8 Best Places To Retire In The Adirondack Mountains
Covering more than six million acres, the Adirondack Mountains are truly a geological wonder. Discover the rugged beauty and dramatic contrasts of this area as you soak in the magic of The Empire State. Plus, with a diverse range of lifestyle options, various healthcare services, and certain tax breaks, New York is a great state to spend your golden years. From Lake Placid to Plattsburgh, explore the 8 best places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains.
Lake Placid
Home to the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid is a quaint yet fascinating village. Learn about these iconic events in the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, with its extensive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits; or try the exciting gondola Skyride Experience at the Olympic Jumping Complex. Admire the breathtaking scenery from Mirror Lake Public Beach, a lovely spot for jogging, canoeing, biking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can even see the extraordinary Fire Shows on the Fourth of July, displayed over this 128-acre lake downtown, surrounded by mountains.
Lake Placid Health Center provides Primary Care services right in town, while Adirondack Medical Center Saranac Lake, recognized by Healthgrades for the Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ in 2023 and 2024, is easily accessible. The facility has a 24/7 Emergency Care department, along with many other services. Plus, with about 1 out of every 5 residents being 65 and older, according to the US Census Bureau, you can feel comfortable calling Lake Placid home.
Saranac Lake
Speaking of Saranac Lake, there are several reasons why this stunning village is one of the best places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains. Besides its recognized hospital, Saranac has a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and various art galleries, as well as scenic hiking trails and an abundance of recreational adventures. Unravel gorgeous views of the High Peaks with a short 0.9-mile trail up Baker Mountain, or spend some time skiing, snowshoeing, or tubing at the family-friendly Mt. Pisgah Recreation Center; a wonderful place to take the grandkids when they visit.
Another popular spot is the Waterhole Music Lounge, where live music events and movie screenings take place. But besides natural beauty and entertainment, Saranac Lake is also an incredibly historical city; over 170 properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places! You will have to live here to truly discover the depth and history of Saranac Lake.
Ticonderoga
Named “the place between two waters,” Ticonderoga is a nature lover’s paradise. This quaint town is situated on the shores of Lake George and Lake Champlain, both connected by the La Chute River, flowing through the center. Enjoy picturesque riverside strolls through Bicentennial Park, a lovely place to plan a picnic, get fishing access, see eye-catching waterfalls, or admire the covered bridge in the historic downtown area.
Travel centuries back in time as you uncover American military history at Fort Ticonderoga, an 18th-century landmark with fascinating exhibitions, special events, daily programs, and scenic boat cruises. Take in the incredible views of Ticonderoga’s landscape, with Lake Champlain and the captivating cannons from atop Mount Defiance. Regarding healthcare, Elizabethtown Community Hospital has a facility in town with a 24/7 Emergency department. There, you will find other Specialty Clinics, as well as Physical Therapy, Radiology, and Laboratory services.
Saratoga Springs
If you are searching for a slightly larger city to call home, welcome to Saratoga Springs; one of the best places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains. Situated right at its foothills, you can access bigger city amenities with mother nature right at your doorstep. Between the lush gardens and countless fountains of Congress Park, and the classical architecture of Saratoga Spa State Park (a National Historic Landmark with a Historic Victoria Pool, gorgeous golf courses, and Saratoga Performing Arts Center); this is the perfect place to combine natural beauty with history and culture.
Saratoga Hospital, recognized by Healthgrades for the Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ in 2022 and 2023, as well as for Pulmonary Care, Gastrointestinal Care, and Bariatric Surgery, is in town. Several retirement homes and assisted living facilities are also available, including Summit at Saratoga. Here, several community amenities and floor plans are available, within minutes of downtown.
Schroon Lake
Set on the lake with the same name, Schroon Lake is a wonderful destination to spend your golden years. Whether you prefer tanning, fishing, and swimming in Schroon Lake Public Beach; or exploring the nearby Natural Stone Bridge & Caves with its stunning river and exquisite waterfalls, you will find many spots to soak in the scenery and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Local bistros like Sticks & Stones Wood Fired Bistro & Bar are perfect for enjoying a glass of local craft beer. Try the delicious hand-stretched Neapolitan-style pizza in a cozy ambiance, sitting by the stone fireplace.
Over 25% of the population here is 65 and older, according to the US Census Bureau in 2023. Not to mention, with a median sold home price of $297,000 USD as per realtor.com in February 2025, Schroon Lake is one of the more affordable places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains.
Glens Falls
Known for its vibrant arts scene, architectural gems, and cascading waterfalls, Glens Falls is one of the best places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains. Between the national and international exhibits of The Hyde Collection museum, the sports courts and pollinator garden of Crandall Park, and the remarkable shows of the Adirondack Theatre Festival, Glens Falls is the perfect place for all kinds of recreational opportunities in New York State.
You can feel secure calling Glens Falls your future home, knowing it was named the Safest City in the US by Rocket Mortgage in 2022. Glens Falls Hospital is ranked high performing in two procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report as of 2025, related to Heart and Pulmonology and Lung Surgery. The facility offers a wide range of services and is a member of the Albany Med Health System.
Old Forge
Located in the heart of the Adirondacks, Old Forge is a hidden gem. This small, quaint town is teeming with activities, from local craft breweries to lush trails and captivating campgrounds. Taste the refreshing hand-crafted original Adirondack beers in Fulton Chain Craft Brewery, a cozy spot with scrumptious burgers and daily specials. Rent a boat at Rivett's Old Forge Marina and venture out into the breathtaking Fulton Chain of Lakes.
The grandkids will also be extra excited to visit when they hear Enchanted Forest Water Safari, New York’s largest water park with over 50 rides and attractions, is in town. As many as 39% of residents in Old Forge are 65 and older, as per Census Reporter in 2023, but keep in mind that the margin of error (25%) is high with this statistic, according to the US Census Bureau. Make lifelong connections with like-minded neighbors through the Town of Webb’s recreational programs, including Pilates, Pickleball, Cardio, Chair Yoga, and other engaging activities are offered.
Plattsburgh
With its incredible location on the shores of Lake Champlain, plus an award-winning hospital and vibrant downtown area, Plattsburgh is one of the best places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains. Enjoy all kinds of activities from swimming to picnicking, trail walking, grilling, and kayaking at Plattsburgh City Beach, one of America’s largest freshwater beaches. You can see beautiful views of Lake Champlain and Vermont’s Green Mountains from here.
Surround yourself with history as sites like the 1797 Kent-Delord House Museum are in the city; ponder the astonishing artwork and study The War of 1812. The War of 1812 Museum will take you further into the battles that took place in Plattsburgh. Regarding healthcare, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital offers Orthopedic, Emergency, Heart Health, Cancer Care, and a wide range of other services.
With over 3,000 stunning lakes and ponds, 1,200 miles of scenic rivers, and 2,000 miles of spectacular hiking trails, the Adirondacks are truly a natural wonder. Spend your golden years in an outdoor oasis, breathing in the fresh mountain air surrounded by the natural wonders of New York State. Whether you prefer the historic treasures of Saranac Lake, the architectural gems of Saratoga Springs, or the artistic masterpieces of Glens Falls, you will be blown away by the beauty of New York State, in each of these 8 best places to retire in the Adirondack Mountains.
