Texas's 8 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Texas, the second-largest state in the U.S., offers a diverse and welcoming environment for retirees. Whether you are drawn to warm weather, affordable housing, favorable tax conditions, or various leisure activities, the Lone Star State has something for everyone. From deserts to coastlines and bustling cities to tranquil small towns, Texas provides seniors with numerous settings to enjoy their golden years. Considering factors such as low crime rates, cost of living, recreational opportunities, climate, healthcare access, and cultural offerings, here are 8 of the best towns in Texas for retirement.
Fredericksburg
In the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg boasts big-city amenities and friendly, small-town charm. German immigrants founded the town in 1846, and people can visit this era by strolling its main street, boasting a 19th-century architecture, antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and museums. The city is also home to wineries, farms, and springtime wildflowers, which make it a lovely place to live. The cost of living is slightly above average, with a median home value of about $537,800 according to realtor.com, and access to healthcare is easy. Healthcare in Fredericksburg includes the Hill Country Memorial Hospital in addition to larger hospitals in San Antonio or Austin, just 1 to 1.5 hours away, including the Methodist Hospital, the University Hospital, and more. Being a 20-minute drive from Enchanted Rock, a state natural area, nature lovers can hike the small mountains made of pink granite.
Granbury
Granbury is a hidden Texas town with a historic downtown, lakefront living, and a welcoming vibe. Thirty percent of residents are retirees, fostering a tight-knit community that wants a slower pace without sacrificing conveniences. With a small population of about 13,800, Granbury boasts reasonable real estate value for a lake community within reach of Fort Worth, with a median home price of $267,000. Lake Granbury Medical Center provides good healthcare with specialists available. Retirees can stay entertained in the town square, hosting regular cultural events and theater productions, or explore museums like the Hood County Jail Museum and the Doll House Museum, showcasing local history.
Boerne
Boerne is a Hill Country gem that combines German heritage with modern Texas charm. Close to San Antonio, it offers quiet living with healthcare conveniences. Real estate prices reflect the town’s desirability and proximity to San Antonio, with a median listing home price of $589,500, according to realtor.com. Boerne crime rates are 28% lower than the national average, which adds to its appeal, and the medical community provides excellent care with major facilities nearby, including the Methodist Boerne Medical. The town boasts a variety of senior living options, including Morningside at Menger Springs, which provides a range of services from independent living to long-term care, all set on a tranquil 42-acre campus.
Kerrville
Kerrville has deep-rooted traditions and a dynamic college-town atmosphere. The city is popular for its parks, art galleries, natural beauty, and the Museum of Western Art. Seniors enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking on the Guadalupe River running through Kerrville. Kerrville is one of the best places to retire in Texas, with an excellent livability score of 81/100 and a crime rate significantly lower than the Texas average, making it even more appealing to golden-agers. Housing remains affordable despite the presence of Schreiner University, with a median listing home price of $365,000, according to realtor.com. There are various quality healthcare services, such as Peterson Regional Medical Center and River Hills Health and Rehabilitation Center, for those seeking skilled nursing care.
Bastrop
Nestled among the Lost Pines, Bastrop's historic town offers a peaceful retreat just outside Austin’s vibrant metropolis. Housing costs provide good value with a median home price of $325,000, compared to nearby Austin at $577,000. It is one of the most hospitable towns in Texas. While local medical facilities handle routine care, major hospitals are within an easy drive, such as David’s South Austin Medical Center and Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin. The lively downtown arts scene and festivals celebrate the town’s rich heritage. Home to Bastrop State Park and the Colorado River, Bastrop is also great for walking, fishing, or kayaking and nature lovers.
Port Aransas
People who want to enjoy watersports of all kinds and stay in shape in their retirement years should check out the "Fishing Capital of Texas." Port Aransas is one of the most welcoming towns in Texas, a coastal paradise close to the Gulf Coast and Corpus Christi. While Port Aransas itself has limited senior living facilities, nearby areas provide several options, like the Silver Leaf Senior Community in Rockport or the Amistad Community Health Center in Corpus Christi. Retirees can enjoy various opportunities for fishing, boating, beach walks, and bird watching, or get to know the town's history better at the Port Aransas Museum, where early island living is displayed. Port Aransas also hosts events like the Texas SandFest, providing entertainment and community engagement.
Lockhart
Famous as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” Lockhart stands out as one of the best retirement towns in Texas with its combination of small-town warmth and vibrant local culture. Retirees enjoy great food, access to scenic parks, historic architecture, and welcoming community events. From strolling through Lockhart State Park’s nature trails and playing a round of golf to exploring the historic Caldwell County Courthouse and visiting local museums, seniors can never get bored. With mild winters and easy access to Austin for day trips, Lockhart is ideal for retirees with affordable living, with a median home price of $332,490, according to realtor.com, which is 14% lower than the national average.
Brady
Known as the heart of Texas, Brady offers retirees a peaceful and affordable lifestyle in a friendly, tight-knit community. With a population of around 5,200, it combines small-town charm and warm community spirit with essential amenities, making it an appealing place to settle down. Housing costs are much lower than in major Texas cities, allowing seniors to enjoy a comfortable standard of living. Highlights include the famous World Championship Barbeque Goat Cook-off every Labor Day weekend at Richards Park, drawing visitors from all over. Brady also ensures peace of mind with its Critical Access Hospital offering essential emergency services.
Glen Rose
Glen Rose is a small, charming town in Somervell County with many outdoor opportunities. With a population of under 3,000, it provides a quiet, close-knit atmosphere perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life. About an hour’s drive from Fort Worth, Glen Rose boasts a historic downtown area with plenty of shops, local eateries, and cultural attractions for seniors. The Somervell County Senior Center hosts numerous events and services to engage the senior community. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Dinosaur Valley State Park, known for its preserved dinosaur tracks and scenic trails.
Whether you're drawn to Fredericksburg's artsy charm, Granbury's lakeside peace, or Boerne's German heritage, each of these Texas towns brings its unique flavor of comfort, community, and opportunity for your golden years. Texas stands out not just for its warm weather and tax-friendly policies, but for the heart and hospitality you’ll find in every corner of the state. Whether you crave quiet mornings by the water, vibrant cultural festivals, or a slower pace surrounded by friendly faces, there’s a place here that feels like home.
