Banning, CA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview 

Rich in history and with a scenic mountain backdrop, this suburb in Southern California is a quiet place to relocate and enjoy the lovely weather while avoiding the densely populated neighborhoods in nearby Los Angeles. Local culture, outdoor recreation, and convenient access to metropolitan amenities makes Banning a great fit for any type of lifestyle. 

Climate & Geography 

The mediterranean climate of Banning is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Residents can expect little rainfall and plenty of sunny days, which is what gives the city its high comfort index.

The city is part of a region known as the Inland Empire Area, named for its location 60 miles inland from the Pacific Coast. It's also on the outer eastern edge of the L.A. metropolitan area, so the surrounding terrain to the west and south is mostly suburban, residential neighborhoods, while to east and north there are deserts, state parks, and mountains. 

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment 

The culture of Banning is very easy going, with plenty of opportunities to be outdoors in the great weather. Active adults can visit the nearby Joshua Tree National Park or the San Bernardino National Forest, for hiking, camping, and other outdoor recreation. Because of the long history of Banning, the local museums are a great guide to learn about the story of Banning and its developments over the years. Some of the museums residents can enjoy include the Malkin Museum, Fire Memories Museum, and Gilman Historic Ranch. The city also hosts the annual Banning Stagecoach Days, which further celebrates the history and culture of the city as a fixture of the 19th century western stagecoach line. 

For more extensive dining, shopping, and entertainment options, residents can reach Los Angeles in about an hour and half, providing the perfect opportunity for a day trip or a weekend getaway.  

Cost of Living & Taxes

Banning has a significantly lower cost of living index than the rest of the state with the low cost of housing and transportation being the biggest factors. The average home cost in the city is approximately half that of the state average.  

California is not typically considered tax friendly to retirees. Although Social Security income is not taxed in the state, all other forms of retirement income are fully taxed at some of the highest rates in the country. Residents who are 65+ are eligible to double the standard exemption for their income taxes, but the maximum allowed is $516. Property taxes are generally low in the state, which is beneficial for residents of Banning since the cost of homes is much lower than elsewhere in California. 

Health Care

There is only one hospital in Banning: San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital. However Banning is conveniently located near other high performing hospitals like Hemet Valley Medical Center and Redlands Community Hospital, so the travel is short to reach high quality health care.