7 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Indiana

Retirement can be a complex process as there are many variables to prepare for, such as getting a portfolio ready, budgeting, and setting up insurance policies. However, there's more to retirement than just 401Ks; there's also the matter of where to retire. Thankfully, the Midwestern state of Indiana has many safe, affordable small towns with friendly atmospheres and excellent activities to keep you busy. From the historical museums in Connersville to the circus fun in Peru, here are seven towns in Indiana that are perfect for retirees.

Connersville

This small town of 13,300 people is a memorable destination in east-central Indiana with a low violent crime rate and affordable housing with a median house cost of $140,000. Compared to the state average of $240,000, houses here are a steal. Those who decide to retire in Connersville adore the long and rich history, with settlers first coming into the area in the 1800s and settlements forming along the Whitewater River's banks.

Today, one can visit many historic sites on a self-guided tour, including the Canal House, Whitewater Valley Railroad, and Fayette County Historical Museum. Connersville also has many scenic parks, including Roberts Park, Shrader-Weaver Nature Preserve, and the Nickel Plate Trail. For bird watchers, the Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary is another great spot in town. Another advantage for retirees is that the town is close to multiple healthcare facilities like Whitewater Valley Medical Center.

New Albany

Located on the Ohio River, the historic community of New Albany is one of the oldest in the state. The town has beautiful architecture palpable through the 19th-century mansions in its Mansion Row, including the Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site. The Floyd County Library Cultural Arts Center tells the town's story and tales of its role in the Underground Railroad through intricate reading material in a tranquil environment.

Retirees looking to stay active adore the array of outdoor areas, including Sam Peden Community Park and the Ohio River Greenway, which connects the nearby communities of Jeffersonville and Clarksville. Seniors also rejoice at the affordable housing in town, with an average home costing less than $200,000. Moreover, amenities are close by, such as the Baptist Floyd Health, which covers local healthcare requirements.

Peru

Located 80 miles north of Indianapolis, Peru is a friendly community of 11,000 with plenty of fun places to visit. It is known as the Circus Capital of the World, which one can learn more about at the Circus City Festival Museum or the International Circus Hall of Fame. This fun town also hosts the Rock Hollow Golf Club and Bunker Hill Dragstrip, a blast for local seniors. The best spot for a walk or fishing is the Mississinewa Reservoir, a 14,000-acre park with a 3,200-acre lake. The best part is that retirees won’t have to enjoy the fun, as nearly 18% of Peru’s residents are above 65. Seniors can also rest assured for their health as the Dukes Memorial Hospital is located conveniently within the town's borders.

Long Beach

Sitting on the shores of Lake Michigan, Long Beach is a beautiful community for retirees. While slightly expensive, with a median home cost of $700,000, the community makes up for the price with its picturesque view of Lake Michigan on the titular beach. The area has excellent restaurants, including Swingbelly's, which is known for its burgers.

Long Beach is close to Michigan City, Indiana, which has many places to visit, including Friendship Botanic Gardens, Pottawatomie Country Club, and Moon Valley, a nature preserve with trails, wildflowers, and oak trees. Moreover, the larger cities nearby offer a range of urban amenities and services, from healthcare at Hobart’s St. Mary Medical Center to transportation via the Gary/Chicago International Airport.

Madison

Located on the Ohio River, this quirky town has a great deal of history, nature, and sites that will keep seniors occupied during their golden years. Most people love to visit the area’s gorgeous historic buildings, such as the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site or the Historic Ohio Theatre. Retirees have no trouble getting around as the area is highly walkable, and one can even walk across the river on the Milton-Madison Bridge.

For other spots, you can see the three bends in the Ohio River at The Point in nearby Hanover College or take in breathtaking waterfall views at Clifty Falls State Park. After a fun day out, Lanthier Winery and Stream Cliff Farm Winery offer an eccentric ambiance and delicious drinks that seniors adore. Along with the abundance of activities, the median house price is $220,000, making Madison an affordable place to settle down.

Dyer

This town of just over 16,000 people in Lake County is part of the “Ideal Section,” the first paved road in Indiana. Today, Dyer is a safe, affordable place to settle down, with friendly locals and robust infrastructure. Various factors beckon retirees, from connectivity via the local Amtrak station to healthcare at Franciscan Dyer Hospital. To this end, over 23% of the local population is above the age of 65, indicating a strong social environment for seniors.

Those living here are privy to one of the best-kept secrets in the area, Meyer's Castle. Built in the Jacobethan Revival Architecture between 1927 and 1931, this castle has a beautiful interior with a brass chandelier and a tranquil exterior with lush gardens. The town is close to the Indiana Dunes National Park, a picturesque place to walk or rest your feet in the water of Lake Michigan. There are many great places to eat in Dyer, including Doc's Smokehouse and White Rhino Bar & Grill. Since Chicago is pretty close, locals have access to world-class facilities.

Nashville

Tennessee isn't the only state to have a Nashville. Indiana has one too, and this one is a real gem for retirees. It is home to Brown County State Park, a place known as the “Little Smokies” for its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. There are miles of trails, cabins for rental, and great spots to explore within the park. Nashville has many boutique stores, including Foxfire Boutique and Brown County Old Country Store. As an arts town, seniors can also explore many galleries, such as Anabel Hopkins Fine Art and The Emerald Pencil.

The typical home costs $329,000, slightly higher than the state average of $240,000. Thankfully, the extra price is justified by facilities like The Brown County Health and Wellness Center, which is available for healthcare needs. Moreover, those seeking more affordable living options can opt for a retirement home such as Brown County Health & Living Community.

Conclusion

While there are many things to do to prepare for retirement, worrying about where you are going to move to shouldn't be one of them. Thankfully, these small towns in Indiana offer all you need for a relaxing time, including good healthcare facilities, excellent parks and forests, quaint boutiques, and much more. Whether looking for a home on the beach or just a regular small-town experience, you will find it in Indiana.