9 Best Small Towns In New Jersey For Retirees
When it's time to retire, there are plenty of factors to take into consideration. Settling down in a place that isn’t catered to retirees isn’t exactly ideal based on the standards and requirements for living many retirees have in mind. Some folks who've retired from their jobs are hoping to relax and unwind in destinations that are calm, quiet, and easy-going. The hustle and bustle of city life might've been fun in the past, but retirees who appreciate a little more slowness aren't drawn in by that. New Jersey is a wonderful state known for its historical charm, iconic landmarks, and well-preserved Victorian-style buildings. These are nine small towns in New Jersey that retirees should consider.
Montclair
With a population of around 38,000 people, Montclair, New Jersey is a wonderful small town to retire in. There are enough food options to appeal to just about any craving in Montclair. Mesob is a great restaurant for Ethiopian food, Montclair Bread Co. serves delicious donuts, and Halcyon is an eatery with fresh seafood options. The Montclair Art Museum has been around since 1914 full of exhibitions that are both informative and interactive. Around 1925, the World War I Memorial was built in Edgemont Park. Now, it’s a lovely little spot where retirees can enjoy picnics at their lonesome or with friends and partners.
Westfield
Westfield, New Jersey has a population of almost 31,000 people. This small town is perfect for retirees who enjoy spending time outside. Mindowaskin Park, Tamaques Park, and Gumbert Park are three places where retirees can enjoy daily strolls in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings. All three of these parks are totally kid-friendly, which means grandchildren are welcome to visit and play. Turning Point is an award-winning restaurant in Westfield that’s been around since 1998 as an ideal spot to order breakfast items such as omelets, chopped bacon, and waffles. Special events are always on the calendar in Westfield including the the annual Pizza Run and the Sweet Sounds Music Festival
Red Bank
There are almost 13,000 residents living in Red Bank, New Jersey today. This is a small town with historical sites that would potentially attract any curious retiree. Cooper’s Bridge, the Dublin House, and the Eisner Library are just a few pleasantly intriguing historical sites to see. The art and culture of Red Bank is unmatched as well. Admiring different creative pieces at the Art Alliance Studio & Gallery, Beacon Fine Arts Gallery, and McKay Imaging Photo Studio & Gallery is possible there. Different tours are hosted in Red Bank for retirees to join in on including their Artisan's Outing, Art Lovers Tour, and Historic Red Bank Walking Tour.
Princeton
Princeton, New Jersey currently has close to 31,000 residents living there. Although this small town is highly recognized for the presence of the Ivy League school, Princeton University, there are plenty of reasons why retirees would enjoy this small town as much as young adults do. There's far more to do in Princeton than enrolling in its beloved college as a student. Regarding historical sites, Princeton Battlefield State Park and the Quaker Meeting House are two places full of rich cultural intrigue. Retirees who love the idea of relaxing and unwinding at spas and salons can book appointments at places like Cosmo Bleu Salon and Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa.
West Cape May
West Cape May, New Jersey has one of the smallest populations in the state. There are 995 people residing there. It’s considered a “sleepy destination" with architecture that reminds visitors of the Victorian era. Since the population is so small, it’s easily one of the quietest options for retirees who are truly looking for a little more peace. Some of the relaxing attractions in West Cape May include the Wildwood Boardwalk, the Cape May city beaches, and the Cape May lighthouse. A couple of museums worth visiting are the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum and the Harriet Tubman Museum.
Cranford
There are a little more than 24,000 residents in Cranford, New Jersey today. This small town is full of delightful charm. There are plenty of places where retirees can enjoy delectable foods and drinks, including Vine & Oak Tavern with its Mediterranean and Italian dishes, Track 5 Coffee with its caffeinated beverages, and Garlic Rose Bistro with its deliciously seasoned menu items. Shops where retirees can purchase goods include Augusta Mae Boutique with its top-of-the-line consignment selection and Dreyer Farms, which sells tons of plants and flowers.
Ridgewood
Ridgewood, New Jersey is a small town with only a little more than 26,000 residents living there. Retirees attracted to historical sites full of rich cultural detail will be able to visit the Abraham Godwin Monument, the Schoolhouse Museum, and the Historic Glen Avenue Marker while living in Ridgewood. Water lovers will appreciate the Twinney Pond Park and Wild Duck Pond area of Saddle River County Park. Graydon Pool is also in Ridgewood as a natural swimming hole that covers 2.68 acres of land.
Madison
There are almost 17,000 residents living in Madison, New Jersey today. This quiet and calm small town is attractive to retirees because of its culture and ambiance. One of the reasons the ambiance is so wonderful is that there are tons of roses lining the roads and streets. There’s a reason Madison has been affectionately nicknamed “The Rose City." The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts and the Shakespeare Theatre of NJ offer retirees places to go when they're ready to tap into their more artsy and creative sides. Shoppers will enjoy the New Leaf Consignment, which has been around for the past 30 years. It exists as a place full of recycled merchandise for the purposes of sustainability and eco-friendliness
Spring Lake
Retirees are welcome to enjoy an abundance of peace and quiet if they choose to settle down in Spring Lake, New Jersey. There are around 2,700 residents living there today. The beaches of Spring Lake are absolutely breathtaking with clean sand and crashing waves. Retired folks who enjoy thoroughbred horse racing will catch wind of such races at the Monmouth Park Racetrack.
Retirees who are seeking out a slower pace of life in small towns brimming with natural beauty, tranquility, and community-oriented activities will find what they’re looking for in New Jersey. Peaceful and fulfilling retirement lives are awaiting individuals who are done with the workforce in all of these blissfully charming small towns. Thanks to all the historical significance, the delicious eateries, and the gorgeously serene natural landscapes, it’s easy enough for retirees to narrow down their final choices to one of these small towns in New Jersey.
