8 Top-Ranked Towns in New England for Retirees

Retiring in New England offers a unique blend of unparalleled healthcare access, safety, and breathtaking natural beauty. States like Connecticut and Massachusetts are celebrated for their superior healthcare services, ensuring a comfortable and secure retirement. New England is renowned for its low crime rates, making it one of the safest regions in the United States. The region's scenic landscapes, from the serene beaches to Maine's majestic rocky coast, promise an enriching and picturesque retirement setting. For those exploring retirement options, New England presents a selection of top-ranked towns that embody the perfect retirement haven.

Burlington, Massachusetts

Known for being exceptionally cozy and welcoming, Burlington is a town with approximately 26,100 residents located just off Route 128. It is close to Boston, about 17 miles away, offering easy access to big-city amenities, including some of the best hospitals in the world. Burlington provides nearly everything a retiree might need, including impressive shopping venues. For instance, the Burlington Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in New England. The town is also quite diverse, with Asians making up about 15% of the population. Plus, with a median age of 44 years, residents can enjoy a community that includes both younger and older individuals. If you're considering buying a house here, you may need to budget around $750,000, which was the median home price in January 2024.

Camden, Maine

Camden is a quaint, pristine town nestled on the rocky central coast of Maine. It is renowned for its outdoor adventure opportunities, which are among the town’s most celebrated attributes. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy rowing or fishing at Megunticook Lake — or simply sitting by the shore, taking in the breathtaking scenery. Hiking trails are plentiful, with Mount Battie Trail offering stunning views of Penobscot Bay. This trail can be a perfect early morning activity, when the air is fresh and the wildflowers are in bloom. The nearby town of Rockport, home to the highly-regarded Pen Bay Medical Center, is just a short distance away. With a median age of 50.5 years, Camden is a community where you can find peers to share retirement experiences and plan new adventures.

Mystic, Connecticut

One of Mystic's most beloved attractions is the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, a remarkable piece of engineering that lifts every hour to allow boats to pass through. For seafood enthusiasts, especially those fond of fresh oysters, Mystic is an ideal location. The town is home to numerous restaurants serving delectable oysters, including the renowned S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar. Additionally, the enchanting Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, Rhode Island, is just 12 miles away. Westerly also houses Westerly Hospital, one of the best hospitals in the area, recognized with the Outstanding Patient Experience Award. Homes in Mystic, typically situated in peaceful and safe neighborhoods, have a median price of $697,000. Reflecting its appeal to retirees, the median age in Mystic is about 55 years.

North Kingstown, Rhode Island

North Kingstown is located along the scenic Narragansett Bay and is part of the Providence metropolitan area. The town comprises 8 villages, including Wickford, its administrative center. Wickford boasts stunning waterfront views and ranks among the "10 Best Main Streets in the U.S.A." Here, retirees can enjoy a sparse suburban feel in communities where approximately 76% of residents own their homes. The townspeople are known for being welcoming, kind, and helpful. With the town’s median age at 45 years, it's easy to find peers to share nostalgic moments with. Newport Hospital in Newport and South County Hospital in Wakefield are both less than 20 minutes away from North Kingstown. The median home price here is $530,000, making it relatively affordable for New England.

Williamstown, Massachusetts

For those seeking to retire in peaceful, rural settings surrounded by nature's unspoiled beauty, the Berkshires in Williamstown, Massachusetts, are an attractive option. Additionally, the Berkshires tend to be more affordable than coastal areas of New England. For example, homes in Williamstown have a median price of $515,000, compared to the Boston area's median of $800,000. The Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington, a recipient of the Outstanding Patient Experience Award, is just 11 miles away. Moreover, for those interested in learning new skills, including practical self-defense, the Berkshire Community College’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is readily accessible.

Yarmouth, Maine

Maine, ranked number one in the country for public safety according to data from the FBI, is increasingly becoming one of the most preferred retirement destinations. Known as the Pine Tree State, Maine boasts a stunning coastline that adds to its picturesque nature. Yarmouth, with its friendly residents and nearby beaches, should be on every retiree's list. The town’s median age is 43 years, striking a balance between being lively and tranquil. As of January 2024, homes in Yarmouth have a median price of $695,000. Given Yarmouth's safety, welcoming atmosphere, and proximity to Portland, this price represents a significant value.

Auburn, Massachusetts

Despite its small size, Auburn offers some of the finest features of any New England town, including affordability. Homes in Auburn have a median price of $390,000. Its proximity to Worcester, just 5 miles away, ensures retirees have access to big-city amenities. With a median age of about 43 years, Auburn provides a community where one can enjoy interactions across generations. The town is safe, peaceful, and family-oriented, with residents frequently gathering at the Auburn Public Library, shopping at the Auburn Mall, and attending live events at Papas Recreational Park.

Lincoln, Rhode Island

Lincoln, a suburb of Providence, offers excellent access to the amenities and attractions of the capital city while remaining relatively affordable. Homes in Lincoln have a median price of $460,000. The town is often ranked as one of the best places to live in Rhode Island, offering a dense suburban feel. Seniors aged 55 and above make up 34% of Lincoln’s population, ensuring a strong community of peers. This close-knit community makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

The Takeaway

Although New England may not be the cheapest, it arguably offers the best access to healthcare, beautiful and historic coastal settings, and a well-educated population. Each of the six states that comprise New England, as well as the towns within them, has unique attributes that make them appealing for retirees. For those seeking specific recommendations, Burlington, Massachusetts; Camden, Maine; and Mystic, Connecticut stand out as top-rated towns for retirement in New England and are definitely worth considering.