I've often heard people say, "I want to retire in Sonoma." Lots of folks do. The median age here in Sonoma is 47, according to officials at City Hall. That fact may have had something to do with a t.v. commercial that was shot in town today. It could just be a co-incidence but I found the linkage between the subject of the ad and the mature and relatively well-heeled population of this lovely town quite interesting.
As I drove into the office on Sonoma Plaza today I noticed a production crew on nearby First Street East. Curious ex-reporter that I am, I went over to find out what was going on. A security guard said MJZ Productions out of LA was shooting a commercial for Merrill Lynch about its retirement planning programs.
Two actors caught my attention. Posing as shoppers, one young-ish woman emerges from a boutique with a bag while another gazes through the window. Didn't see the script but the big blue signs were hard to miss. She's looking at one that says "hesitation." It might have been stage instructions and you can make of it what you will but I saw the scene as further evidence that a new day has dawned and that those thinking about a more stable economic future had best conserve rather than spend their money impulsively.
So how does all this tie into whether you might want to retire in Sonoma? It's pretty simple. If you do, you'll need significant financial resources. We have a famously great quality of life in Sonoma but it costs more to live here than many other places. 65% of Sonoma's residents own their homes. However, the average sale price in 2009 for a home in Sonoma was over $700,000,
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707.337.1182 | Kirsten@KirstenLindquist.com | SonomaIsHome.com
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It is no surprise people dream of retiring in Sonoma--it offers a charming and inviting environment.
Hi Norma: It was pouring rain here most of the day....still a great place to be. If you ever get up my way let's have a cup of coffee!
Hi Kirsten! Great Localism post--you do live in a gorgeous area! I still haven't figured out where I'm retiring but, at this moment, I'm so in love with Charlotte, I can't see myself ever leaving except for extended vacations!
Have a great day...
Kirsten,
Even in the rain, we enjoyed driving into Sonoma to shop at the Sonoma Market, and to have lunch at the Himalayan restaurant.
Hi Kirsten, I like the way you tied the commercial for Retirement Planning, hesitating, and being able to retire in Sonoma all together. The Wine country is indeed a beautiful place to retire...so I've heard :-)
I think we have a higher proportion of retired CEOs than retired custodians due to our median prices. What's fun is that once they're here it's blue jeans and full time casual for even the starchiest.
Kirsten,
I'd love to retire in Sonoma as well!
You were a reporter? Tell us more! TV, Radio, Newspaper?