Forbes Cites SF State Osher Lifelong Learning Institute as a Reason to Retire in San Francisco

FORBES -- Surrounded by water, this scenic city is a mecca of culture and food, with 57 Michelin starred restaurants (compared to 76 in 10 times more populous New York). Opportunities for senior learning are offered at an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at San Francisco State and at other venues. There’s a high ratio of doctors per capita, good air quality and a strong economy. Despite the famed hills, the city, with an elevation of 50 feet, is very walkable and bikeable, with both trails and protected bike lanes. There is no state estate/inheritance tax and no income tax on Social Security benefits, but the state income tax rate is a hefty 9.3 percent on income above $150,000 per couple and goes up to 12.3 percent for the very wealthy. The serious crime rate is above the national average, but the biggest downside is the cost of living: a stunning 205 percent above the national average.