USA -- low budget repatriation specific locations that aren't horrible

[NeverSure]

I think in Fla. , Jacksonville's pretty cheap.

As has been noted, Florida is not an expanded Medicaid state and may not be one soon.

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20150211/ARTICLES/150219980

Well it's possible I might repatriate later at 65 in which case of course Florida comes into the picture.

LOL I know I have this habit of jumping in without reading the whole thread but... Don't get suckered into thinking that Medicare is real health insurance or that it's free. Medicare A and B are so bare-boned that you could get left hanging. Please let me spell out what my medicare costs me and what it does.

To supplement A and B which don't give you much but cost $104 per month, I buy Medicare F which is through a private insurance company. That costs me about $140 per month and removes all co-pays and deductibles. The federal government subsidizes the insurance company for providing it. Medicare F is also known as Medigap. It's a good step above Medicare Advantage in what it covers but it's more expensive.

So far, that's $104 + $140 = $244 per month. Out of my pocket.

Next I have prescription drug coverage through yet another private company which is also subsidized by medicare. That costs me $25 per month.

So I'm paying $269 per month for my Medicare but the worst that could happen to me is that I pay a $10 co-pay for a non-generic prescription drug.

Now, I have an expensive medical condition that costs about $5,000 every six months. I go the the University of Oregon Medical School Hospital in Portland for the run through. The day starts out with an MRI that costs just over $3,000, moves on to a CAT scan that I don't remember the cost, and ends with me seeing four medical professors who are of course top MD's in their fields. That's four separate doctor visits that day after the scans.

All of that costs me nothing at all and makes my $3200 per year in health insurance premiums a bargain.

I would want to know if in an expanded Medicaid state a senior could stay on Medicaid rather than being forced to switch to Medicare at age 65. If he had to go to Medicare the expanded Medicaid state would become moot, wouldn't it?

Medicare, even what I have, is a bargain compared to private insurance as it is heavily subsidized to my private carriers by the Feds.

Cheers.

[Jingthing]

No. Expanded Medicaid ends at 65.

[Kilowatt]

I lived in Phoenix until last year.I found it about 30 percent hotter than Cm.It's cool here compared.

[Jingthing]

I lived in Phoenix until last year.I found it about 30 percent hotter than Cm.It's cool here compared.

That's pretty much what I'd expect and that is certainly not very appealing.

But either is this!

I hadn't made the connection before but West Memphis is home to the infamous "West Memphis Three" true life crime and "justice" drama. Worth learning about.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Memphis_Three

Edited December 1, 2015 by Jingthing

[BKKSnowBird]

I see NO appeal to living anywhere in the midwest. Boring, boring on top of boring.

[Jingthing]

I see NO appeal to living anywhere in the midwest. Boring, boring on top of boring.

I really wouldn't call Chicago boring.

[JohnOFphon]

I think in Fla. , Jacksonville's pretty cheap.

As has been noted, Florida is not an expanded Medicaid state and may not be one soon.

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20150211/ARTICLES/150219980

Well it's possible I might repatriate later at 65 in which case of course Florida comes into the picture.

LOL I know I have this habit of jumping in without reading the whole thread but... Don't get suckered into thinking that Medicare is real health insurance or that it's free. Medicare A and B are so bare-boned that you could get left hanging. Please let me spell out what my medicare costs me and what it does.

To supplement A and B which don't give you much but cost $104 per month, I buy Medicare F which is through a private insurance company. That costs me about $140 per month and removes all co-pays and deductibles. The federal government subsidizes the insurance company for providing it. Medicare F is also known as Medigap. It's a good step above Medicare Advantage in what it covers but it's more expensive.

So far, that's $104 + $140 = $244 per month. Out of my pocket.

Next I have prescription drug coverage through yet another private company which is also subsidized by medicare. That costs me $25 per month.

So I'm paying $269 per month for my Medicare but the worst that could happen to me is that I pay a $10 co-pay for a non-generic prescription drug.

Now, I have an expensive medical condition that costs about $5,000 every six months. I go the the University of Oregon Medical School Hospital in Portland for the run through. The day starts out with an MRI that costs just over $3,000, moves on to a CAT scan that I don't remember the cost, and ends with me seeing four medical professors who are of course top MD's in their fields. That's four separate doctor visits that day after the scans.

All of that costs me nothing at all and makes my $3200 per year in health insurance premiums a bargain.

I would want to know if in an expanded Medicaid state a senior could stay on Medicaid rather than being forced to switch to Medicare at age 65. If he had to go to Medicare the expanded Medicaid state would become moot, wouldn't it?

Medicare, even what I have, is a bargain compared to private insurance as it is heavily subsidized to my private carriers by the Feds.

Cheers.

Thank you so much for your post!! I copied what you wrote to a word file so I can refer to it when I need.

I pay over 300 dollars a month for BUPA here in Thailand that doesn't cover sh it!

I'm 65 soon and when I return to the states I signing up for those programs you listed.

Thanks again.

John

[JohnOFphon]

So, I've been looking around at places I would like to live in the southwest or western states. I am interested in cities along the I 15 between La and Las Vegas.

I also have been looking at LV.

I'm going to be 65. I don't work and have SS and other income. I am looking at returning to the "trailer trash" way of life.

I have a lot of experience in home remodeling and improvements so I think an older home that needs some repairs would be ok. I have seen a few on Craigslist under $8,000. I live alone and a one or two bedroom place is fine. I can pay cash for the home and only have to pay space rent...say 500 a month. Most places have a pool fitness, rec. room, etc.

Here's what I like about LV. If it's hot out...run down to the nearest air conditioned casino. I'm not big on gambling, but I can take a book and find a comfortable place to spend the day. Same thing I would be doing at home, but now I get lots of things to do...like people watch...and I'm not paying for the cool air.

Just some thoughts.

J

[gk10002000]

You know what was a pretty area, where I worked on two separate contracts for over one year, was Huntsville, Alabama. I did rent a furnished Trailer/mobile home that was in a nice little trailer park. Yep, good old white trailer trash! The place had a swimming pool which was really nice in the summer. The spaces between units were pretty large. The place was quiet as it was not on the main street. There are plenty of places like that all over. The Tennessee river was nearby and it is very scenic and the fishing was pretty good. Huntsville has a good sized university, lots of Thai restaurants as it turns out, no doubt because of the military presence there between the Defense contractors such as myself that work there, the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, The Army Redstone Arsenal, etc. Rents are very cheap and there is a wide range of housing and modern apartments available. The weather of course is a bit hot and humid in the summer months, but there is not that much concrete there and the area really is quite green. I am a yankee, having grown up in Rhode Island, but in case any of you are worried about the red neck stereotypes or have never been around the USA much, it really is not an issue. I have not been there in about 7 years now. Huntsville is not a big metropolitan place, but it does sprawl a bit. If you want some action, Tunica, MS is an easy 3 1/2 hour and very pretty drive away. The HSV airport connects to most major hubs such as Chicago. It is not a busy airport which is nice, but it will get you where you need to go.

[NeverSure]

Well it's possible I might repatriate later at 65 in which case of course Florida comes into the picture.

LOL I know I have this habit of jumping in without reading the whole thread but... Don't get suckered into thinking that Medicare is real health insurance or that it's free. Medicare A and B are so bare-boned that you could get left hanging. Please let me spell out what my medicare costs me and what it does.

To supplement A and B which don't give you much but cost $104 per month, I buy Medicare F which is through a private insurance company. That costs me about $140 per month and removes all co-pays and deductibles. The federal government subsidizes the insurance company for providing it. Medicare F is also known as Medigap. It's a good step above Medicare Advantage in what it covers but it's more expensive.

So far, that's $104 + $140 = $244 per month. Out of my pocket.

Next I have prescription drug coverage through yet another private company which is also subsidized by medicare. That costs me $25 per month.

So I'm paying $269 per month for my Medicare but the worst that could happen to me is that I pay a $10 co-pay for a non-generic prescription drug.

Now, I have an expensive medical condition that costs about $5,000 every six months. I go the the University of Oregon Medical School Hospital in Portland for the run through. The day starts out with an MRI that costs just over $3,000, moves on to a CAT scan that I don't remember the cost, and ends with me seeing four medical professors who are of course top MD's in their fields. That's four separate doctor visits that day after the scans.

All of that costs me nothing at all and makes my $3200 per year in health insurance premiums a bargain.

I would want to know if in an expanded Medicaid state a senior could stay on Medicaid rather than being forced to switch to Medicare at age 65. If he had to go to Medicare the expanded Medicaid state would become moot, wouldn't it?

Medicare, even what I have, is a bargain compared to private insurance as it is heavily subsidized to my private carriers by the Feds.

Cheers.

Thank you so much for your post!! I copied what you wrote to a word file so I can refer to it when I need.

I pay over 300 dollars a month for BUPA here in Thailand that doesn't cover sh it!

I'm 65 soon and when I return to the states I signing up for those programs you listed.

Thanks again.

John

You're welcome. An important point is that when you start Medicare they can't ding you for preexisting conditions. You are covered. However, you need to buy it when first allowed or pay penalties for late enrollment. You might also find some preexisting conditions not covered.

[NeverSure]

So, I've been looking around at places I would like to live in the southwest or western states. I am interested in cities along the I 15 between La and Las Vegas.

I also have been looking at LV.

I'm going to be 65. I don't work and have SS and other income. I am looking at returning to the "trailer trash" way of life.

I have a lot of experience in home remodeling and improvements so I think an older home that needs some repairs would be ok. I have seen a few on Craigslist under $8,000. I live alone and a one or two bedroom place is fine. I can pay cash for the home and only have to pay space rent...say 500 a month. Most places have a pool fitness, rec. room, etc.

Here's what I like about LV. If it's hot out...run down to the nearest air conditioned casino. I'm not big on gambling, but I can take a book and find a comfortable place to spend the day. Same thing I would be doing at home, but now I get lots of things to do...like people watch...and I'm not paying for the cool air.

Just some thoughts.

J

$500 per month. I know places in the deep South where you can buy a mobile ready small acreage for under $20,000. Try Tennessee.

I'm considering taking a trip to the South this next Spring and buying such a property as a "snowbird" location. If I do I'll buy a large travel trailer and for less than $30K have a place I can go and find peace and better weather in the winter.

Jingthing perhaps likes big cities but I'm a country boy and can't stand them. To each his own. My idea would be a rural acreage not more than 20 miles from a town that's big enough to have a hospital and Dr. clinic, and Walmart Superstore, LOL, and other good shopping. Oh, and a couple of good coffee shops for eating and socializing.

I could put that all together for less than $30k and then have only basic utilities.

Cheers.

[arunsakda]

Ft Wayne? I'd rather rub broken glass in my eyes! How about Florida? That is where all the people from Cleveland go after they retire.

[Jingthing]

Yeah I need cities.

I need my PHO! (For one example.)

Thai food is expensive in the U.S. but with access to Asian markets, I know how to cook my own.

I reckon I would stick out like a sore thumb in West Memphis. It's majority African American and the percentage of Jews there clocks in at an impressive 0.00 percent.

I suppose I could sell tickets for a look.

I really appreciate demographic diversity and that doesn't sound very diverse.
Compared to Vegas or Phoenix.

Yes, I am quite open to "manufactured" homes but the space rent thing is an issue. Suppose you buy an expensive one and then they raise the rent through the roof or even sell the land.

I think I have located a quite gay manufactured home community very close to the Vegas strip. OK, that sounds intriguing.

Edited December 2, 2015 by Jingthing

[55Jay]

If you want to live in an age restricted mobile home park but look too young, you might have to prove it. Driver's license, birth certificate, etc.

I wonder what they make you do for a gay mobile home park?

[JLCrab]

Well I will plead guilty to first mentioning West Memphis but only because it was across the river from Memphis and in a state (at least currently) with expanded Medicare. I really like Memphis TN but admit to knowing nothing about (or caring to know anything about) West Memphis. Maybe there are other spots in AR near the I-40 bridge from AR to TN that might be a bit more livable.

Edited December 2, 2015 by JLCrab

[Jingthing]

If you want to live in an age restricted mobile home park but look too young, you might have to prove it. Driver's license, birth certificate, etc.

I wonder what they make you do for a gay mobile home park?

It's not exclusively gay. I'm hearing mixed reviews on whether it's good to be so close to the strip. Mostly negative. Understand that area is obviously geared to tourists not residents.

[nithisa78]

Not surprised Fla didn't make the cut. Though anywhere in perimeter of Gainesville , FL.

After living on or near the beach near all of my life. Even in RVN was waterfront. Just purchased a place right outside of Gainesville for very reasonable and comfortable way of life. Residents not tourists.

Myself and Thai bride. Best of luck.

[Mencken]

I've done extensive research on this and the places I'd listed are imo your only options long term. Shirt term, I'd go anywhere to get started.

Cali is finished, its too crowded, taxed and expensive.

You really need to try a few places.

I went back in 2003, I couldn't hack it. Now I'm married. It'd be much easier, I'm also fed up with lots of stuff about Thailand.

Ive been out here decades. It's definitely not getting better. If healthcare was not such an issue, It would be easier. I'd love to just spend winters here.

[Jingthing]

The places you listed? Sorry what are those?

[OMGImInPattaya]

Have you considered San Berdoo...could probably get some cheap rents or condo buys there these days.

[JLCrab]

Not surprised Fla didn't make the cut. Though anywhere in perimeter of Gainesville , FL.

After living on or near the beach near all of my life. Even in RVN was waterfront. Just purchased a place right outside of Gainesville for very reasonable and comfortable way of life. Residents not tourists.

Myself and Thai bride. Best of luck.

I'll be west of Gainesville for a week next May after Songkran. 'Have spent months at a time in the environs over the last 20 years.or so. If I ever moved full time back to USA that's where I'd be. PM if you like.

[Kilowatt]

I also will be going back to the Us in may to look at homes and way of life between Ocala and Gainesville. Gainesville has a good VA hospital and also great drag racing and Ocala is good horse country.

Bugs and crime could be a problem though.

[SpokaneAl]

This may be worth a look . . .

http://www.topvaluereviews.net/features/best-small-town-main-streets-america/

[jellydog]

I think in Fla. , Jacksonville's pretty cheap.

As has been noted, Florida is not an expanded Medicaid state and may not be one soon.

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20150211/ARTICLES/150219980

Well it's possible I might repatriate later at 65 in which case of course Florida comes into the picture.

LOL I know I have this habit of jumping in without reading the whole thread but... Don't get suckered into thinking that Medicare is real health insurance or that it's free. Medicare A and B are so bare-boned that you could get left hanging. Please let me spell out what my medicare costs me and what it does.

To supplement A and B which don't give you much but cost $104 per month, I buy Medicare F which is through a private insurance company. That costs me about $140 per month and removes all co-pays and deductibles. The federal government subsidizes the insurance company for providing it. Medicare F is also known as Medigap. It's a good step above Medicare Advantage in what it covers but it's more expensive.

So far, that's $104 + $140 = $244 per month. Out of my pocket.

Next I have prescription drug coverage through yet another private company which is also subsidized by medicare. That costs me $25 per month.

So I'm paying $269 per month for my Medicare but the worst that could happen to me is that I pay a $10 co-pay for a non-generic prescription drug.

Now, I have an expensive medical condition that costs about $5,000 every six months. I go the the University of Oregon Medical School Hospital in Portland for the run through. The day starts out with an MRI that costs just over $3,000, moves on to a CAT scan that I don't remember the cost, and ends with me seeing four medical professors who are of course top MD's in their fields. That's four separate doctor visits that day after the scans.

All of that costs me nothing at all and makes my $3200 per year in health insurance premiums a bargain.

I would want to know if in an expanded Medicaid state a senior could stay on Medicaid rather than being forced to switch to Medicare at age 65. If he had to go to Medicare the expanded Medicaid state would become moot, wouldn't it?

Medicare, even what I have, is a bargain compared to private insurance as it is heavily subsidized to my private carriers by the Feds.

Cheers.

I spoke yesterday with a friend of mine in North Carolina. She turned 65 in September, signed up for Medicare, and with all of the "add on's" is paying close to $400 a month.

[Jingthing]

That's horrible.

[Jingthing]

This may be worth a look . . .

http://www.topvaluereviews.net/features/best-small-town-main-streets-america/

Thanks.

I looked.

I don't see anything there for me.

[jellydog]

That's horrible.

Scary is what it is. They get you coming and going in the states.

[55Jay]

This may be worth a look . . .

http://www.topvaluereviews.net/features/best-small-town-main-streets-america/

Thanks.

I looked.

I don't see anything there for me.

Come on, you know you want to retire in #12 - Deadwood, South Dakota!

[Jingthing]

That would be a hard choice. How to make myself dead before moving to such a Godforsaken backwater!

I do have to admit I have high hopes given my limitations ... but may as well try for something I could tolerate with failure always an option!

Edited December 3, 2015 by Jingthing

[Jingthing]

A good case for not buying a "mobile" home in a leased space park. Of course, most are. These residents seemed to have quite a decent situation ... until now.

http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/scottsdale/2015/06/04/wheel-inn-ranch-residents-evicted/28372227/