10 Welcoming Towns to Retire in Massachusetts
With its rich history, cultural offerings, and natural beauty, Massachusetts presents appealing options for retirement living. Whether enjoying New England's four seasons or partaking in world-class artistic institutions, the Bay State allows residents an actively engaging lifestyle. But beyond the chaotic scene in destinations like Nantucket, the small municipalities provide the ideal scenario for spending your golden years.
From Lee, a Berkshire gem nestled in the picturesque hills providing accessible culture and recreation, to Cheshire, which mixes low cost of living and a strong sense of community, they provide retirees with a relaxed atmosphere. The following towns to retire in Massachusetts cater wonderfully to those looking to escape the bustle for rural charm, scenery, and affordable, high-quality living.
Clinton
Laid-back vibes welcome retirees to this quiet populace in Worcester County. It has a beautiful blend of the new and the old, and the Clinton Historical Society maintains various resources with vital information and landmarks about the past, including the 18th-century Elisha White House and Buell Tool Museum. Meanwhile, the Icon Museum and Study Center harbors a colorful collection of Orthodox Christian icons, ranging from the faces of saints to church doors.
Clinton's Fuller Field is an excellent spot for residents looking to spend time outdoors. Besides providing a space to stretch your legs, it has a unique historical significance as the world's oldest ballpark in continuous use. Investing in property costs around $392,500 in Clinton, a relatively budget-friendly rate considering it is an hour’s distance from Boston.
Granville
Granville addresses retirees' needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle with plenty of beautiful nature spaces. It has the Granville State Forest, which offers endless recreational opportunities outdoors, including hiking, camping, and fishing. In addition to a serene atmosphere, the Hubbard River passing through the forest adds to the area's appeal. During the snow season, residents continue enjoying the open spaces thanks to 20 km of skiing trails at Maple Corner Farm.
While there are few businesses in Granville, the Granville Country Store does an excellent job supplying residents with basic grocery necessities. It is a nice place to shop for cheese, bacon, and tomatoes and serves as a welcoming social hub where townsfolk constantly meet and network. Pensioners planning to buy a home in Granville can set aside about $394,900, a median price lower than the United States average.
Westminster
This classic New England borough boasts a combination of attractions, ensuring residents access well-rounded recreational opportunities. Woods of Westminster Golf Course invites seniors to enjoy golf on its 225 acres of well-manicured greens surrounded by rolling hills. A lively restaurant scene encourages good-natured social interactions among members. Newcomers will be drawn to the 1761 Old Mill, whose rustic charm and palatable American fare make it a go-to dining spot.
Westminster's rich past is preserved at the Westminster Historical Society. Rare local artifacts and landmarks, such as a 1904 windmill structure, tell the town's curious story. Finally, a mean dwelling cost of $532,000 allows retirees to acquire an abode at a reasonable price.
West Boylston
West Boylston sits less than 15 minutes from Worcester, allowing residents to access crucial urban amenities in its more accomplished neighbors. However, it shields senior citizens from the big-city hustle by presenting a relaxed suburban environment. This is clear from serene nature areas like Goodale Park. Set in the heart of the town, it is a peaceful retreat where the citizenry can relax amidst nature, take healthy walks, and play sports.
Retirees who love history can explore West Boylston's past at the Old Stone Church. Constructed in 1891, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is surrounded by pristine nature on the banks of the Wachusett Reservoir. West Boylston's median housing cost of $500,000 is cheaper than most places in the state.
Cheshire
With an average listing price of $360,000, Cheshire is one of the cheapest towns to retire in Massachusetts. However, it doesn't compromise the quality of life, a credit to its sufficient supply of social activities. Locals enjoy outdoor fun, including hiking along the Cheshire Cobble Trailhead. This 1.7-mile route rewards adventurers with picturesque vistas of the Cheshire Cobble and access to the Appalachian Trail. The Cheshire Community House unites with family-based activities like sports and a welcoming setting.
At Whitney's Farm Market & Garden Center, pensioners can shop for fresh produce for healthy meals. The site even hosts a petting zoo that the grandkids will adore. The Cheshire Senior Center also does a magnificent job of ensuring older adults live independently.
Norton
Norton is notably home to Wheaton College. This historical institution opened in 1834 and played a critical role in advancing women's education. Today, it allows retirees to pursue academic aspirations beyond their careers. The Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary is a friendly site where you can find inspiration while showing care to rescued animals. Pensioners can bring their grandkids for close-up interactions with cute species. The tiny hamlet also houses a premier golfing facility, TPC Boston, where townsfolk can have quality outdoor recreation.
After a long day, you can catch up with peers over a pint of freshly crafted beer at Bog Iron Brewing. Lastly, Norton's real estate price is about $540,000, conveniently below the Massachusetts average.
Ashburnham
To the west of Salem, Ashburnham favors retirees who subscribe to active outdoor living. This unassuming town in Worcester County hosts many recreation areas. Pensioners who crave a hike will find the perfect challenge along the Watatic Mountain Trails. These picturesque pathways lead to the summit of Mount Watatic, rewarding you with exquisite vistas of the area. They are also accommodating to different adventurers, including hikers, mountain bikers, and snowshoers.
The Ashburnham Council On Aging provides the elderly with a chance to feel a sense of belonging among peers. It organizes critical nutrition, health, and social programs aimed at bringing them together. Ashburnham's median house price is $479,900, so pensioners don't have to spend all their savings on a house.
Dracut
This bedroom community in Middlesex County draws fresh retirees with promises of numerous recreational activities to keep them fit and healthy. It harbors the East Richardson Preserve, a popular hiking area with well-maintained trails leading into the wilderness. Not far from the preserve, the Four Oaks Country Club is where locals head to get their dose of golfing fun. This 18-hole championship course in the middle of the Merrimack Valley boasts pristine conditions and stunning green surroundings.
Dracut has a lively dining scene, which invites citizens to spend quality time with family over a hearty meal. M.L. Shaw's Country Kitchen is a noteworthy regional eatery, preferred for its friendly staff and delicious food at reasonable prices. Meanwhile, buying a house in Dracut will cost an average of $544,500.
Townsend
Townsend puts the "great" in the great outdoors with its sprawling recreational areas. The region hosts Pearl Hill State Park, which has miles of hiking trails throughout its densely wooded 1,000-acre expanse. Adventurers come here for camping, hiking, biking, and swimming. Alternatively, the Willard Brook State Forest beckons outdoor lovers to savor secluded settings for quality alone time. Retirees can hike, camp, swim, and indulge in other hobbies across this 2,500-acre nature area.
After a demanding time in the open spaces, a wholesome meal at the Townsend House is the perfect way to restock and revitalize. This popular eatery treats patrons to delicious home-style dishes like mashed potatoes. Lastly, the median housing cost in Townsend is $485,000.
Lee
A gateway to the Berkshires, this charming resort village easily blends rural appeal and urban conveniences. It offers everything from hunting and mountain biking to hiking throughout the October Mountain State Forest. The dense wilderness hosts the famous Appalachian Trail and is the state's largest forest. On the other hand, residents can also access more urbanized opportunities like shopping at Lee Premium Outlets. This mall houses over 50 stores, comprising high-end retail brands and trendy dining spots.
Meanwhile, seniors who prefer to maintain a sharp mind can broaden their knowledge at the Lee Library. It has several best sellers, audiobooks, and dozens of children's books to make for a holistic reading experience. Pensioners can expect to spend $554,300 for a decent abode in Lee.
The Takeaway
Visiting any of these special towns to retire Massachusetts makes it clear why they continuously attract new retirees and have satisfied long-time residents for decades. With solid yet affordable real estate markets, engaged neighborhood cultures, and scenic surroundings, they provide an optimal setting to enjoy well-deserved relaxation in one's later years. Between the reasonable housing prices in Cheshire and the numerous outdoor opportunities in Lee, pensioners can look forward to a comfortable life in their retirement years.
