Are you mulling over a retirement move to Bay State? Massachusetts is a great retirement destination, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. The state is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, as well as a variety of colleges and universities. Retirees can enjoy a high quality of life, with access to great medical care, ample opportunities for recreation and social interaction, and a variety of cultural attractions. There are also plenty of options for retirees when it comes to housing, whether you’re looking for an active community or a more relaxed setting. And, of course, Massachusetts is known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and four distinct seasons.
Here’s our guide to the best places to retire in Massachusetts, based on amenities, cost of living, and more. So check out our list and start planning your dream retirement today.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Places to Retire In Massachusetts
Given that there are so many great places to retire in Massachusetts, how do you choose the best place for your retirement? Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision.
Cost of Living
Your budget and desired lifestyle are key factors when choosing the best place to retire. Retirement villages and towns can vary widely in terms of cost of living and amenities. If you’re on a fixed income, you’ll want to choose an affordable median home price.
Safe Environment
Feeling safe in their golden years is important to many retirees. The good news is that Massachusetts has a relatively low crime rate when compared to other states. The state’s violent crime rate is below the national average. However, crime rates can vary from city to city. For example, Boston has a higher crime rate than the state average, while towns like Plymouth and Provincetown have significantly lower crime rates. The Massachusetts State Police website provides crime statistics for each city and town in the state, which can help decide where to retire.
Amenities and Recreational Activities
There are many benefits to retiring in a community that offers a wide variety of amenities and outdoor activities, including social opportunities, fitness facilities, and cultural events. In addition, retirees who are active adults will want to choose a community that offers access to hiking trails, golf courses, and other outdoor recreation.
Weather Conditions
Massachusetts experiences all four seasons, and retirees should be prepared for snow in the winter and hot, humid summers. However, the east coast is also known for its beautiful fall foliage, and Massachusett’s location means that retirees can enjoy stunning views of New England’s landscape. retirees should also be aware that the east coast is prone to hurricanes and other severe weather conditions.
Proximity to Health Care, Markets, and Airports
Health care is an important issue for retirees, and being close to a hospital can be crucial in the event of an emergency. Markets are also important, as retirees often have limited mobility and may not be able to travel long distances to purchase groceries and other necessary items. In addition, being close to an airport can be convenient for retirees who want to travel to visit family and friends or take vacations.
Top 10 Best Places to Retire In Massachusetts
No matter what your retirement goals are when choosing the best place to retire Massachusetts has something to offer. Each town has its unique charm, and plenty of activities and amenities are available for retirees. Here are some of the best places to retire in Massachusetts based on a recent study’s ranking data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources.
#1 West Yarmouth
This picturesque town is located on Cape Cod, offering retirees a wide range of activities and amenities. The Barnstable County Historical Society is a great resource for those who are interested in the area’s rich history, and the town’s quaint shops and restaurants are perfect for those who enjoy exploring new places. With a population of just over 6,000, West Yarmouth is large enough to offer plenty of amenities but small enough to maintain a close-knit community feel. And with a median home value of just $317,500, it’s one of the most affordable places to retire in Massachusetts.
#2 Chatham
Located in Barnstable County on Cape Cod, the town of Chatham is one of the best places to retire in Massachusetts. With a population of just over 6,000, it offers a relaxed and safe atmosphere, while still being close to all the amenities that retirees need. The median home value in Chatham is $668,500, and the median rent is $1,227, making it affordable for seniors on a fixed income.
Chatham is home to a number of beautiful parks and beaches, as well as golf courses, restaurants, and shops. There are also plenty of activities and events for retirees to enjoy, from art classes and concerts to book clubs and lectures.
#3 North Falmouth
The town is located in Barnstable County and has a population of 2,572. The median home value is $$550,200 and the median rent is $1,230. The town is located near the beach and has many amenities that retirees would enjoy, from exploring the local parks and beaches to taking part in the town’s many cultural events. There are also many medical facilities nearby. The town has a low crime rate and is a safe place to live.
#4 West Dennis
This picturesque town is located in Barnstable County on Cape Cod, making it a popular destination for retirees. The median home value is $397,300, and the median rent is $1,219, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Massachusetts. The town has a population of 2,479, and its proximity to the beach makes it a popular spot for retirees. In addition, the town has a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a public library and a Senior Center.
#5 Pinehills
Plymouth County town is one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, and its population of 4,531 makes it an ideal size for retirees. The median home value in The Pinehills is $569,300, and the median rent is $2,259. The town is located just a short drive from Boston, and its proximity to the beach makes it a perfect retirement destination. There are plenty of activities for retirees in The Pinehills, including golfing, hiking, and shopping. And with its low crime rate and excellent schools, The Pinehills is a great place to raise grandchildren.
#6 Wayland
The town is located in Middlesex County, which is known for its low crime rate and peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, Wayland is a suburb of Boston with a population of 13,823, so retirees can enjoy all the benefits of living near a major city without dealing with the hustle and bustle on a daily basis. The median home value in Wayland is also quite reasonable, at $733,300. And although the median rent is slightly higher than in other towns in the area, it is still reasonable at $1,263. Overall, Wayland is an ideal location for retirees who are looking for a safe and quiet community that is close to all the amenities of a major city.
#7 Brewster
Retiring in Brewster, Massachusetts has many benefits. For starters, it’s a town in Barnstable County, so it’s a suburban area near Boston. The population is 9,811, and the median home value is $450,200. The median rent is $1,008, which is affordable for most retirees. Additionally, there are plenty of things to do in Brewster. There are several golf courses, and the Cape Cod Rail Trail is perfect for walking or biking. There are also several beaches nearby, including Sandy Neck Beach and Paines Creek Beach.
#8 Yarmouth
This lovely town is located in Barnstable County on Cape Cod, and it offers retirees a wide range of amenities and activities. The median home value in Yarmouth is a very affordable $354,600, and the median rent is just $1,550. There are plenty of things to do in Yarmouth, from exploring the many shops and restaurants downtown to taking a walk on one of the best beaches in Massachusetts. It’s close to the beach and has a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. With its affordable housing, diverse activities, and excellent healthcare, it’s no wonder that Yarmouth is one of the best places to retire in Massachusetts.
#9 East Sandwich
Located in Barnstable County on Cape Cod, East Sandwich has a population of just 3,628 people, which makes it the perfect place to enjoy a quiet retirement. The median home value is $496,800, and the median rent is $1,289, making it affordable for retirees. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in East Sandwich, from exploring the nearby Sandwich Glass Museum to taking a walk on one of the many scenic trails. And with Boston just a short drive away, retirees can always enjoy a day trip to the city.
#10 Orleans
Situated on the Cape Cod National Seashore, Orleans offers retirees a wealth of outdoor activities, from swimming and sunning on Nauset Beach to hiking through the 120-acre Kenneth H. Cooke Forest. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and performances by the Academy of Performing Arts. And for those who enjoy dining out, Orleans has no shortage of great restaurants, from casual seaside spots to more upscale fare.
Wrapping Up
As anyone who has reached retirement age knows, finding the perfect place to spend one’s golden years is essential. Retirement is a time to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to move to a remote location to find peace and quiet. Massachusetts has the best places to retire if you’re looking for amenities and affordable homes. From seaside towns to bustling cities, the state has something to offer. Contact our property consultant at Ardor Homes Massachusetts and let us help you explore all your options in finding the perfect place to call your retirement home.
In her 25-year career, Steph Wilkinson has been involved in the acquisition, marketing and sales of over $3 Billion dollars of residential real estate. A number of years ago, Steph transitioned into Brokerage Leadership for National real estate brands and tech start-ups. She has served as a Business Strategist for real estate agents and brokerages alike and is also a real estate coach and trainer. In her new role with the Iconic Team, Steph will be responsible for the growth of the team and will be working with all of our agents to increase their productivity and bottom line.
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