8 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Wisconsin
The prospect of starting a new life after retirement brings a smile to most career professionals. Retirement is an opportunity to finally rest after years of toiling a 9 to 5, adopt new hobbies, and set out to explore interests kept at bay due to work obligations. Where you choose to settle greatly influences the enjoyment of this celebratory season. Wisconsin presents many charming small-town options with a high quality of life and manageable cost of living.
From lakefront enclaves to historic downtowns and scenic countryside havens, each of these rural communities offers various cultural activities, recreational opportunities, and a tight-knit small-town vibe retirees find most alluring. If you are contemplating retirement in Wisconsin, these understated gems present the perfect setting to relax and reap the rewards of all those working years.
Mount Horeb
The "Mustard Capital of the World," as it's popularly known to the locals, is a charming retirement community where the elderly can lead a peaceful lifestyle. Mount Horeb provides a mix of attractions to keep retirees entertained - no matter their preferences. Newcomers may fancy a tour of the Driftless Historium & Mount Horeb Area Historical Society for a glimpse into the region's heritage.
The downtown district impresses with an assortment of restaurants, antique shops, boutiques, and pubs, culminating in an inviting social setting. The Brix Cider provides a family-friendly atmosphere for seniors to link up with peers over a wholesome meal. However, when it comes to outdoor recreation, Donald County Park hosts 775 acres of nature areas with opportunities for hikers, campers, and sightseers. Finally, Mount Horeb has a median home price of $474,500.
Port Washington
Situated on the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, Port Washington provides a cozy waterfront setting for seniors to enjoy a laid-back retirement. There are numerous opportunities for ardent outdoorsmen in this Ozaukee County community, which encourages an active lifestyle. Port Washington South Beach Park is a local favorite and features a sandy slice of beach overlooking Lake Michigan, ideal for summer picnics. Also, Port Washington Avian Sanctuary's secluded environment is tailored for long walks while staking out the different bird species that call it home.
Retirees can also take advantage of sailing opportunities provided by different local outfitters. Those who enjoy fishing can hire a vessel from Angry Fin Charter Fishing for a remarkable excursion on the calm lake waters. Because of its proximity to Milwaukee, the real estate prices in Port Washington are understandably above the state average at $530,000.
Waunakee
Waunakee promises retirees the best of both worlds, balancing between a serene rural atmosphere and access to big-city amenities. The town is less than 30 minutes from Madison, granting seniors ready access to an array of superior recreation and health facilities in the state capital. However, this has increased the price of homes in Waunakee, with the average at around $600,000. There are dozens of opportunities for those who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, especially across the 422-acre Governor Nelson State Park. These range from fishing and boating to lakefront picnicking.
Meanwhile, relaxed tee time with friends at the Meadows of Sixmile Creek is a go-to activity for seniors seeking recreation in Waunakee. The town also hosts a couple of fitness facilities pensioners can utilize to stay ahead of their physical health, including Fortify Fitness Collective.
Caledonia
Caledonia allows retirees to enjoy the perks of living in a small town, which include an affordable lifestyle, with a median housing cost of $392,900. Fresh residents looking to get acquainted with the heritage of their new home can visit the Caledonia Historical Village, which displays a range of archives, artifacts, and relics telling the history of the town. There are a couple of cozy outdoor spaces that call for friendly social gatherings in Caledonia. Witt's End is an excellent example and features a serene atmosphere near Little Gillet Lake, where seniors can meet up with peers over a glass of beer.
Thanks to Parkview Senior-Living Community in Caledonia, retirees benefit from multiple senior-based facilities, including affordable housing, independent-living apartments, and a world-class memory-care facility. The campus also organizes various programs to make for a vibrant and active senior lifestyle.
Sheboygan Falls
If you're considering a peaceful, budget-friendly river town for retirement in Wisconsin, Sheboygan Falls is an excellent option. This charming community is situated on the scenic banks of the Sheboygan River and has a population of about 9,000 residents. It offers ample open spaces, perfect for retirees to enjoy outdoor activities like golf at Bull at Pinehurst Farms Golf Course. The town is also served by Sheboygan County Memorial International Airport, providing easy access for seniors to explore nearby towns for additional leisure options and high-quality medical services.
On the airport grounds sits the Aviation Heritage Center of Wisconsin, which delights aircraft enthusiasts with an interesting collection of related exhibits. Sheboygan Falls also presents pensioners with a budget-friendly route to owning a retirement home, considering that the average cost of real estate is only $374,900.
Hartland
Hartland is an adorable river town and suburb of Milwaukee. It harbors a tiny community of just above 10,000 and offers a relaxed rural atmosphere. Despite its small population, Hartland is jam-packed with an array of experiences to keep pensioners engaged. Those who frequently get visited by their grandkids will appreciate the presence of the Lake Country Rotary Splash Pad. The venue is perfect for spending quality time with family, providing a range of kid-friendly amenities, including a splash pad, water play equipment, and picnic areas.
Whether you're an arts enthusiast or not, attending a live performance at the Lake Country Players is a favorite local activity that helps new retirees connect with residents and possibly form lasting relationships. Additionally, becoming a member at the Legend of Bristlecone Country Club provides access to various recreational facilities, including a scenic golf course. Given all that Hartland has to offer, it's not surprising that the average home price is quite high at $684,900.
Oconomowoc
Oconomowoc's distinctive name originates from a Native Potawatomi word meaning "waterfall." The town is encircled by the shimmering waters of Lake Fowler, inviting retirees to enjoy various recreational activities. The lake offers excellent fishing, with abundant panfish, walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass. Retirees can also look forward to diverse dining options, as Oconomowoc boasts numerous eateries. Choices like Lago Su Bella and Lucky Chucky's Beach Bar & Grill provide a relaxing ambiance and scenic views.
With the Oconomowoc Community Center, pensioners can make the most of inviting opportunities to socialize and get acquainted with the other residents. The venue boasts serene lakefront scenery for relaxation. If you are planning to buy a home, the average listing price in the town is $599,000.
Cedarburg
A mix of rich history, unique culture, and small-town charm entices fresh retirees to settle in this beautiful Ozaukee County village. Cedarburg is known for its impressive historic district, home to multiple structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit to Cedarburg History Museum offers new residents a chance to explore their hometown’s history, from its founding in the 1800s. The town center maintains a vibrant personality with several attractions worth checking out. Cultural vultures should consider visiting the Cedarburg Art Museum, or the Cedarburg Cultural Center, to sample a piece of local heritage.
Cedarburg features a lively brewery and winery scene, with numerous places offering exceptional tasting experiences. At Cedar Creek Winery downtown, seniors can sample award-winning wines, ranging from delicate whites to bold reds. While the median home price exceeds the U.S. average at $524,800, it still presents good value for investment.
Final Thoughts
If you're seeking a relaxing pace of life amidst beautiful natural scenery, cultural experiences in historic neighborhoods, or a friendly community for your retirement in Wisconsin, these small towns are perfect places to start a new chapter with more relaxed days. Their picturesque environments combined with welcoming locals promote a lifestyle where rest and recreation are key. Exploring the various enriching opportunities Wisconsin offers will surely help retirees find a cozy place to relax and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
