I think the exodus of retiring boomers from the metro areas may prove to be a boon for middle America. Some of these agricultural towns that have been dying off because of lack of employment can reorient into retirement-friendly communities. Good for their business communities and tax base and appropriate for someone looking for a slower pace of life. There are still lots of towns in the U.S. where a retiree can buy a property for less than $100k and get away from the urban/suburban lifestyle.