Massachusetts: Are You Younger or Older Than the Average Resident?

Have you ever wondered if you're younger or older than the average resident in Massachusetts? I've actually wondered this a few times. When I was 18, I didn't think about it at all, but as I get older, I can't help but wonder where I fall. Well, now we have the answer on what's the average age in Massachusetts.

Before we get to the average, let's look at some fun facts. The average retirement age in U.S. is 64 years old, according to MadisonTrust.com, and the average retirement age across all states spans from 61 to 67 years old. "The Social Security Act sets the minimum age to retire at 65 to receive full retirement benefits, although the minimum retirement age will continue to rise," MadisonTrust.com adds.

Now, let's look at the states with the youngest and oldest populations. According to the latest information from the Census Bureau, the state with the youngest population is Utah. The average age there is 32.1 years old. That makes sense, because Utah is the state with the highest rate of births with 17.6 births per 1,000 people, according to Business Insider. Other states with young populations include North Dakota, Texas and the District of Columbia. But, it's worth noting that Utah's average age of 32.1 years old is much younger than any other state.

As for the state with the oldest population, according to the Census Bureau, that's Maine. The average age there is 45.1 years old. I was actually surprised that such a cold state would have the oldest population, but those are the numbers. Other areas with older populations include Puerto Rico, Vermont, New Hampshire, West Virginia and Florida. So, what's the average Massachusetts resident age? It's 40.3, which seems about average compared to other states. Find the full tally of data from the United States Census Bureau on states and average ages here.

Who says romance has to be expensive? Sure, a fancy, expensive night out is one way to celebrate love and romance. But, it doesn't have to be about the big dollars. As the saying and song go, "Can't buy me love." In that spirit, let's look into some of the most romantic, and affordable, date spots in America. Sparks can totally fly here. Trust me.

Before we get to those date locations, here are some tips on affordable dates. If it's a first date and you really have no idea if you two are going to hit it off, you don't have to do the traditional dinner. Why spend the time and money if the date might not even create a spark? Instead, try meeting for coffee or drinks at the bar. That way, if you two aren't feeling each other, you won't have to stick through salad, dinner and dessert. You can have a drink and cut your losses. If you two are feeling a vibe, you can schedule a second date that's a full dinner, which will allow for more time to get to know each other.

Fast-forward to when you're further into a relationship. If you're going out to dinner and to the bar a lot with your new love, that's great, but it can get costly. There's nothing wrong with Netflix and chill for a date night. You can still make it special. For example, invite your sweetie over and order their favorite takeout dish. How romantic, right? Oh, and get some gourmet, flavored popcorn, if you know what kind of treats they like. That's not only romantic but very thoughtful.

Now that we've gone through some casual date ideas that won't break the bank, let's get into the most romantic, and affordable, date spots in America.

I graduated from Michigan State University, so I'm familiar with our beautiful gardens. In the spring, summer and fall, the MSU Horticulture Gardens are an area of wonder. You can go in the winter, too, but things are much more abloom in the other seasons. It's a very beautiful and romantic setting, and it's a perfect romantic date spot. It's also free to visit. Yes, this is a photo of me at the MSU Gardens. I love it there!

Let's continue on the theme of gardens being a great date idea with Philadelphia's Magic Gardens. These gardens offer a "mosaicked art environment, gallery, and community arts center of Isaiah Zagar's art and public murals." It's a breathtaking spot and perfect for a date. General admission is currently $15 for adults, but get your tickets early.

https://www.phillymagicgardens.org/

Florida is a popular vacation spot, so it has a lot of romantic spots for a date or anniversary celebration. Clearwater and St. Pete offer gorgeous white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and calm waters. You'll also find the Museum of Fine Arts, the Dalí Museum and the pristine Fort De Soto Park with beaches, hiking trails, kayaking and more.

https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/central-west/clearwater-beach/

hey offer visitors miles of white sand beaches along the sparkling Gulf of Mexico as well as vibrant arts and culture.

If you're up for a casual but fun date night, why not try exploring your local breweries? Atlanta has some fantastic ones. Make a night of it. Get dressed up and hit the town with your love. Try a bunch of different breweries with their local brews. This is a low-key but romantic date night that's also very reasonable. Just don't drink too much. One famed one to try is Glover Park Brewery.

https://www.gloverparkbrewery.com/

Going to a museum is a perfect date idea. Located in Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Art and the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park have lots of fantastic art to take in. This museum first opened in 1956 and always has a range of fascinating exhibitions.

https://ncartmuseum.org/

Say you're in Vegas? Break the norm and take your date to the Las Vegas Art Museum. The museum features nearly 8,000 square feet of exhibition space. You'll find great exhibits for both adults and kids. You can always hit the casinos later.

http://www.lasvegasartmuseum.org/