow-up and reference to tax info.
😅
Great info. Thank you. Regarding Medi Medi. Mother in law in LTC memory care., 8k per month. LTC insurance will run out soon. Gets about 2K in SS, and 5k in rent. Does rent count as income?
Generally, rent is considered income. I would speak with the accountant to have a better understanding on what type of deductions that the person is claiming on his/her tax returns.
Thank you.
25:00 why you clicked
But the long preamble was real good
Thank you!
As Californian retiring from the Army soon, I've decided to return home to California for now. I still may leave if I do find another state, but unfortunately, most look unappealing, despite considering I'm a world traveler. And California has a great veterans program, too. Not many states can compare. Ultimately, the diversity in people, cultures, weather, and opportunities are the main reasons for my return. The only cons for me are the poor public schools and health care in rural or poorer communities. I don't have to worry about public schools or health care since I'm going to be a veteran, but I know these two topics are a big deal in a state as huge as California. Thanks for making this video. It's very informative.
Thank you for sharing your perspective! I'm glad to hear that you have traveled the world and still have a place in your heart for California.
Healthcare in California? Expect long wait times (months) for appointments to see specialists. Emergency room visits can take hours and hours.
Considering California is the most populous US state, I'd say it makes sense that we sometimes have to have patience with the healthcare system. California has many nationally ranked specialties at hospitals like Stanford Health Care, UCLA Medical Center, UC San Diego Health, UCSF Medical Center, UC Davis Medical Center, and many more. Other states may be able to admit you to the hospital faster, but California has a wealth of medical knowledge and expertise- and as a Californian, you have access to these specialists!
I believe long waits at Emergency Rooms is standard across the country.
People think just because you have food healthcare means no wait times or you can choose. If you're in a traffic accident you don't choose which hospital to go to. The paramedics take you to the closest county contracted hospital with an open room.
I’m not leaving CA, yeah
That's great to hear!
If I were 72 and making $53 K per year from Social Security and a pension, Is it possible that if I needed to go into a long term care facility that I'd qualify for Medical assistance if I didn't have long term care insurance?
In California there is no longer an asset test. Your income (minus $35) forms your share of cost. As of January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal will no longer count assets to determine eligibility. This means that anyone, regardless of how much they own, may receive Medi-Cal benefits, including: Individuals in skilled nursing or intermediate care facilities or those who qualify for home and community based services; people who are 65 or over, blind or disabled, low-income persons with dependent children; children under 21; pregnant women; and SSI and other categorically-related recipients are also automatically eligible for Medi-Cal. canhr.org/overview-of-medi-cal-for-long-term-care/
Great content ❤❤️🙏👏
Glad you think so!
Simply work in California as a young person and after 30 years get a CALPERS w COLA at 100K USD annually for life and move!
Many people have chosen this path. Be sure to do your research: www.calpers.ca.gov/page/active-members/retirement-benefits/service-disability-retirement
Bad plan. California can tax your callers even if you move
@@Hawka-LoogyI think there is a federal law that bars states from taxing pensions of people who change residences.
@@Wyman642is that so? I thought that income earned in CA(state/govt pension) is taxed even if you move out of CA.
@flapoverspeed wrong. If you live in Nevada and work in California, you still owe CA state income taxes. Once you retire CA can't tax your income. Research tax laws.
Kentucky is gorgeous but winters are brutal. I notice in my own area most of the newcomers are from one of three places; LA, SF or NYC. The ones I've talked to claim they'd never move back. NYC people because of the crime but Cali people say because of the cost of living.
The cost of living can be steep here in California, but everything comes with a price. For many, the higher cost of living is worth it. Thanks for commenting and sharing your perspective!
@@CunninghamLegal True. The only place that even comes close to the Southern California Coast in USA might be some places in Florida and along the Georgia Coast. But then you get too many mosquitoes and alligators. The only place I know is exactly as nice as SoCal is Gold Coast near Brisbane. But it too is extremely expensive these days.
So Granny with 3 million assets is low income ?
It's important to note that assets are not income. Assets represent what you own, such as property, while income is the money you earn or receive, like salaries or dividends.
Granny could own a home outright, ($1M) and a collection of antique jewelry valued at $2 million, but if she's retired and not selling her assets, her only income might be a modest pension, placing her in a low-income bracket despite her considerable assets.
Additionally, distributions from a ROTH IRA isn't generally considered income, so instead of a $2M jewelry collection, Granny might have a $2M IRA account.
Money enables freedom, so if you're rich CA is fine.
We like to say that retirement brings freedom. Here's some parts of the video I encourage you to check out:
10:25 Retirement Brings Freedom
27:35 No Income Taxes on SSI (CA PRO)
36:05 CA Can be a Good Place for Low Income Retirees
Interesting how homelessness wasn't mentioned as a con. California has the largest population of unhoused people, which explains some of the crime epidemic. Not to mention the totally soft on crime politicians. I have lived in CA my entire life, and it has some beautiful areas, but in my opinion, the state as a whole has been deteriorating, and I don't see anything coming from our politicians that will make it better. Nearing retirement now, and I think I'll look for a better quality of life elsewhere. As long as you don't mind aggressive panhandling or having to sidestep some tents on the sidewalk, you'll love it here. The weather is great.
I agree with you that California does have a higher than average percentage of homeless people. Statistically, however, the homeless population is rather consolidated to major areas: The homeless population in cities is more than ten times the rural homeless population. These cities in California hold the largest homeless populations, totaling 64% of the state’s homeless population: Los Angeles (38%), San Jose (5.8%), Oakland (5.7%), Sacramento (5.4%), San Diego (4.9%) and San Francisco (4.5%).
[SOURCE: www.ppic.org/blog/homeless-populations-are-rising-around-california/#:~:text=The%20largest%20cities%20and%20CoCs,Francisco%20(4.5%25)%20far%20behind.]
CA not only has the highest homeless population, but also the highest amount of poverty and illegal immigrants. CA is going to give illegals free healthcare. Who's going to pay for that? Don't be shocked to see Prop 13 repealed to pay for all the handouts in another decade or two.
As a public employee, (firefighter) and a native California resident, I'm worried about CA taxing my pension to death! Ugh! I don't want to move! How can i protect my pension?
Our firm offers a variety of tax planning strategies that can reduce overall taxation. The best thing to do is reach out to our firm to get the process started. You can contact us at: www.cunninghamlegal.com/california-law-offices/contact/ or call us at 866.988.3956.
You forgot to accompany those beautiful pictures of the mountains in California with the corresponding fire insurance bills. I’m paying $11,000 a year for fire alone. That doesn’t include any other property damage or earthquake insurance.
Yes, while California isn't often plagued by tornadoes, damaging hail, negative temperatures, hurricanes, and rainforest-level rainfall, we do have fire to contend with!
Well, it definitely looks like California is not a bad state to retire. I am curious though if California is a good state to retire from if I go to spend my golden years abroad.
You are not alone in looking to retire abroad! Be sure to do your research. Depending on where you plan to retire, your tax responsibilities may differ, and the Social Security and Roth IRAs might not be tax-free in your new country (like Italy or Spain). Here's a head start: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/while-abroad/retirement-abroad.html
skip to 25:00 , you can thank me later ;-)
Thanks for putting in the timing for the Cost of Housing!
There is another benefit. Medical providers like doctors and hospitals cannot go after patients for charges not paid by their medical insurers. The battle is between the insurers and the medical providers. Patients are responsible only for the deductible. That’s significant for example if you rack up over 100k in hospital ICU ward. You’re only responsible for the deductible. Only about 5 states have this patient protection.
Thank you for sharing yet another benefit of living in California!
greAT CONTENTS
Thank you!
Next do retirement in California vs Spain
I moved to Thailand from Los Angeles-$400 per month condo-with all utilities-furniture-6 blocks from the beach-younger pretty GF! Pools-sauna-jacuzzi-healthy food-lost 30 pounds
Retiring in Spain sounds fantastico!
Job opportunities and excellent pay makes it possible to sock major money away in one's early years, then get the hell out of there.
The pay in CA is definitely competitive, thanks for mentioning that!
Crime is so high in the Golden State, retiring there means your chances of becoming an elderly victim is only a matter of "when". In the meantime, your pension and 401K will be eaten alive by 13% state income tax, 10% sales tax, among many others. You'd have to be out of your mind to retire here.
California actually isn't so bad! It's beautiful, to start. As we explained at 23:41, crime rate can vary greatly depending on where you live! Los Angeles County has 9.6 Million people, so of course crime will be more common there than in Alpine County, CA with a population of 1 thousand people (and not a lot of crime). If you have a Roth IRA or SSI, you won't have to pay any taxes! (And you can do a 401k to Roth Conversion here in the US).
Income tax brackets are graduated, so the tax you pay depends on how much you make! (explained at 16:55) If you were paying 12.3% in state income tax, you would have to be earning over $698,271 in 2024. And sales tax is actually 7.25% in California. Here's a refresher of CA's tac brackets: www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/california-state-tax
Poor tourist lady from New Zealand got killed being robbed at Newport Beach of all places.
@@CunninghamLegalgreat response
so most people who move to CA is from the worst states? that is not a good thing...if you move from the worst state, then anything is better...i've lived in CA since i came in US, but with all the things i've seen since, i can tell you everything is going down...outdoor activities are getting more limited, budgets are down for public services, taxes are going up, more unqualified people to receive social services are getting them easier than legal tax payers, crime is higher each year, middle class is getting destroyed, tax payer is getting less out of their taxes...long term, retirees are better off some other state...i would keep my property in CA as second home because i still think it's got the best in overall living condition, but would rather live in middle class friendly states...the key i take here is that CA is good for low income earners which makes the point that CA hates middle class...who wants to stay in low income earner just to live in CA?
Here's a list in the video of all of the reasons someone might want to stay in CA, but I noticed that you had your own reasons for staying in this beautiful state:
04:46 Reasons to Retire in California (PRO: The Arts)
06:00 More Reasons to Retire in California (PRO: Education & Outdoors)
06:51 Even More Reasons to Retire in CA (PRO: Food & Recreation)
25:27 Retiring in California PROs
25:49 Prop 13 Protections (CA PRO)
27:35 No Income Taxes on SSI (CA PRO)
30:33 No Death Taxes (CA PRO)
32:41 Adjusted Cost Basis (CA PRO)
36:05 CA Can be a Good Place for Low Income Retirees
Pro- the weather, Con-Anything else you can think of.
I've got two more years in this hellhole.
It's a great place to make money, but a horrible place to live.
Thank you for sharing your perspective; it's valuable to hear all sides. While there are certainly challenges to living in California, its unbeatable weather and diverse opportunities still make it an attractive place for retirement for many.
The CA government is the absolute worst. They are ruining this once beautiful state. The weather is unbeatable though.
Socialism fails everywhere it's been tried. California sure is luck we have silicon Valley to fund it all.
Until you run out of other people's money
The politics of California can be difficult for many to overcome. I agree with you though, that the weather is unbeatable. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Politics are a dream killer and have caused many of my family & friends to do stupid things they live to regret like leave CA 😂They leave and can’t afford to come back. Politicians don’t give a darn about anyone but themselves.
The reality is that when you retire, you have fixed income fueled by Social Security. In most areas of CA, (especially in LA) the prospect of selling your older home and buying a new one is near to impossible. Therefore, this sets up the protocol of migration from CA to States such as AZ. When your HOA fees are half the cost of your 3.2% mortgage of a building that is falling apart and over 60 years old. Then there is property tax; a single family house in PHX is a 1/3 rd of the cost of my 1 bed condo in SoCal. No doubt, CA is the place to live. However, if you want to buy a house in new retirement in SoCal for most, forget about it! Since living in CA, my 60 year old decaying house has experienced many earthquake tremors manifesting damage.
It's true that for many, the financial realities of retiring here, especially on a fixed income from Social Security, can make the dream of a comfortable retirement in California tough to achieve, pushing some to consider more affordable states. But you're right- despite these challenges, California's beautiful scenery and lively culture still make it a wonderful place to be.
I'd never buy or live in PHX....way too hot in summer and cold in winter for this So Cal resident.
You also don’t want to outlive your body
Many of our clients have this same concern. Here is a video we did on TOP 10 STEPS SO YOU DON’T OUTLIVE YOUR MONEY IN RETIREMENT: www.cunninghamlegal.com/top-10-steps-so-you-dont-outlive-your-money-in-retirement/
There is no diversity of political thought in California 🙄
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, "California is often considered quite liberal, with strong support for the Democratic Party-but the state encompasses many people with differing political views." Here's the full research report: www.ppic.org/publication/californias-political-geography/
Newsom has dictated the lockdowns, and rules for the entire state. Landlords had no rights to collect rent. We are in debt that is not fixable.
What planet have you’ve been living on🤷🏽♂️you said “cost of living could be higher pending where you live” No the cost of living in California is definitely higher regardless of where you live. Plus I’m shocked and appalled that in your Con’s category…you left off Homelessness which is a humongous problem in California🤷🏽♂️
Here's some of the counties with the lowest median home prices in California: www.kiplinger.com/taxes/cheapest-places-to-live-in-california (Rural areas of the state generally offer more affordable living than highly populated areas)
And here are some towns to consider with statistically the lowest cost of living in California: fox5sandiego.com/news/california-wire/places-with-the-lowest-cost-of-living-in-california-study/