10 Top-Ranked Towns in Wisconsin for Retirees

A combination of serene natural scenery, cozy mild climate, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of outdoor opportunities make Wisconsin a great place to settle after retirement. The state has many small towns and cities that balance quality-of-life amenities with affordability. Whether you're interested in urban or rural living, active adult communities or more independent housing, several exciting options spread throughout the Badger State. Affordability is a high priority for many retirees, and real estate and living costs in all of these towns are below state and national averages.

In addition to reasonable costs of living, these top-ranked towns excel in other factors. While each offers its unique character, they all share outdoor scenery where recreation opportunities abound, from hiking trails, parks, and fishing lakes to swimming beaches. Cultural activities like concerts, festivals, art fairs and more ensure active retirees have plenty to keep them engaged. If you are searching for the ideal place to spend your golden years, these charming towns in Wisconsin were tailor-made for retirees.

Columbus

Sitting a short drive from Madison, this adorable south-central Wisconsin community is home to a modest community of just under 6,000, with over 13% of the population 65 years or older. It combines unique natural surroundings with a rich history to deliver the best of Midwestern living. Retirees can take advantage of recreation opportunities along the Crawfish River to kayak or go fishing and picnicking around Lazy Lake. Alternatively, they can explore the historic downtown to discover its colorful heritage at City Hall.

The tight-knit community in Columbus enjoys a safe environment, with a crime rate almost half the national average. Retirees can experience its warmth during the many social events lined up throughout the year, including the Redbud Day celebration. With a median home value under $108,000, owning a home is very possible for pensioners and access to quality amenities in nearby Madison promises seniors a high quality of life.

Rhinelander

Rhinelander’s location in the middle of the Great Lakes makes this Oneida County town a top consideration for aquatic fun enthusiasts. Christened an ice fishing capital, the town is surrounded by sprawling water bodies like Boom Lake and Lake Thompson, where pensioners can fish, kayak, and canoe. Pioneer Park Historical Complex offers a look into the logging history of the town, while providing a quiet space in the heart of the town for residents to relax and unwind. The town also impresses with a vibrant arts and culture scene, highlighted by centers like ArtStart.

With senior residents accounting for about 17% of the population, incoming retirees will find a friendly community of peers waiting to welcome them into their fold. This, while enjoying peaceful surroundings with a crime rate way below the national average. Several medical centers in Rhinelander guarantee a prompt response to health emergencies, led by the Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital.

Mayville

Retirees who appreciate a strong sense of community will feel right at home in this quiet riverfront community in Dodge County. There are multiple historical pursuits to discover the town’s colorful past, which will make for a laidback pastime within the halls of the Mayville Limestone School Museum and the Mayville Historical Society. Pensioners can also take advantage of numerous outdoor opportunities to stay active and healthy, by enrolling in different fitness programs at Mayville Park Pavilion and admiring migratory birds at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. Retirees will have an easy time adjusting to their new environment, thanks to a large community of peers, with almost 20% of the population 65 years and above. The crime rate is more than 50% below the national average and seniors enjoy access to numerous medical centers; there are over 100 hospitals within one mile of the city.

Shawano

Living in Shawano offers retirees access to endless aquatic recreation, thanks to the presence of Shawano Lake, a popular swimming spot in the summer, and Wolf River, where enthusiasts go for various paddling adventures. There are numerous meeting points in the bustling town where you can mingle and interact with other community members. Shawano County Historical Society is an excellent option if you are curious about the town’s past. Meanwhile, Shawano Wisconsin Flea Market presents a buzzing atmosphere with an opportunity to shop for unique wares and establish lasting relationships.

Crime is almost unheard of in Shawano, with just 1.41 violent crime cases recorded per 1,000 residents. The median home value is about $150,000 and the cost of living is 15 points below the national average. Seniors also have access to numerous assisted living facilities, such as Shawano Place Senior Living.

Prairie Du Chien

Founded by French Voyageurs in the 17th century, Prairie du Chien has a rich historical legacy, beautifully preserved at the Fort Crawford Museum and Villa Louis Historic Site. The town also offers charming outdoor spots, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics in nature, such as the Mississippi River Sculpture Park and Lochner Park. Its restaurant scene features several well-known establishments, with retirees enjoying fine dining at places like Fort Mulligan’s Grill Pub for a tasty experience.

The crime rate in Prairie du Chien is pretty low, rated at 1.8 cases of violent crime per 1,000 residents. Also, the median home price is under $200,000 and the cost of living is below the national average, making it an affordable and safe environment for retirement living.

Waupun

Waupun is a small community designed for retirement living. It offers several medical facilities, including the well-known SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital and the New Medical Center, ensuring reliable healthcare. Retirees can enjoy outdoor activities at spots like Meadow View Heights Park or go hiking and biking along the South Branch Rock River for active recreation. When visiting grandchildren, residents can have fun at the Waupun Family Aquatic Center, a popular family destination.

Waupun provides multiple senior living communities for retirees who can no longer fully care for themselves, such as Gateway Senior Apartments and Prairie Ridge Assisted Living. The living cost of living is way below the national average and the same applies to the crime rate, promising pensioners a cheap and safe life after work.

Sturgeon Bay

Located on the scenic Door Peninsula, the small town of Sturgeon Bay offers a charming retirement environment within a community of under 1,000 residents. Surrounded by beautiful open spaces and natural areas, it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who wish to enjoy recreational spots like Potawatomi State Park and Cave Point County Park. The town values its rich history and culture, as reflected in popular sites such as the Door County Historical Museum and Door County Maritime Museum.

Safety is also a major draw, with Sturgeon Bay posting crime rates over 50% lower than the national average. Living costs are reasonable, considering an average monthly rental price of only $800 and quality homes available for purchase at under $200,000. The crime is 60%+ below the national average and seniors can find assisted living facilities at Cardinal Ridge Residential.

Reedsburg

Reedsburg, founded in the 1860s, boasts a rich history and provides a charming small-town atmosphere for retirees. The community ensures healthcare needs are met with excellent facilities such as Reedsburg Area Medical Center. Residents can enjoy numerous parks and recreational activities. Webb Park, located along Hay Creek, is a popular natural spot featuring a relaxed atmosphere ideal for picnics, as well as a tennis court and a public swimming pool.

Several affordable housing options in Reedsburg suit those seeking independent or assisted living. A good example is Park Place Senior Apartments, which offers well-appointed units with private balconies and patios, allowing residents to enjoy the fresh air. The town also records 1.29 violent crime cases per 1,000 residents, saving pensioners from always looking behind their backs when walking the streets.

Portage

Portage is a historic hub known for its strong community bonds and often ranks as one of Wisconsin's top towns for retirees. Landmarks such as the Industrial Waterfront and Church Hill Districts highlight the city's history while remaining lively today. Retirees can learn more about the town’s past at the Portage Historical Society Museum. Healthcare is also a major attraction for seniors, with excellent facilities like Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital providing a variety of medical services, including obstetrics and assisted living.

Nature and recreation opportunities are aplenty, thanks to delightful spaces such as the beloved Silver Lake Beach. This 2.5-acre lakeside park is a popular hub for residents and visitors alike who enjoy fishing its waters for prized species. Retirees can also gain peace of mind through residence at Hamilton Park Place Assisted Living and the crime rate is less than the national average.

Verona

Located just outside the busy area of Madison, the peaceful town of Verona offers a charming retreat into small-town life. Its rich natural surroundings attract outdoor enthusiasts to hike along the picturesque Ice Age National Scenic Trail and to have picnics at Fireman’s Park Beach. With an average home price of around $480,000, retirees with sufficient savings can benefit from the low crime rate, which is 0.55 incidents per 1,000 residents, ensuring safety and stability. The close-knit community frequently gathers at the lively Verona Downtown Farmers Market, a popular place for retirees to connect with others.

Here, locals mingle and socialize while buying fresh, locally-grown produce straight from the source. The strong sense of connection and support fostered among neighbors is a hallmark that makes Verona ideal for settling down after retirement. Residents appreciate the blend of rural charm and accessible Madison amenities while enjoying pristine natural beauty on their doorstep.

Wrapping Up

The Badger State boasts many charming small communities perfect for retirement. Wisconsin's towns offer a high quality of life through appealing features such as natural amenities, healthcare access, affordable living costs, and a strong community spirit. Emphasizing outdoor activities, cultural events, lifelong learning, and social well-being, these towns are excellent options for establishing a permanent residence as you enter the next chapter of life. They provide a pathway to a rewarding and comfortable retirement.