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Sterling Heights, Warren Rank High On List Of Best Places In U.S. To Retire

STERLING HEIGHTS (CBS Detroit) - It's never too early to plan your retirement they say — and the where may be just as important as the when.

With that in mind, Michiganders may be interested, and perhaps surprised, to learn that Sterling Heights and Warren have been ranked in the top 5 in a career website's list of the best cities in the U.S. to retire.

Following Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania respectively, Sterling Heights came in at number three and Warren at number four on the list of 10, posted last week by Zippia: "the career expert."

To compile the list, Public Relations Manager Kristy Crane says Zippia analyzed every city in the country in terms of low cost of living, low crime, the most things to do (as measured by population density), and how close they are to an international airport.

Sterling Heights "has a whole lot going on" as far as amenities for retirees, Zippia says... but "if you're looking to party, mosey on." The city is also noted as one of the safest places to live.

Warren also got props for a low crime rate, as well as a low cost of living, while both cities were praised for their proximity to an airport.

Warren Mayor Jim Fouts said, when he took office in 2007, it was his goal to have cleaner and safer neighborhood. The mayor says he's been successful on that front and as well as in bringing back top-notch emergency medical services to Warren.

"It's pretty good for retirees to know that we have the best EMS service in this city," Fouts said, adding that Warren's Fitzgerald Recreation Center, community center, ample parks and event for seniors are also a plus for the older crowd.

The mayor, who makes himself available to talk to Warren resident by phone at any time, said he talks often with seniors his city.

"If I get a call problem with blight or something in the city, it's taken care of," Fouts said. "...And when they tell me about a crime or a concern with the police it's immediately acted upon."

Following Warren on the list was Aurora, Illinois (also notable as the home of Wayne and Garth in the '90s flick "Wayne World") and several cities in Florida (no surprise there). [See the complete list, HERE].

Do you agree with these rankings? Or which other Southeast Michigan cities do you think belong on this list? Comment below.

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