8 Most Comfortable Towns in The Poconos for Seniors
The Poconos, a captivating region of over 2,500 square miles in eastern Pennsylvania, offers a breathtaking blend of forested landscapes, serene mountains, and natural beauty unlike anywhere else in the U.S. It's no wonder so many choose to spend their golden years in this tranquil haven. For those seeking a perfect retirement destination, the Poconos offer more than just stunning scenery; they provide a true sense of community. It’s a place where life slows down, and every day feels like a retreat. With that in mind, here are the eight most comfortable and welcoming towns in the Poconos, each offering a peaceful, fulfilling lifestyle for seniors ready to enjoy the next chapter of life.
Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe, a picturesque town nestled in the Pocono Mountains, is known for its rich history, charming atmosphere, and vibrant community. The town offers excellent healthcare facilities, including St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, ensuring seniors access to top-quality care. For those seeking comfortable senior living, options like Kimmel's Personal Care Home provide a welcoming environment tailored to the needs of retirees.
Jim Thorpe is brimming with senior-friendly attractions and activities. History enthusiasts can explore the Asa Packer Mansion Museum, Old Jail Museum, and the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center to dive into the town’s storied past. For those seeking scenic beauty, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The town also hosts vibrant events throughout the year, including the Fall Foliage Festival, where visitors can marvel at the changing colors of the Pocono Mountains, and Jim Thorpe's Olde Time Christmas, a festive celebration filled with lights, parades, and holiday cheer.
Lansford
Lansford is a historic town that traces its roots back to the booming coal mining era. Once a bustling center of anthracite coal production, it now offers a quiet, welcoming atmosphere for retirees. The town's No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum stand as a testament to its rich mining heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's industrial past.
With a median house price of $88,621, Lansford provides an affordable option for seniors, significantly lower than the state median of $269,854. Lansford is also equipped with healthcare services for seniors at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Carbon, ensuring top-notch medical care close to home. There are plenty of dining options in the town, and seniors can enjoy meals at local favorites like Bobo Garden Chinese Restaurant or Coal Miners' Bar and Grill, which offer a taste of the town’s local flavor. Each September, Lansford hosts the Coal Miner’s Heritage Festival, an annual celebration that brings the community together with music, crafts, and a nod to its coal-mining history.
Milford
Milford is a town known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and welcoming community. The town has excellent healthcare options, including nearby Bon Secours Community Hospital, which provides quality medical care for seniors. If seniors want to live with peers, the town has options for good senior living homes like Belle Reve Senior Living, which offers trained staff and healthcare assistance.
Apart from that, The town boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The historic Grey Towers National Historic Site, the former home of conservationist Gifford Pinchot, provides guided tours and breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. The Columns Museum of the Pike County Historical Society presents fascinating exhibits on the town’s history, while Milford Beach offers a scenic spot for relaxing by the water. The town also offers outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and mountain biking on the McDade Recreational Trail, best enjoyed from March through November.
Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg, located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, is a welcoming town with a vibrant downtown area, perfect for seniors looking for a peaceful yet engaging place to retire. The town's charming downtown features a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, with small local shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants lining the streets. The town is also senior-friendly, with 31.7% of the population over 65, making it easy to find friends and activities tailored to seniors. For those seeking senior-friendly housing, Grace Park Senior Living offers comfortable and supportive living arrangements. The town also boasts excellent healthcare at St. Luke's Hospital - Monroe Campus, ensuring that medical needs are well taken care of.
Stroudsburg is rich in history and natural beauty, with attractions like the Stroud Mansion & Elizabeth D. Walters Library offering insights into local history. Meanwhile, the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides scenic hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor adventures. Getting to these spots is also a breeze thanks to Stroudsburg's accessible public transportation, including MCTA's Blue, Yellow, and Red Routes.
Hawley
Situated in northeastern Pennsylvania, along the scenic shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley offers a tranquil setting for retirees. The town is home to a variety of senior-friendly activities at the Hawley Senior Center, from bingo games to tai chi lessons. There are also excellent healthcare facilities at Wayne Memorial Hospital, so seniors can rest assured of their well-being.
Hawley's beautiful natural surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor activities and a welcoming community for seniors. The town's picturesque setting along Lake Wallenpaupack invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy kayaking, fishing, and lakeside picnics. Bingham Park is another serene spot for leisurely walks or simply relaxing in nature. For a unique adventure, seniors can explore the Pennsylvania Rail Bike, a fun way to experience the town's scenic railway. Besides these, The Hawley Train Station is another charming historical site worth visiting.
Honesdale
Honesdale, located in northeastern Pennsylvania, is rich in history and known as the birthplace of the American Railroad. On August 8, 1829, the first commercial steam locomotive run on rails in the United States, the Stourbridge Lion, took place here, leaving a lasting legacy. Today, visitors can explore the Wayne County Historical Society Museum, which houses a full-scale replica of the Stourbridge Lion, and enjoy scenic rides on The Stourbridge Line Train Excursions through the beautiful Pocono Mountains.
Honesdale offers a variety of attractions and activities for seniors. The town’s natural beauty can be enjoyed at Irving Cliff and Gibbons Park, which has peaceful spots for walking and breathtaking views. Central Park Honesdale is a charming place to relax, while the Wayne County Farmers Market provides fresh local produce and handmade goods. Each summer, the town comes alive with the Wayne County Fair, a beloved tradition featuring farm exhibits, food, and entertainment that draws nearly 100,000 visitors. For healthcare needs, seniors have access to Wayne Memorial Hospital, a top-notch facility offering comprehensive medical care
Lehighton
Lehighton, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Poconos, is a town known for its lush greenery and hilly terrain. Surrounded by natural beauty, the town offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an attractive retirement destination. With Beltzville State Park nearby, seniors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and picnicking with friends and family. Riverview Park and Picnic Woods Alpacas offer serene settings for relaxation and social gatherings, while the Big Pocono Outdoor Theater provides entertainment under the stars.
Lehighton also offers senior-friendly living options at Maple Shade Meadows Senior Living, ensuring residents can enjoy their retirement in a supportive environment. With 21.1% of the population aged 65 and older, Lehighton provides a vibrant community for seniors. The median home value of $262,214, slightly below the state average, makes it an affordable and attractive option for those looking to settle down in this charming town.
Bushkill
Bushkill, situated in the Pocono Mountains, is a quaint town known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings, making it an ideal destination for seniors seeking a peaceful retreat. The town's highlight is Bushkill Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania." This stunning series of eight cascading waterfalls offers breathtaking views and is a favorite destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone who appreciates the outdoors. The falls are surrounded by well-maintained trails, perfect for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes through the lush, wooded landscape.
In addition to its natural splendor, Bushkill offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore a Native American exhibit, enjoy mini-golf, or try their hand at gemstone mining. Paddleboat rentals and mazes add even more fun to the outdoor adventure. Seniors can also indulge in a round of golf at Pocono Hills Golf Course, where the tranquil setting complements the relaxing pace of life in the area. For healthcare, Lehigh Valley Hospital - Pocono ensures that seniors have access to top-notch medical care.
Wrapping Up
The Poconos offers an array of senior-friendly towns, each with unique attractions and amenities for a fulfilling retirement. From lakeside retreats like Hawley to historic towns like Jim Thorpe, these communities provide a welcoming atmosphere with scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a peaceful pace of life. Stroudsburg offers a vibrant downtown, while Honesdale is steeped in railroad history and charm. With easy access to healthcare, nature, and leisure activities, these towns in the Poconos stand out as comfortable and inviting destinations for seniors looking for a fulfilling, relaxed retirement.
