7 Wallet-Friendly Small Towns To Retire In Maryland

Maryland has continued to be acknowledged as a popular destination for retirees, particularly among those drawn to the affordability and charm associated with living in a small town. With a moderately tax-friendly environment and an average home value of $424,997, the state provides a balance between convenience and cost. Maryland’s location in the Mid-Atlantic provides easy access to major metropolitan areas, and with its diverse geography, the opportunities for recreation are endless. From the historical downtowns to the scenic shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland is becoming a prime location for older adults seeking an enriching lifestyle surrounded by comfort and beauty.

Salisbury

Salisbury, Maryland, is a town in the Eastern Shore region of the state that captures the hearts of history and nature lovers alike. The median home value is $262,608, and the area offers numerous free activities to enjoy, making it an ideal location for retirement. MAC’s Connections Senior Activity Center offers older residents access to meals, guest speakers, arts and crafts, exercise, and various social and educational programs.

With free admission, the Salisbury Zoological Park is a popular location for residents to spend their time, where they can view animals from across America in naturalistic habitats. Near the zoo is Ben’s Red Swings, a playground located on the water's edge, featuring water fountains and trails. Salisbury also hosts a number of free events throughout the year that focus on art and entertainment, such as 3rd Friday and Friday Night Live Concert Series, which highlight talented local artists.

Cumberland

The scenic western Maryland town of Cumberland is a great place to retire on a budget. With a median house value of $149,559, the town is one of the least expensive places to live in the state. Older residents can find plenty of activities and events held by the Cumberland Senior Center, providing full-service including meals at noon, activities that encourage social interaction, and health education.

Learn about local history by heading over to Riverside Park and visiting George Washington’s Headquarters; this museum features the historic log cabin used in 1794 as a military command post by the first president of the United States. Seven miles east of Cumberland is the Rocky Gap State Park, a recreation area that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors with over 3,000 acres of mountains that surround a 243-acre Lake Habeeb.

Frostburg

Frostburg, Maryland, located near Georges Creek Valley, is known for its Arts and Entertainment Districts and state-designated Main Street. This college town, with authentic Appalachian charm, has a median home value of around $173,634, making it extremely affordable for retirement. The Frostburg Community Center, which houses the Senior Center, provides older residents with health education and direct health screenings, as well as activities, events, and meals.

The Frostburg Library offers residents not only a wide selection of books and movies to rent, but also free Wi-Fi, faxing, access to computers and printers, as well as community events. Take a walk around downtown Frostburg, where you can buy a ticket to watch a classic film at the Palace Theatre, an iconic piece of local history.

Cambridge

One of the oldest colonial cities in the nation, mixing Eastern shore traditions and Chesapeake community values with luxury, is Cambridge, Maryland. The median home value is approximately $264,095, making it well below the state median. Older residents can access services, information, leisure, social, and recreational activities at the Cambridge Mack Senior Center. For those looking to get some fresh air and exercise, Long Warf Park, located riverside, offers stunning views of the water and Warf, as well as the Choptank River Lighthouse.

Cambridge is home to the Harriet Tubman Museum and Education Center, where residents and visitors alike can explore the rich history and iconic legacy of Harriet Tubman and other influential African Americans in Maryland. The museum offers historical tours and magical musical journeys at significant historical sites connected to the Underground Railroad.

Greenbelt

Located approximately 12 miles from Washington, DC, is the town of Greenbelt, Maryland. With a median home value of around $286,813, it is significantly less than the state average. A particularly beneficial program for older residents is the Greenbelt Assistance in Living Program (GAIL), providing information and support for elderly residents wishing to remain in their homes.

Take a class at the Greenbelt Community Center, which offers educational, recreational, and cultural programs to residents of all ages. Take a long walk or have a picnic at Greenbelt Park, with year-round camping, nine miles of trails, and even free Saturday campfires with stories, wildlife, and history under the stars. On Sunday, head over to the Greenbelt Farmers Market, Inc., where residents can access fresh, nutritious, high-quality food grown locally.

Elkton

Situated near the Delaware State line is the historic town of Elkton, Maryland. The median home value is around $363,576, making it lower than the state median. Retirees can find a variety of services and activities to keep them busy. The Elkton Senior Activity Center offers senior residents social, educational, health, and recreational activities, as well as mid-day meals for those 60 years old and over.

The center also offers trips and a Seniors' Farmers Market Nutrition Program, where low-income seniors can access fresh fruits and vegetables. Spend the day fishing along the Elk River Park, taking in the beautiful views and enjoying the calm of the water. Take a walk around Fair Hill National Resources Management Area, a 5,656-acre property with hiking, fishing, and hunting.

Havre de Grace

Located at the edge of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay is the town of Havre de Grace, Maryland. Due to its location, there are a lot of things to do, with ample access to parks and outdoor activities near the water. With a median home value of $396,495 and plenty of outdoor and indoor recreation, Havre de Grace is an ideal location for retirement. The Havre de Grace Senior Activity Center provides older residents with the tools to live an active life, with a fitness room, computer room, gym, and other recreational and social spaces.

Visit one of the many museums in town, such as the Lock House Museum or the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum, each offering unique exhibits, tours, and hosting events. Take a walk through Susquehanna State Park, with a working grist mill, boating and fishing, as well as mountain biking trails, this rocky, forested area is a popular place for outdoor exploration.

A Retirement Worth Every Penny

With lower-than-average housing costs, mild four-season climate, and a wealth of social and cultural attractions, these wallet-friendly small towns in Maryland provide older individuals a chance to get the most out of retirement. Whether you spend your time enjoying the scenic landscapes and mild climate or appreciating the tranquility of the Chesapeake Bay, retirees can find a perfect place to enjoy the next chapter of their life. For retirees searching for wallet-friendly small towns where convenience, community, and natural beauty come together, Maryland offers an excellent range of options.