Book Chapter: Retirees and Economic Development in West Virginia

With the aging trend reaching new heights, retirees are becoming increasingly important for state and local economies. Although retirees pose challenges for state and local governments, they have been increasingly targeted as a group to enhance economic development in communities. With rapid increases in the number of retirees, understanding the economics of retirees is critical. This paper addresses the economic impact of current and potential new retirees in West Virginia by examining the economic significance of retirees and their role in public policy with a focus on a comparison with other states. This chapter presents evidence that retirees are important to state and local development and that they could be a potential source for future growth. It also points to certain potential risks involved in retiree attraction policies.

Read the chapter by purchasing the book from the publisher.