7 Towns Perfect For Retirement In Kansas
Retirement can be an exciting new chapter for senior adults transitioning from long careers to a life of relaxation and fulfillment. For older adults who prefer the charms of small-town living, the state of Kansas offers several unique communities perfect for enjoying one's golden years. With wide open spaces, affordable living costs, excellent access to medical care, and plenty of activities to keep seniors engaged, these small towns help make the Sunflower State one of the best retirement destinations in the nation.
Hays
Hays rests in the heart of west-central Kansas and is known for its strong sense of community and rich cultural heritage. The town draws its name from the military outpost, Fort Hays, which protected settlers during the mid-1800s as they traveled west. With the expansion of railroads across the High Plains, Hays experienced tremendous growth, becoming a hub for local cattle ranchers and wheat farmers to transport their goods. Today, a few remnants of the old Fort are still present, but the town is best known as the home to Fort Hays State University, a four-year Division II college that has been a part of the community since 1902.
The historic downtown area, known as "The Bricks," is filled with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. If you need a place to eat, Gella's Diner and Lb Brewing Company is the best brewpub in Western Kansas. The Paisley Pear Wine Bar and Bistro is another fantastic eatery with excellent lunch specials. History buffs will enjoy the Sternberg Museum of Natural History's many artifacts and displays. During the summer, residents enjoy the town's Wild West Festival, a fantastic July 4th extravaganza that has been part of the town's heritage for nearly thirty years.
The median price for a home in Hays is $230,000, and the cost of living is 24% less than the national average. With reasonable food and fuel costs and access to quality healthcare through Hays Medical Center, this small town of 21,136 residents provides a peaceful yet fulfilling retirement experience.
Atchison
Atchison offers retirees a tranquil setting in the northeast corner of the state. The town is known for its Victorian-era architecture, and history buffs will enjoy touring the famed Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts will want to visit the scenic river views at the Atchison Riverfront Park, which has well-maintained walkways. Another wonderful five-acre park is the International Forest of Friendship, which honors more than 1500 people who have significantly contributed to aviation.
The median price of a home in Atchison is $139,000, making it one of the most affordable areas in the state. In addition, Kansas exempts state income tax for seniors earning an adjusted gross income of less than $75,000. Amberwell Atchison is a 25-bed healthcare facility that can handle most medical situations.
The downtown district has plenty of locally owned shops, boutiques, and antique stores to browse. If you get hungry during your visit, try the Cedar Ridge Restaurant north of town. If you prefer something closer to downtown, try Pete's Steak House, which has ample portions and reasonable prices.
Pratt
Pratt sits in the rolling plains of south-central Kansas with its picturesque landscapes, tranquil scenery, and relaxed ambiance. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Lemon Park, a 117-acre oasis in town with manicured grounds perfect for an afternoon stroll or picnic. In addition, the town's proximity to Pratt Sandhills Wildlife Area offers ample opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and photography. Pratt also boasts a vibrant arts community with galleries like the Vernon Filley Art Museum, featuring many local artists.
The median price for a home in Pratt is very reasonable: $147,000. While the cost of living is only about 13% less than the national average, food and utility costs are low, which helps stretch seniors' budgets. The Pratt Regional Med Center is a 35-bed facility that employs about 350 residents from the area.
Legends Cafe is the best place in town for lunch or dinner, and Uptown Cafe has a Sunday brunch worth sampling. With its affordable living expenses and tranquil nature, this town offers a pleasant place to spend one's retirement years.
Dodge City
Known for its rich history as a lawless cattle town in the Old West, Dodge City offers retirees a unique blend of culture, heritage, and outdoor recreation. The Boot Hill Museum showcases frontier artifacts and exhibits from the town's colorful past. Tourists often enjoy sipping on sasparilla at the Long Branch Saloon, a famous Wild West saloon. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the site of wagon ruts from pioneers who traveled the Santa Fe Trail.
When you visit, explore the downtown area with quaint shops and locally owned boutiques. Nostalgia buffs will love the Dodge City Antique Mall, which has an excellent selection of treasures under one roof. When you've finished reminiscing, seek out the Central Station Bar and Grill or Prime on the Nine. Both restaurants serve excellent, varied fare.
The median price for a home in Dodge City is $265,000, but with living costs averaging 17% less than the national average, seniors can enjoy a comfortable retirement. St. Catherine Hospital, a 99-bed medical unit, serves the needs of several communities in southwest Kansas. With its Old West vibe and affordable living expenses, Dodge City continues to attract seniors every year.
Hutchinson
Hutchinson is home to the Kansas State Fair, an annual ten-day event every fall that brings tourists from across the state. The town also has several other exciting venues, including Strataca, an underground salt mine with over 160 miles of tunnels, and the Cosmosphere, a fantastic space museum with many artifacts and displays. The Hutchison Zoo is a great place to explore with the grandkids, and with a wide selection of city parks, there is plenty of green space for seniors to embrace an active lifestyle.
Housing costs for seniors in Hutchinson are reasonable, with the average home price being $144,500. Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is a 190-bed medical facility serving the needs of multiple communities. The cost of living is significantly less than the national average, although utilities tend to be closer to the state average.
When you visit, ensure that you try Roy's Hickory Pit BBQ, a simple place that has been serving smoke-kissed meats for over forty years. Don't be surprised if you have to wait in line for a seat during lunch, because this place is that good.
Abilene
This small town of over 6,000 residents is famous as the site of the Presidential Library for Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States. The site has plenty of exhibits and the former President's boyhood home. History buffs will enjoy the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad, an authentic steam locomotive that runs daily during the summer. The Seeyle Mansion is a luxurious 25-room mansion with turn-of-the-century antiques and exquisite grounds.
The median price for a home in Abilene is $185,000, and food and fuel costs are excellent. Household expenses tend to run less than the national average, and healthcare is supplied by the Memorial Healthcare System, which operates a 25-bed critical care facility.
When you visit, plan on exploring the historic downtown area and stop at Joe Snuffy's Old Fashioned Grill. Don't let the outside appearance fool you; the food is delicious, and the prices are even better. Amanda's Bakery and Bistro is the best place for pastries and sweet desserts.
Lindsborg
Lindsborg is affectionately known as "Little Sweden USA" and is a picturesque small town in central Kansas. Steeped in Scandinavian heritage, Lindsborg exudes Old World charm with its colorful Dala horses lining the streets. Lindsborg's downtown district is a treasure trove of Scandinavian-inspired shops, galleries, and eateries, offering visitors a taste of Swedish cuisine, artisan crafts, and traditional folk art. The Svensk Hyllningsfest celebrates Swedish culture every other year, featuring folk music, dance performances, and delicious Swedish delicacies.
Home values in Lindsborg are slightly higher than in other areas, but living costs for utilities, food, and fuel are less than the national average. Lindsborg Community Hospital provides medical care, with specialized care occurring at the Salina Regional Health Center, located about twenty minutes north.
Crown and Rye is the best place to try authentic Scandinavian cuisine when you visit Lindsborg, the Blacksmith Coffee Shop and Roastery, for an authentic java lover experience.
The Sunflower State offers several unique small towns perfect for older adults to enjoy as retirement destinations. With affordable living costs, engaging attractions, and favorable access to medical facilities, these communities have much to offer seniors looking for a tranquil spot to spend their golden years.
