Retirement is a major life milestone—and for many seniors, it also marks a time for change. With careers winding down and family dynamics shifting, relocating to a new home often feels like a natural next step. In fact, more than one-third of retirees in the U.S. move during retirement, often to be closer to loved ones, reduce expenses, or enjoy better weather.
While moving can bring new opportunities, it can also come with unexpected financial and lifestyle challenges. Understanding the most common moving regrets can help retirees make more informed decisions and protect their long-term financial security.
Below are the 10 biggest moving regrets people experience in retirement—and how to avoid them.
1. Underestimating Upfront Moving Costs
Moving later in life often requires professional help, which can be costly. Local moves typically cost over $1,700 on average, while long-distance moves can range from several thousand dollars to well over $10,000.
Downsizing before moving and selling unused belongings can significantly reduce costs. Still, many retirees are surprised by how much this one-time expense impacts their savings early in retirement.
2. Taking on a Higher Mortgage Rate
Many retirees purchased their homes years ago when mortgage rates were much lower. Moving now may mean taking on a new loan at a higher interest rate, increasing monthly payments and long-term costs.
Comparing your current mortgage rate with today’s rates—and factoring that difference into your retirement budget is critical before deciding to move.
3. Paying Two Mortgages at Once
Buying a new home before selling your current one can create financial strain. Carrying two mortgages even for a few months; can quickly drain savings, especially for retirees on fixed incomes.
Careful timing, contingency clauses, or bridge financing can help reduce this risk.
4. Unexpectedly High Insurance Costs
Home and auto insurance premiums vary widely by location. Some popular retirement destinations come with significantly higher insurance rates due to weather risks or population density.
Failing to research these costs ahead of time can result in higher monthly expenses than anticipated.
5. Costly HOA Fees and Restrictions
Many retirement communities are governed by homeowner associations (HOAs), which charge monthly or annual fees. These costs can exceed several thousand dollars per year and often come with strict rules.
Before moving, confirm whether a property is subject to HOA fees and understand exactly what those fees cover.
6. Higher Property and Sales Taxes
States without income tax often compensate with higher property or sales taxes. Retirees sometimes move expecting tax savings—only to discover other tax burdens that offset those benefits.
A full tax comparison, including property and sales taxes, is essential when evaluating a new location.
7. Increased Medicare and Healthcare Costs
While Original Medicare is consistent nationwide, Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans vary by state. Moving may mean higher premiums, fewer provider options, or losing coverage altogether until a new plan is selected.
Checking Medicare costs and provider availability by ZIP code before relocating can prevent unwelcome surprises.
8. Double Taxation When Retiring Abroad
International retirement appeals to many Americans seeking lower living costs or new experiences. However, U.S. citizens are still subject to U.S. taxes—even when living abroad—while also facing local taxes in their new country.
Without careful planning, retirees may face double taxation that outweighs the perceived cost savings.
9. Higher Transportation Expenses
Moving farther from family and friends often increases travel costs. Frequent flights, gas expenses, and vehicle maintenance can significantly add to annual spending.
Additionally, fuel prices vary widely by state, which can further strain a fixed retirement budget.
10. Elevated Utility Bills
Utility costs differ dramatically across the country due to energy prices and climate conditions. Retirees often overlook these ongoing expenses when planning a move.
Even modest monthly increases can add up to thousands of dollars over time, making utilities an important factor to consider before relocating.
Final Thoughts
Moving in retirement can be rewarding—but only when done with careful financial and lifestyle planning. By understanding these common regrets ahead of time, retirees can avoid costly mistakes, preserve their savings, and choose a living situation that truly supports a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
Planning a move during retirement requires experience, care, and thoughtful coordination especially when downsizing or relocating closer to family. Movers Not Shakers specializes in stress-free, well-planned moves for seniors, offering professional packing, careful handling, and transparent pricing. As trusted movers in New York, we help avoid costly moving mistakes and unexpected surprises. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating closer to family, or moving across the city, we provide personalized moving solutions to fit your needs. Contact us today to get a free quote and experience a retirement move done right.
