6 Budget-Friendly Towns in Nevada for Retirees
As you approach retirement, it's important to seek out towns that offer appealing healthcare options, affordable living, well-planned urban areas, outdoor recreation, senior discounts, low crime rates, and much more.
Nevada provides an enticing combination of financial security, a pleasant climate, and the high quality of life retirees seek. Additionally, Nevada has no state income tax, meaning your pension, social security, and any other retirement income are free from state taxes. Explore six towns in Nevada that are ideal for retirees. The Silver State has an approximately 16% senior citizen population, which hints at the many different aspects suited for retirement living.
Yerington
Surrounded by the Mason Valley, Yerington provides easy access to a wide array of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and birdwatching along the Walker River and in nearby wildlife refuges. The town’s cultural attractions include the Yerington Theatre for the Arts, which hosts local performances and art exhibitions, and the Lyon County Museum, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history. These amenities provide retirees with a mix of natural and cultural experiences at little to no cost.
Housing in Yerington is particularly attractive for retirees on a budget, with affordable options for both renting and purchasing. One-bedroom apartments in retirement communities start at around $900 per month, offering essential amenities like fitness centers and social activities. For those looking to buy, the median home price in Yerington is approximately $300,000, making it one of the more affordable options in Nevada. This cost-effective housing, combined with the town’s scenic surroundings and laid-back lifestyle, makes Yerington an ideal choice for retirees seeking a quiet, budget-conscious retirement destination. Whether looking for a rental or purchasing a home, retirees can find comfortable and affordable living options in this welcoming Nevada town.
Gardnerville
Gardnerville is an appealing and affordable retirement destination, offering a balanced mixture of reasonable living costs and a peaceful environment. With a median home price of around $779,000, it remains more affordable than larger cities like Reno or Carson City while still offering breathtaking scenery and the charm of small-town life. The town has a low crime rate, with a crime index of 45, making it safer than 45% of U.S. cities. With fewer than 100 crimes annually, primarily non-violent offenses, Gardnerville provides retirees with a secure place to live.
The town is also known for its excellent healthcare services, including the Carson Valley Medical Center, a 23-bed state-accredited hospital with five off-site clinics. It offers a variety of services for seniors, such as cancer care, occupational therapy, rehabilitation, respiratory care, and physical therapy, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare during their retirement years.
Gardnerville also stands out for its mix of commercial and natural landmarks. The Genoa Courthouse Museum offers a fascinating look into the region’s pioneer history, while Lampe Park serves as a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities, with scenic views and walking trails. For nature lovers, the nearby Carson Valley Wildlife Area is a haven for birdwatching and peaceful outdoor adventures. The Sharkey’s Casino provides entertainment and dining options, reflecting the town's lively culture. Additionally, the close proximity to Lake Tahoe offers retirees easy access to a world-renowned destination for outdoor activities. These landmarks, combined with Gardnerville’s affordability, make it an attractive retirement choice.
Boulder City
Boulder City is a desirable and budget-friendly retirement destination, offering a relatively affordable housing market and a tranquil environment. The median home price is about $447,000, which, while higher than in some rural areas, remains significantly more affordable than nearby Las Vegas, just a 30-minute drive away. The town's low crime rate contributes to its appeal, with only 11 crimes reported per 1,000 residents and a notable 64% decrease in crime over recent years. Boulder City is also recognized for its quality healthcare facilities, including the private, non-profit Boulder City Hospital, which has 82 beds and offers a range of services, along with Boulder City Primary Care. Additionally, the town boasts a wide array of amenities, from shopping and dining to recreational opportunities, ensuring retirees have ample choices for maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
What sets Boulder City apart is its unique blend of natural and historical landmarks. The iconic Hoover Dam, just minutes from town, draws visitors and locals alike with its massive engineering feat and stunning views. Guided tours at the iconic dam are very budget-friendly, costing under $15. For nature fanatics, Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking in a mesmerizing desert landscape. The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s role in the dam’s construction, enriching its historical significance. Additionally, the local Art in the Park event showcases the town’s thriving art scene, and Hemenway Park provides not only a relaxing outdoor space but also regular sightings of desert bighorn sheep. These landmarks and attractions make Boulder City an appealing, affordable, and culturally enriched place to retire.
Mesquite
Mesquite is a budget-friendly town for retirees, offering a combination of affordable living and appealing natural and cultural attractions. The town near the Arizona border, Mesquite, is known for its warm climate and expansive desert landscapes, making it ideal for retirees seeking outdoor activities. The town boasts several golf courses, including the renowned Wolf Creek Golf Club, perfect for leisurely rounds in a stunning setting. For those interested in history and culture, the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum provides insights into the area’s past, while the Mesquite Fine Arts Center offers art exhibits and classes catering to creative interests.
When it comes to housing, Mesquite provides various affordable options for retirees. Sun City Mesquite, a popular 55+ community, offers homes starting at around $250,000, with access to amenities like fitness centers, swimming pools, and social clubs. For those preferring rental accommodations, Mesquite Senior Apartments provides independent living with rents starting at $850 per month, including utilities, maintenance, and access to community spaces. Additionally, The Beehive Homes of Mesquite offers assisted living services, with prices beginning at $2,500 per month, covering personalized care, meals, and activities. These cost-effective housing options make Mesquite an attractive destination for retirees looking for a comfortable, active, and affordable retirement experience.
Fernley
Fernley's an attractive and budget-friendly town for retirees that offers a delightful cocktail of affordable living, stunning natural vistas, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Located just 30 miles from Reno, Fernley provides retirees with easy access to more extensive city amenities while maintaining a peaceful, small-town vibe. The town is surrounded by scenic desert landscapes, which are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching at nearby locations like Pyramid Lake and Lahontan State Recreation Area. For cultural engagement, retirees can enjoy local events, visit the nearby historic Fort Churchill State Historic Park, or explore Fernley’s own community arts and craft fairs.
Housing in Fernley is particularly appealing for retirees looking for affordability. One-bedroom apartments in retirement communities start around $1,000 per month, offering amenities like communal dining, fitness centers, and organized social activities. For those interested in purchasing property, the median home price in Fernley is approximately $320,000, which is significantly lower than in many other parts of Nevada. This combination of affordable housing, easy access to nature, and proximity to Reno's broader amenities makes Fernley an excellent choice for retirees seeking a budget-conscious and fulfilling retirement. Whether renting or buying, retirees in Fernley can find a comfortable and affordable place to call home.
Ely
Ely stands as a budget-friendly town for the elderly, offering affordability and a peaceful environment. The median home price in Ely is around $252,000, making it significantly more affordable compared to larger towns in Nevada. The town also benefits from a low crime rate, which provides a sense of safety and security for retirees looking for a calm place to settle down. Ely offers solid healthcare services with nearby hospitals like the William Bee Ririe Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the town on a tour, learning about its origins as a mining community that began in 1906 after copper was discovered. A must-see is the Nevada Northern Railway, often referred to as the “Ghost Train of Old Ely” due to its historical significance. Additionally, the White Pine Public Museum offers a glimpse into local history through a variety of fascinating exhibits.
Ely is home to several other unique landmarks that enhance its charm. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum offers memorable train rides through the region’s delightful landscapes, perfect for history and nature enthusiasts alike. Great Basin National Park, located nearby, provides breathtaking outdoor experiences with hiking, stargazing, and wildlife watching. The Ely Renaissance Village showcases local arts and culture through restored historic buildings and artisan exhibits. For those interested in the town’s mining heritage, the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park is a fascinating site, offering a glimpse into the area's 19th-century mining history. These landmarks, combined with its affordability, make Ely an appealing destination for retirees.
Ideal Retirement Communities in the Silver State
These towns offer an ideal retirement setting for pensioners looking to start anew in Nevada. With their soothing, small-town atmosphere, easy access to major amenities in nearby larger cities, affordable housing and healthcare, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural experiences, these communities provide everything needed for a comfortable and fulfilling life post-career. Opting for any of these towns as a retirement destination in Nevada ensures that seniors will enjoy beautiful surroundings, an active lifestyle, and financial stability for years to come.
