Low-maintenance indoor plants are aesthetic enhancers and wellness promoters when it comes to home decor. These verdant companions offer more than just a touch of green; they purify the air, uplift the mood, and contribute to a serene ambiance with minimal effort.
Ideal for those new to the green thumb club or seasoned plant lovers seeking hassle-free options, low-maintenance indoor plants fit perfectly into various spaces. Houseplants can brighten up a space immediately, from cozy corners in living rooms to workspaces that need a dash of vitality. They transform living spaces with their vibrant presence, but the charm lies in their simplicity.
Originating from humid climates, these plants easily adapt to indoor environments, despite the drier air. Opting for low-maintenance indoor plants means embracing a green world where one can find peace, relief, and a happier mind state of mind. Let’s explore seven such plants that promise to bring life to your home without demanding much in return.
Low-maintenance indoor plants: A Guide to Simple Indoor Beauties
1) Graceful Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a quintessential low-maintenance indoor plant for home decor. Its ability to thrive in lower light and humidity makes it a favorite part of any interior decor plan.
The elegance of its white blooms, contrasting with dark green leaves, adds a sophisticated touch to any room. This plant beautifies spaces and enhances air quality, making it a practical choice for enhancing living and workspace environments.
2) Resilient Jade Plant
The Jade Plant is an indoor plant symbolizing wealth and longevity. This succulent can thrive under any weather condition. The thick, lush leaves store water and can be sustained for longer periods with minimal care. Perfect for those who occasionally forget to water their plants, it adds a vibrant green hue and an element of prosperity to your home.
3) Versatile Pothos
Pothos, with its cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, is one of the low-maintenance indoor plants to look after. This plant can stand under any light conditions and be sustained for extended periods without watering. Its versatility makes it suitable for hanging baskets or as a striking tabletop display to enhance the aesthetic of your house.
4) Stately Dracaena
The Dracaena plant’s dramatic foliage and architectural height bring sophistication to indoor spaces. Its leaves, marked by striking color variations, require minimal care. This plant enhances a room’s visual appeal and purifies the air, making it a remarkable addition.
5) Prosperous Money Plant
An easy-care indoor plant that represents good fortune is the Money Plant. Its green, glossy leaves and twisted trunk set it apart. It grows well with regular watering and indirect light, adding a sense of vitality and prosperity to your living space. It’s great for those who wish to add some natural charm without extensive maintenance.
6) Philodendron
Large, glossy leaves from Philodendrons give any space a lush, tropical vibe. It is a low-maintenance choice that grows well indoors and needs too little care to thrive. This plant is a smart choice to add an exotic touch to any space, whether in search of a climbing variety or a large-leafed species.
7) Snake Plant
The snake plant is low-maintenance for its architectural structure and attractive foliage. Since this plant can endure low light levels, it is perfect for individuals looking to add some greenery with no added care. Its air-purifying properties are a bonus that requires little work to improve the atmosphere in your house.
Adding low-maintenance indoor plants is about more than just decorating; it’s about enriching your living space with natural beauty that asks little in return. These seven plants offer a gateway to a greener home, promising aesthetic appeal and well-being benefits.
With minimal care, they thrive, bringing life and freshness to their surroundings. You’ll discover the joy of plant parenting as you integrate these resilient greens into your decor.
In a world of constantly evolving trends, the whole process of decorating your home can soon start to feel overwhelming. Just as you’ve begun to nail one trend, it can feel as if it’s already out of style.
But fear not, decorating your home doesn’t need to mean abiding by all the rules of the latest trends. In fact, a more considered approach can result in a far more timeless scheme that doesn’t quickly date and withstands the test of time.
happy rooms, that turn to the natural world for inspiration, while also prioritizing conscious consumption – steering clear of fast decor.
5 ways to mindfully decorate your home
The core and underlying message of the following home decor ideas is that your home should be personal to you, ensuring first and foremost that it’s a space that speaks to your own interests, rather than the latest interior design trends.
‘The most important thing when going about home decor is to prioritize making your space feel most like you: designing a space that is functional while having a personality,’ says interior designer Nicole Lanteri.
Nicole Lanteri
design a home that feels like you.
‘Creating a mindful approach to home decor involves a deliberate and thoughtful selection process for each item that enters your space,’ says interior designer Jennifer Davis. ‘Start by considering the purpose of each piece, ensuring that it serves a functional need or adds aesthetic value without cluttering your surroundings. Quality over quantity is key, prioritize well-made items that will endure over time and appreciate craftsmanship.’
‘Practice mindful consumption by selecting sustainable and ethically produced products, considering their environmental and social impact. Pay attention to the intentional placement of decor items, creating a balanced and harmonious arrangement that enhances the flow of your space. Ultimately, approach home decor with the question of whether each item brings you genuine happiness and contributes positively to your living space.’
Jennifer Davis
decorating with art that means something and practical items are going to serve you well and make your space feel balanced. For example, if you’re styling your coffee table, you might want a decorative tray that holds a framed family photo, a cool sculpture, and daily use items like a scented candle and your TV remotes.’
Well by Design, also recommends making the decorating process as personal as possible for a mindful approach: ‘Incorporate found objects, antiques, and vintage items that bring a sense of joy or recall a special memory. And above all else, don’t just buy to fill a space – slow curation of meaningful items that you actually love is more likely to be treasured longer and kept out of landfills – it’s a win-win for everyone. Fast design is not always the best design.’
3. Choose biophilic design
For a mindful home that’s filled with soothing decor ideas and wellness-boosting designs, one of the most important things you can do is embrace biophilic design, which is all about referencing nature through the elements you interact with.
‘Incorporating biophilic design elements can contribute to creating a mindful home,’ explains Sarah Barnard, founder of wellness-led design studio Sarah Barnard Design. ‘Nature-inspired patterns, color palettes, and materials connect interior spaces with the landscape outside, mirroring the sense of calm and wellbeing we experience in the natural world.’
Another way you can reference nature in your home decor is by opting for natural materials, which will instantly bring a feeling of nature indoors while withstanding daily wear and tear. Designer Cinzia Moretti, Creative Director at Moretti Interior Design explains: ‘My top tip is to start by paying attention to the details around and introducing more natural elements such as wood, stone, wool, cotton and rattan. Integrating these into furniture and decor items can help to get us connected harmoniously with nature and help us to get close to our environment.’
4. Embrace minimalism
‘Embrace minimalism by de-cluttering and simplifying your space, focusing on a few key pieces that bring you joy and contribute positively to the atmosphere,’ suggests Jennifer Davis.
Of course, you don’t need to be a true minimalist to follow a mindful approach throughout your home decor. Whether you’re a fan of pared-back schemes or you love decorating with patterns and color, make sure to maintain a calm environment by de-cluttering items that no longer serve a purpose or add to your home’s visual appeal. A clean home that’s free from excessive amounts of decorative items is bound to positively affect your mood and help establish a feeling of order and calm, especially important in rooms such as the bedroom.
As a starting point, consider how you can improve your storage ideas to ensure a sense of order throughout your home, which will make this concept a lot easier to follow: ‘Think about what storage options work best for you, a clutter-free home promotes calm and mindfulness,’ advises Sarah Barnard.
5. Maximize natural light
And lastly, when prioritizing mindfulness throughout your home decor, make sure to always pay close attention to lighting ideas. Maximizing natural light will further connect your home to the natural world, in turn having a positive impact on your mood. And while the dream is for each room throughout our homes to have lovely light streaming in throughout the day, this isn’t always the case. If you’re relying on artificial lighting to create a restful atmosphere, incorporate different sources for a more relaxed look, as Lauren Sullivan suggests:
‘Access to natural light is a must, but if this isn’t a feasible option, be sure to incorporate lighting from multiple sources for ambiance and a sense of coziness. Don’t ever rely solely on overhead lighting to illuminate a room. Decorate with mirrors to reflect light about a space.’
Decorating a home mindfully isn’t something that can be rushed. It’s about slowly curating a home over time that naturally evolves to reflect personality and a style that lasts beyond trend cycles. By keeping these five ideas front of mind when decorating your home, over time you’ll create a calming space that feels both personality-led and considered.
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is a collective of high-end properties that meet high standards for service and style. There are more than 500 boutique hotels in 90 countries that make the grade.
SLH will not become one of the many Hilton Honors brands, but the strategic partnership between the two unlocks the door to significantly more luxury properties than are currently in the Hilton portfolio.
For now, the details of using Hilton elite status benefits and credit card perks at SLH properties are still being ironed out, but Hilton members will soon be able to earn and redeem points at the participating luxury hotels.
What happens to the World of Hyatt partnership?
As Hilton Honors ramps up its partnership, World of Hyatt will end its connection with SLH. This comes on the heels of Hyatt’s new acquisition of travel club platform Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which gives World of Hyatt members plenty of opportunity to earn and redeem points at more than 1,500 luxury properties. Hilton will have an exclusive partnership with SLH.
9 Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties to look forward to booking with Hilton points
To book these new hotel options, Hilton Honors members can use any of Hilton’s traditional reservations channels to book a stay at participating SLH hotels. This includes earning and redeeming points, which multiply when you use a Hilton Honors co-branded credit card.
Hilton Honors is also a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards. No matter which credit card you use, these are some of the exciting SLH options that may participate in the Hilton Honors partnership.
1. The Principal Hotel, Madrid
Along the famous Gran Via, this hotel is close to popular shopping, theaters, nightlife, dining and tourist attractions like the Prado and Retiro Park.
Be sure to visit the one of the rooftop restaurants and bar for cocktails and tapas before heading out to a night on the town.
2. Inverlochy Castle, Scotland
Want to sleep in a castle? Hilton Honors points could be your chance. The 19th century Inverlochy Castle is in the Scottish Highlands where guests can slumber like royalty.
Other activities include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, golf and even a ride on the Hogwarts Express train of Harry Potter fame.
3. Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hugging the Adriatic Sea, this year-round hotel provides excellent views of the city’s famous Old Town (which was used for filming King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones”) and the popular island of Lokrum across the bay.
Instead of a traditional sandy beach, guests have a stone-lined deck from which they can take a dip in the water or lay back in the sun. There is a heated indoor pool and spa when the weather is not ideal for sitting by the sea.
4. Nimb Hotel, Copenhagen
Facing Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, this hotel looks like part of a fairytale. Not only is there a convenient rooftop pool and sun deck available for guests, but anyone that stays here enjoys free access to Tivoli Gardens when it is open.
5. Hemingways Nairobi
Hemingways Nairobi is a solid option for visitors either before or after a safari trip because of its location near Nairobi National Park. It has its own gardens offering tranquility from the city of Nairobi, one of East Africa’s bustling downtowns.
An outdoor swimming pool, massive guest rooms and plenty of green space are all less than 30 minutes from the city-center Wilson Airport, where many safari flights depart.
6. The Anam Mui Ne, Vietnam
Along the East Sea, this resort is similar to a Hawaiian getaway with beautiful sea views and two sparkling swimming pools.
The Vietnamese restaurant serves traditional regional recipes from around the country, and don’t miss the evening sundowner music and dance performances.
7. Viceroy Bali
This small, family-owned resort five minutes from Ubud is surrounded by rice fields and lush foliage ideal for guests looking for a wellness vacation, especially one focused on meditation and self-improvement.
Its 40 private villas offer oversized infinity pools, and local experiences include everything from a walk through the rice paddies to Balinese dance lessons and temple offerings.
8. Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, Virginia
This luxury resort overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Virginia countryside boasts renovated interiors, a new spa and a Jean-Georges’ restaurant.
History buffs will appreciate its proximity to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
9. The Roundtree, Amagansett
In the Hamptons on Long Island, this boutique hotel provides respite from the bustle of New York City and puts visitors within reach of the Atlantic Ocean.
A beach buggy takes guests to the shore during the summer, but back at the property, there is a lot to do, too. This includes popcorn and s’mores by the fire pit, afternoon tea and cookies, biking around the area, golf, baking classes and wine tastings.
The accommodations are made up of rooms, suites and private cottages.
The Hilton Honors and SLH exclusive partnership recapped
Hilton Honors members have another option for earning and redeeming points now that there is an exclusive partnership between Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. As long as you make a reservation through a Hilton channel, SLH hotels now offer Hilton Honors members access to more than 500 boutique hotels around the world.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Inside: Explore the right ways to quit a job without notice. Learn the best excuses, how to resign gracefully with a sample resignation letter, and tactics for maintaining professionalism when quitting.
Resigning from a job without notice can be a highly discomforting experience, as it breaks the standard professional protocol and can leave an employer in a difficult position.
Such an abrupt departure might lead to awkward conversations with superiors or colleagues who may be blindsided by the sudden lack of manpower and the hastiness of the exit.
This is something you know must be done.
I know the embarrassment stems from the awareness that this action could tarnish my professional reputation and relationships within the industry. Moreover, exiting without notice may invoke anxiety about the possibility of negative references or the implications it could have on future job prospects.
Yes indeed, this uncomfortable decision carries with it a heavy weight of potential judgment and professional repercussions.
So, what do you need to do when it’s time to quit?
How do you politely resign without notice?
To resign without notice politely, it’s essential to write a succinct and professional letter to your direct supervisor or HR manager, stating your immediate departure.
Express regret for any inconvenience caused and, if feasible, offer to assist in transitioning your duties. Deliver the letter personally if possible, or via email if necessary, maintaining a courteous and composed demeanor throughout the process.
It’s crucial to keep communications respectful and to retain professionalism to ensure a positive lasting impression.
Quitting Without Burning Bridges
Resigning from a job is a significant decision, and it’s generally expected that employees provide notice, traditionally two weeks, when they decide to leave.
However, in certain situations, giving notice may not be feasible, and you may need to resign immediately. Even so, it is possible to part ways amicably and without causing undue tension.
Make sure you do the following items:
1. Formalize the Resignation
Submit a formal resignation letter and discuss with HR any final procedures you may need to follow, such as filling out exit paperwork or partaking in an exit interview.
This is the first step that must be taken care of with kindness.
2. Making Sure to Tie up Loose Ends
Leaving a job without notice certainly poses challenges, but it’s critical to make sure you tie up as many loose ends as possible. Doing so demonstrates your professionalism and reduces the potential for negative repercussions.
It is super helpful if you can document your work to show your current responsibilities and projects. Include deadlines, key contacts, and any necessary instructions to help the next person take over your tasks.
3. Offer Assistance with Transition
Be willing to help the company prepare for your departure. This can involve creating thorough handover notes, compiling a list of important contacts, or outlining the status of ongoing projects.
If possible, offer to train a replacement or the person taking over your responsibilities. This may not be feasible if you’re leaving immediately, but you could suggest remaining available for a set period to answer questions via phone or email.
4. Return Company Property
Ensure you return any company property, such as laptops, mobile devices, keycards, or other equipment or materials. Do this before your departure to avoid any misunderstandings or trust issues.
Best Excuse to Quit a Job without Notice
As you know, multiple factors may prompt a professional to resign abruptly and it is never easy. It is rarely taken lightly and often stems from compelling, unavoidable circumstances.
Here are some of the most common reasons.
#1 – Personal or Family Emergency as a Valid Excuse
Personal or family emergencies stand as one of the most understandable and widely accepted reasons for quitting a job without notice. When hardship strikes, employers often recognize the need for immediate attention and the impossibility of predicting these crises.
Here’s why a family emergency can be a valid family emergency excuse:
Unpredictable Nature: Emergencies, almost by definition, are sudden and unexpected, leaving little room for the luxury of planning.
Moral and Social Norms: There’s a broad acknowledgment in society of the priority of family and personal well-being over occupational obligations.
Legal Considerations: Some jurisdictions have laws that protect employees who must leave work due to family emergencies.
Human Understanding: Colleagues and superiors are often sympathetic to family emergencies since such situations can happen to anyone, at any time, fostering an environment of understanding.
The gravity of a family emergency that might compel one to quit abruptly could range from a serious illness or accident to a sudden need for care for a family member.
#2 – Sudden Health Issues that Require Immediate Attention
When an individual’s health or life is at stake, it invariably takes precedence over job responsibilities. However, many people should opt for short-term disability to keep their health coverage as well as a smaller paycheck.
Recovery from a health crisis isn’t always quick and can necessitate an extended period away from work that cannot be predicted at the outset.
Physical and Mental Limitations: Health issues might limit the physical or mental capacity to perform job duties effectively or safely.
Quality of Life: Severe health problems can drastically alter one’s quality of life, making job concerns secondary to finding a path to wellness.
Workplace Accommodations: Sometimes, current workplace accommodations may not be sufficient to support an employee’s health needs.
Legal Protections: In many regions, employment law provides protections for workers who must leave their jobs due to health concerns.
It’s worth noting that particulars around personal health are private, and sharing details is at the discretion of the individual. Moreover, a discussion with human resources may provide options such as a leave of absence or disability leave, which could offer an alternative to resigning.
#3 – An Irresistible Job Offer That Can’t Be Delayed
At times, a career opportunity arises that is so compelling it warrants immediate action, with a start date that doesn’t accommodate a notice period.
In such cases, the opportunity cost of staying may be too high to ignore. Especially if you can make over $10k a month.
Unique Opportunities: The offer might represent a unique or rare advancement in one’s career that is unlikely to come around again, making it a now-or-never decision.
Significant Benefits: An offer that significantly improves financial standing, work-life balance, benefits, or professional growth can merit a swift transition.
While quitting a job without notice is far from ideal, certain career moves justify this approach. In these situations, one must weigh the professional norms against the career-defining potential of the new opportunity.
#4 – Immediate Relocation Due to Spouse or Partner’s Job
Unfortunately, relocations are often dictated by the partner’s employer or business needs, leaving little choice or room for negotiation regarding timelines.
Tackling this conversation as soon as possible allows your employer to start considering replacements and preparing for the transition, while also demonstrating your goodwill and integrity despite the abrupt notice.
If possible, see if you can transition to a remote position and keep your job.
#5 – Encountering a Toxic Work Environment for Mental Health
A toxic work environment can significantly impact an employee’s mental health.
When these negative aspects of the workplace become overwhelming, resigning without notice can be a necessary step to preserve well-being. This could be from unreasonable pressure, harassment or bullying, excessive workload, or a persistently high-stress environment that can all contribute to an unhealthy workplace.
Document the Environment: Keep records of incidents that contribute to the toxic environment, especially if they are egregious or repetitive, as these may be necessary for explaining your abrupt departure if questioned by future employers or legal entities.
Consult with HR: Ideally, concerns should be reported to human resources or appropriate management before deciding to leave, but if the situation does not improve or worsens, this may reinforce your decision to resign.
In such environments, taking immediate steps to leave may be the best course of action for personal health.
#6 – Safety Concerns in the Workplace Demanding Prompt Exit
When an employee feels that their physical well-being is at risk, it becomes necessary to prioritize personal safety over professional obligations.
Here’s why safety concerns justify a prompt exit:
Legitimate Fear: If the work environment poses a genuine risk to physical health or life — due to hazardous conditions or failing to meet safety regulations — immediate resignation is warranted.
Unresolved Issues: Continued employment might not be tenable if you’ve reported safety concerns and they have not been addressed in a timely or effective manner by management.
Legal Compliance: Employers are legally obliged to provide a safe working environment. Non-compliance with this fundamental requirement creates a justifiable reason for employees to leave without notice.
When resigning due to safety concerns, clearly explain that your primary reason for leaving is the need to ensure personal safety. It’s important to have a record of safety concerns reported to the appropriate parties within the organization, even if those concerns were not adequately addressed.
#7 – Legal Issues That Hinder Continuation of Employment
Legal issues can be sensitive and complex, thus it is important to maintain confidentiality and professionalism throughout the resignation process. When legal constraints interfere with employment, here’s why they necessitate an urgent departure:
Binding Legal Obligations: Court orders, such as those related to family or criminal law matters, may impose restrictions on an individual’s movements or activities that are incompatible with their current employment.
Visa or Work Authorization Changes: For employees working in a country under specific visas or work authorizations, any changes or revocations in legal status can demand an immediate resignation.
Conflict of Interest: Discoveries of conflict of interest that might have legal repercussions for the employee or employer can justify instant resignation to prevent further complications.
Mandated Reporting: Certain legal issues could force an employee to stop working immediately, such as those involving mandated reporting of unethical or illegal activities.
Ensuring clarity and integrity in communication can help in maintaining a positive relationship with former employers and colleagues.
#8 – Ethical Conflicts
Ethical conflicts at work, such as being asked to engage in dishonesty or illegal activities, justify resigning immediately to preserve one’s integrity and avoid potential personal and professional repercussions.
Professionals who feel their personal values strongly clash with the practices or culture of the company may decide that an immediate exit is the only course of action that aligns with their integrity.
For many, this is a valid excuse to leave a job. One of the main reasons for working hard to become financially independent is important.
#9 – Significant Lifestyle Changes
Major life changes, such as getting married, having a child, or needing to care for a loved one, can result in the need for immediate resignation.
Also, choosing to further one’s education is a compelling reason to quit a job without notice, as enrollment opportunities and class schedules often necessitate quick transitions that may not align with traditional notice periods.
Regardless of the significant change happening in your life, you do not have to share all of the details with your employer. You just have to state the bare minimum information.
#10 – Lack of Job Security
Rumors of downsizing or concerns about job stability might provoke an employee to preemptively quit and seek a more secure position elsewhere.
This is not something that should be overlooked. Having a stable job is one of the foundations of being financially sound.
This can serve as a solid justification for resigning without notice. This decision underscores the importance of ensuring your financial and professional security in an unpredictable job market.
What are the best excuses to quit a job you just started without notice?
Quitting a job shortly after starting can be challenging, but certain circumstances can serve as valid reasons for making such a decision.
Here are some of the best excuses for leaving a new job without notice:
Misrepresented Job Role: Discovering that the actual job significantly differs from what was described during the interview process can be grounds for immediate resignation.
Unexpected Life Changes: Sudden personal changes, such as a family emergency or a significant other’s job relocation, may necessitate a quick move that isn’t conducive to employment continuation.
Health Concerns: Onset or discovery of a health condition that precludes one from fulfilling job duties is a compelling reason to leave abruptly.
Hostile Work Environment: Encountering a toxic or hostile work culture, if intense enough, is reason enough to depart without protracted notice.
Superseding Job Offers: Sometimes, a more fitting job offer with immediate start requirements might present itself unexpectedly after beginning a new position.
Ethical or Moral Discomfort: If the organization’s practices conflict with your personal ethics or beliefs to an unresolvable degree, this may justify the quick termination of the employment.
Choosing to quit a job without notice is significant, but when necessary, the above reasons coupled with a tactful approach can mitigate the potential negative impact on your career.
This is something my husband had to decide when a second offer came in after he accepted another position.
Template and Guidelines for Your no Notice Resignation Letter
A no-notice resignation letter should remain professional and succinct, addressing the essential points with respect and clarity. Here are the key components a letter of this nature should include:
Subject Line: If the resignation letter is sent by email, include a clear subject line, such as “Immediate Resignation – [Your Full Name].”
Salutation: Begin the letter with a polite greeting directed at your manager or the appropriate party, like “Dear [Manager’s Name].”
Statement of Resignation: Convey the intent to resign clearly and assertively, stating your position and last day, which will be immediate or as soon as possible.
Reason for Immediate Departure: Briefly explain the reason for leaving without notice. The language should be direct but need not go into personal detail.
Expression of Thanks: Thank the employer for the opportunity to work at the company, and acknowledge the experience and skills gained, regardless of the length of employment.
Offer to Assist: If viable, offer assistance in wrapping up your duties or helping with the transition. Proposals can include preparing handover notes or availing yourself of follow-up queries after departure.
Contact Information: Provide your personal contact details for any future correspondence, including your phone number and personal email address.
Closing and Signature: Close the letter with a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your typed name and handwritten signature for a printed letter.
Drafting a no-notice resignation letter with these elements allows you to articulate your need to leave promptly while maintaining professionalism and respect toward your employer and colleagues. The objective is to facilitate the transition with as much grace and tact as the circumstances allow.
Sample Resignation Letters for Different Scenarios
Here are sample resignation letters for different scenarios that call for leaving without notice.
Due to Personal or Family Emergency:
Subject: Immediate Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my immediate resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name] due to an unforeseen personal/family emergency that requires my full attention. Please accept my regret that I cannot provide a traditional notice period, and I sincerely apologize for the abrupt timing.
I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunities and support provided to me during my time at [Company Name]. I have learned a great deal and have valued working alongside my colleagues.
Please now, I am available to assist in any way possible to ensure a smooth transition. Let me know if there are specific matters you would like me to address before my departure.
Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.
It is with regret that I must submit my immediate resignation from my role as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Today’s Date]. Unfortunately, due to recent and unexpected health issues that require urgent and extensive attention, I am unable to continue my duties and provide adequate notice.
I have genuinely enjoyed working at [Company Name], and I am very grateful for the supportive work environment and the professional development I have received.
I will do everything within my ability to assist in the handover process. Please inform me of any priorities that need to be addressed.
Thank you for your consideration, and I hope to remain in touch in the future.
Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from [Company Name] as a [Your Position], effective immediately.
I have recently received a job offer that presents a substantial career opportunity for me and requires an immediate start. After careful consideration, I have decided to accept this offer. I understand that my sudden resignation may cause inconvenience, and for that, I deeply apologize.
I am grateful for the valuable experience and the professional growth provided to me at [Company Name]. It has been an honor to work with such a talented team and contribute to the company’s goals.
To assist in the transition, I am prepared to provide concise documentation and notes on current projects. Please inform me if you require any additional help.
Thank you for your understanding. I wish [Company Name] and my colleagues continued success.
These templates should be adapted to fit your particular situation and to reflect the tone and professional relationship you have with your employer.
Is it OK to resign effective immediately?
Resigning with immediate effect is generally not the preferred protocol and can be a challenging decision to make due to its potential impact on your employer, your team, and your professional reputation.
The common practice is to give your employer two weeks’ notice.
However, it is acceptable under certain circumstances, especially when continuing to work is not possible due to pressing personal reasons, safety concerns, health issues, or other severe conditions.
In the end, while resigning with immediate effect can be OK, it should be regarded as a last resort, utilized when circumstances are such that other options are not feasible.
Now, make sure you have other ways to make money to pay your bills.
If not, check out this list of low stress jobs that pay well!
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More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
When it comes to racial inequity, a recent report from the Brookings Institution highlights some good news along with a concerning trend: Black wealth is increasing, but so is the racial wealth gap.
The report analyzed data from the Federal Reserve’s October 2023 Survey for Consumer Finances , a comprehensive survey on household wealth in the U.S. that is updated every three years. Household wealth measures the total value of assets a family owns (such as housing and business equity) minus their debts (such as student loans and credit card bills). Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
Between 2019 and 2022, total wealth increased for all racial and ethnic groups, including Blacks. Median Black wealth increased from $27,970 to $44,890 but continued to lag behind other racial groups. In 2022, median wealth was approximately $62,000 for non-white Latino or Hispanic households and $285,000 for white households.
This means that in 2022, for every $100 in wealth held by white households, Black households held only $15.
Even more concerning: The nation’s racial wealth gap increased between 2019 and 2022. During that time, median wealth increased by $51,800, but the racial wealth gap increased by $49,950, resulting in a total difference of $240,120 in wealth between the median white household and the median Black household.
This gap has existed for a long time. Since 2010, the wealth disparity between Black and white families has continually expanded, the Brookings Institution notes, peaking in 2022. The divide largely stems from decades of systemic biases and structural barriers that have adversely impacted Blacks. Racial inequality in the housing, investment, debt, and credit markets has disadvantaged Black Americans’ ability to build, maintain, and pass on wealth. This has held true even as a healthy job market and rising home values have helped to boost Black wealth in recent years.
What Employers Can Do
While there is no magic bullet to end the racial wealth disparity, employers can use financial wellness programs to effectively narrow the gap. Offering the right tools and perks can give Black employees the opportunity to get a foothold in the housing market, accumulate savings, reduce their student debt, and build wealth over time.
Here’s a look at four programs that can help make your employees of color (along with all your employees) more financially resilient.
Promote Black Home Ownership
Owning versus renting a home contributes to wealth creation, but decades of discrimination in housing and credit markets have limited Black families’ access to homeownership. Only 44% of Black individuals own a home, according to the Brookings report, compared to nearly 73% of white individuals.
Offering benefits that promote employee home ownership can help bridge this gap and contribute to Black employee’s overall financial well-being.
Many employers are offering direct down payment assistance, such as paying a percentage of an employee’s down payment up to a maximum, or offering a loan that may be forgiven over a period of employment. This type of benefit is ever more appreciated in today’s inflated housing market, where mortgage rate hikes and limited inventory have caused down payment costs to swell.
Another way to help first-time Black home buyers is to offer counseling on accessing government-sponsored grants and low-interest loans designed to help first-time buyers cover down payments and closing costs. You might consider teaming up with local mortgage experts, financial counselors, and real estate pros (ideally from the Black community). They may offer free seminars and reduced fees and commissions for their services in return for a large pool of potential clients.
Recommended: Considering Housing Assistance Benefits? You Can Fight Discrimination Too
Provide Emergency Savings Support
On balance, Black households have a fraction of the wealth of white households, leaving them in a much more precarious financial situation when a crisis strikes. Wealth allows households to weather a financial emergency such as a loss of income or a family member’s illness.
A growing number of employers now offer ways to help employees bolster their backup savings so they’re able to meet unexpected expenses without racking up high-interest debt. This can provide all employees, and especially workers of color, increased financial stability and a foundation from which they can build long-term wealth. Having an emergency savings account can help employees feel more comfortable saving for retirement since they have funds set aside in case of emergency.
To encourage employees to prioritize emergency savings, consider offering an automated emergency savings program that allows them to make paycheck contributions to a dedicated account — possibly with a company match. You may also want to explore the new workplace emergency savings program linked to retirement accounts called PLESA (pension-linked emergency savings accounts) that went into effect on January 1 as part of the SECURE 2.0 Act.
PLESAs are designed to help employees increase their emergency savings while simultaneously saving for retirement. How it works: Employers can now offer non-highly compensated employees an option to link their retirement plan to an emergency savings account. Employees may make Roth (after-tax) contributions until the account maxes out at $2,500 (or a lesser limit established by the employer). After that, additional contributions can be directed to the employee’s defined contribution plan or put on hold until the balance falls below the limit, at which point the employee can start contributing again.
Balances in an emergency savings account are eligible for distribution at least once per month and the first four distributions in a year must be free from any distribution fees.
Recommended: How Much Should Your Employees Have in Emergency Savings?
Help Close the Investment Gap
Investing in the financial markets, and especially the stock market, has historically been a major way to build wealth, and many Americans today invest this way through defined contribution retirement savings plans such as 401(k)s. However, stock equity was the area with the largest disparity in wealth growth among races, according to the Brookings report. Indeed, stock equity makes up nearly 30% of white wealth but only 4% of Black wealth.
Targeted and effective financial planning and investing counseling can help Black employees more easily access the equity markets. To incentivize Black (as well as all) employees to start investing sooner rather than later, consider offering a 401(k) match — that free money can prompt workers to enroll and boost their contributions. You might also use a default opt-out feature, which automatically enrolls workers in your retirement plan unless they choose not to participate by actively opting out. Additionally, think about offering retirement benefits to more employees (including new and part-time employees). Not imposing a lengthy qualifying work period encourages more workers to save for retirement and consider their financial futures.
Recommended: How to Support Your Low-Wage Workforce
Offer Student Loan Repayment Benefits
A college degree can be critically important to building a financially successful career, but student loan debt can delay the lifelong process of building wealth just as people are starting out in their careers. This is particularly true for Black college graduates, who owe an average of $25,000 more in student loan debt than white college graduates. Indeed, four years after graduation, black students owe an average of 188% more on their student loans than white students.
Racial disparities in student loan debt are a big part of the Black-white wealth gap. The student debt burden impedes the ability of Black graduates to build wealth in the same way as their white counterparts.
Employer-sponsored student loan repayment benefits can help bridge this gap, especially when they are targeted to employees who need them most. Two important benefits to consider:
• Student Loan Repayment Assistance Under the CARES Act, employers can now contribute $5,250 annually per employee toward tuition reimbursement or student loan payments on a tax-exempt basis through 2025. Employers can make the payments directly to their employees’ student loan servicers or lenders, or they can provide them to the employees themselves, who can then put them toward their student debt.
• Matching 401(k) Loan Payment Contributions Starting in 2024, the Secure Act 2.0 formally authorizes matching contributions for student loan repayment. This allows companies to match employees’ qualified student loan payments with contributions to their qualified retirement accounts. Employees can pay down student debt while still participating in retirement savings, including 401(k)s, 403(b)s, SIMPLE IRAs, and government 457(b) plans. This program can be a particular boon for Black employees, allowing them to pay down student debt while still participating in retirement savings, hopefully starting at an early age.
Recommended: How Does an HR Team Implement a Student Loan Matching or Direct Repayment Benefit?
The Takeaway
Employers can do their share to help bridge the racial wealth gap by offering the benefits and services that help Black employees in becoming investors as well as homeowners and reduce their student debt. This makes employers part of the solution to one of our nation’s most pressing and persistent challenges. SoFi at Work can help. We provide the benefit platforms and education resources that can enhance financial wellness throughout your workforce.
Photo credit: iStock/kate_sept2004
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The Hong Kong and Boston Chase Sapphire lounge locations were the first to open, and a third spot is entering the scene: As of January 2024, the Chase Sapphire Lounge at New York’s LaGuardia Airport has opened its doors.
Here is what you can expect when you visit this two-level Chase lounge at New York-LGA.
Getting to the Sapphire Lounge LaGuardia
To get to the Chase Sapphire Lounge in Terminal B, pass through security and turn right. Go past the colorful falling water fountain. At the end of the concourse, you’ll find the entrance to the Sapphire Lounge, next to the Centurion Lounge entrance.
Take the elevator down to the ground floor to enter the lounge.
Hours of operation
The Sapphire Lounge at LaGuardia is open from 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily. The private Reserve Suites are open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Layout
The Sapphire Lounge by The Club at LaGuardia beats out many of its competitors on square footage alone. At 21,850 square feet, this massive Sapphire Lounge can fit a maximum of 269 people. The Centurion Lounge next door comes in at less than half the size by square footage.
There are two levels. The lower level has seating areas, play areas (not just for kids), relaxation rooms and the main dining area and bar.
Ascend the set of stairs located to one side of the center bar and you’ll find yourself in what Chase staffers called “The Perch.” This mezzanine area features more seating and tables, a refreshment station and access to the Reserve Suites: three reservation-only rooms available to groups who want more privacy than the lounge affords.
Design
The theme of trees and greenery runs throughout, with several large “tree trunks” breaking up space on both the first and second levels. The pervasive woodgrain, mid-century furniture and colorful, abstract art on the tambour panel walls gives the feeling of walking into a particularly chic rainforest. There’s even a canopy of plants lining the railings of the upper-level mezzanine.
The womb chairs and light, oak-colored wood are in line with current design trends. Yet, the lounge has an air of timelessness that feels sophisticated but fun — falling somewhere between the retrofuturism of the TWA Hotel at JFK and the intentional whimsy of a hip coworking space. Elevated furnishings can be found in the by-reservation private suites, but more on that later.
The lounge doesn’t have a lot of windows because of its location within the airport. However, even without natural light, there’s not a spot in the lounge that feels underlit. The sconces and variety of other lighting fixtures are a delightful detail.
Throughout the lounge, you’ll find touches of New York City, whether it’s a book of Bill Cunningham photos on the shelf or a series of photos featuring matchbooks from iconic New York restaurants like The Bitter End.
Seating areas on the lower level
The first floor of the lounge features plenty of space for work, relaxation, dining and even a little play. Cushy couches and chairs are scattered throughout.
A backlit, water vapor fireplace provides ambience in a more work-oriented section of the lower level where guests will also find two-person booths and a private phone room.
No need to worry about keeping your devices charged — there are outlets galore embedded in furniture, walls, tables and the floor.
Photo booth and arcade
On top of the areas for working or relaxing, there are a few rooms dedicated entirely to play. One is a photo booth that guests can use to snap photos with their traveling companions. Photos can’t be printed, but guests can have a digital copy sent to their email.
The photo booth doubles as an entrance to what Chase staff referred to as “the speakeasy” — a hidden arcade room featuring a pinball machine, tabletop shuffleboard and a jukebox. While there’s no drink service in the speakeasy, staffers indicated that there might be someday.
Children’s playroom
Families can use an enclosed playroom on the lower level without having to worry about disrupting other lounge guests.
Nursing room
A nursing room featuring a sink and changing table is available for use by families in addition to a dedicated changing room for those with babies.
The Reserve Suites
The Reserve Suites are three rooms that can be booked within the lounge that offer groups a private seating and entertainment area, access to fully-stocked showers and an upgraded menu. The privacy comes at a premium though.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders can reserve one of the two six-person suites and one four-person suite. The six-person suites feature a movable wall between and can be booked together for use by up to 12 people.
Suites are available in three-hour slots. Each of the six-person suites costs $3,000 to reserve (or $6,000 to combine the two suites) and the four-person suite is $2,200 for a reservation slot. You must book suites through the Chase mobile app at least 72 hours in advance.
So what does roughly $1,000 per hour get you?
In addition to private showers stocked with bathrobes and high-end toiletries from Oribe and Augustinus Bader, guests get access to a personal lounge staffer and a private menu from the New York restaurant Jeffrey’s Grocery.
Menu highlights include a hefty lobster roll and the Plateau le LaGuardia, a two-tiered tower featuring king crab legs, shrimp cocktail and a variety of tinned seafood. The suite-exclusive wine list is curated by New York City wine bar Parcelle and each of the suites includes caviar service in its price.
In the sitting area of each suite, there’s a beautifully incorporated TV on the wall that comes with a PlayStation 5 for guests. The TV can be turned off, leaving the design element of a stark, glossy black circle on the wall rather than a blank TV — a subtle touch that’s in line with the elevated feel of these private suites.
One of the few windows in the lounge is in the four-person suite, providing a near-panoramic view of The Perch and lower level of the lounge; though, there’s a curtain for privacy should you prefer it.
Meditation pods and treatment rooms
If you want to luxuriate a little but don’t want to shell out for the suites with their private showers, stop by the wellness area and treat yourself to some spa time.
The ordeal of engaging with commercial air travel can be more than a little de-centering. If you feel like you need some time to refocus and quiet your mind, the lounge offers two meditation pods, which can be booked in 30-minute slots via the Chase app or the QR codes found throughout the lounge. Meditation pod reservations are complimentary.
You can also book a free spa treatment, such as jade rolls and oxygen blasts, on-site on a first-come-first-served basis. The private treatment rooms are staffed by estheticians and feature products from New York facial bar Face Haus.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Each spa guest can also snag a free travel kit of skincare products from Face Haus.
Bathrooms
There are several bathroom stalls in the men’s room and women’s room on the first floor and an all-gender restroom on the mezzanine.
Food
Cold plates and made-to-order meals
At the back of the lounge’s lower level is the main dining area. The kitchen serves breakfast (4:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) and all-day fare (11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.) with menus featuring more typical lounge options alongside special, made-to-order dishes from Joseph Leonard, a West Village bistro.
During breakfast and regular service, cold and hot plates are available at the buffet counter. For breakfast, guests can expect the usual fare like pastries, fruit, yogurt, eggs, pancakes and French toast. Made-to-order options — including omelets, egg and cheese baos, and vegan spinach bowls — can be ordered by scanning the QR codes found at every table.
All-day food choices include Korean fried chicken bites, pumpkin muhammara, grilled cheese and made-to-order dishes like burgers or seared salmon over braised leeks. The latter items punched a fair bit above the lounge food weight class, retaining the restaurant quality you’d expect from a curated menu.
A selection of sweets is also available at the buffet, including lemon squares, chocolate chip cookies and mini chocolate bites.
The bar
Situated amid the dining space and seating areas is a circular bar, beautifully appointed with white stone countertops, mauve barstools and brass accents. Chase teamed up with New York mixologists Apotheke for locally-inspired cocktails.
The cocktail menu includes drinks exclusive to the LaGuardia lounge, like The Blackburn’s Sour — a berry-forward rum drink named for one of the first passengers to disembark at LaGuardia when it opened in 1939 — and a signature cocktail that you’ll find at all Sapphire Lounge locations, fittingly and simply called Sapphire.
Other standouts include the Red Eye, an interesting take on the all-too-familar espresso martini that takes things in a more refreshing direction with the addition of black cherry.
A wine list curated by Parcelle, spirits and a selection of beers on tap round out the bar’s menu, with soft drinks, juices and coffee also available.
Refreshment stations
The lounge features three refreshment stations, two on the first level and one on the second. Each refreshment station includes a mini fridge of canned beverages as well as drip coffee, tea, a digital espresso machine, nonalcoholic drinks on tap and assorted fruits and biscotti.
In keeping with the locally-sourced beverages, coffee is supplied by Greenwhich Village roaster Joe Coffee and teas are from SoHo-based tea blenders Harney & Sons.
How to get into the Chase Sapphire Lounge LGA
Access to the Sapphire Lounge by the Club at LaGuardia is pretty simple: you need to carry a qualifying Chase card or have a Priority Pass membership. Some credit cards include a Priority Pass membership as a benefit.
Chase cards that get you lounge access include:
Chase Sapphire Reserve® and J.P. Morgan Reserve cardholders each get two free guests, per visit. Additional guests come at a fee of $27 each. Ritz-Carlton cardholders get unlimited guests.
Priority Pass cards that get you access to the Chase LaGuardia lounge include:
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
Annual fee
Priority Pass benefits
Full Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment required. Terms apply.
Full Priority Pass Select membership. Includes two guests per visit. No restaurants.
Full Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment required. Terms apply.
10 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits per year. Enrollment required. Existing cardholders who enrolled in Priority Pass on or before Jan. 31, 2023 will no longer have a membership as of Feb. 1, 2024. Cardholders who enroll between Feb. 1, 2023 and Jan. 31, 2024, will continue to have membership through Oct. 31, 2024. Terms apply.
Eight free Priority Pass lounge visits per year.
Learn more
(Top photo by Steve Miller)
The information related to the J.P. Morgan Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Pet insurance can be a literal lifesaver if your furry friend needs emergency surgery or expensive medical treatment, but the premiums can also put a dent in your budget. NerdWallet gathered quotes from 15 popular insurers and crunched the numbers to help you find the best cheap pet insurance.
We shopped on the insurers’ websites for accident and illness plans in five cities around the U.S. Sample pets were a medium-sized, mixed-breed dog and a domestic shorthair (mixed-breed) cat at ages 2 and 8. Each plan had a $250 deductible, $5,000 annual coverage limit and 80% reimbursement rate. Read our full methodology.
Keep in mind that the affordability of your own rates will vary based on where you live, how much coverage you want, and your pet’s breed and age. Companies that offered the cheapest rates in our tests may not be the best fit for you.
The best cheap pet insurance companies
Below are the five companies we recommend for affordable pet insurance. Click on the company name or keep scrolling for more details on each.
Figo: Cheapest for cats.
ASPCA: Best for younger pets.
AKC: Best for pets with pre-existing conditions.
Lemonade: Cheapest for dogs
Lemonade
Seamless online experience and quick claims, but limited policy options.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Average
Ability to customize plan
Average
Lemonade
Seamless online experience and quick claims, but limited policy options.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Average
Ability to customize plan
Average
Why we picked it: Lemonade offered some of the most consistently affordable rates for dog insurance in our tests. On top of low premiums, the company also has discounts for paying your bill annually rather than monthly and for insuring more than one pet. If you have another Lemonade policy (such as homeowners, renters or life insurance), you can save even more.
Lemonade stands out for its unique “Giveback” program, which donates a portion of company profits to charities chosen by policyholders. It also shines when it comes to claim processing. After you file your claim through the app, the company uses artificial intelligence to review and pay some claims right away. (Human adjusters review the rest.)
Average of sample monthly rates for dogs: $49.
Average of sample monthly rates for cats: $28.
Figo: Cheapest for cats
Figo
Extensive coverage, a variety of deductibles to choose from and generous reimbursement options.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Excellent
Ability to customize plan
Excellent
Figo
Extensive coverage, a variety of deductibles to choose from and generous reimbursement options.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Excellent
Ability to customize plan
Excellent
Why we picked it: Figo was the most affordable option for many of our sample cats, and its overall average cost was the lowest of all the companies we tested. Figo also offers discounts for insuring multiple pets or serving in the military.
One unique feature from Figo is a 100% reimbursement option. If you choose this level of coverage, the company will reimburse all your vet bills once you’ve met your annual deductible. (Most pet insurers offer reimbursement options from 70% to 90%.) We also like Figo’s Pet Cloud app, which can store your pet’s digital medical records and has a 24/7 vet telehealth line.
Average of sample monthly rates for dogs: $54.
Average of sample monthly rates for cats: $23.
MetLife: Best for older pets
MetLife
Customizable plans for dogs, cats and even other animals in some states.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Excellent
Ability to customize plan
Excellent
MetLife
Customizable plans for dogs, cats and even other animals in some states.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Excellent
Ability to customize plan
Excellent
Why we picked it: With affordable rates for older pets in our tests and no maximum age limit for enrollment, MetLife is a good bet for animals who’ve left the puppy or kitten stage far behind. Depending on where you live, MetLife may offer discounts for active-duty military, veterans, first responders, health care workers or people who work in animal care. You can also save money in the first year of your policy by buying your plan online.
MetLife’s plans cover treatment for arthritis, diabetes, periodontal disease and other ailments that may crop up for older pets. The company offers a wide range of deductible options to help you customize your policy and price.
Average of sample monthly rates for dogs: $49.
Average of sample monthly rates for cats: $29.
ASPCA: Best for younger pets
ASPCA
Generous coverage and multiple plan options, including an accident-only policy.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Excellent
Ability to customize plan
Average
ASPCA
Generous coverage and multiple plan options, including an accident-only policy.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Excellent
Ability to customize plan
Average
Why we picked it: ASPCA, which had competitive rates for the 2-year-old dogs and cats in our tests, will cover puppies and kittens over 8 weeks old. Insuring multiple pets can get you a 10% discount.
ASPCA offers some of the most comprehensive plans in the industry, with coverage included for dental diseases, behavioral issues, alternative therapies, prescription food and even microchip implantation. If you want your policy to help pay for your furry new friend’s spay or neuter surgery, you can add the Prime preventive care package.
Average of sample monthly rates for dogs: $61.
Average of sample monthly rates for cats: $29.
AKC: Best for pets with pre-existing conditions
AKC
Lots of ways to customize your coverage, but the basic plan lacks benefits many other companies include.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Good
Ability to customize plan
Excellent
AKC
Lots of ways to customize your coverage, but the basic plan lacks benefits many other companies include.
Pay vet directly
No
Scope of coverage
Good
Ability to customize plan
Excellent
Why we picked it: AKC wasn’t the cheapest option in our tests, but in many states it offers a perk that’s almost impossible to find at any price: coverage for pre-existing conditions. While many companies will pay to treat curable issues that have been symptom-free for six months or a year, they generally won’t cover chronic, incurable conditions that developed before you bought your pet’s policy. So if you enroll a pup with diabetes or a cat with kidney disease, most companies won’t cover treatment for these issues.
AKC is the exception. Once your pet has had a plan for 365 consecutive days, the company may cover its pre-existing conditions. (This coverage isn’t available in all states.) Other bonuses include a multipet discount and a 24/7 vet helpline.
Average of sample monthly rates for dogs: $60.
Average of sample monthly rates for cats: $38.
Other cheap pet insurance companies
Not sure if the companies above are right for you? See sample rates for more cheap pet insurance companies below.
Average of sample monthly rates for dogs
Average of sample monthly rates for cats
What determines your pet insurance cost?
Each company has its own formula for setting prices, but the following are some of the main factors that will likely influence how much you pay for pet insurance.
Where you live. If you’re in an area with a high cost of living, vet care may be expensive, too — and your premium will go up accordingly.
Your pet’s age. Just like humans, pets tend to develop more health issues as they age. Because older pets are more likely to need veterinary care, their pet insurance will generally cost more than it would for a puppy or kitten.
Your pet’s species and breed. Dogs tend to be more expensive to insure than cats, and certain breeds cost more than others. That’s because some breeds are more susceptible to health conditions such as trouble breathing, joint problems or heart issues.
The coverage you choose. Expect higher prices for more comprehensive plans offering things like unlimited annual payouts and 90% reimbursement for vet expenses. Adding wellness coverage to pay for annual checkups and vaccinations can also run up your costs. Some insurers charge extra to cover certain expenses such as exam fees or physical therapy.
How to find cheap pet insurance
The following tips can help you get the best possible rate for your pet insurance plan.
Shop around. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that the lowest price may not offer the best value if it comes with a higher deductible or less coverage. (A deductible is the amount you need to pay before your insurer starts reimbursing you.)
Customize your coverage. Many insurers let you tweak your price by changing your deductible, adding or reducing coverage, or opting for a different reimbursement rate. For example, you can typically lower your premium if you choose to be reimbursed for only 70% of your vet expenses rather than 80% or 90%. You could also buy an accident-only policy, which will cover injuries like broken bones or snake bites but not illnesses like cancer.
Just be sure you’re comfortable with the tradeoffs you’re making to get a lower premium. The plan may be cheaper, but you’ll be on the hook for more of your pet’s vet bills.
Ask about discounts. Some companies offer savings if you insure more than one animal, serve in the military or buy multiple insurance policies (such as pet and homeowners insurance). You may also be able to save a few bucks by paying your premium in full once a year instead of in monthly installments.
Look for employer benefits. Some companies offer pet insurance at a discounted rate to their employees. Before you choose this option, however, check with the insurer to make sure you can maintain your pet’s coverage even if you leave your current job.
How to compare pet insurance plans
Aside from price, pet insurance plans vary in what they cover and how generously they’ll reimburse your vet bills. Here are a few key things to check before you commit to a pet insurance plan.
What’s covered — and what’s not
Most accident and illness plans cover things like cancer treatments or surgery if your pet gets hurt. But there are types of coverage you can’t always count on.
Say your pet develops periodontal disease and needs to have a few teeth pulled. Some plans will cover this expense; others won’t. Still others might cover it only if you’ve bought optional dental illness coverage. Learn more about pet dental insurance.
Plans may also vary in their coverage of prescription food and supplements, treatment for behavioral issues and rehabilitative therapies.
Finally, check whether your plan will cover vet exam fees. If you bring your pet in for a sick visit, some pet insurers will pay for medication and other treatment but won’t reimburse you for the exam fee.
Reimbursement
One of the most important things to know about a plan is how it will reimburse you for your vet expenses. A handful of companies can pay your vet directly, but in most cases you’ll need to settle the bill yourself and then file a claim for reimbursement.
Check how long it generally takes the companies you’re considering to process claims. Some do so in a matter of days, while others may take up to a month.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re comfortable with your plan’s coverage limit, deductible and reimbursement rate. These factors all work together to determine how much your plan will pay toward your vet expenses.
Say you have a $500 yearly deductible and $5,000 annual coverage limit with a reimbursement rate of 80%. If your dog needs a $2,000 surgery and you haven’t paid anything toward your deductible yet, your plan would cover $1,200. Here’s the math:
$2,000 – $500 deductible = $1,500.
80% reimbursement on the remaining $1,500 bill = $1,200.
You’d still have $3,800 left of your annual limit ($5,000 – $1,200) to spend on any other treatment your pet might need that year.
Waiting periods
There’s generally a waiting period between when you buy your policy and when your coverage begins. For instance, your pet’s illnesses might not be covered for the first 14 days. Some companies have extended waiting periods for certain issues such as knee injuries or hip dysplasia. Learn more about pet insurance waiting periods.
Reviews
NerdWallet has evaluated more than a dozen major pet insurance companies to help you compare your options. Read our pet insurance reviews to see our star ratings and get details about each insurer’s plans.
Where you live can play a major role in how enjoyable your retirement is. So, where do the happiest retirees reside? To determine which cities in the U.S. are the happiest places to retire, we studied the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) using the latest U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, and consulted multiple sources, including the Sharecare Community Well-Being Index, Tax Foundation, Walk Score, Sperling’s Best Places, and County Health Rankings & Roadmaps.
By identifying key elements that contribute to happiness — social networks, financials, and health — and examining 13 pivotal rankings within them, such as community, cost of living, and healthcare access, we created the Happiest Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2024. Read on to learn about the 20 best places to retire in the U.S. to help you explore your options for where to live in retirement.
Key Findings on Retirees’ Favorite Cities
• Barnstable, MA is the happiest city to retire to, ranking #1 of all 200 cities we analyzed. It has the highest ranking overall for community well-being, and one of the highest percentages of residents who are 65-plus. The other cities at the top of the list: Naples, FL at #2, and Ann Arbor, MI at #3.
• Colorado has the highest number of happiest cities for retirees on our top 20 list, beating out Florida. Boulder, CO is the #5 happiest city for retirees, and Fort Collins and Denver also made the list.
• Colder climates are now attracting retirees. Three of our top 5 cities for retirement (Barnstable, MA; Ann Arbor, MI; and Boulder, CO) have average high winter temperatures in the 30s or 40s.
• Naples, FL residents live the longest. The city has the highest average life expectancy (86.1 years) of all 200 cities we analyzed.
• Ann Arbor, MI, has the lowest tax burden for retirees on our top 20 list, followed by Myrtle Beach and Charleston in South Carolina. Meanwhile, Akron, OH has the lowest cost of living of the top 20 cities for retirees, 80.8% of the U.S. average.
Top 20 Happiest Cities to Retire
Looking for information on the happiest places to live after retirement? Whether you dream of an ocean breeze or mountain views, you have plenty of cities to consider.
The top 20 happiest cities for retirees offer a broad range of activities, amenities, and resources. They’re also located all across the nation, as shown in this map of the top 10, so you can find a place in the part of the country you’d most like to live in.
1. Barnstable, MA
Coming in at the top of the happiest cities to retire in the U.S. list is Barnstable. Located on Cape Cod, its beachside beauty attracts retirees, making it one of the top three cities for residents 65 and up. While living here can be expensive (the median household income is $91,438) and there’s less access to healthcare than the other top contenders have, residents enjoy a high level of social interaction and plenty of entertainment and activities.
2. Naples, FL
Those who want to live by the water and enjoy warmer weather can head south to Naples. The cost of living in this city is fairly reasonable, and there’s no state personal income tax, which means your retirement savings can go a lot further. Naples also has the highest life expectancy (age 86.1) of all 200 cities we analyzed.
3. Ann Arbor, MI
Want to enjoy city life without the high prices? Ann Arbor, a college town, has plenty of big city amenities at an affordable price point. Another draw for retirees: Ann Arbor residents enjoy the highest level of healthcare access of the cities on our list, and ranks #1 for health overall.
4. Durham, NC
Friendship and social interaction are important in retirement. Durham, one of the top cities to retire in the U.S., offers a strong sense of community and social well-being, according to the data. Residents will find plentiful healthcare in Durham as well. It ranks #2 out of the top 20 for healthcare access.
5. Boulder, CO
If you like to hit the slopes, Boulder may be the ideal location for your retirement years. The city is #3 on the top 20 list for housing and transportation, so you should be able to find the right place to live and get around easily.
6. North Port, FL
North Port is the second Florida city to make the top 20 list of the happiest places to live in the U.S. Community and social connection is high here, and there’s a sizable population of those aged 65 and up, making it easier to meet new friends. It also has one of the lowest tax burdens among the top 20 cities.
7. Olympia, WA
Retirees who want to live affordably on the west coast can check out scenic Olympia, WA. It ranks as #1 in the financial category, which takes into account factors such as cost of living and household income. It’s also one of the best states to retire in for taxes, which can help retirees stretch their savings. Olympia has the lowest number of residents living below the poverty level of all 200 cities we analyzed.
8. San Jose, CA
Retirees in San Jose enjoy the second-highest average life expectancy (after Naples, FL) of the 200 cities we studied, making it one of the top places for a long and healthy retirement. But there’s a tradeoff: The cost of living in San Jose is extremely high: a whopping 231% of the U.S. average.
9. San Luis Obispo, CA
If being in a comfortable environment is one of your top retirement priorities, look no further than San Luis Obispo. Along with San Jose, the city scored the highest level of comfort for retirees on our top 20 cities list, thanks to its temperate weather.
10. Madison, WI
A low average cost of living plus a high median household income ($83,214) make Madison not only one of the happiest places to live in retirement, but also one of the most affordable. In this relatively walkable city, you can save on transportation costs and live a healthier lifestyle.
Recommended: Average Retirement Savings By State
11. Honolulu, HI
Honolulu combines great weather, pristine beaches, and big city living. It gets high scores for comfortable weather and transportation. And Honolulu has some of the highest scores for social factors and community. Retiring in paradise comes at a price, however — namely, the city’s high cost of living (171.5% of the U.S. average).
12. Salisbury, MD
Salisbury, in the Eastern Shore area of Maryland, is a popular place for retirees. More than a quarter of the population is 65 and over, which means you should have plenty of peers to socialize and do activities with.
13. Washington, DC
If you’re interested in history and culture, Washington D.C. might be a good fit. And many of the city’s major attractions are free of charge. The nation’s capital is also the most walkable city on our top 20 list of the happiest places to live after retirement, so you’ll save on transportation as you get your steps in.
14. Portland, ME
In this city on the coast, you can enjoy all that the ocean has to offer plus metropolitan amenities. Portland ranks as one of the best cities to retire in when it comes to community, and it also has abundant options for art, recreation, and entertainment, which can help you stay happily busy in retirement.
15. Myrtle Beach, SC
Retirees settle down in this popular travel destination to take advantage of the reasonable cost of living and low tax burden. They also love the miles of beaches, plentiful golf courses, and comfortable weather. Myrtle Beach has the 4th highest population of people age 65-plus.
16. Harrisburg, PA
The capital city of Pennsylvania is an affordable place to retire. It has a low cost of living, which means the city’s average median income of $73,739 can go farther. Fewer people live below the poverty line here than in many other cities. Retirees can be active here as well: Harrisburg ranks as #2 of our top cities when it comes to walkability.
17. Fort Collins, CO
If you love the great outdoors, this city, located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, has a lot to offer. All those outside adventures come with some nice health perks: Fort Collins has one of the higher life expectancies of our 20 top cities for retirees.
18. Denver, CO
Where is the happiest place to retire? It might just be the state of Colorado. Denver is the third Colorado city to make the top 20 list of happy places for retirees to live. Denver has a high level of community and social well-being, which could make retirement a lot more fulfilling. It’s very walkable, too, coming in at #5 out of the top 20 in the walking category.
19. Akron, OH
With the lowest cost of living (80.8% of the U.S. average) of the 20 best cities, Akron offers retirees affordability plus many opportunities for social and community connection. That can make it easier to make new friends in retirement.
20. Charleston, SC
A vibrant cultural scene, great food, ocean access, and lovely architecture make Charleston one of the best places to retire in 2024. Charleston ranks #2 for art, recreation, and entertainment out of the 200 cities studied, following only Los Angeles, so you’ll find plenty to do here in your golden years. And the tax burden is one of the lowest on our 20 happiest cities list.
Best Places to Retire for a Happy Retirement
Want to consider some of the different places that could make for a very happy retirement? The map below shows the top five cities out of the 200 analyzed in each of the three key categories that contribute to happiness: social, financial, and health.
200 Cities Studied for Happiest Places to Retire
Reviewing the full list of 200 cities studied for the Happiest Places to Retire can reveal additional great options for retirement. For example, following Naples, FL, the next three cities with the highest life expectancy — San Jose, CA, San Francisco, CA, and New York, NY — are all bustling, well-populated cities that also rank highly for community and social factors. Take a look at what cities across the U.S. have to offer.
Overall Rank
City
Total Score
Social rank
Financial Rank
Health Rank
1
Barnstable, MA
62.05
1
6
120
2
Naples, FL
61.43
2
18
32
3
Ann Arbor, MI
61.40
64
14
1
4
Durham, NC
57.56
57
13
2
5
Boulder, CO
56.95
21
16
13
6
North Port, FL
56.77
4
37
129
7
Olympia, WA
56.46
32
1
88
8
San Jose, CA
55.52
5
113
7
9
San Luis Obispo, CA
55.18
9
11
41
10
Madison, WI
55.13
84
5
11
11
Honolulu, HI
54.82
7
71
12
12
Salisbury, MD
54.70
11
3
177
13
Washington DC
54.33
23
17
19
14
Portland, ME
53.86
17
35
22
15
Myrtle Beach, SC
53.66
8
20
181
16
Harrisburg, PA
52.39
50
24
24
17
Fort Collins, CO
52.11
34
19
80
18
Denver, CO
52.03
86
9
33
19
Akron, OH
51.64
55
10
69
20
Charleston, SC
51.62
37
55
30
21
Manchester, NH
51.49
47
22
58
22
Seattle, WA
51.44
19
101
15
23
Minneapolis, MN
51.22
48
26
28
24
Richmond, VA
50.56
24
46
40
25
Bridgeport, CT
50.52
25
83
8
26
Daphne, AL
50.50
31
12
171
27
Des Moines, IA
50.49
106
2
158
28
San Francisco, CA
50.42
6
172
4
29
Santa Rosa, CA
50.11
14
81
43
30
Raleigh, NC
50.08
45
42
56
31
Prescott Valley, AZ
49.92
3
118
193
32
Oxnard, CA
49.38
16
78
49
33
Asheville, NC
49.35
10
125
57
34
Bremerton, WA
49.22
22
52
108
35
Boston, MA
49.18
33
139
6
36
Colorado Springs, CO
49.18
95
7
141
37
Pittsburgh, PA
49.14
35
82
47
38
Portland, OR
49.03
58
96
14
39
Hartford, CT
49.02
62
36
16
40
Omaha, NE
49.00
87
25
37
41
St. Louis, MO
48.88
56
73
36
42
Lancaster, PA
48.80
46
48
74
43
Chattanooga, TN
48.79
43
53
122
44
Appleton, WI
48.78
41
30
128
45
Sioux Falls, SD
48.48
92
34
83
46
Salt Lake City, UT
48.42
125
23
25
47
Charlotte, NC
48.40
38
61
90
48
Allentown, PA
48.35
52
43
42
49
Crestview, FL
47.95
61
15
183
50
Cape Coral, FL
47.88
13
119
110
51
New Haven, CT
47.81
73
65
9
52
Austin, TX
47.76
123
40
48
53
San Diego, CA
47.73
27
103
29
54
Peoria, IL
47.60
66
27
91
55
Tucson, AZ
47.56
69
59
67
56
Green Bay, WI
47.33
80
33
92
57
Lexington, KY
47.28
94
79
31
58
Deltonah, FL
47.24
18
58
198
59
Reno, NV
47.08
44
67
117
60
Tyler, TX
47.07
127
28
99
61
Ogden, UT
47.07
101
8
160
62
Santa Cruz, CA
46.99
12
147
27
63
Atlanta, GA
46.97
54
100
60
64
York, PA
46.96
53
49
112
65
Palm Baye, FL
46.89
20
84
182
66
Boise City, ID
46.89
96
32
98
67
Grand Rapids, MI
46.89
140
39
55
68
Cincinnati, OH
46.77
71
74
63
69
Wilmington, NC
46.53
40
105
79
70
Canton, OH
46.52
100
29
131
71
Fargo, ND
46.49
154
21
71
72
Savannah, GA
46.37
107
63
59
73
Provo, UT
46.20
135
4
175
74
Norwich, CT
46.08
49
31
115
75
Roanoke, VA
46.05
28
123
46
76
Baltimore, MD
45.92
29
120
68
77
Philadelphia, PA
45.91
63
109
44
78
Nashville, TN
45.89
99
68
105
79
Anchorage, AK
45.87
136
87
86
80
Indianapolis, IN
45.73
119
44
95
81
Sacramento, CA
45.72
42
98
50
82
Trenton, NJ
45.67
70
110
18
83
Lincoln, NE
45.63
103
38
93
84
Port St. Lucie, FL
45.51
15
126
173
85
Albany, NY
45.48
60
62
38
86
Vallejo, CA
45.16
36
97
89
87
Louisville, KY
45.03
117
47
106
88
Worcester, MA
44.90
82
94
51
89
Virginia Beach, VA
44.90
83
70
64
90
Huntsville, AL
44.81
77
60
142
91
Chicago, IL
44.70
79
107
26
92
Kalamazoo, MI
44.57
149
64
70
93
Poughkeepsie, NY
44.47
90
54
45
94
Spokane, WA
44.35
113
51
111
95
Eugene, OR
44.29
68
108
81
96
Columbia, SC
44.22
105
91
104
97
Kansas City, MO
44.13
75
88
103
98
Phoenix, AZ
43.94
89
104
85
99
Jacksonville, FL
43.71
67
102
152
100
Salinas, CA
43.70
85
86
66
101
Little Rock, AR
43.63
144
80
61
102
Dallas, TX
43.55
130
90
97
103
Cleveland, OH
43.47
139
142
10
104
Greenville, SC
43.41
118
106
75
105
Lansing, MI
43.35
150
56
125
106
Rochester, NY
43.26
114
93
20
107
Cedar Rapids, IA
43.25
104
50
161
108
Winston, NC
43.23
91
116
73
109
Greeley, CO
43.15
141
41
162
110
Detroit, MI
43.15
72
122
116
111
Reading, PA
42.88
76
117
87
112
Fort Wayne, IN
42.52
152
45
168
113
Dayton, OH
42.43
111
95
127
114
Davenport, IA
42.37
110
77
139
115
Atlantic City, NJ
42.26
39
131
100
116
Fayetteville, AR
42.17
122
75
151
117
Santa Maria, CA
42.11
59
134
53
118
Evansville, IN
41.59
161
57
144
119
Knoxville, TN
41.58
74
138
149
120
Oklahoma City, OK
41.21
148
89
150
121
Milwaukee, WI
41.18
98
141
54
122
South Bend, IN
41.14
145
85
167
123
Hagerstown, MD
40.26
81
112
179
124
Columbus, OH
40.23
166
72
137
125
Ocala, FL
40.11
26
153
199
126
Birmingham, AL
39.94
65
159
107
127
Montgomery, AL
39.91
134
92
189
128
Rockford, IL
39.80
143
76
157
129
Pensacola, FL
39.44
133
121
153
130
New York, NY
39.32
51
184
5
131
Syracuse, NY
39.27
137
124
35
132
Killeen, TX
39.26
186
69
114
133
Lynchburg, VA
39.22
155
66
174
134
Buffalo, NY
38.98
128
128
39
135
Wichita, KS
38.67
97
135
163
136
Tallahassee, FL
38.65
147
132
134
137
Providence, RI
38.62
112
167
34
138
Los Angeles, CA
38.60
30
187
23
139
Kennewick, WA
38.45
151
127
123
140
Flint, MI
38.34
171
111
156
141
Orlando, FL
38.33
153
155
72
142
Tulsa, OK
38.31
174
99
169
143
Las Vegas, NV
38.31
121
146
135
144
Salem, OR
38.25
138
130
133
145
Duluth, MN
38.21
116
136
126
146
Erie, PA
37.91
126
137
154
147
Springfield, MA
37.88
115
162
62
148
Hickory, NC
37.71
93
140
194
149
Tampa, FL
37.66
102
174
77
150
Albuquerque, NM
37.59
146
157
65
151
Gainesville, FL
37.58
178
182
3
152
Huntington, WV
37.41
88
161
159
153
Toledo, OH
37.11
168
144
82
154
Scranton, PA
37.05
109
156
143
155
Jackson, MS
36.89
175
148
76
156
Amarillo, TX
36.78
142
149
176
157
Kingsport, TN
36.67
158
133
190
158
Springfield, MO
36.65
164
129
165
159
Youngstown, OH
36.63
78
158
188
160
Houston, TX
35.66
179
164
52
161
Binghamton, NY
35.66
162
114
124
162
Charleston, WV
34.97
132
168
138
163
San Antonio, TX
34.88
184
152
94
164
Waco, TX
34.80
176
143
170
165
Greensboro, NC
34.68
108
175
148
166
Augusta, GA
34.56
120
176
145
167
New Orleans, LA
34.48
172
181
21
168
Utica, NY
34.17
167
115
155
169
Memphis, TN
34.17
182
160
130
170
Lubbock, TX
33.95
183
166
84
171
Lakeland, FL
33.94
124
173
178
172
Stockton, CA
33.82
156
154
146
173
Riverside, CA
33.53
129
169
121
174
Macon, GA
33.03
163
180
101
175
Spartanburg, SC
32.77
131
177
185
176
Longview, TX
31.85
185
150
191
177
Miami, FL
31.74
157
192
17
178
Baton Rouge, LA
31.69
181
170
136
179
College Station, TX
30.49
193
165
96
180
Tuscaloosa, AL
30.35
165
179
180
181
Clarksville, TN
30.17
189
145
200
182
Mobile, AL
29.95
170
185
113
183
Shreveport, LA
29.22
177
191
78
184
Fayetteville, NC
28.42
187
171
184
185
Fort Smith, AR
27.72
159
186
196
186
Beaumont, TX
27.36
197
151
195
187
Gulfport, MS
27.33
173
183
197
188
Fresno, CA
26.58
188
178
119
189
Corpus Christi, TX
26.09
192
189
102
190
Modesto, CA
26.05
169
190
147
191
Visalia, CA
25.28
196
163
166
192
Columbus, GA
24.08
160
193
192
193
Lafayette, LA
23.64
180
196
109
194
Bakersfield, CA
21.84
190
188
186
195
Merced, CA
18.10
191
194
187
196
Yakima, WA
17.32
195
195
164
197
El Paso, TX
8.56
194
198
118
198
McAllen, TX
3.30
200
197
132
199
Brownsville, TX
2.10
198
199
140
200
Laredo, TX
-3.32
199
200
172
Tips for a Happy Retirement
You’ve worked hard, now it’s time to enjoy yourself! These smart strategies can help you find happiness in retirement.
• Create a budget. You may have fewer expenses when you’re retired, but you’ll still need a roadmap for managing them. This is where retirement planning and a budget come in handy. If you are already retired, create a budget that works well for your retirement income. If retirement is still in the future, map out a plan to see how much you’ll need to save to be properly prepared.
• Keep tabs on your retirement savings. Don’t forget to check on your retirement savings regularly to ensure that you’re on track financially. And, of course, make sure you have retirement savings accounts like a 401(k) or a traditional or Roth IRA to help you reach your goal.
Don’t yet have a retirement account? Learn how to set up your own retirement account.
• Prioritize health and wellness. To be at your best, strongest, and happiest in retirement, prioritize your physical and mental health with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and lots of social interaction.
• Pursue your passions. Don’t let retirement slow you down. You can pursue your favorite hobbies, work on fulfilling and meeting your top ambitions and challenges, and do the activities you’ve always wanted to try now that you have the time and freedom for them. When choosing among the best retirement cities, be sure to look for places that cater to your interests.
Methodology
To find the happiest cities for people to retire in the U.S., we looked at the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 population estimates for 13 ranking factors across three categories (Social, Finance, and Health).
We graded each factor on a 100-point scale, where 100 was the highest possible score. Each factor was weighted differently.
Socioeconomic Score Factors
• Community well-being
• Social well-being
• Comfort index*
• Percentage of population age 65 and over
• Percentage of art, recreation, and entertainment businesses
Financial Score Factors
• Housing & transportation
• Cost of living index*
• Median household income
• Percentage of people aged 65 and over living below poverty level
• Tax burden**
Health Score Factors
• Healthcare access
• Life expectancy
• Walk Score*
*Data represents city proper data (excluding surrounding metro). **Data represents state level data.
Sources: U.S Census Bureau, Sharecare Community Well-Being Index, Walk Score, Tax Foundation, County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, Sperling’s Best Places.
The Takeaway
When you’re ready to retire, choosing where to settle down is a big and important decision. Exploring our list of top 20 happiest places is a great place to start. You can look for cities that offer affordability, good access to healthcare, entertainment and cultural activities, and opportunities for making social and community connections.
And to ensure that your retirement is as happy and stress-free as possible, you’ll want to have your retirement savings in order. Contributing to your 401(k) or IRA can help you build the retirement nest egg you’ll need.
Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).
Invest with as little as $5 with a SoFi Active Investing account.
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Since the calendar turned to 2024, the internet has been abuzz with trend reports and home decor predictions that offer a glimpse into what lies ahead in the world of interior design.
For many, these lists may seem overwhelming, especially if you’re not planning to embark on a full-scale renovation this year. But fret not; there are simpler ways to elevate your home by getting creative with a DIY project or two.
Below, we’ll introduce you to 7 home trends experts predict will be big in 2024 and the DIY projects that can help you breathe new life into your living spaces.
DIY Projects That Will Elevate Your Home
Get your toolbox ready. From textured walls to living walls, home renovation experts predict these DIY projects are exactly what you need to elevate your home in 2024.
1. Using reclaimed materials
As more and more of us aspire to make eco-friendly home improvements in 2024, it’s no surprise that using reclaimed and recycled materials is gaining popularity among DIY enthusiasts.
Beyond their environmental benefits, reclaimed and salvaged materials bring a distinctive ‘well-loved’ quality that enriches interior designs with texture and depth. The weathered patina of reclaimed wood, for instance, can seamlessly enhance a home with a modern rustic style, while salvaged fireplaces and reclaimed bricks effortlessly complement modern farmhouse aesthetics. These materials possess a timeless charm, making them an ideal choice for elevating your home’s overall look.
If you’re seeking a quick and manageable DIY project that can be completed in an afternoon, consider exploring your local antique market for a set of vintage drawers and transform them into a unique plant display. Alternatively, give rustic scaffolding boards a fresh lease on life as distinctive kitchen shelves, or reimagine tin ceiling tiles as a one-of-a-kind kitchen backsplash.
For those willing to take on a slightly larger project, a salvaged barn door can be flipped into a statement headboard, and ordinary internal doors and windows can be replaced with antique shutters to achieve a truly bespoke finish.
2. Adding texture to walls
While the memories of popcorn ceilings and orange peel walls might remind you of outdated interior design trends from yesteryears, wall texture is poised to make a stylish comeback in 2024.
Embrace the classic elegance of a knockdown finish or the rustic charm of limewash paint to infuse subtle drama into your walls. For a touch of warmth, consider decorative plasters like stucco or tadelakt. The beauty of these unique finishes is that they can be applied to your walls through a DIY approach using a trowel or roller, making it a cost-effective way to enhance your home’s ambiance.
And remember, texture doesn’t have to be just tactile. There are plenty of ways to introduce visual texture to your walls. Leading industry names like Benjamin Moore are bringing color-washed walls back into the spotlight this year, and even famous figures like Blake Lively are embracing this trend in their own homes.
3. Biophilic home improvements
‘In 2024, biophilic design and creating healthier living spaces are poised to be prominent trends,’ predicts Christine Marvin, Vice President of Strategy & Design at Marvin. To fully embrace this trend, consider decorating with plants, choosing natural color palettes and materials, or increasing natural light in your living areas.
Kriss Swint, design lead at Westlake Royal Building Products, emphasizes the importance of a closer connection with nature and its elements, citing potential benefits like increased well-being and productivity. ‘Growing concerns about wellness and the environment are driving demand for backyard improvements and the integration of nature into design. This includes features like green roofs, large windows, and living walls.’
wooden kitchen cabinetry is predicted to dominate kitchen trends this year.
However, before you jump into a full-scale kitchen remodel, consider that you can revamp this space without breaking the bank by resurfacing or refinishing your existing cabinet fronts.
Rather than reaching for your hammer right away, consider stripping paint from wood cabinets you already have to reveal the material beneath. Alternatively, you can replace your current kitchen cabinet fronts with custom-made ones that perfectly fit your space. Consult a local woodworker for bespoke cabinetry tailored to your kitchen’s dimensions or explore options like preloved wooden cabinet fronts available in salvage yards or online marketplaces.
‘A great DIY hack for achieving premium quality without overspending is using Ikea cabinets combined with custom fronts,’ says Archie Tkachoff, Founder of Arteum.design. ‘This approach is not only cost-effective but also versatile, allowing for the application of custom doors on new and existing cabinets.’
Archie Tkachoff
walk-in pantry?
‘In 2024, we expect to see pantries being upgraded with intelligent organization solutions, providing more space and functionality,’ predicts Laurel Vernazza, Home Design Expert at The Plan Collection. ‘When designed with floor-to-ceiling storage, the walk-in pantry can be used to conceal air fryers, coffeemakers, and larger appliances such as dishwashers, with plenty of room for pots and pans, spices, and dry goods’.
Simply clear the kitchen closet and assess its layout. Install adjustable shelving for better storage, add hooks or racks for spices and dried goods, and improve visibility with an overhead light.
Laurel Vernazza
2-Tier Stainless Steel Lazy Susan
Butterfly Ginkgo K-Cup Carousel
coffee station or walk-in pantry.
Royal Check Large Enamel Canister
wainscotting.
7. DIY built-in bookshelves
The classic built-in bookshelf remains a popular choice for 2024, and it’s easy to see why. With just a modest amount of DIY expertise, you can easily turn an ordinary bookshelf into a faux built-in feature that instantly elevates your home.
Start by measuring your space and acquiring the right number of standalone bookcases for the job. We recommend options such as Ikea’s Billy bookcase or Wayfair’s Lagner bookcase, as they are well-suited to this task. Securely anchor these bookcases to the wall, ensuring they are level and perfectly aligned.
To achieve that coveted built-in appearance, add a plywood surround, crown molding, or decorative trim that complements your room’s style. After carefully caulking and sanding any rough edges, apply paint or stain to the bookshelves, allowing them to seamlessly blend into their surroundings.
Home renovation trends are typically less transient than paint trends, such as the color of the year, and can significantly improve the aesthetic and functionality of your home.
If you’ve always dreamt about walking a mile in Tom Brady’s shoes, an opportunity just came up — but you’d have to pony up some serious cash to afford it.
A glam apartment at the Fendi Chateau Residences in Surfside, Florida that the former New England Patriots / Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback rented after his divorce from supermodel Gisele Bündchen landed on the market, looking for a new owner to enjoy its unobstructed ocean views.
As expected, it has a price tag worthy of its former occupant’s deep pockets: the Fendi Chateau unit is listed for a hefty $15,900,000.
But it comes with the added perk of owning a space that served as a bachelor pad for the NFL’s most decorated and accomplished players, not to mention a whole suite of luxury amenities and upscale finishes that the Surfside building has gained a reputation for.
Inside Tom Brady’s former apartment at the FENDI Chateau Residences
Tom Brady reportedly lived here right after his widely-covered divorce from Gisele Bündchen, with media outlets dubbing it the NFL superstar’s “bachelor pad”.
He rented it during his final year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before announcing his retirement (for a second time) in February 2023.
See also: Tom Brady’s & Giselle’s Custom-Built Home in Brookline, Massachusetts
The unit is one of only 58 residences in the luxury residential development — which sets itself apart from nearby Miami’s soaring skyscrapers, rising only 12 stories high and adding a note of boutique living to its appeal. Mendel Fellig with Compass Florida holds the listing.
Key facts & numbers
Location: 9349 Collins Avenue, Surfside, FL
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 4.5
Square footage: 4,103
Year built: 2016 (building)
Amenities: White glove service (including full beach service), in-house salon and spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, resident-only restaurant, kid’s club, and more.
Asking price: $15,900,000
“The condo offers a sanctuary of privacy and luxury, boasting unobstructed ocean and skyline views and a highly desirable flow-through layout,” listing agent Mendel Fellig tells us. “With only 58 units, the building ensures an intimate and exclusive living experience.”
Photos
With its many wellness-oriented amenities, the Surfside building is a great choice for athletes
While Tom Brady was undoubtedly the Fendi Chateau Residences’ most famous resident, the building is known for attracting top earners.
Current and former residents reportedly include UnitedHealthcare CEO, Claudio Lottenberg, Founder of Naturhouse, Felix Revuelta, Founder and CEO of E&M Management, Irving Langer, and Software Chief of Totvs, José De Lucena Cosentino.
And it’s easy to see why.
Talking about the many amenities Fendi Chateau residents enjoy, Fellig lists upscale features like “full beach service, in-house salon and spa, business center, movie theater, and a resident-only restaurant, creating a lifestyle of pure luxury. It’s easy to see why a celebrity may be captivated by the privacy, luxurious amenities, and the stunning ocean vistas that this property provides.”
Standing out in its long roster of amenities are the building’s many wellness-oriented perks, which make it a great choice for athletes.
“Fendi Chateau is the perfect haven for athletes, with a focus on health and wellness,” agent Mendel Fellig confirms.
“The residence offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, a rejuvenating sauna, an invigorating steam room and a private massage room. These amenities make Fendi Chateau the ultimate destination for athletes looking to maintain their physical well-being.”
“The in-house facilities offer a comprehensive approach to fitness and recovery, making it the top choice for athletes seeking luxurious living that caters to their health and fitness needs.”
So it wouldn’t be at all surprising to see another athlete taking up residence here. Who do you think that might be?
The article You can buy Tom Brady’s former Miami apartment – But it won’t come cheap first appeared on Fancy Pants Homes.
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