7 Best Small Towns To Retire In The Ozarks In 2024
The Ozarks are beloved by people and migrating animals alike. Retiring to the Ozarks means keeping oneself close to nature and crucial amenities at the same time. The region covers the prettiest parts of Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Kansas is lucky enough to have a little slice in its southeastern corner. It has been treasured by conservationists since the Ozark National Forest was established by Theodore Roosevelt in 1908. Leave the rat race behind in 2024 and listen to the birds sing. The perfect Ozark town awaits.
Branson, Missouri
Breathe in the comfort of life in the hills overlooking Table Rock Lake. The cost of living is six percent lower than the national average in Branson. Economists credit Branson’s tourism industry for keeping local taxes low. The world’s most thorough Titanic Museum is in Branson. The museum is a must-see for anyone stopping by. For everyone staying longer, the operators of the museum are the ideal neighbors to have. Reservations are recommended as day passes tend to sell out fast. Dolly Parton’s Dinner Theater Stampede is the world’s most visited dinner show attraction, according to its website. The claim is well-earned. The Stampede needs to be seen to be believed.
Mammoth Spring, Arkansas
Past visitors to Mammoth Spring State Park will be delighted to know that the nearby town of the same name is a perfect retirement destination. Mammoth Spring has a crime rate that is lower than 90% of all communities in the US. The cost of living is 8% lower than the national average. Pavilions and small areas in the park are available to rent for when family visits. Nine million gallons of water still flow daily through one the largest springs on Earth. Discover the nation’s history at the 1886 Frisco train depot and museum within the park.
Flippin, Arkansas
The town of Flippin sits between the Crooked Creek to the south and the White River to the north. Flippin is well known as one of the top spots in the country to retire. The town is a twenty-minute drive to Bull Shoals-White River State Park. The park’s enormous visitor center overlooks the impressive Bull Shoals Dam. Boats are always available to rent, and the land includes more than a hundred stunning campsites. The town’s cost of living is 26% lower than the national average, with house prices being 43.7% lower than national numbers. Twin Lakes Therapy and Living meet both short and long-term health concerns. Flippin owes its fun name to a farmer named Thomas H. Flippin after being known as Goatville for a while and the Barrens before that.
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
The Tahlequah crime rate is lower than both the national and Oklahoma state average. Tahlequah serves as the capital of the Cherokee Nation and of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. Homes in Tahlequah cost less than over 50% of homes in the US and the rates are also lower than the Oklahoma state average. The Spider Gallery is a must-see for visitors scoping out the retirement scene. Spider showcases some of the best Cherokee art in the US, with pieces by recognizable names in their permanent collections.
Carthage, Missouri
America’s Maple City is one of America’s very best spots to retire. Mercy Hospital Carthage has enough room to keep its ten to twenty thousand residents and visitors safe, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The 2024 season of Carthage’s 66 Drive-in Theater is officially underway. Indulge in the magic of both the stars on the silver screen and those in the sky. Carthage is fed by the Spring River and enjoys a patchwork of creeks. Enjoy the sounds of nature in Kellogg Lake Park, including the children learning in its outdoor classroom.
Versailles, Missouri
It is crucial to know before visiting Versailles that it is pronounced as it is spelled: ‘Ver-sails.’ Versailles, Missouri, is as economical a retirement location as it is beautiful. The cost of living in Versailles is 18.4% lower than the national average. Versailles City Park, Memorial Park, East Side Park, and Dunham Park provide safe greenspaces for a rendezvous with friends or family. Explore North America’s truly ancient history with Jacob’s Cave, formed between 408 and 433 million years ago. Jacob’s Cave is fully wheelchair accessible and available for tours 9:00 am-5:00 pm in the Spring and summer, 9:00 am-4:00 pm in the Winter, Fall.
West Plains, Missouri
Get lost in 40 acres of wonder at Galloway Creek Nature Park, operated by the town of West Plains. West Plains allows residents to experience small-town life with real-city conveniences. The town runs three sixteen-passenger, wheelchair-accessible buses from 7:00 am-3:45 pm. Roll back to the days of disco at S&S Skateland roller rink. Plan a trip around a show at the historic art deco-style Avenue Theaters. North Terra Gold Course is a 72-par course with sloping bent grass greens and fresh zoyzia fairways that never fail to return every golfer to their calm, happy center.
The Ozarks are pristine because dedicated people work hard to ensure it stays that way. It is important to never forget that these lands were occupied by thriving communities long before the arrival of Europeans. Even today, the Ozarks continue to attract people from all across the country, and is especially attractive to those looking forward to spend their golden years in peace.
