10 Senior-Friendly Towns in California
When it comes to retirement living, California has a lot going for it (it’s not for nothing it’s known as the Golden State!). Not only does California feature stunning landscapes, a temperate climate, and plenty of fun things to do, it also boasts no-end of senior-friendly towns that cater to retirees seeking a blend of affordability, safety, healthcare, and leisure.
From quiet coastal communities to peaceful inland retreats, these towns provide safe environments where seniors can enjoy a high quality of life. Whether you’re already retired or your “golden years” still lay ahead, be sure to refer to this list of 10 senior-friendly towns in California for ideas and inspiration.
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo is located along California’s Central Coast and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and senior-friendly amenities. The town is known for its affordable housing options, including various retirement communities and assisted living facilities that cater to different financial situations. San Luis Obispo also enjoys a low crime rate, and is home to several top-notch healthcare facilities, including the Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center and French Hospital Medical Center, which provide comprehensive medical services and specialized geriatric care.
The town’s charming downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while the Citizens Senior Center offers fitness classes, art workshops, and social events, fostering a strong sense of community among retirees. Those who like the outdoors can enjoy nearby beaches, hiking trails, and the famous Bishop Peak, a popular spot for its views. The town also boasts historical landmarks like the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, adding a rich cultural heritage to its appeal.
Laguna Woods
Laguna Woods, located in Orange County and less than an hour’s drive from downtown Los Angeles, is considered one of the top retirement destinations in California for good reason. Safety is a significant feature of Laguna Woods, with the town boasting a relatively low crime rate compared to other parts of the state. There are also plenty of choices regarding healthcare, with facilities like the MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center providing comprehensive medical care when needed.
Looking for an established retirement community of like-minded folks? Laguna Woods Village is one of the largest active adult communities in California and provides a wealth of recreational options for those aged 55 and up, including golf, swimming, fitness, and over 200 clubs and organizations catering to various interests and hobbies. Nearby attractions such as the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park also make Laguna Woods perfect for seniors.
Palm Springs
Its location in the Sonoran Desert of Southern California makes Palm Springs a popular destination for retirees seeking a warm climate and an active lifestyle. Although it’s known for its ritzy real estate, the town does offer a variety of affordable housing options for those on fixed incomes, including retirement communities and assisted living facilities tailored to different financial needs. It also benefits from a relatively low crime rate, as well as excellent healthcare services like the Desert Regional Medical Center and Eisenhower Health offering medical care and services for seniors.
Palm Springs is famous for its resort-style living and abundant amenities, including numerous golf courses, spas, and wellness centers, making it an ideal place for active retirees. The Mizell Senior Center offers a wide range of programs and activities, including fitness classes, social events, and educational workshops. Palm Springs is also located near the stunning Joshua Tree National Park and the San Jacinto Mountains, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
Ojai
Set in a valley and just 15 miles northeast of Ventura, Ojai has plenty to offer those of retirement age. While house prices are relatively high given its outstanding setting, this artistic community does offer a range of more affordable senior living communities that cater to different budgets, including the popular Gables of Ojai and Oak Haven, to mention but two. Those needing assisted living are also covered thanks to top-notch facilities like The Artesian of Ojai and Mountain Vista of Ojai, both of which are highly rated.
Ojai has a low crime rate compared to national averages, providing a safe and secure environment for retirees, while healthcare services such as the Ojai Valley Community Hospital is there when (heaven forbid) it’s needed. There are also plenty of fun things to do in Ojai with numerous parks, trails, and outdoor spaces like Libbey Park and the Ojai Meadows Preserve ready to be explored. The City of Ojai also offers fun programs and activities including fitness classes, social events, and educational workshops, while the town’s rich cultural scene includes art galleries and the 70-plus-year-old Ojai Music Festival.
Morro Bay
Morro Bay is another coastal community worth considering for a perfect retirement. Located on California’s Central Coast, this quaint seaside town boasts a variety of affordable housing options, including senior’s only trailer parks like Blue Heron Terrace MHP and senior living apartments like Ocean View Manor. Another plus is the proximity to first-rate healthcare services such as the French Hospital Medical Center which has medical care and specialized services for seniors when needed.
Active seniors will appreciate attractions like Morro Rock and the beautiful Morro Bay State Park, both within easy reach. There’s also a great place to hang out when a little company is needed: the Morro Bay Active Adults center offers activities such as fitness classes and workshops.
St. Helena
St. Helena is a place that wine-loving retirees are going to love. Located in Napa Valley, this charming small town features an array of excellent vineyards as well as senior-friendly amenities, making it a perfect place to retire. The town offers a range of affordable housing options including senior living communities like the highly rated Silverado Orchards Retirement Community and Woodbridge Village Apartments, while those interested in going it on their own have a broad selection of real estate options to choose from including senior-friendly condos and bungalows.
The town itself is considered a safe and secure environment for retirees with lower-than normal crime rates, and healthcare services include establishments such as Adventist Health St. Helena hospital offering comprehensive medical care as well as senior-focussed services.
Solvang
If you have an ounce of European blood in you, the quirky town of Solvang may be just the place to retire to. Set in the Santa Ynez Valley, this charming town boasts a Danish heritage that’s everywhere evident. Take the grandkids to the fun Hans Christian Andersen Park with its distinct hints of old Europe, as well as the excellent Elverhøj Museum of History & Art to learn more about the region’s rich Danish heritage.
Solvang also offers a variety of affordable housing options, including senior living communities such as the first-rate Atterdag Village, a nod to the town’s European heritage. Solvang also enjoys a low crime rate, ensuring a safe environment for its residents, along with top-notch healthcare services with facilities such as the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital there when it’s needed
Carmel-by-the-Sea
With a name as romantic as Carmel-by-the-Sea, how could this Central Coast town not be a great place to retire? Just a short drive away from the popular coastal city of Monterrey, this charming seaside town provides a variety of affordable housing geared to those aged 55-plus, from high-end communities offering luxury homes, such as The Cottages of Carmel, to more affordable options that cater to different budgets.
Carmel-by-the-Sea enjoys a low crime rate, and its healthcare services, including facilities such as the nearby Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, are first-rate. The Carmel Foundation senior center offers a wide range of programs, and there’s plenty of fun to be had in and around town, too.
Ferndale
Located in Humboldt County, the Victorian town of Ferndale is well worth considering when retirement beckons. In addition to its charming architecture, notable historic landmarks like Ferndale Repertory Theatre and Ferndale Museum are not only great places to visit, but they also offer plenty of opportunities for volunteering and contributing to the community.
While a small community (it’s home to just 1500 souls, many of them over 50), Ferndale does offer a few good housing options. Top choices include Sequoia Springs Senior Living, which offers both independent living bungalows as well as assisted living options, some of them pet-friendly. Ferndale enjoys a lower-than-average crime rate, ensuring a safe environment for its residents.
Calistoga
Last but by no means least, Calistoga is another Napa Valley destination that’s worth considering when it comes time to retire. This charming town is not only known for its hot springs, but also for its exemplary senior-friendly amenities, not least of which is the Calistoga Community Center. This first-rate city run facility offers everything from fitness classes to gentle yoga and aquafit, as well as social events and educational workshops, ensuring that retirees remain engaged and active.
Speaking of active, there’s no shortage of things to do in Calistoga, either. Among its attractions are art galleries and local wineries, as well as numerous parks, trails, and outdoor spaces such as the beautiful Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and the popular Old Faithful Geyser of California.
The Final Word
No matter how you slice it, the Golden State is perfect for retirement. The country’s most populous state, California is also at the cutting edge of healthcare, ensuring that those who need it have access to the latest health services. Add to this its climate, its natural beauty, as well as its rich history and culture, and it’s easy to see that these 10 senior-friendly towns in California are among the best places to retire in the USA.
