10 Ohio Towns Perfect for Retirement

For those seeking a great place to retire to in the Midwest, Ohio might be just the ticket. The “Buckeye State” certainly has a lot going for it, not least of which is its low cost of living, its excellent healthcare services, and, of course, its many ideal retirement towns. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a fulfilling life after work, these small towns in Ohio present retirees with man attractive choices that combine affordability with a high quality of life.

From first-rate cultural institutions to endless outdoor recreation opportunities, Ohio boasts senior-friendly communities that prioritize safety and engagement for older adults. Whether you’re interested in participating in community life, staying physically active, or exploring the arts, Ohio’s small towns offer plenty of options when it comes to deciding where to spend your retirement years.

Athens

Home to Ohio University, Athens is a lively college town that offers retirees access to a whole range of interesting cultural events, activities, and further learning opportunities. The university brings in guest speakers, concerts, and exhibits that are all open to the public, making it easy for seniors to stay engaged. Athens also has a low cost of living and a variety of affordable housing options. Of special interest is Athens Village, a community of like-minded retirees focusing on making ageing in place a viable option.

Healthcare needs? Athens has you covered at O'Bleness Hospital which offers a full range of services and specialists geared to senior health needs. Athens is also known for its active seniors with groups like the Athens County Senior Center organizing weekly activities, including fitness classes, arts and crafts, and day trips to places like Wayne National Forest and Lake Hope State Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the town's proximity to the Hocking Hills region, which provides miles of hiking trails and scenic spots for exploration.

Wooster

Located just 45 minutes southwest of Akron, one of the largest cities in Ohio, Wooster offers a charming small-town feel while being home to a vibrant cultural scene. It’s home to the College of Wooster which hosts numerous public performances and events, ensuring plenty of excuses to keep your social and entertainment calendars full of fun things to do. For retirees, a range of healthcare services are available at Wooster Community Hospital, a nationally recognized facility. Low housing prices make it affordable for those on a fixed income, and the crime rate in Wooster is notably low, contributing to a sense of security.

What really sets Wooster apart, though, is its focus on community involvement and active living. Retirees here can engage in various volunteer opportunities through local organizations such as the Friends of Wooster Memorial Park where you can help maintain the facility’s scenic trails and nature preserves. The city also has several seniors’ clubs and services on offer at places like the Wooster Community Center with its regular social events, fitness classes, and excursions.

Delaware

Delaware, located just north of Columbus, offers plenty of small-town charm with close proximity to a major metropolitan area. It’s home to Ohio Wesleyan University which offers a variety of cultural and educational events and opportunities. Low crime rates and affordable housing further add to the appeal, while OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital offers excellent healthcare for retirees.

Enjoy staying active? Retirees in Delaware can participate in town-run senior programs including fitness classes, social events, and volunteer opportunities, while those who enjoy stretching their legs can make use of its many parks and walking trails. One of the best, Delaware State Park, offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Delaware’s historic downtown area, Sandusky Street Historic District, is a great spot for leisurely strolls and meeting (and making) friends.

Marietta

Situated on the banks of the Ohio River close to the state border with West Virginia, Marietta is one of the oldest towns in Ohio and provides retirees with a rich history to explore. Marietta Historic District is, in fact, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with its oldest buildings dating all the way back to the town’s establishment as the first white settlement in Ohio in 1788. Frequently ranked as one of the best places to visit and live in the Midwest, Marietta’s low cost of living and affordable real estate market certainly make it a budget-friendly option for retirees.

In-town amenities include Marietta Memorial Hospital, ensuring that healthcare needs are met without needing to leave town, while the O'Neill Senior Center provides fitness classes, book clubs, and even art workshops. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring nearby Wayne National Forest with its hiking trails and picnic spots.

Granville

Only 30 minutes east of Columbus, Granville is a peaceful small town that’s perfect for retirees who enjoy a slower pace of life yet is within an easy commute to a large city. Granville is home to Denison University which brings with it a rich cultural life, including performances and lectures that retirees can enjoy. The town is especially popular for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and walkable streets, with landmarks like Avery Downer House (1842), the Historic Buxton Inn (1812), and the Granville Inn (1924) lending it a New England vibe.

Affordable housing and a low crime rate make Granville a safe and attractive place to settle down, while those looking to stay active can participate in volunteer opportunities with groups like the Granville Garden Club, established in 1931 and still going strong. Licking County Community Center offers fitness classes, day trips, and educational programs, while nature lovers will appreciate the 2,000-acre Dawes Arboretum and its many pleasant paths.

Wapakoneta

Wapakoneta, located in western Ohio on the I-75 an hour north of Dayton, offers a quiet, rural lifestyle that’s perfect for retirees looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big-city living. The town is most famous as the birthplace of astronaut Neil Armstrong and features the Armstrong Air & Space Museum, an attraction that’s not only fun to take the grandkids, too, but which offers fulfilling volunteer opportunities.

Housing prices in Wapakoneta are generally affordable, with Wapakoneta Village being a great choice for those aged 62-plus, with its one-bedroom apartments being a great alternative to full ownership. The town also boasts a low crime rate, contributing to a peaceful, secure environment, and also offers top-notch healthcare services at Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center in nearby Lima.

Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is situated in central Ohio and is a pleasant setting for retirement. Downtown Mount Vernon Historic District, while a big draw for tourists, also ensures plenty of fun for residents with its 19th-century buildings now housing retail outlets and eateries. In addition to its delightful leafy neighborhoods and heritage homes, a great option for those seeking to run a B&B business, Mount Vernon features many green spaces like Ariel-Foundation Park that are fun to walk. Into longer hikes? Kokosing Gap Trail offers a level 14-mile long hike or bike along an old railway bed, complete with intact bridges.

The town features excellent healthcare services, including those available at Knox Community Hospital, which, along with its low crime rate and affordable housing options, makes it easy for retirees to settle in comfortably. Enjoy volunteering? Local cultural institutions like Woodward Opera House can always use a helping hand.

Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs is a great retirement spot for those who enjoy a thriving arts scene. Located near Dayton, this small town is well-known within the state for its strong sense of community, especially for those interested in the creative arts. Local art organizations like the Yellow Springs Art Community Gallery also offer volunteer opportunities as well as the chance to indulge a passion for the arts. Antioch College also offers plenty of excuses to get creative with classes in filmmaking and other artistic disciplines.

Planning on staying active? Yellow Springs offers numerous walking and biking routes, including at the scenic Glen Helen Nature Preserve with its over 20 miles of trails. As for healthcare, services are easily accessible through facilities such as Kettering Health Greene Memorial Hospital in nearby Xenia.

Piqua

Piqua, located in western Ohio, is a quiet town with a rich industrial history and affordable living options. Just 30 minutes north of Dayton along the I-75, the town’s low crime rate and access to quality healthcare services through the Upper Valley Medical Center make it an appealing retirement destination, as does its low cost of living. It also boasts several affordable housing options, including senior communities, some of which, like Brookdale Piqua, offer assisted living options.

Piqua also offers several ways for retirees to stay active and involved. The local Miami County YMCA provides fitness programs designed specifically for an aging population, while the town’s senior center (also run through the YMCA) hosts social events, educational workshops, and has volunteer opportunities. Those wanting to stay active can enjoy town parks and trails, including the scenic Miami-Erie Canal Trail, which is perfect for leisurely walks.

New Philadelphia

Handily located just off the I-77 south of Akron, New Philadelphia is a great choice of Midwest small-town in which to retire to. With easy access to healthcare through Union Hospital (part of the Cleveland Clinic network), along with affordable housing and a low crime rate, it’s a safe and appealing place no matter stage of life you’re in. The town’s historical downtown, the subject of a recent (and ongoing) revitalization program, certainly adds to the charm quotient with fun cafés and coffee shops like the Daily Grind being great places to meet up with friends.

New Philadelphia also stands out for its active senior community, with a range of volunteer opportunities and programs available through local facilities like the Senior Center of Tuscarawas (it also offers fitness classes, social events, and fun day trips). For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Tuscora Park provides a peaceful retreat with walking paths and picnic areas.

The Final Word

As you read through this list, you’ll have to admit that retiring to the Midwest state of Ohio certainly sounds like a great option. For retirees seeking both peace and engagement, these small towns stand out for their affordable housing, low crime rates, and excellent healthcare facilities, all adding up to a solid foundation for a comfortable retirement. They also offer plentiful opportunities to stay active, whether through volunteering, participating in seniors’ clubs, or exploring local parks and trails. Whether you're looking for a quiet rural setting or a vibrant cultural scene, these 10 towns in Ohio are perfect for retirement.