The alternative is going back to work or working longer for a "real retirement". Both unacceptable options to many.
It is my contention that retiring in any form beats working. Once people get a taste of the freedom retirement affords there is a strong desire to do what it takes to stay retired.
Last year, after my 401K turned into a 201K, I was forced to think about returning to the workforce. The very thought of doing something I quit 15 years ago made me bilious. Stop to think of all the people you worked with that you really didn't like; commuting; spending on stuff to maintain appearances, etc...and I was self employed.
15 years of doing what you want and when you want becomes a habit folks. Once you have sniffed the heady aroma of personal freedom you will do whatever it takes to keep that freedom. You will too.
We shop at Goodwill, we use coupons religiously, we do what we want but we do not waste money doing it. No fun?...we are going on a 7 day cruise to Mexico in 3 weeks: driving to the ship; inside cabin; great ship, less than $1000.
Cheap retirement living is not about sacrifice to us...but one sacrifice we won't make is to give up the freedom we have enjoyed for 15 years.
There are so many options for cheap retirement living if you are driven to stay retired or want to retire.
To list a few we have experienced:
1) Retire overseas...you won't need much more than your Social Security check 2) Fulltime RV...talk about a hoot, and very cheap...you bring only the important stuff 3) Living on a sailboat...our cheap living favorite 4) Park model mobile homes...if you saw the fun these folks have...you would do it too
Cheap retirement living beats working anyday...it is the freedom...you can do this too.
Cheap retirement living Gary Pierce is the webmaster of http://www.frugal-retirement-living.com he retired early at 49, still retired at 64. He has experience in lifestyles that are both fulfilling and frugal. It is 2009 and many are wondering if they can ever retire. Don't give up until you check out this website. Enjoy.