How to Choose the Best Place to Live

I’ve been thinking a lot about what makes a place truly good to live in. My oldest son has decided to join me on this new adventure, and together we’re trying to figure out where we might want to settle next. It sounds exciting and it is, but also, the more I think about it, the more I realize it’s not an easy decision.

When I ask myself what “the best place to live” really means, I realize it’s more complicated than I first imagined. At my age, which I like to call my late old age, comfort, safety, and health matter much more than they used to. Reliable medical care is at the top of my list. But what else? A good climate, easy access to places I need, and a walkable neighborhood are all important. I love concerts, theater, movies, and good restaurants, but those are usually easy to find. There are so many other things that make a place feel right.

Lately, I’ve been reading about different regions in Europe and South America. Right now, we’re living in Paris, a city that almost everyone dreams of visiting. I see why Paris is beautiful, elegant, and full of life. But as much as I love it, I’m not sure it’s where I want to grow older. And since I was born in Brazil, that’s another place that always comes to mind. Still, after living away for so many years, I know it has changed a lot. So maybe the best thing is to make a list of what I need, what I want, and what I can live without, and group everything by priority.

For me, health comes first. At this stage of life, having good doctors and hospitals nearby brings peace of mind. It’s not just about emergencies; it’s about regular care, easy access to specialists, and even a pharmacy close enough to walk to. When you don’t have to travel far for medical help, life feels much simpler and safer.

Then comes the climate. I’ve learned how much my mood and energy depend on the weather. I prefer mild temperatures, not too hot, not too cold, and plenty of sunshine. Sunlight lifts the spirit, and clean air makes every breath feel lighter. I like to live where nature is close by, where you can take a walk in the park or sit outside without discomfort.

Speaking of walking, accessibility has become one of my top priorities. Being able to walk to a café, a small market, or the post office makes such a difference. It keeps life active and independent. I’ve noticed that some cities are designed better for that than others. Flat streets, benches along the way, and good public transportation make daily life much easier. Not having to rely on a car all the time feels freeing.

Safety is another big one. It’s hard to enjoy life if you don’t feel safe going out for a stroll in the evening or taking public transportation alone. I pay attention to how people interact in the streets, if they smile, if they help one another. A sense of community and trust says a lot about a place.

Of course, culture adds joy to life. I love having access to concerts, theater, movies, and restaurants, but what truly matters is feeling that the place has a vibrant, curious spirit. Smaller towns often surprise me; they may not have the grand theaters of Paris, but they offer cozy cafés with live music, weekend art shows, and local festivals that bring people together.

And then there’s the cost of living. It’s not the most exciting topic, but it’s an important one. Housing, utilities, and groceries all add up. It’s worth finding a place where living comfortably doesn’t mean constant financial worry.

Beyond all the practical things, though, there’s something deeper, the feeling of belonging. Wherever I decide to live next, I want it to feel warm and welcoming. Since my son will be with me, that already makes the transition easier, but I also want to be part of a friendly community. A smile from a neighbor, a casual chat at the market, or a local group that meets for a hobby can make a place feel like home.

So yes, I think making a list is a good idea, dividing it into categories like health, safety, accessibility, climate, culture, and affordability. Then, visiting each place for a while before making a final decision might be the smartest way to see how it really feels. Sometimes the heart knows what the mind hasn’t yet figured out.

In the end, the best place to live is where life feels easy, where you wake up feeling safe and content, and where every day brings a little beauty, whether in a sunrise, a walk to the bakery, or the laughter of people nearby. Home is not always where we were born, but where we can keep growing with grace, comfort, and joy.