Preston ranked as fourth best city to retire to in the UK

A new study has ranked Preston as one of the best cities to retire in the UK.

Preston has been ranked as the fourth-best city, with Belfast taking the top spot for pensioners.

Moneypenny, who conducted the study, looked at several factors that included the average cost of living, retirement savings needed, and variety of amenities.

Preston ranked in fourth place, due to 45 per cent of land being officially declared as green space, along with 96 cafes for retirees to unwind and socialise, four health and fitness clubs and one golf course.

Alan Roberts, member of Preston Probus Club, a community group for retired people in the city thought the results were ‘pleasing’.

However, he noted the factors used to rank the cities, are not as important as how safe the streets are, access to public transport, healthcare and social services.

He said: “There are many complex and inter-related factors which make up a vibrant community that retired people want to be part of.

“These days people are living longer, healthier lives and for many who have had active working lives they want an active retirement as well. Staying active can take many forms from fulfilling bucket list adventures to voluntary work, keeping abreast of current affairs or joining local clubs and societies to socialise with like-minded people.

“But, without the right environment, older people will not participate in their chosen community and their activity will be limited as a result. Fortunately, in the Preston area there are many organisations who meet the needs of retirees in many ways.”

Coming up to its 50th season of talks, lunches and visits, Preston Probus is a social group for retried men and women from all walks of life. They not only attract members from Preston, but from Great Eccleston, Lytham, Kirkham, and Clayton-le-Woods too.

Alan added: “Everything we do is for the benefit of our members. We meet during the day which is important for any of our members who are concerned about personal safety and dark nights. Our talks from invited speakers cover a wide range of topics and are designed to inform, educate and often amuse.

“We also try to include socialising in our mix with lunches for members and their partners / guests, plus, we arrange visits to places of interest in the wider Lancashire area. All of this aims to feed the need to stay active, to stay up to date with current events and develop a greater understanding of the world around us.

“By being involved in several local organisations the space previously taken up by the working week can be filled with a purpose allowing the individual to turn their active retirement goal into active participation in their chosen community.”

Moneypenny’s study also found out that Preston has an average monthly rent of £600.

They said to fully enjoy retirement in Preston, a minimum savings pot of £312,688 is recommended.

The newly-renovated Friargate North which is home to popular cafes.

Preston also had a cost-of-living index of 55.8 and a total score of 4.2, just behind Leeds and Bradford which took second and third spot.

Dan Marshall, group head of digital at Moneypenny said: “We understand that retirement is more than just relaxation. By considering factors such as cost of living, green space, and variety of amenities, we hope to provide a guide that helps retirees find a location that meets their lifestyle preferences and ensures a fulfilling and well-earned retirement.”

As retirement marks a significant milestone, the study was conducted to help those who are searching for the perfect place to enjoy a fulfilling and comfortable retirement.

To view the full results you can visit their website here.

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