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The years go by so fast. Before you know what happened, it's time to start thinking about retirement and all its implications. There are many considerations about what to do next around this time of your life, but one of the most important is where you'll relocate, if that's what you're looking to do.

For some people, it's just as well to consider staying where you are. Many people today are thinking about staying where they've lived their lives, where they're familiar with the area, or where they have a family history. If the area where you've been living for years is appealing and still fills your needs, perhaps staying put is a good option for you. You may already be living in one of the retirement areas in some of today's surveys of top spots.

But if what you're looking for is a change of scenery and a fresh perspective on life, a move is in order. How will you decide where to go? Will it depend on the climate, cultural opportunities, cost of living, recreation, taxes, crime rate, the housing market, or closeness to family and friends? How about access to health care facilities? One or more of these considerations will be what decides your location, eventually. Maybe a combination of factors will help you narrow it down.

Some people are happy in quiet, rural areas. Others like cities and the constant activity that keeps life from getting boring. Others like the compromise of a small town where everything is close but where the pace is moderate. Some like to live near the ocean or near lakes and streams, and still others prefer more mountainous areas. Whatever you prefer, the U.S. has a place waiting for your arrival.

Some areas of the U.S. are famous for their retirement spots, but others go unnoticed even though they're wonderful places to retire for many reasons. A few locations in each area of the country are especially nice.

In the Northeast, think about Maine in the Camden area. Some people really prefer cooler weather, and Maine is a beautiful state if you like your mornings crisp, mugs of hot chocolate, and down comforters for nighttime.

The mid-Atlantic states have Lancaster, Pennsylvania to offer. Life is never boring, and it's close to many historical areas. Depending on your preference, there are plenty of rural spots, and the food in Lancaster County can't be beat. The city of Lancaster has some lovely neighborhoods that are not too heavily trafficked. New Jersey is famous for its beaches and recreational areas - think Ocean County for retirement.

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