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Philadelphia Only Urban Setting Named Among Top Ten Places to Retire


WEBWIRE

Center City, Philadelphia, Penn. – Good housing values, good medical care, reasonable tax rates, and plenty of things to do are among the reasons Money Magazine lists Philadelphia as one of America’s Top Ten Places to Retire. Philadelphia is the only urban setting to make last week’s annual Top Ten list, which is dominated by more traditional retirement destinations like Port Charlotte, Florida and Pinehurst, North Carolina. Some locals believe, in fact, that Philadelphia is the wisest choice of all the Top Ten destinations, particularly for seniors age 70+, because urban living offers a type of energy and stimulation that older adults not only want, but also need.

According to Money editor Beth Braverman, 31% of Philadelphia’s 1,449,600 citizens are over the age of 50, a typical 3-bedroom home costs $375,000, and Pennsylvania doesn’t tax retirement income such as pensions. She also points out that compared to other urban centers such as New York City, Center City residents enjoy a more affordable lifestyle in a city that is pedestrian friendly and offers a wide array of shopping and dining options as well as cultural attractions within walking distance. Especially important to those of advanced years, Braverman emphasizes that there’s no need for Philadelphians to travel elsewhere for good healthcare. “Philadelphia’s got several major teaching hospitals that offer stellar services. Among them: Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Temple University Hospital, University of Pennsylvania Hospital and Hahnemann University Hospital,” she wrote in the September 9 article.

Not surprised by the Top Ten news are the people who already call Philadelphia home, including those who reside at The Watermark at Logan Square, Two Franklin Town Blvd., a high-rise residence that caters to active seniors. Priding itself on offering “un-retirement living,” this popular residence thrives on its vibrant Center City location combined with convenient on-site services that promote brain and body fitness in particular and aging well in general. Such a combination is considered ideal for the market segment that wants to be near cultural activities, concerts and college courses in a stimulating downtown environment.

“Not everybody wants to retire to a warm climate and sit in the sun,” said Jennifer Kelley, Executive Director of The Watermark at Logan Square. “Nor do they want to be put out to pasture in the suburbs,” she added.

Most big retirement communities are located in the suburbs, according to David Schless, president at the American Seniors Housing Association, a Washington, D.C.-based trade group that represents developers. This makes locations like The Watermark at Logan Square precious indeed.

“With all the cultural resources around us, we certainly don’t have to struggle to find topics for our Watermark University courses or community outings,” said Kelley.

The Watermark, which opened 24 years ago, has long been a haven for retired professionals, including educators and doctors from some of the area’s leading universities and hospitals. It is also home to many accomplished artists and musicians, who enjoy their proximity to Philadelphia’s many museums and concert halls. Some residents have even moved back from sun-filled retirement locations. Urban planner Kayle Ezell has coined such consumers “Ruppies,” short for retired urban people, in his 2006 book Retire Downtown: The Lifestyle Destination for Active Retirees and Empty Nesters. According to Ezell, Ruppies are content to trade the gentle pulse of suburban living for the heartbeat of the city.

As a high-rise retirement community in an urban center, The Watermark at Logan Square is way ahead of its time. Only recently have developers in other cities begun building high rises to accommodate this niche group.

“Those of us who live and work here already know what a well kept secret we have but we hope the “Top Ten” Money article will draw some new and well deserved attention to the wonderful amenities Philadelphia and The Watermark at Logan Square in particular offer to seniors,” added Kelley.

About The Watermark at Logan Square:
The Watermark at Logan Square is the only continuing care retirement community in Center City offering a complete spectrum of care with the best physicians and health providers in Philadelphia. Recently, The Watermark at Logan Square underwent $15 million renovations which included a fitness center, resort style salon and day spa, and new dining options with environmentally-friendly designs. The Watermark at Logan Square is located at Two Franklin Town Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19103. For more information, call 215-240-8915 or visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/logansquare.

About Watermark Retirement Communities:
Watermark Retirement Communities has owned and operated successful, innovative senior housing communities for over 20 years. Watermark is committed to creating a culture where everyone is encouraged to express their true selves. These communities are full of spirit, character, compassion and adventure and are located in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey and Arizona. For more information, please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com.
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 retirement living
 Ruppies
 Top Ten Places to Retire
 Center City Philadelphia
 The Watermark


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