8 Best Small Towns to Retire in Texas
Retirement should be an exciting time for many people; it is earned respite from years of diligent dedication to your career and an opportunity to experience the final phase of your life. Depending on how well you plan for it, retirement can be full of unforgettable moments of fun and laughter. The Lone Star State presents charming destinations to settle for after calling time on your career. With no state income tax, affordable housing costs, and endless recreational opportunities, the stage is set for smooth sailing into the golden years.
Several small towns in Texas offer that rural charm many pensioners seek without isolating them from vital social and healthcare amenities needed for their daily exploits. From the scenic shorelines of the Atlantic Coast to the idyllic beauty of the Texas Hill Country, options abound across the vast territory of the state. So, if you are planning to retire in Texas in 2025, these are some of the best places you should consider.
Fredericksburg
If safety and a small-town feel are what you envision for your ideal retirement destination, this lovely village in the beautiful Texas Hill Country region ticks all the boxes. Fredericksburg has a rich German heritage, apparent in its unique architecture throughout the downtown corridor. The bubbly neighborhood hosts a mix of museums, shops, and restaurants, with highlights like the Pioneer Museum offering a look into the town’s historical and cultural heritage via tours and artifact displays. Seniors here enjoy a close-knit community that frequently comes together to mark several local traditions, led by the annual Oktoberfest.
Retirees can keep active with various recreational activities in the sprawling Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, home to beautiful hiking trails and dramatic granite rock formations. Fredericksburg’s home median price is around $812,000, but the town also features The Villages of Windcrest- an assisted living facility.
Kerrville
Kerrville is another Texas Hill Country gem along the banks of the Guadalupe River with exquisite natural scenery. The atmosphere is perfect for retirees to step outside and indulge in all their favorite outdoor adventures, courtesy of inviting open spaces like Louise Hays Park and the Kerrville River Trail, passing through the park. The town’s vibrant art scene leads to an exciting social life, with several visual and performing art centers bringing the community together. Cailloux Theater is an excellent venue for pensioners to meet friendly locals while watching an engaging stage performance in a pleasant atmosphere.
However, the lively social life comes to the fore during the annual Kerrville Folk Festival, when the young and old alike converge at Quiet Valley Ranch for several days of concerts, craft shows, and other fun activities. Kerrville also offers affordable housing costs, with the median home listing price at $474,000.
Wimberley
This adorable village in Hays County is famed for its nature-rich environment, presenting endless outdoor attractions to keep pensioners busy around the year. Housing just under 3,000 residents, retirees will have an easygoing time experiencing precious natural gems like Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well Natural Area. This tiny population also means that everybody practically knows everybody, fostering close community ties that take center stage at Wimberley Market Days. Besides shopping for healthy farm produce, the setting is ideal for friendly interactions and establishing meaningful networks.
Wimberley also boasts a respectable art scene, providing enthusiasts with several centers where they can admire beautiful local creations. Art on 12 is a great starting point and displays awesome pieces by local, regional, and nationally recognized artists. Finally, the average cost of houses in Wimberley is about $627,000.
Boerne
A rich mix of attractions and adventures in Boerne makes it an easy choice for retirees interested in an active lifestyle. The town is home to numerous park spaces and nature areas, guaranteeing endless outdoor opportunities. Those interested in aquatic fun can find plenty at Boerne City Lake Park with boat docks and a fishing pier, while the Cave Without a Name promises a remarkable underground thrill where explorers are exposed to unique limestone formations. Strolling through the quaint historic downtown reveals the town’s German-Texan heritage, allowing pensioners to find unique treasures at venues like Johns Road Antique Mall.
Boerne is also known for its thriving microbrewery scenery, and several establishments provide a continuous supply of freshly crafted beer. At Cibolo Creek Brewing Co. you not only get to sample craft beer but also delicious eats while enjoying live music. Those planning to acquire a home in Boerne should set aside around $625,000 for the investment.
Colleyville
Colleyville’s strategic location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan region allows retirees easy access to various urban comforts in the big cities. However, it exudes small-town charm with a population of under 30,000 residents and plenty of natural spaces. Many locals like to gather at the Colleyville Nature Center for a great time outdoors. The 46-acre preserve features 3.5 miles of trails passing through woods, picnic areas, and a pond. McPherson Park is an excellent alternative, with more family-friendly amenities like a playground and splash pad, allowing for quality time with loved ones.
Retirees who prioritize body wellness can take advantage of different therapies offered at Spa at the Village to heal and rejuvenate after a long day. Given Collyeville’s proximity to big cities like Dallas and Fort Worth, the town is unsurprisingly costly, with a median home listing price of around $1.2M.
Rio Grande City
For thrifty pensioners looking to stretch their retirement savings, Rio Grande City sounds like an enticing retirement prospect. The average cost of homes here is about $220,000, so owning a house wo not be a challenge for many. It has several kid-friendly venues that come in handy when the grandkids come to visit, the most noteworthy being the Ultimate Hype Trampoline Park. The same is true for AMC Classic Rio Grande 10, which invites friends and families to enjoy the latest Hollywood productions while savoring delicious bites like pretzels and popcorn.
The small community takes pride in friendly interactions at the Rio Grande City Flea Market, which will make any fresh retiree-free welcome. Finally, those who prefer the outdoor setting can find remarkable opportunities like a skate park, a baseball field, and even barbeque grills inside the Basilio Villarreal Municipal Park.
Friendswood
Friendswood truly embodies its friendly name, boasting a low crime rate that attracts retirees seeking a serene post-retirement life. This quaint community of around 41,000 offers a variety of leisurely activities specifically designed for seniors. A relaxing round of golf at Timber Creek Golf Club is a great way to stay active outdoors. Alternatively, seniors can take advantage of essential public amenities at Stevenson Park, which includes a fitness trail, basketball courts, and two pavilions.
The proximity of Friendswood to downtown Houston provides quick access to exceptional facilities, including top-notch shopping at Baybrook Mall. Additionally, with a median home listing price of $475,000, it offers an appealing option for those looking to purchase their own homes.
Elgin
Elgin invites minimalistic retirees to enjoy their pensions well into their golden years within a nurturing community of around 10,000 residents. The town offers plenty of opportunities for seniors who embrace a healthy and active lifestyle. Outdoor lovers can wander through the scenic nature trails in Elgin Memorial Park, while those who prefer indoor activities can join HT Fitness for access to professional trainers. For history enthusiasts, the Elgin Depot Museum provides a wealth of local history to explore, featuring an extensive archive collection worth perusing.
Furthermore, Elgin boasts a lively gastronomy scene, earning its title as the Sausage Capital of Texas. Seniors will find numerous dining options, including Thirdcoast Wings & Daiquiris, where they can enjoy hearty meals. Additionally, housing in Elgin is affordable, with a median home price of $336,900.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right place to retire significantly impacts the quality of life in your later years. These delightful towns offer retirees some of the top destinations for retirement in Texas, ensuring a relaxed rural environment, safety, affordable living costs, and a variety of outdoor activities that promote an active lifestyle. Whether you plan to retire in 2025 or later, these locations provide a gentle transition as you embark on this new phase of your life, filled with promise.
