Overview
Napa is the largest city in Napa County, California, and a part of the Bay Area. Its warm weather and fascinating scenery have made Napa an attractive option for retirees. Besides that, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had, such as visiting the region's famous vineyards, valleys, and beaches.
Climate & Geography
Situated in Northern California, Napa has a Mediterranean climate which means there is comfortable weather year round, with long, humid summers and short, mild winters. Residents of the city can expect no snowfall, less rain than the national average, and approximately 260 sunny days throughout each year.
The city is a part of the Napa Valley wine region where there are wide landscapes of vineyards and farmland. The San Pablo Bay is just south of the city, and the Napa River runs through the downtown area. It is also bordered to the east and west by valleys and mountain ranges.
Recreation, Culture & Entertainment
Napa is known for its comfortable lifestyle, but aside from that, people are attracted to its reputation as a premium wine-growing region. Residents can board the Napa Valley Wine Train which takes them on tours through the city’s most popular wineries, all while riding in vintage Pullman cars. Stops on the train include a visit to Jarvis Estate, O’Brien Estate Winery, and Pine Ridge Vineyards, among many others.
Downtown, residents will find historical architecture as well as quaint shops and restaurants lining the city’s riverfront. Not to mention, Napa is especially proud of their active arts scene, found in the Napa Valley Opera House and The Hess Collection Winery & Art Museum. If that’s not enough, residents can take a day trip out to Sacramento or San Francisco where they’ll find a lot more amenities and attractions.
Cost of Living & Taxes
California is known for its high cost of living, and in Napa residents can expect a cost of living higher than both state and national averages.
California does not tax Social Security income or Railroad Retirement benefits but all other retirement income is taxed at a normal rate. Residents who are 65+ may be eligible for several tax breaks including an extra $118 exemption that comes right off their tax bill. These residents may also qualify to defer their payment of property taxes.
Health Care
California typically ranks among the top states in the U.S in Gallup’s Well-Being Index.
There are two hospitals and medical centers in Napa, one of which is ranked high performing by U.S News: Queen of the Valley Medical Center. In San Francisco, residents will find the UCSF Medical Center which is one of the best in the Bay Area and is nationally ranked in eleven specialities.