10 Best Places To Retire In The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of New York is known for its pristine lakes, rolling vineyards, and charming small towns that feel like a warm hug. It’s the kind of region where you can enjoy a slower pace without sacrificing beauty, culture, or access to the necessities. For retirees, especially those looking for peaceful lake views, walkable neighborhoods, and communities with character, the Finger Lakes offers an appealing mix of serenity and stimulation.

Below are seven small towns in the region that stand out, not just for their views, but for their blend of culture, affordability, and senior-friendly amenities.

Newark

Located in the Northern Finger Lakes region along the Erie Canal, Newark is a small village with a population of about 9,000. This quiet community exudes small-town charm and historical roots, making it an ideal retirement place. With close access to larger cities like Rochester, approximately 35 miles west, Newark offers affordable living and essential services, providing comfort without the chaos of big-city life.

The town boasts a walkable downtown featuring local diners, cafes, and shops, along with seasonal events such as farmers markets, Canal Day festivals, and summer concerts in the park. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Erie Canalway Trail, perfect for biking and peaceful walks, as well as Perkins Park and the Silver Hill Technology Park Nature Trails.​

Housing prices are well below the national average, with many options under $200,000, making it an ideal place for retirees on a fixed income seeking value. Newark-Wayne Community Hospital provides prime healthcare access, including geriatric care, urgent care, and outpatient services, important for retirees aiming to age in place comfortably. The town offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with active churches, senior-friendly community groups, and volunteer opportunities. The Newark-Arcadia Historical Society Museum showcases local history for those who appreciate a strong sense of place, and the Newark Public Library offers adult programs, tech help, and lifelong learning events.​

Ovid

Situated at the southern tip of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes region, Ovid is a small, peaceful town with a population of about 1,000. Known for its natural beauty and quiet living, it offers a rural lifestyle with easy access to nearby towns like Geneva and Watkins Glen. This close-knit community provides a slower, peaceful pace of life, perfect for those who prefer rural living with convenient access to urban amenities.

Ovid is near several state parks, including Sampson State Park on the northern shore of Seneca Lake, which offers hiking, picnicking, and scenic views. The Finger Lakes National Forest, just a short drive away, provides miles of hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor activities. Situated on the shores of Seneca Lake, one of the largest and most scenic Finger Lakes, Ovid is ideal for those who enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, or relaxing by the lake. The nearby Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers wineries and tasting rooms for leisurely exploration.​

Housing in Ovid is affordable, with properties often costing less than those in nearby larger towns. This makes it attractive for retirees seeking low property taxes and reasonable home prices. The town offers a mix of single-family homes, cottages, and farmland, providing multiple options for retirees looking for a home that fits their lifestyle. While Ovid itself is small, it's close to Geneva (around 15 minutes) and Watkins Glen, which offer more extensive healthcare facilities. Seneca View Nursing Home and Assisted Living in Ovid provides care for seniors who may need assistance or specialized services. Ovid is part of Seneca County, known for its agricultural heritage. Farms, orchards, and wineries surround the village, and farmers markets and local food events allow retirees to enjoy fresh produce and regional specialties.​

Aurora

Aurora is a charming town located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, known for its historic architecture, natural beauty, and peaceful environment. Aurora is renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings and 19th-century architecture, offering retirees a step back in time with its brick homes, quaint shops, and cobblestone streets.

Local attractions include the Aurora Inn, a historic waterfront hotel and restaurant perfect for lunch or dinner with scenic views of Cayuga Lake, and the Franklin House, another historic inn known for its cozy charm and ambiance.​

Living in Aurora is affordable compared to other cities, with options ranging from charming cottages and historic homes to lakefront properties that can fit within various budgets. Property taxes are also relatively low, contributing to a more affordable lifestyle.​

Dundee

Dundee is a small town nestled between Seneca Lake and Keuka Lake in the heart of Finger Lakes wine country. Known for its peaceful rural setting and close-knit community, it offers easy access to vineyards, lakes, and nature. It's a great option for retirees seeking quiet country living with nearby attractions, scenic beauty, and a low cost of living. Dundee provides a slow and steady lifestyle with wide-open spaces, single-family properties, and farmlands. Located just 10 to 15 minutes from both Seneca and Keuka Lakes, retirees can enjoy the best of both worlds when it comes to lake access.

With gorgeous sunset views, rural drives, and wide-open skies, Dundee is the perfect place to settle down. The town is home to award-winning wineries like Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, one of the top-rated wineries in the Finger Lakes, and Glenora Wine Cellars, a scenic winery with lake views, lodging, and an on-site restaurant. Retirees can enjoy weekday tastings, vineyard events, and peaceful winery visits without the large crowds of nearby tourist towns.​

Housing in Dundee is very affordable, especially compared to other Finger Lakes towns closer to high-traffic lakefront areas. The median home price is about $150,000 or lower, and property taxes in Yates County are modest.​

Fairport

Fairport is a town located along the Erie Canal and is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant community. It’s about 20 minutes southeast of downtown Rochester and is often ranked as one of the best places to live in Upstate New York. This walkable canal-front town is ideal for retirees who want scenic charm and the convenience of urban amenities close by.

Fairport’s lively downtown features a variety of local restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, and boutiques. Notable spots include FairPour Coffee Roasters,The Porterhouse Steak Scotch Seafood, and Moonlight Creamery. The town also hosts events like the Fairport Canal Days Festival, farmers markets, and art walks that bring the community together.

Fairport offers easy access to top-tier healthcare, including Rochester General Hospital and Strong Memorial Hospital, both less than 30 minutes away. It’s an ideal destination for retirees who want culture, convenience, and canal-side charm all in one.

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Known for its mineral springs and the iconic Saratoga Race Course, this destination blends urban amenities with small-town charm, perfect for retirees seeking an active and engaging lifestyle.

The city is named after its natural carbonated mineral springs, long believed to have healing properties. It's also home to Saratoga Spa State Park, which includes walking trails, picnic areas, and historic bathhouses such as Roosevelt Baths and Spa and Lincoln Bathhouse. Visitors will also find Congress Park in the heart of downtown, which is home to the famous Canfield Casino, beautiful fountains, and spring pavilions. For peace and quiet, Yaddo Gardens offers a European-style retreat open to the public.

Saratoga offers top-tier healthcare through Saratoga Hospital, a full-service medical center that provides cardiology, oncology, orthopedic, and geriatric care. Additional options include Ellis Medicine and Albany Medical Center, both located within a 40-minute drive.

Housing here ranges from historic homes and downtown condos to townhouses, 55+ communities, and senior living centers. With so much to see and do, Saratoga Springs is a great match for retirees who want to stay social, cultural, and connected.

Phelps

Located north of Geneva, Phelps offers a small-town atmosphere with affordable housing and an authentic community feel. It thrives on local tradition and communal spirit, offering retirees a slower pace without feeling disconnected.

Phelps is known for events like the Annual Sauerkraut Festival, the Village Concert Series, and a variety of volunteer opportunities with the local historical society and library. These events make it easy for retirees to stay engaged and build relationships.

Housing options include low-cost, well-maintained homes ideal for downsizing, ranging from historic houses and modern ranches to cozy farmhouses. The town features tree-lined streets, quiet cul-de-sacs, and sidewalk-friendly neighborhoods that make walking around easy and enjoyable.

Though small, Phelps has great access to nearby healthcare. Geneva General Hospital (Finger Lakes Health) is approximately 10 minutes away, Thompson Health in Canandaigua (UR Medicine) is around 30 minutes away, and Newark-Wayne Community Hospital (Rochester Regional Health) is only about 20 minutes from town.

Downtown Phelps also includes local shops, bakeries, and diners that maintain its small-town charm while offering daily convenience.

Hector

Nestled along the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, Hector is known for its vineyards, rural tranquility, and breathtaking landscapes. This hidden gem is perfect for retirees seeking wine-country living, natural beauty, and a quiet pace of life.

Hector sits at the heart of the Finger Lakes wine trail, with highlights that include Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, known for its casual vibe and live music; Red Newt Cellars, a boutique winery with seasonal small plates; Two Goats Brewing, a rustic brewery with lake views; and Stonecat Café, which serves elevated farm-to-table meals in a cozy converted farmhouse.

Housing in Hector ranges from historic farmhouses and rustic cabins to modern lakefront homes. Retirees can choose more social neighborhoods or secluded countryside lots depending on their lifestyle.

While it’s a small town, Hector has access to healthcare services through Schuyler Hospital in nearby Watkins Glen and Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca. In-home care, telemedicine, and mobile services are also commonly used in the area.

Its laid-back, wine-country charm and strong local food scene make Hector a dreamy spot to settle into retirement, especially for those who love sharing a bottle with visiting family and friends.

Montour Falls

Adjacent to Watkins Glen, Montour Falls is beloved for its waterfalls, peaceful neighborhoods, and charming walkability. This village is perfect for retirees who want tranquility with a view.

Montour Falls is a nature lover’s paradise, featuring the 165-foot She-Qua-Ga Falls right in the heart of town, the dramatic Eagle’s Cliff Falls tucked away in Havana Glen Park, and Aunt Sarah’s Falls, which shines after a good rainfall. The Catharine Valley Trail also provides a scenic biking and walking path that connects Montour Falls to Watkins Glen.

History lovers will enjoy visiting the Schuyler County Historical Society & Brick Tavern Museum and exploring the Cook Academy Building, now home to the New York State Academy of Fire Science.

Montour Falls offers housing options that include restored Victorian homes and newer builds with scenic views. It's also a short drive to both Schuyler Hospital and Cayuga Medical Center, giving retirees peace of mind when it comes to medical care.

For fun, seniors can explore nearby wineries, shop at local craft stores, enjoy lakeside lunches, or join community workshops and seasonal festivals.

Rushville

Rushville is nestled between Canandaigua and Seneca Lakes and offers a peaceful blend of rural living and easy access to nature. This quiet village appeals to retirees who want a slower pace with strong community ties.

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Rushville. Bare Hill Unique Area offers hiking and nature trails with scenic overlooks, while Canandaigua Lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnicking. Local parks are perfect for walking, reading, or relaxing in the shade.

Healthcare is accessible through Mosaic Health Rushville, which provides comprehensive medical and dental care. Valley View Family Practice (Rochester Regional Health) also serves the area, along with nearby hospitals in Canandaigua and Penn Yan, both within a 20-minute drive.

Seniors in Rushville can enjoy small-town gatherings, volunteer events, lake festivals, craft fairs, and farmers markets. With affordable housing and outdoor recreation close by, it’s a great spot to settle into a gentle retirement surrounded by nature.

Whether you're drawn to canal-side strolls in Fairport, the cultural richness of Saratoga Springs, or the peaceful, wine-country charm of Hector, the Finger Lakes region offers something for every kind of retiree. These towns combine natural beauty, friendly communities, and accessible healthcare, creating an ideal backdrop for a retirement that feels both restful and rewarding.

With scenic trails, local festivals, historic neighborhoods, and plenty of space to breathe, life in the Finger Lakes moves at just the right pace. If you're ready to trade in traffic and noise for sunsets over the lake and the smell of fresh-baked bread from a corner bakery, one of these pretty small towns might be exactly where your next chapter begins.