12 Best The Northern United States Towns For Retirees
When it comes to retirement, many people dream of settling into a place that offers natural beauty, a slower pace of life, and plenty of opportunities to remain engaged. The northern United States is home to a variety of charming towns that fit the bill, combining scenic surroundings with vibrant communities, affordable housing, and a rich arts and culture scene. Whether you're drawn to lakeside living, historic downtowns, or proximity to larger cities, these 12 northern US towns are excellent choices for retirees looking to enjoy their golden years in comfort and style.
Barre, Vermont
The self-proclaimed "Granite Center of the World," Barre, Vermont, is home to 8,600 people, and the average home value in the area is below the Vermont state average of $400,000; instead, homes in Barre average just $308,000 (according to Zillow.com). In southern Vermont, Barre is five miles from Montpelier, Vermont's state capital, and offers access to all its amenities. Many retirees are retreating to the beautiful, quieter Barre, knowing that they are close to the big city should other needs arise.
Barre lies between the Groton State Forest, covering over 26,000 acres, and the Green Mountains. Seven state parks are found in the forest, each with amenities such as hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing. Retirees who enjoy the arts should check out Studio Place Arts, a nonprofit community visual arts center in downtown Barre. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Vermont History Center, located in a historic school building and featuring tours and artifacts that showcase the town's rich heritage. Seniors can socialize and participate in activities at the Barre Area Senior Center, also located downtown.
Berlin, New Hampshire
Nicknamed the "city that trees built" and nestled along the Androscoggin River, Berlin, New Hampshire, population 10,000, is near the border with Maine. Home values here are just $188,000, far under the New Hampshire state average of $502,000. Berlin is just an hour from the Canadian border, should retirees wish to visit our neighbor to the north. Its natural beauty, proximity to Canada, and welcoming small-town feel have drawn many retirees to move to Berlin.
The Northern Forest Heritage Park is a museum in downtown Berlin housed in a building from 1853 that tells the history of the town and its forestry heritage. Jericho Falls in Jericho Mountain State Park is a site to behold. Retirees may also enjoy hiking through the wooded park. Nansen Ski Club, the oldest cross-country ski club in the US, meets in Berlin each winter. Socialization opportunities may be had at the Berlin Senior Center downtown.
Bottineau, North Dakota
The small town of Bottineau, North Dakota, population 2,100, is about as far north as you can get in the US. Just 10 miles south of the US border with Canada in Bottineau County, homes here average $243,000 (while the average price statewide is $280,000). Bottineau sits at the foot of the Turtle Mountains, and is perfect for retirees who want to have the chance to pop over the border to Canada when they feel like it.
The International Peace Garden is just a half-hour drive from Bottineau and is a living celebration of peace and cooperation, with plants of all types. It is a peaceful place to visit and reflect on peace. Retirees who enjoy skiing will appreciate Bottineau Winter Park, a destination offering skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Golfers can hit the links at the 9-hole, public Bottineau Country Club Golf Course. The Bottineau Senior Center provides recreational and socialization services for area seniors.
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
A suburb of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's state capital, the town of Camp Hill was ranked one of the best small towns in the US to retire to by GoBankingRates.com. The town of about 8,000 has homes that are slightly above the state average of $281,000, in Camp Hill, averaging $322,000. Many retirees, however, feel that the slight increase in housing cost is worth gaining the proximity to Harrisburg (which is just two miles away) and its amenities. They also appreciate the welcoming, small-town feel of Camp Hill.
The Cleve J. Fredricksen Library in Camp Hill is a popular gathering place for townsfolk and won the John Cotton Dana Library Public Relations Award in 2012 for outstanding public relations and communication efforts. The Market on Market farmer's market runs on Tuesdays from May through October and is another popular gathering spot for townspeople of all ages who appreciate fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. Active seniors can hike the Maurice K. Goddard Trail, a 4.3-mile trail that winds through the borough. The nearest senior center, the West Shore Senior Citizens Center, is just four miles away in New Cumberland.
Central Falls, Rhode Island
Four miles from Rhode Island's state capital, Providence, the town of Central Falls, with a population of 23,000, offers retirees the best of both worlds: a small-town atmosphere close to larger city amenities. Homes in Central Falls average $376,000, which is below the state median price of $490,000. Art and culture are important to the town of Central Falls, which attracts retirees who treasure these qualities in a community.
The Adams Public Library in Central Falls is housed in a historic 1800s building and is home to the New Millennium Art Factory, showcasing the works of local artists. Jenks Park, built in 1890, is located downtown and features walkways designed to transport visitors away from the modern world and towards Cogswell Tower, a 70-foot tower offering views of the city in four directions. The closest senior center to Central Falls is the Pawtucket Senior Center, located approximately 1.5 miles away.
Jamestown, New York
Located in Chautauqua County, just 70 miles from Buffalo, the town of Jamestown, New York, population 26,000, is drawing retirees who wish to live in western New York but want an affordable cost of living. Homes in Jamestown average $137,000, while the New York state average home value is $504,000. Many retirees appreciate the proximity to the larger city, while relishing the small-town feel that living in Jamestown offers them.
Allegany State Park is just a half hour from Jamestown and contains two lakes, Quaker Lake and Red House Lake, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. Retirees who love comedy should tour the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, a museum housing the story of comedy, including much information on Lucille Ball, who was born in Jamestown. The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts features live performances and arts shows. The North Harmony Senior Citizens Center in Mayville is just 10 miles away.
Marquette, Michigan
Situated on the shores of Lake Superior, the town of Marquette, Michigan, is in the state's Upper Peninsula Area. Approximately 21,000 people call Marquette home, where home prices are slightly above the state average, at $320,000 (the Michigan average is $257,000). Many retirees feel that the slight cost increase is worth it to live among the natural beauty of the area's lakes and waterfalls.
Many waterfalls exist in Marquette, including Wright Street Falls, 10 minutes from downtown. These falls are easy for beginners to access and explore on foot. The Iron Ore Heritage Trail, 47 miles long, passes through Marquette and may be of interest to retirees who are hikers. Mount Marquette, at 1200 feet high, is a scenic overlook that shows off the beauty of the town of Marquette, as well as the shoreline of Lake Superior. The Marquette Senior Center provides services and activities for the town's senior population.
Mays Landing, New Jersey
About a half hour from Atlantic City, the small town of Mays Landing in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, houses 5,000 people. One thing attracting retirees to Mays Landing is that its home prices of $307,000 are significantly lower than the state average of $562,000. Many are also drawn by its proximity to Atlantic City's beaches and casinos.
The Warren E. Fox Nature Center in Mays Landing, located in Estell Manor Park, offers 15 miles of hiking trails, as well as environmental education and public displays. Atlantic Cape Community College in Mays Landing offers senior citizens the opportunity to enroll in credit courses, free of charge, when space is available. Hamilton Trails Golf Club has nine holes of public golfing for retirees looking for outdoor recreation. The closest senior center is approximately 10 miles away, located in Galloway Township.
Meadville, Pennsylvania
Meadville, located in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, is situated approximately 90 miles north of Pittsburgh and 40 miles south of Erie. About 12,000 people call Meadville home, and homes here average $219,000, well under the median state value of $281,000. Retirees looking for a slower-paced way of life still closer to larger cities might be interested in checking out Meadville.
Meadville's Academy Theatre, circa 1885, showcases live performances and community events. The Crawford County Historical Society holds archives dating back to 1792 and serves as a treasure trove of local history. French Creek Recreational Trails, located just a few miles from Meadville, offer a network of water trails ideal for canoeing, fishing, and kayaking. The Meadville Center, housed in the Lew Davies Community Center in Meadville's downtown area, serves lunch on weekdays and provides activities and amenities for seniors.
Mystic, Connecticut
The maritime village of Mystic, Connecticut, with a population of 4,400, is situated on the Mystic River. Retirees who are drawn to life by the water may be attracted to Mystic, where homes average $403,000 (the Connecticut state average is $429,000). There is plenty to keep those who move to Mystic busy. The fact that it is just 80 miles to Boston, Massachusetts, is also a plus for many who move here.
Beer lovers may be interested in visiting Bank & Bridge Brewing in downtown Mystic, housed in an old bank. Retirees who prefer wine should check out Maugle Sierra Vineyards in Ledyard, just eight miles north of Mystic. Mystic Seaport Museum tells the story of the town's heritage and our nation's maritime history. The nearby Groton Senior Center is just four miles away.
Waterville, Maine
Sitting on the banks of the Kennebec River in Maine, the town of Waterville, population 16,000, offers homes averaging $233,000, well below Maine's state average of $412,000. The natural beauty of the central Maine town attracts many retirees to call Waterville home.
The Colby College Museum of Art, located on Main Street, showcases the works of local artists. Music lovers can listen to the Colby Symphony Orchestra performing at Gordon Center Performance Hall on campus. Pine Ridge Municipal Golf Course is a par-3 course open to the public and suitable for beginners. Spectrum Generations runs a senior center program at the Muskie Community Center in downtown Waterville.
Winona, Minnesota
Located on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin on the Mississippi River in Bluff County, the town of Winona, Minnesota, population 26,000, contains homes averaging a very affordable $180,000 (the Minnesota average is $344,000). The town calls itself "The Miami of Minnesota," as it is not only the warmest city in the state, but it also sits on the border of Minnesota, exactly where Miami sits in Florida. Miles of sandy beaches along the Mississippi River and natural beauty draw many retirees to move to Winona.
Bluffside Park in town provides 15 miles of multi-use trails and spectacular views of the Mississippi River from the top of the bluffs. Art lovers will enjoy the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, featuring art inspired by water. Winona is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Sandbar Storytelling Festival in October. The Winona Friendship Center is a senior center featuring classes, programs, and events for older adults.
Navigate to these Northern Towns for Retirement
Each of these 12 northern US towns offers something different for retirees to appreciate. Whether you want to live close to Canada, near a metropolis, or be removed from the hustle and bustle of life, these towns have what you are looking for. Choose a town like Winona or Berlin if you want to live riverside. Select Central Falls or Barre if you want easy access to a state capital. Whichever town you choose, you will be setting yourself up to enjoy years of retirement bliss in your new northern home.
