Budget-Friendly Retirement Possible in Bethlehem, MoneyWise Says

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Photo courtesy city of Bethlehem Pennsylvania

Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.

Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?

Last week, we looked at the 21st city on the list — Las Vegas, Nevada. This week, we look at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and found three great homes — all for less than $500,000.

Here’s another welcoming college town that offers low home prices, a walkable and lively downtown, and a lower cost of living than average,” MoneyWise said. “The median house price is just over $150,000, and retirees gain extra benefits because the state does not tax certain employer-sponsored retirement income.”

“The city is also well-equipped with hospitals and healthcare facilities.”

Want to see examples of what you can find in Bethlehem? Let’s jump!

Budget-Friendly Condo With Amazing Views

Price: $194,900

This three-bedroom, two bath top-floor condo has an amazing price for its 1,700 square feet. With its numerous windows, vaulted ceilings, and clever layout, this home also feels quite spacious.

The open floor plan has a star-of-the-show kitchen with breakfast area, upgraded granite counters, tiled floors, stainless steel appliances, and large cabinets.

The master suite boasts a beautifully tiled master bath and a large walk-in closet with built-in shelving. A walkout patio provides mountaintop views.

The home, which is listed by Dara VandeBunte with Keller Williams Real Estate, also features upgraded lighting, paint, trim, and more, and the HOA dues include snow removal, lawn care, and exterior maintenance.

Raised Ranch On a Corner Lot

Price: $269,900

If you’re looking for a bit more outdoor space, this three-bedroom, two-bath Raised Ranch on a corner lot could be the ticket. It has a private fenced backyard with an oversized covered patio and a freshly-stained deck, making it the perfect place for al fresco dining and entertaining.

Inside, a sitting room and living room flank the flagstone foyer. The kitchen has a center island and tons of storage space, and is adjacent to the dining room.

A laundry room is on the first floor, plus three bedrooms and a bath, while the lower level has a family room with a brick fireplace, and another full bath.

The home is listed by Gay Krauss with Weichert, Realtors – Bethlehem.

Large, Almost New Construction With Amenities

Price: $432,500

Our final home this week is in a popular 55 and older community in Bethlehem, which means that it’s also the beneficiary of some great amenities, including a clubhouse right across the street.

The light, bright home has a living room, study, dining room and great room in an open concept floorplan. The kitchen has plenty of storage, granite counters, and is eat-in.

The extended great room has a cathedral ceiling and gas fireplace, which is flanked by plenty of windows.

A generously-sized master bath has tons of windows, and an en-suite with tile shower and a vanity. Outside, a patio with a gas line for that all-important barbecue sits ready for entertaining.

And just steps away, the development offers a pool, tennis courts and more. The two-bedroom, two bath home is listed by Jane Schiff with Howard Hanna – Lehigh Valley – The Frederick Group.

Bethany Erickson

Bethany Erickson