11 Welcoming Towns to Retire in New Jersey

Retirees choose New Jersey for its proximity to major metropolitan cities, balance of natural and urban settings, tax benefits, and access to quality healthcare options. Whether drawn to the Garden State for the opportunity to save on taxes with programs like the pension exclusion program or to live every day like a vacation with waterfront communities like Cape May, read along to plan your retirement in the Garden State.

Princeton

Princeton is best known for its university and youthful student population and makes a perfect retirement town for seniors seeking an upscale community to call home. Its appeal as the ideal small town for seniors lies in its big city amenities of healthcare institutions and exceptional dining options. Penn Medicine Princeton Health stands as one of the main healthcare centers, while Princeton Care Center offers excellent senior services. Despite its many advantages, Princeton is also one of the more expensive towns to call home, with the average home price valued at $1,200,000. However, for those who can accommodate the higher cost of living, Princeton offers a vibrant and enriching environment perfect for retirement.

Cape May

Cape May is a perfect place to retire for being a tourist-centric community with a serene waterfront setting and relatively affordable living costs. Despite being a popular weekend escape town, Cape May has no shortage of healthcare amenities and senior care centers, with some of the most notable being the Emergency Department at Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional and Complete Care at Victoria Commons, which is nearby, offering care when needed. Newcomers to Cape May can expect to pay around $890,000 for a typical home, according to 2024 estimates. Additionally, the small-town experience in Cape May is highlighted by artistic displays, with some of the most notable being Cape May MAC, highlighting the efforts of creative locals.

Ocean Grove

Ocean Grove is best recognized for its historic ambiance, Victorian architecture, and scenic waterfront vistas. Local events and cultural activities enhance the small-town experience for seniors looking for an engaging and social community to call home. Some of the most notable community events in Ocean Grove include the Small Business Saturday event, the Ocean Grove Fall Harvest Festival, and more. Though more expensive than other retirement options, with average home prices of $882,000, senior residents find it well worth the investment due to the abundance of health and senior care options, like the Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune City, just a 2.3-mile drive away, along with Coral Harbor Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, for retirees in need of attentive medical care.

Haddonfield

Haddonfield is a welcoming small town for retirees, known for its lively central district and proximity to Philadelphia, offering easy access to big-city amenities, including healthcare. The central district along Kings Highway East features many of the town's businesses and attractions, such as the Haddonfield Theater Arts Center, Indian King Tavern Museum, and dining spots like Verona Ristorante and Gouldsburger's. Nearby healthcare centers include Cooper University Health Care and Virtua Voorhees, just 8.3 miles away. Newcomers can expect to pay around $870,000 for a typical home, reflecting the town's desirable living conditions. Haddonfield is also famous for its annual events like the Haddonfield Arts and Music Festival and the Haddonfield Farmers Market, which foster a strong sense of community and provide numerous opportunities for social interaction.

Newton

Newton, New Jersey, is the perfect small town for nature lovers to retire in, and it distinguishes itself from other small towns in New Jersey with its agricultural surroundings and significantly more affordable property options. The small town offers a peaceful setting for retirees seeking a balance between countryside and city living, with highlights of the local experience being cultural events and attractions. Events like the Newton Day Festival on Spring Street and the Fall Festival at Lentini Farms are a few of the many opportunities to connect with locals and gain a better sense of life in the area. With average home prices as low as $460,000, Newton is one of the most affordable small towns in New Jersey to call home. Even with the town’s distance from major cities, it has no shortage of top-notch medical services, with one of its main hospitals being the Newton Medical Center.

Bridgeton

Bridgeton is an excellent retirement town for seniors looking to spend their golden years surrounded by lush nature. The welcoming small-town experience is enhanced by its historic attractions and well-preserved architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries, with the town's historic district featuring over 2,000 historic structures. With a median home price of $233,234, it's one of the most affordable places to retire in New Jersey. However, despite its variety of senior-friendly attractions, Bridgeton is better suited for active seniors, with Preferred Care At Cumberland being one of the few senior care options available.

Red Bank

Red Bank offers the perfect blend of factors that make New Jersey an attractive retirement destination. The town combines a lively social atmosphere in its central district with the tranquility of a peaceful waterfront setting, all while maintaining relatively affordable property costs. Red Bank is home to the renowned Count Basie Theater, known for its Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts, adding to its cultural appeal. Those relocating to this riverside town can expect a typical home price of $825,000, with the added benefit of being just 47.9 miles from New York City. In addition to big-city amenities, residents have access to top-quality healthcare at Riverview Medical Center and high-end senior living options like The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, set against a relaxing waterfront backdrop.

Glassboro

The small town of Glassboro is one of the most welcoming places to retire, with its youthful student population that adds a lively element. The town enjoys a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including the Glassboro State Arts Center, which features live performances and educational programs. With a median home price of around $351,525, the relatively affordable small town attracts both city and countryside dwellers, offering the perfect mix of suburban comfort and convenient access to outdoor spaces. Quality healthcare services are made convenient by the nearby Inspira Medical Center Mullica Hill, while the Summit Place Assisted Living serves seniors in need of long-term attentive medical care.

Morristown

Morristown is more of a small city than a town and is home to historical landmarks like the Morristown National Historical Park and Ford Mansion. The town also boasts a vibrant cultural scene with attractions like the Mayo Performing Arts Center. With a median home price of approximately $829,778, Morristown offers a variety of housing options, from charming historic homes to modern apartments. The abundance of healthcare options, such as the Morristown Medical Center and the Atlantic Health System, further enhances Morristown’s appeal as an ideal retirement spot. Additionally, Morristown provides ample recreational opportunities with parks and walking trails, like the Morristown Green, making it a perfect destination for daily walks, ensuring a well-rounded, active retirement lifestyle.

Lambertville

Lambertville stands out as one of the most welcoming small towns to retire, with its scenic waterfront setting. The riverside town's quaint streets are lined with cafes, antique stores, and creative local businesses that make it a haven for those who appreciate the community. Its relaxed pace and walkable downtown allow retirees to enjoy leisurely strolls while maintaining an active lifestyle. The median home price is $611,852, and its location strikes a perfect balance—far enough from the city to remain unspoiled by urbanization yet nestled in serene, picturesque landscapes that offer a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Reliable healthcare is located 14 miles away at the Hunterdon Medical Center, while The Lambertville Estate provides upscale assisted living options.

Montclair

Finally, Montclair stands as a welcoming, upscale community near New York City, known for its scenic parks like Brookdale Park and charming neighborhoods with historic homes and tree-lined streets. Located just 20 miles from the Big Apple, its convenient location comes with a hefty price tag for seniors looking to own property, with the median home price valued at $1,054,118. However, Montclair’s abundance of big-city amenities, including excellent healthcare options such as the nearby Mountainside Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Health, also contribute to its desirable housing market. Despite being more of a bedroom community, Montclair has no shortage of engaging events and community gatherings to enjoy. The Montclair Farmers' Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods year-round. The town also hosts annual events like the Montclair Jazz Festival, which draws music lovers from all around, and the Montclair Film Festival, which showcases independent films and documentaries.

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