It's out there - your new place to live.

Baby boomers—the generation on the cusp of retirement—are proactively seeking their individually perfect retirement location, and their standards are high. How do you go about figuring out if you’re making the right decision? Here are some suggestions.

1. Expenses: Check out the work options, housing prices, and tax rates for any place you’re considering.

2. Community: Research the demographics of your location (go to the Census Bureau’s Web site) to find out about your new neighbors. Visit the local Chamber of Commerce Web site as well, and pick up a copy of the local and regional newspapers to learn about issues, events, and other items of importance to residents.

3. Health and Wellness: Find out how far away the best hospital or medical center is, and check that institution to make sure it has the most up-to-date facilities and staff. Web sites devoted to alternative health can help you make sure you’ll have easy access to practitioners.

4. Learning and Education: Investigate the local opportunities for continuing education, especially degree-granting institutions. Access to a major university will bring a broad range of benefits to older local residents beyond classes and courses.

© The Odyssey Group, used with permission. www.theodysseygroup.net