14 Best Small Towns In the Mid-South For Retirees

After many years of working hard to provide for the family, seniors finally decide to retire to enjoy a new chapter and a slower pace of living. This means looking for a beautiful place to settle with complete facilities and easy accessibility for a more relaxing lifestyle. Thankfully, towns in the Mid-South boast peace and comfort in the states of Virginia, West Virginia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Maryland. 

Retirees will be glad to discover the beautiful sceneries surrounding each town and outdoor recreation to remain active. From attractive mountain towns to vibrant communities, warm locals, and seaside paradise, seniors can expect to spend their golden years in fulfillment with these charming Mid-South US towns.

Abingdon, Virginia

Dubbed as one of America’s Coolest Small Towns, Abingdon is located in Southwestern Virginia along the Blue Ridge Mountains. This charming city boasts an artsy vibe and historic charm that will melt the seniors’ hearts. Retirees can watch classic films in the Barter Theater or visit the William King Museum of Art for exhibits about contemporary Appalachian art. Want to get more active? Seniors can also head to Virginia Creeper Trail for biking or take the shuttle to reach Whitetop Mountain Peak, which is about an hour away. The College for Older Adults also offers Shakespeare, sculpting, and tai chi classes.

Johnston Memorial Hospital is the primary healthcare facility with specialized services for retirees. Nursing homes include Commonwealth Senior Living and English Meadows. Mountain Lynx Transit is the common public transportation for residents.

Brevard, North Carolina

As the Land of Waterfalls in North Carolina, seniors will love this breathtaking town. Brevard is surrounded by the lush Pisgah National Forest, a gateway to diverse ecosystems that offer hiking, mountain biking, and waterfall exploration. Cascading waterfalls include Sliding Rock and Looking Glass Falls. Retirees with pets can enjoy the time with the animals at Brevard Dog Park. There is also a wide selection of Brevard walking trails for active seniors, including Bracken Preserve, The Estatoe Trail, and French Broad River Paddle Trail.

Retirees can visit Transylvania Regional Hospital and Pardee Hospital for daily check-ups or diagnostic tests. The best nursing homes include Accordius Health and The Oaks of Brevard.

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island is a breathtaking resort town with shabby cottages, chic homes, and well-preserved natural areas. This low-key neighborhood allows seniors to retreat and experience the quieter side of South Carolina. One of its notable attractions is the pristine Pawleys Island Beach, known for its vast sandy shores, gentle waves, and historic Pawleys Island Hammocks. The nearby Brookgreen Gardens is a must-visit, with stunning sculpture gardens, wildlife exhibits, and Lowcountry history. Seniors can explore the adjacent Huntington Beach State Park, renowned for its marshes, birdwatching opportunities, and Atalaya Castle, a historic winter home. 

The most common activity for retirees is golfing, and Pawleys Island has various golf courses, such as Caledonia Golf and Fish Club, Founders Club, and Heritage Golf Club. Tidelands Health Family Medicine is the primary healthcare facility in this town. Meanwhile, The Lakes at Richfield is the sole nursing home. Coast RTA is the standard public transit system, but most residents prefer riding private vehicles.

Bluffton, South Carolina

Bluffton is a charming Lowcountry town characterized by its moss-draped oak trees, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Situated along the banks of the May River, seniors can visit the river for kayaking, boating, and fishing. Residents can also get affordable essentials at the Bluffton Farmers Market, where weekly community events occur. These events can gather locals and senior tourists to get authentic Southern food, relax, and listen to live music. Heyward House Museum is an excellent tourist attraction where you can learn about the town’s history. Meanwhile, retirees can watch classical movies and musicals at the May River Theater. The Shell Art Trail, a cultural exhibit showcasing intricately designed oyster shells, is also famous. 

Bluffton Medical Campus and St. Joseph's/Candler Bluffton Campus are the leading hospitals in this town, while Pines at Bluffton, Bloom at Belfair, and Vineyard Bluffton are go-to nursing homes. The Bluffton Breeze is the primary public transit system that runs weekdays.

Dillsboro, North Carolina

Dillsboro, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is situated along the banks of the Tuckasegee River. With just 216 residents, seniors will find peace and comfort in one of North Carolina’s quietest railroad towns. The Launch Park is a popular outdoor recreation, providing spaces for picnics and the Tuckasegee River views. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Monteith Farmstead has a picnic pavilion, recreation area, and exercise trails for retirees. Dillsboro invites everyone, including seniors, to join the annual Christmas Tree lighting in the first week of December. 

This town has no hospitals, but retirees can visit nearby facilities, including Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. Nearby nursing homes include Bryson City Living Center.

Oakland, Tennessee

Oakland is a charming town in Fayette County, Tennessee, approximately 40 miles east of Memphis. The town features a historic downtown area with well-preserved architecture, including the Oakland Presbyterian Church dating back to 1888. Seniors can play golf at the Fair Oaks Golf Course or spend an afternoon on the banks of Herb Parsons Lake. Fast Pace Health is a primary healthcare facility in Oakland, and home healthcare services include Caring Hands Healthcare.

Paintsville, Kentucky

Eastern Kentucky’s Paintsville takes pride in its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by the Big Sandy River Valley, this town offers a picturesque backdrop with outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It is also home to the Mayo Mansion, a historic landmark, while seniors can also visit the Dawkins Line Rail Trail for biking and horseback riding. If you enjoy golf, consider a round at the Paintsville Golf Course. The course offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and provides a relaxing outdoor activity. Paintsville ARH Hospital is the sole healthcare facility, while retirees can choose from Mountain Manor of Paintsville and Venture Home.

Hinton, West Virginia

Hinton is another railroad town in the southern part of West Virginia and the New River Gorge National River’s gateway. Seniors can visit the Ritz Theater on the West Virginia Historic Theater Trail to watch live music, plays, and movies. The annual Hinton Railroad Days Festival happens every October, where retirees can experience great food and live entertainment. A serene lakeside adventure awaits at Bluestone State Park for boating and fishing. Meanwhile, Hinton Railroad Museum and Veterans Memorial Museum show a glimpse of the town’s past. 

Summers County ARH Hospital is the sole healthcare facility in the town. Nursing homes include Summers Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Main Street Care.

Oak Hill, West Virginia

Oak Hill is a Fayette County city surrounded by picturesque Appalachian landscapes. Nestled in the New River Gorge region, Oak Hill is an ideal town in the Mid-South for retirees. A famous outdoor destination for seniors is the Collins Park Disc Golf and Obstacle Course, a family-friendly attraction for staying active. The Oak Hill Library is a hub of the town, located on Main Street.

Seniors can join the annual Oak Leaf Festival in a Community Center on Oak Hill’s Central Avenue to meet locals and enjoy local street food and music. It also features a Christmas bazaar with affordable souvenir items. Plateau Medical Center is the primary healthcare facility, while nursing homes include Hidden Valley Center and Oak Hill Place. New River Transit is the primary public transit system.

Adamstown, Maryland

Adamstown, in Maryland’s Frederick County, is a charming and historic town surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The town's proximity to the Monocacy River and the Catoctin Mountains provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and scenic drives. Nearby attractions include the historic Gambrill State Park, offering panoramic views, and the city of Frederick, known for its vibrant downtown, historic sites, and cultural events.

Because Adamstown is a rural community, access to primary healthcare facilities, including Thomas Johnson Surgery Center, is in nearby towns. Nursing homes include Buckingham’s Choice and the nearby Sunrise of Frederick in Frederick.

Fairfax, Virginia

Fairfax in Northern Virginia is a dynamic region known for its rich history, diverse communities, and proximity to the nation's capital. Seniors should spend a day touring the Old Town Fairfax and the historic County Courthouse, one of the town’s oldest buildings. The Fairfax Museum is also educational, allowing visitors to discover the town’s history. Outdoor recreation includes Lake Fairfax Park, about 30 minutes away, a family-friendly destination for seasonal fishing, camping, and picnicking. 

Inova Fairfax Medical Campus is the town’s primary healthcare facility, while nursing homes include Fairfax Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and Fair Oaks Health and Rehabilitation.

Falls Church, Virginia

Falls Church, in Virginia, is a charming city with a rich historical heritage and a vibrant contemporary atmosphere. The town features historic sites like the Falls Church Episcopal and the Cherry Hill Farmhouse. Surrounded by parks and green spaces, including the Washington and Old Dominion Trail and Benjamin Banneker Park, residents can enjoy outdoor recreation. Falls Church Farmers Market is held year-round in an outdoor venue where seniors can explore fresh produce and local crafts and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere.

PrimeDoc Falls Church is the primary healthcare facility, while nursing homes include Goodwin House Bailey’s Crosswords and Vierra Falls Church.

Ashland, Kentucky

Ashland is on the Ohio River’s southern banks along the tri-state area of Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Seniors who love unleashing creativity will enjoy this town, thanks to the Art Alley’s Instagrammable murals. Broadway Square also features an outdoor community living room for lounging, while the Paramount Arts Center is worth visiting to check out local paintings and masterpieces. Retirees can also visit Central Park for the pickleball and tennis courts to remain active. Music festivals commonly occur at the Riverfront Park for free.

The hospital for all healthcare needs is King’s Daughters Health, while seniors can choose from Kingsbrook Lifecare Center, Woodland Oaks, and Boyd Nursing and Rehabilitation Center as senior-assisted living communities.

Fort Thomas, Kentucky

Fort Thomas is a suburban city along the Ohio River, known for its historic charm and proximity to Cincinnati, Ohio. Home to the well-preserved military post, Fort Thomas, the town features tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a strong community atmosphere. Tower Park, a significant recreational space, offers walking trails, sports facilities, and an amphitheater. Dog-lover seniors can visit Highlands Hills Park, which features a dog park and picnic tables. 

St. Elizabeth Fort Thomas Hospital is the primary healthcare facility, and senior-assisted living communities include Carmel Manor and Carespring of Fort Thomas.

These small towns in the Mid-South present a mosaic of choices, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether drawn to the rich history of Abingdon, the cultural vibrancy of Bluffton, or the creativity in Ashland, these towns offer a blend of tranquility, community warmth, and diverse recreational opportunities, making them standout destinations for a fulfilling retirement. As retirees consider an ideal haven, the Mid-South region stands ready with small towns that provide the perfect balance of serenity and engagement, promising a chapter of life filled with comfort, culture, and the joys of a close-knit community.