The Best Small Town In Texas For Seniors

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is home to a thriving art scene, year-round festivals, and idyllic livability, making it one of the most appealing places in Texas for seniors to call home. Located in Gillespie County with a population just under 11,000, Fredericksburg provides scenic, slower-paced living that is still near the larger cities of Austin and San Antonio. The town's walkable downtown area, welcoming community, and natural beauty offer seniors a relaxed pace of life without sacrificing culture or convenience. From accessible healthcare at Methodist Hospital Hill Country to senior-friendly housing, the town provides the perfect balance of comfort, connection, and activity.

History, Location, and Events

Founded in 1846 by German immigrants, the town of Fredericksburg was settled four miles north of the Pedernales River and was originally called Friedrichsburg. Soon, a road to Austin was created, and a store and hotel were established in the town. Churches and newspapers quickly followed. Fredericksburg became known as the main manufacturing center in Gillespie County, and, through the years, has housed a metal and iron works, cement plant, poultry dressing plant, mattress factory, and tannery. Fredericksburg's Pioneer Museum on Main Street details the town's history and the struggles of early German settlers.

Fredericksburg is in the heart of Texas Hill Country, and today, serves as the Gillespie County seat. Its location places it equidistant between Austin and San Antonio, at 80 and 70 miles from each, respectively. Many seniors appreciate the fact that they can enjoy small-town life in Fredericksburg, yet still be in the big city easily when necessary. Fredericksburg is also a hub for a variety of annual events. The Gillespie County Fair is held each year in August in Fredericksburg, drawing locals as well as visitors to the small town. Oktoberfest is held in the German-inspired town each October. The town also sponsors Food and Wine Festivals year-round, all of which attract townsfolk and others to Fredericksburg.

Housing and Safety

Fredericksburg is a smaller community with less urban density than other Texas towns, which contributes to its lower crime levels and higher safety numbers. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety's crime statistics for 2024, the crime rate per 100,000 for Fredericksburg was 639.9 that year. This means that about 0.54% of the population reported a crime that year. This adds up to increased feelings of safety and peace of mind for seniors who move to Fredericksburg.

Housing costs, however, are higher in Fredericksburg, which might be considered a trade-off for the increased safety. According to Realtor.com, the median listing home price in Fredericksburg as of February 2026 is $829,500, and the town's median rent is $2,200 per month. These numbers are more than the statewide median listing home price of $349,900 and median rent of $1,750 per month. For many seniors who have the means, paying a bit more for housing is well worth the added safety of living in Fredericksburg.

Downtown Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg's downtown is easily walkable for seniors, with its Main Street central to everything. Over 150 shops, art galleries, and boutiques are downtown, as are restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and museums. Grandma Daisy's Gift Shop, Fredericksburg Pecan Company, and Itz Market are just a few of the locally owned shops found in downtown Fredericksburg.

Art galleries such as The Gallery at Vaudeville and The Good Art Company also populate downtown Fredericksburg. The National Museum of the Pacific War tells the story of World War II in the Asia-Pacific area. After a day of shopping, gallery, and museum-hopping, stop for some German fare and beer at The Auslander or for casual American food and drink at Hill & Vine.

Senior Amenities

For times when walking isn't possible, Fredericksburg Regional Transit provides public transportation in the downtown area and connects to areas to the town's north and south. The Golden Hub, a community center serving all of Gillespie County, offers socialization, fitness programs, food, arts, and special events for the county's senior population. If medical care is needed, Methodist Hospital Hill Country fulfills the need for emergency care, as well as care from gastroenterology, cardiology, and orthopedic specialists.

If more supportive care is needed, assisted and independent living facilities such as The Villages of Windcrest are available. Many retirement communities, including Heritage Place of Fredericksburg, are also in the area for those who wish to live among their peers.

Nearby Towns to Explore

The small town of Johnson City, population just over 5,000, is about 30 miles east of Fredericksburg and is the county seat of Blanco County. It is also the boyhood home of President Lyndon B. Johnson and contains Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Johnson City is along the Highway 290 Wine Trail and includes wineries such as Sandy Road Vineyards and distilleries like Garrison Brothers Distillery.

Dripping Springs is another small town of about 5,000 residents, about 55 miles to the east of Fredericksburg in Hays County, and just 25 miles from Austin. Known as the "Gateway to Hill Country," Dripping Springs is full of natural beauty, seen in parks like Reimers Ranch Park, and is home to the Songwriter's Festival each October.

Retire to Fredericksburg, Texas

For retirees seeking beauty, safety, and a strong sense of belonging, Fredericksburg stands out as a true Hill Country gem. Not only does it offer seniors plenty of fulfilling activities and attractions to keep them busy, but Fredericksburg is also one of the safest Texas towns in which to live. Seniors who make the move to Fredericksburg will find that the town is filled with opportunities for connection, friendship, and fun.