10 Best Small Towns In Pennsylvania For Retirees

When it comes to calling time on your professional career, it makes sense that you would want a change of scenery from a rigorous fast-paced life to a more relaxed lifestyle with minimal stressors. Fortunately, Pennsylvania is an enticing prospect for seniors searching for a retirement destination; it is among states that don’t tax retirement income like pension and social security. While there are numerous thriving cities in the Keystone State, it is the small towns that present the perfect mix of factors for life after retirement. 

Hershey

This small community of about 15,000 residents, just east of Harrisburg, offers retirees a delightful change of scenery, perfect for spending their golden years. Several green spaces present a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, including the 23-acre Hershey Gardens. This beautiful botanical garden with a mix of flowers, shrubs, and trees has a tranquil atmosphere that pensioners can explore on a lazy stroll. Hershey is better known for its “sweet” links to the town’s famous chocolate factory started in 1905, which you can learn more about at the Hershey Story Museum. 

The town also hosts numerous family-friendly attractions, including Hershey’s Chocolate World, which the grandkids will be delighted to check out when they visit. Retirees will also appreciate the low crime rate, with 12 incidents recorded per 1,000 individuals and an affordable cost of living similar to the national average. Lastly, Hershey is only a 25-minute drive to the capital, giving seniors quick access to high-quality medical facilities like UPMC Harrisburg. 

Wilkes-Barre

With over 15% of its 44,541 residents being 65 years and above, the elderly will find a delightful community of peers to spend their retirement years. This charming town in the Wyoming Valley presents outdoor lovers with multiple lakes, parks, and rivers, such as Kirby Park. This 52-acre nature space houses trails, playgrounds, and other sports facilities, allowing seniors to stay active. Wilkes-Barre is full of exciting public venues where retirees can meet and socialize, including the Mohegan Casino for an overnight gambling session or the Little Theater of Wilkes-Barre for a classic Broadway show. 

There are about 210 physicians per capita in the town, including Elite Spine & Sports Physical Therapy, so retirees won’t have to look too far to find quality medical assistance. Meanwhile, the local housing cost is 70.6% of the national average, making it one of the cheapest places to stay in Pennsylvania. 

Johnstown

One of the many factors that make Johnstown a viable retiree destination is its many natural spaces that bring out the town's charm. A perfect example is Greenhouse Park, home to lush greenery, a serene setting, and recreation opportunities like swimming and whitewater rafting. Many people remember the town for its infamous dam catastrophe in 1889, a history that is well-preserved at the Johnstown Flood Museum. But Johnstown has moved on from that dark period and boasts a vibrant downtown with quaint family-centered attractions ideal for senior citizens. 

Retirees can retain their young-at-heart energy by playing fun games at the World War 3 Paintball Center or the Escape Rooms Johnstown. The community also cares for its senior citizens, who comprise at least 20% of the over 18,000 population, thanks to multiple senior living facilities like the Villa Personal Care Home. It’s also quite cheap here, with the overall cost of living 6% lower than the state average or 8% lower than the national average. 

Hanover

Hanover offers the perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city amenities, a credit to its proximity to notable destinations like York and Gettysburg. The community’s charming countryside can be experienced along the Hanover Trolley Trail, a scenic route with endless outdoor opportunities to keep senior citizens young and healthy, including jogging, walking, biking, and bird watching. Many consider Hanover to be the snack food capital of America, but the town also boasts a modest yet exciting arts scene. 

You can sample local snack offerings at the Famous Hot Weiner North Inc. or catch a live performance at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center in a family-friendly atmosphere. Pensioners won’t have to stray too far to be in the company of their peers, considering that at least 19% of the population is 65 years or older. There are also about 118 physicians per capita in the town, guaranteeing quality health care to senior citizens whenever needed. 

Media

Sitting about 25 minutes west of Philadelphia, this quaint village in Delaware County is a haven for retirees, with senior citizens making up over 20% of its almost 5,900 residents. Thanks to the lovely countryside scenery, older adults enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with serene natural surroundings best experienced at the over 2,606-acre Ridley Creek State Park. This sprawling space offers recreational activities like hiking, fly fishing, and cross-country skiing. In keeping up with a healthy lifestyle, pensioners can shop for farm-fresh produce at Linvilla Orchards or the Media Farmers Market. 

Media boasts strong community ties, and during the “Dining Under the Stars” festival, locals converge to enjoy delicious meals while listening to classic Jazz, Blues, and Americana tunes. Although the town’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, its low crime rate (1 in 168 chance of violent crime) gives retirees peace of mind. Additionally, its proximity to Philadelphia ensures easy access to world-class health facilities. 

Emporium

Retirees with a penchant for outdoor adventures will find a charming landing spot in this small Cameron County town. Emporium borders Elk State Forest, and a scenic drive along Ridge Road brings you to spectacular vistas overlooking the dense forest. This low-crime community has a peaceful and walkable downtown, where seniors can access fresh groceries, healthcare services, and pharmaceuticals. 

Emporium Senior Center is an excellent venue for retirees to commune with their peers over a delicious meal, interact, socialize, and volunteer for a fulfilling life after retirement. The cost of living is much lower than the national average, and strong community ties make Emporium one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania for retirees on a budget. 

Franklin

This little locality in Venango County sits where the Allegheny River and French Creek meet, presenting retirees with awesome opportunities when exploring the town. Senior citizens comprise about 20% of the population, providing the ideal setting for pensioners to blend in with their peers. Meanwhile, the close-knit community comes together during Applefest in October for several festivities featuring live music, food and craft vendors, a farmers market, and other forms of entertainment. 

Its charming downtown hosts diverse community-based attractions where retirees can meet new people and make lasting friendships. A perfect example is the iconic Barrow-Civic Theater, which hosts youth programs, educational events, and other live performances in a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, Franklin has an airport, Venango Regional Airport, making it easy for retirees to seek more healthcare options in more established cities outside. 

Chester

Another lovely destination in Delaware County, Chester’s location on the banks of the Delaware River presents a scenic natural space with beautiful river views for retirees who prefer a rural atmosphere. A laid-back drive along the Commodore Barry Bridge offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy picturesque views of the Delaware River and the town. If you love the game of soccer, you can join members of the community at Subaru Park to cheer the home team, Philadelphia Union. The atmosphere is usually festive, and the time is ideal to meet your peers and make new friends who share your interests. 

Chester is also relatively affordable and enjoys around 287 physicians per capita, making it a great option for elders who require constant medical assistance. While the crime rate is higher than the national average, with about 14.54 per 1,000 residents, its proximity to Philadelphia allows pensioners to drive around 20 minutes to access the big-city amenities. 

Pottsville

Pottsville is home to a tight-knit community of about 13,400 residents, leaving enough room for newcomers to join this quaint town. With over 17% of the population being in their retirement age, pensioners will feel right at home as they enter the sunset years. If you love to spend time outdoors, Hope Hill Lavender Farm is the perfect spot to be one with nature. The scenery is magical, with bright colors and a sweet aroma. Pottsville town center houses cute little shops, from restaurants and museums to art venues. Retirees will likely encounter their peers at Jerry’s Classic Cars & Collectibles, a fine venue for antique car enthusiasts. Although the cost of living is higher than in other towns on the list, pensioners who can afford it will find it worthwhile considering the low crime rate. Pottsville records around 3.60 crimes per 1,000 residents and boasts 131 physicians per capita. 

Elizabethtown

This charming college town in the Susquehanna Valley is an exciting prospect for retirees, thanks to an eclectic mix of factors that favor post-work life. For one, E-Town offers fun outdoor opportunities, allowing pensioners to maintain an active lifestyle by walking, jogging, or running along the Conewago Recreation Trail. Meanwhile, those who feel like returning to school can access adult learning opportunities at Elizabethtown College. 

Elizabethtown experiences one of the lowest crime rates in the region, and with a median home price reaching up to $298,000, it is perfect for retirees who dream of a cozy house after retirement. Pensioners will be glad to know that healthcare facilities are only minutes away, including the Penn State Medical Group. Lastly, those who love the arts can ride the Red Rose shuttle to Lancaster and explore its bustling art and culture scene. 

Wrapping Up

The Keystone State is one of the tax-friendliest states in America. It is not surprising that many retirees will choose to settle in Pennsylvania after pulling the plug on their careers. Considering the comfortable pace of life, natural scenery, and friendly communities in the small towns in Pennsylvania, you can look forward to a high quality of life during your golden years.