9 Best Small Towns In Vermont For Retirees

Imagine yourself in retirement, leaving behind the hurried pace of the city for a serene and simple existence, surrounded by the natural beauty of Vermont's small towns. In these charming locales, retirement takes on a new meaning, with their more leisurely life, focus on nature, and a wealth of amenities tailored to retirees. As we delve into the unique appeal of these small towns in Vermont, we will uncover why they are the ideal places to enjoy the golden years. Read on and prepare to take note of 9 of the best retirement spots in Vermont.

Essex

Essex, Vermont, a quiet town of 10,590  in the state's northern region, sits nine miles northeast of Burlington. Natural beauty surrounds the town, with the Green Mountains to the east, Lake Champlain to the west, and the Winooski River to the south. Nine parks offer walking trails, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds, catering to nature lovers and active retirees. Golfers have access to twenty-one courses within a 20-mile radius.

Essex's cultural scene features the Champlain Valley Exposition, hosting festivals and concerts, and the vibrant Essex Experience, a shopping and cultural hub. The town also delights foodies with cafes like The Firebird Café, The Mad Taco, and Jules on the Green. Senior-friendly amenities include a well-equipped senior center, offering resources, activities, and complimentary event transportation. Access to quality healthcare comes via Northwestern Medical Center, rounding out Essex as the perfect retirement destination, combining natural beauty, recreation, culture, dining, and essential healthcare.

Bennington

Bennington, Vermont, is situated amid the scenic Green Mountains and nearby lakes, offering retirees a peaceful, nature-rich haven. With a population of 15,333, the town's dedication to resident well-being shines. Retirees can benefit from various senior-specific services, including the lively senior center and community programs promoting social engagement.

Delightful dining options like the Elm Street Market and Your Belly’s Deli introduce retirees to Vermont specialties, immersing them in local culinary culture. Artisanal craft shops, such as B&S Novelty and Craft Shop, reflect the town's rich heritage, providing unique shopping experiences.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Bennington offers a range of options, from hiking the Appalachian Trail to fishing at Lake Paran and Woodford Lake. The town features parks and trails like Memorial Fountain Park and the scenic Walloomsac River Walk, while golf aficionados can tee off at the Mount Anthony Country Club.

Southwestern Vermont Medical Center ensures retirees access to top-notch healthcare services, making Bennington the perfect retirement destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures for a fulfilling retirement experience.

Montpelier

Montpelier, Vermont, population 8,074, offers retirees a tranquil retirement destination surrounded by lush parks, forests, and the meandering Winooski River, providing breathtaking natural beauty and a peaceful escape from city noise. The town's rich cultural scene, including The Savoy Arts Cinema and its recognition as one of the top 100 small arts towns in the U.S., adds to its appeal.

There is access to exceptional healthcare facilities like Central Vermont Medical Center and The University of Vermont Health Network - Central Vermont Medical Center. The town offers various amenities, such as senior centers and cultural events, through the Montpelier Senior Activity Center, enriching the retirement experience.

For nature lovers and those who want to stay active, the area has at least 36 maintained walking trails, including Hubbard Park and North Branch Nature Center. For golfers, there are eight courses from which to choose, all within a 20-mile radius. Montpelier's lively local scene features eateries serving Vermont's culinary delights, like Kismet for Mediterranean-inspired dishes and The Skinny Pancake for delicious crepes. There are one-of-a-kind artisanal craft shops, including Artisans Hand Craft Gallery and The Shoe Horn.

Westminster

Westminster, Vermont, is an ideal haven for retirees seeking tranquility in their later years. This tiny town of just around 3,000 inhabitants offers a bucolic rural atmosphere for a leisurely retirement. Outdoor enthusiasts can stay active by exploring the surrounding parks, trails, and golf courses. The Bellows Falls Country Club offers a scenic golfing experience, while Bellows Falls Rail Trail and Herrick's Cove provide beautiful walking paths for birdwatching along the serene Connecticut River.

Scrapbookers and artists will appreciate area supply shops, the Little Art Supply Shop and The Scrapbook Nook, for everything they need for their crafts. They may even want to join the nearby River Artisans’ Coop to share their handiwork with the world.

The town offers an array of services tailored to seniors. For example, Westminster Cares provides essential support, including transportation, home repairs, and meal delivery, fostering a strong sense of community. Sojourns Community Healthcare delivers personalized healthcare services, complemented by four nearby hospitals within a 20-mile radius.

Local eateries like Ciao Popolo, The Athens Pizza House, and Country Girl Diner serve up delicious, home-cooked comfort food in a cozy small-town setting, encouraging camaraderie among residents. Westminster beckons retirees to indulge in the peaceful and fulfilling life they have earned.

Middlebury

Middlebury, Vermont, population 9,152, is a delightful small town that makes an exceptional destination for retirees, offering a myriad of attractions and amenities in the heart of the Green Mountains. The town is in Addison County, less than an hour south of Burlington. A remarkable landscape surrounds Middlebury, with the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east, providing a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents have the privilege of exploring the vast Middlebury Trail Network, including favorites like the TAM (Trail Around Middlebury) and the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail. Tennis enthusiasts can sharpen their skills at the Middlebury Indoor Tennis facility, while golfers can enjoy a round at the Ralph Myhre Golf Course, known for its stunning views of the surrounding hills.

For healthcare, residents can rely on the Porter Medical Center, a renowned institution in the region that provides a wide range of medical services. Middlebury also caters to its senior population with dedicated events and services in the Age Well program.

The town's downtown area exudes charm, with picturesque streets lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and eateries. American Flatbread and Two Brothers Tavern are local favorites for dining. Additionally, retirees can peruse the Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op for fresh, organic produce. Art enthusiasts will be glad to find the Edgewater Gallery and the Vermont Folklife Center, celebrating the unique cultural heritage of the region. One of Middlebury's historical gems is the Henry Sheldon Museum, providing insight into the town's rich history.

Burlington

Burlington, Vermont, graces the Champlain Valley on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, providing retirees with an exceptional destination for a vibrant retirement experience. With a population of 44,743, it is the most populous city in the state. Still, it possesses a unique small-town feel that arises from the seamless blend of natural beauty and city conveniences, bordered by the Green Mountains, and surrounded by the tranquil lake.

What sets Burlington apart for retirees is its inclusive community and world-class healthcare facilities. Organizations like Age Well and the Champlain Valley Agency on Aging provide essential support, including transportation, meal programs, and social activities. Burlington's thriving culinary scene, featuring eateries like Penny Cluse Café and Hen of the Wood, diverse outdoor activities, and access to the Green Mountains, further enhance its appeal.

The fact that there is an airport and a major bus terminal in South Burlington makes traveling to and from Burlington easy. The Burlington International Airport has flights departing daily to a dozen destinations across the country. For ground travel, Greyhound buses depart and arrive daily to and from multiple cities. Retirees can take advantage of Burlington’s convenient location by taking Greyhound's direct route from Burlington to Montreal, Quebec where one can experience a North American metropolis with a French influence. Alternatively, retirees who prefer the flexibility of their own vehicle can reach Montreal in just over an hour, depending on border traffic conditions.

Burlington offers a compelling choice for retirees, with its natural beauty, welcoming community, healthcare excellence, tailored senior services, diverse culinary experiences, and a wide range of outdoor activities. 

St. Albans

St. Albans, a small town of 6,877 in Northwestern Vermont, offers retirees an idyllic setting for a peaceful and fulfilling retirement. Rolling hills and the serene Lake Champlain surround the town, which provides a picturesque and tranquil environment perfect for relaxation. The town has a keen sense of community and low crime rates, making it an attractive place for retirees.

The natural beauty of the region provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, with Lake Champlain and the Hard'ack Recreation Area offering options for boating, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. Golf enthusiasts can indulge in their passion at the Bellows Falls Country Club, set amidst the picturesque landscape.

The town also offers services catering to senior residents, including transportation, wellness programs, and support groups provided by Northwestern Counseling and Support Services. When it comes to healthcare, retirees can rest assured they will have their needs met through the Northern Tier Center for Health and the Northwestern Medical Center.

For dining, local eateries like Twiggs Gastropub and Jeff's Maine Seafood are there to provide delicious culinary experiences. St. Albans' annual Vermont Maple Festival, celebrating the state's rich maple syrup heritage, adds a unique and delightful tradition for retirees to enjoy, fostering a sense of community and tradition in the town.

Retirees might want to keep their passports handy for adventures across the border. Being only fifteen miles from the border with Quebec, Canada, St. Albans presents the unique opportunity for day trips or weekend excursions to experience French Canadian culture. 

South Hero

South Hero, Vermont, the least populated location in this list with 1,674, offers retirees a unique island retirement experience, blending natural beauty and tranquility. Situated on Grand Isle in Lake Champlain, surrounded by the Champlain Islands, this town provides essential services through the Champlain Islanders Developing Essential Resources, ensuring transportation, wellness programs, and social activities.

Local healthcare is accessible through Community Health Centers, including specialized programs like the Elder Care program. Dining options like the Blue Paddle Bistro and McKee's Island Pub & Pizza offer delightful culinary experiences with picturesque lake views.

South Hero's natural beauty and proximity to Lake Champlain provide abundant opportunities for outdoor activities, from fishing and boating to leisurely lakeside strolls. Scenic parks like Knight Point State Park and the renowned Island Line Trail offer retirees picturesque hikes amid breathtaking landscapes.

South Hero's unique location on Grand Isle, linked to the mainland by the Sandbar Causeway, provides the tranquility of island life and the convenience of access to the Vermont mainland.

Brattleboro

Brattleboro, Vermont, population 12,106, is situated beside the picturesque Connecticut River. Its stunning parks, like Living Memorial Park and Molly Stark State Park, offer leisurely walks, fishing, and boating, making it an ideal town for a retirement haven. Also, golf aficionados can enjoy the well-kept Brattleboro Country Club, conveniently located approximately 4.5 miles from the town center.

Comprehensive healthcare is accessible through Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, and organizations like Senior Solutions and The Brattleboro Senior Center promote senior well-being by offering transportation, wellness initiatives, and social calendars.

Delightful dining options include Tine Restaurant for farm-to-table cuisine and Whetstone Station Restaurant and Brewery with craft beers by the scenic riverfront. Cultural enthusiasts can enjoy events at the celebrated Brattleboro Museum and Art Center, while the historic Latchis Theatre frequently hosts films and performances.

For outdoor adventures, Molly Stark State Park and Bellows Falls Rail Trail offer hiking, cycling, fishing, and boating. Brattleboro, with its natural beauty, culture, and healthcare services, is a fulfilling retirement choice.

Embrace Your Golden Years in Vermont's Idyllic Small Towns

Vermont's small towns redefine retirement with their serene, nature-rich settings, senior-friendly amenities, and diverse cultural and outdoor opportunities. Whether it is the natural beauty of Essex, Bennington, and Montpelier or the unique charm of Middlebury and St. Albans, these towns offer fulfilling retirement experiences. Accessible healthcare, senior services, delightful dining, and outdoor activities enrich the retirement lifestyle. Whether you prefer the tranquility of Brattleboro, the island life of South Hero, or the blend of nature and urban amenities in Burlington, Vermont's small towns cater to retirees' diverse interests and needs, making it a wonderful place to savor the golden years.