The Maritimes's 6 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
The Canadian Maritimes region is well-known for its rich history, stunning coastal scenery, as well as its laid-back lifestyle. Consisting of the Atlantic provinces of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick, The Maritimes display a distinct cultural identity to the rest of Canada, one that has been shaped by centuries of seafaring tradition and Acadian heritage. Little wonder, then, that retirees seeking a strong sense of community spirit find these provinces so appealing. The best of these small towns also boast affordability, safety, and things to do to keep busy. From volunteer initiatives and charming local events to first-rate healthcare facilities, this beautiful region definitely provides the essentials needed for a fulfilling retirement.
Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Located in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, Wolfville is home to Acadia University, one of the oldest and most respected liberal arts institutions in Canada. As a result, fun activities are plentiful here, with highlights including October’s Devour! The Food Film Fest and the year-round Wolfville Farmers’ Market. Scenic spots to visit include the Gaspereau River Valley and Grand-Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage destination dedicated to the region’s Acadian roots.
Healthcare access is good in Wolfville, which is served by the nearby Valley Regional Hospital in Kentville just 15 minutes away. It provides comprehensive diagnostic services as well as specialists versed in the kind of care needed by older adults. The town’s Wolfville Nursing Homes and local senior centers like Wickwire Place cater to ongoing care and social engagement, while those looking for independent living can expect to pay around $500,000 for a quality detached home. As with most Canadian small towns, crime rates are well below the national average.
Summerside, Prince Edward Island
Despite being Prince Edward Island’s second-largest city, Summerside has managed to retain its small town charm. Its lovely waterfront is dotted with attractions such as Spinnakers’ Landing, a colorful boardwalk market offering fresh seafood, handcrafted goods, and live entertainment. Cultural activities are plentiful here, from performances at the Harbourfront Theatre to exhibits at the Wyatt Heritage Properties, which celebrates local history and hosts a summer concert series.
The College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts Centre is another must-visit and regularly hosts concerts and workshops that demonstrate the region’s proud Scottish heritage. July’s Summerside Lobster Carnival is another must-attend for its lobster-eating contests and pays tribute to a creature that has long been a staple for local fisher folk.
When it comes to practicalities, Summerside caters to older adults with facilities like Prince County Hospital (comprehensive healthcare services) and Summerset Manor (long-term care). Prefer a home of your own? Prospective homeowners can find properties for sale as low as $224,000, considered competitive for the region. Crime rates are relatively low, with law enforcement initiatives led by the Summerside Police Department focusing on community policing initiatives.
Shediac, New Brunswick
Dubbed the “Lobster Capital of the World,” Shediac is well-known for its seafood culture and beaches. Located along the Northumberland Strait, Parlee Beach Provincial Park is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as for strolls in the quieter seasons. The Giant Lobster monument on Main Street provides a quirky photo op, and local dining favorites include Chez Leo, a staple since the 1960s and still popular for its fried clams. If you like seafood and want to check out the town before making a move, shoot for the Shediac Lobster Festival in July.
As for healthcare, the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre is just 20 minutes away in nearby Moncton. Serving Shediac, it offers extensive medical services and specialist care. Local senior living options include Résidence O Bon Soins, which provides assisted care in a bilingual environment. With detached dwellings listed for an average of $450,000, there’s a wide range of prices to suit most budgets.
Antigonish, Nova Scotia
Antigonish sits in northeastern Nova Scotia and is a popular choice for retirees for its community spirit. Anchoring the town’s identity is St. Francis Xavier University, a public school that regularly hosts lectures and sporting events. Retirees here love to wander the university grounds as well as the historic downtown core. Popular gathering spots include The People’s Place Library for its readings and workshops.
Prefer the outdoors? A day trip to Keppoch Mountain is always fun and features gentle wooded trails that are ideal for leisure walks in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. Every July, the famous Antigonish Highland Games features traditional Scottish music, dancing, and sports competitions.
Healthcare needs in Antigonish are met by St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, which offers emergency care, specialized clinics, and rehabilitation services. Seniors also benefit from facilities like the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home, which emphasizes a comfortable living environment with plenty of social interaction. Prefer a place of your own? Real estate prices average around $380,000, enabling budget-conscious retirees to find suitable homes without sacrificing quality of life. Crime rates in Antigonish are lower than larger urban centers in the region, giving retirees plenty peace of mind.
Stratford, Prince Edward Island
Located just across the Hillsborough River from PEI’s capital of Charlottetown, Stratford is an ideal choice for retirement living. Though close to the capital, it has maintained the kind of a quiet residential appeal that retirees enjoy. The picturesque town center is a hub for community events including seasonal farmers’ markets, holiday-themed gatherings, or simply shopping. Enjoy hanging out? Grab a coffee or meal and gab with friends at eateries like Phinley’s Restaurant. Green spaces like Tea Hill Park offer relaxing waterfront views and beach access and are ideal for activities like fishing, walking, and swimming.
Not only does Stratford’s proximity to Charlottetown open up countless more opportunities for fun things to do (check out the Confederation Centre of the Arts), it also means access to top-notch healthcare is never an issue. Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown provides emergency treatment and specialized care, while long-term facilities like Andrews of Stratford cater specifically to seniors, whether seeking independent living or assisted support. The real estate market presents a variety of properties, including condos, semi-detached, and detached homes in welcoming neighborhoods, all of them blessed with low crime rates.
Miramichi, New Brunswick
Formed through the amalgamation of several communities along the Miramichi River in New Brunswick, Miramichi is known for its shipbuilding heritage and outdoor recreation. Retirees who appreciate riverfront living enjoy summer activities, including cruises aboard the Max Aitken riverboat or fishing for Atlantic salmon. History buffs can explore the Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Site to see remnants of 19th-century industry or visit Middle Island Irish Historical Park, which commemorates Irish immigration to the region. The Miramichi Heritage Museum is also worth a visit.
There’s no need to fret about healthcare here, either. Miramichi Regional Hospital is the principal healthcare provider in the region, offering a range of specialized services and a 24-hour emergency department. For seniors requiring ongoing support, facilities such as Mount Saint Joseph Nursing Home ensure access to round-the-clock care. Recent housing data shows the median home price to be approximately $200,000, reflecting a cost-effective option compared to other communities in The Maritimes.
The Bottom Line
If you’re fortunate enough to be able to retire to the Maritimes, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes time to figure out where to lay your hat. Each of these six towns balances everything needed for a safe and sound retirement, from affordability to safety, as well as fun things to do. Whatever your ideal retirement might look like, these six retirement towns in The Maritimes won’t disappoint.
