With baby boomers reaching retirement age, there is going to be a large number of retirees looking for a new place to live. With there being so many different places to move to, all with their own ups and downs to each, one really needs to do some research before making the move. Each state in the U.S. can be a fine place for retirement but this article is going to focus on three of the most popular retirement destinations, Florida, Colorado, and Arizona.

One of the most popular spots to move to for retirement is Florida. Florida offers much to people who have retired. The weather is beautiful (when there is no hurricanes) and the state has more beach front then almost any other state in the U.S. While some parts of Florida like Miami or Marco Island can have a very high cost of living, much of the state is still very affordable. Florida also offers retirement communities for any budget.

Retirement communities are very popular for seniors who want an active lifestyle. There is golf, cards, pot lucks and many other events to stay busy and have fun. Probably the biggest downside to Florida is the hurricane season. It seems that Florida has been hit especially hard over the last 10 years which makes for some inconveniences with having to board up your house and it can really make your insurance more expensive then what you might be used to.

Colorado is another popular state to retire in. Colorado offers beautiful mountains living, or if you prefer, you can live on lower grounds with a great view of the mountains from your house. Like Florida, there are some very expensive towns to live in that not everyone can afford, but there also are very affordable places to live with a lot to offer. One of the biggest benefits of living in Colorado is the Rocky Mountains. Living in the mountains or in the foothills can offer breathtaking surroundings for your retirement. The mountains and rivers provide some of the best in kayaking, hiking and fly fishing in the nation.

On top of that, Colorado also offers world classic downhill skiing. The ski towns are rather expensive, but you can live within a short drive of them for a fraction of the price. The Main drawback for some people is much of the state does get heavy snow in the winter and with the mountains this can mean many roads will close and things can stand still.

Another popular state to retire in is Arizona. Arizona offers many different climates all within a couple of hour drive from each other. The weather is beautiful in Arizona and while there is a lack of lakes and beaches, at least there are no hurricanes to worry about. Towns like Prescott or Flagstaff are in higher elevations with great wildlife and mountains.

Or you can live in the south near Tucson or Phoenix. It is really amazing to be in 90-100 degree weather one minute in Phoenix, then you can drive two hours north and there will be snow on the ground in the shade. Arizona offers much for retirees. It is a great state for golf and outdoor living. Towns like Sedona are also very popular for the beautiful red rock formations.

One of the main drawbacks to retiring in Arizona is the extreme heat in the summers in the south, the Phoenix valley rivals Los Angeles for Smog, and with it being a largely desert state there is a lack of water.

Florida, Colorado and Arizona are all worth considering for your retirement. Each state is a great place to live in their own right. Each state also has retirement communities or other great housing for couples or singles to enjoy.

Each of these states can be a wonderful place to retire.

Before you decide where to move, some of the key factors are going to be your budget, what kind of weather you prefer and do you prefer mountains, beaches or scenic desert climates?

Finally, consider how far away your family may live. You'll want to see those kids and grandkids!