New York City has long been a cradle for sports legends, with many athletes achieving fame while residing in the city. However, several iconic figures have chosen to live outside the city, continuing to influence sports and culture from their new homes.
Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter, the legendary New York Yankees shortstop, is a prime example. After retiring from baseball, Jeter settled in Miami, Florida, with his wife, model Hannah Davis. The couple resides in a luxurious waterfront home in the Davis Islands neighborhood of Tampa, Florida. Jeter’s move to Florida was partly due to the state’s favorable tax laws, which offer no state income tax—a significant consideration for high-profile athletes.
Whitey Ford
Another Yankees legend, Whitey Ford, spent his later years in Lake Success, Long Island, and Florida. Ford, known as the “Chairman of the Board,” was a Hall of Fame pitcher who played for the Yankees from 1950 to 1967. He passed away in 2020 at his home in Lake Success, surrounded by family.
Frank Gifford
Frank Gifford, a Hall of Fame football player for the New York Giants, lived in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, for over 30 years with his wife, television host Kathie Lee Gifford. Gifford was a versatile athlete, excelling in both football and broadcasting. His residence in Connecticut allowed him to maintain a connection to the New York sports scene while enjoying the suburban lifestyle.
Shaquille O’Neal
While not a New York native, Shaquille O’Neal’s connection to the city through his time with the New Jersey Nets and New York Knicks makes his choice of residence noteworthy. O’Neal currently resides in Texas, having purchased a Mediterranean-style mansion in Heath, Texas, in 2024. His extensive real estate portfolio includes properties in Florida, Georgia, and Nevada, reflecting his diverse interests and investments.
Jeff Libby
Jeff Libby, a former defenseman for the New York Islanders, had a brief NHL career that ended due to a severe eye injury. After retiring from professional hockey, Libby transitioned to coaching and now serves as an assistant coach at the University of New England. His journey from a short-lived NHL career to a fulfilling coaching role exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of athletes.
These athletes, among others, have chosen to live outside New York City, yet their legacies continue to influence sports culture both within and beyond the city. Their stories highlight the diverse paths athletes take after their playing careers and the lasting impact they have on communities across the country.
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