Retirement doesn’t mark the end of an active life anymore. If anything, people today choose early retirement so they can live all their dreams. 9 to 5 sedentary life gets replaced with early morning jogs, fishing in the lake, trailing, hiking, camping, and whatnot.
But such a perfect lifestyle needs a perfect location. A place that’s equally enjoyable and packed with things to do in all seasons. You don’t want to have a terrific summer but be locked inside your house all winter.
That’s why we have enlisted some of the best four-season towns in the USA, along with their vibes & specialties, in this article. Make sure to take a look so you know which place makes more sense for you.
Four-Season Living- The New Preference Of Active Seniors
For a very active lifestyle, four-season towns remain at the top of the priority list. That’s because such areas are full of life in every season. No harsh winters or excessively humid summers. Every season is packed with appropriate activities; for example, skiing or fall foliage during winter, golf in summer, gardening in spring, etc.
Such towns promise a more balanced life. And not to mention the year-round natural beauty and changing landscapes, which boost the mental well-being of seniors.
Apart from the “fun” part, any four-season U.S town retirees are looking to settle in must have these few facilities to ensure a comfortable life there.
- easy access to top healthcare as well as senior care facilities (if needed).
- Proximity to pharmacies, grocery stores, and parks.
- Reliable transportation system to move around (not just cars).
- Lots of clubs, cultural events, and volunteering opportunities to entertain seniors
- Tightly-knit local community.
3 Best Four‑Season U.S. Towns Seniors Love For Active Living
Here’s our top 3 four-season towns that check most of the requirements we listed above.
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Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Many assume Lake Geneva is only known for its lake path, which circles the city’s shoreline and looks spectacular during summer. But it’s equally enjoyable in all four seasons. By classic Lake Geneva, we obviously mean summer time boat rides, swimming or fishing in the lake, afternoon lakefront picnics, etc.
But the city never loses its charm during the Fall. If anything, the ponds look even prettier thanks to the colorful fallen leaves. The cool breeze makes strolling or jogging even more enjoyable.
The real fun begins in the spring when the city starts celebrating the vibrant nature with cheerful farmers’ markets, golf courses reopening, visiting Yerkes Observatory to see the spring blooms, and so on.
What Makes This City Senior-Friendly
Auroa and Mercyhealth Hospitals are within reach of local communities. Plus, there are smaller clinics scattered almost everywhere around the city. So, you wouldn’t have to worry about receiving the best healthcare. Meanwhile, the housing market in Lake Geneva is robust, with a diverse range of properties from charming cottages to luxurious lakefront estates, reflecting its popularity as a year-round destination.
The best thing about Lake Geneva is that it never forces you to be overly active. It lets you be on your own pace. If you don’t feel like hiking or biking is your thing, just go for a slow lake cruise or kayaking, play golf, do yoga, etc., the place has something for everyone.
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Asheville, North Carolina
Artistic with a laid-back mountain view. Asheville is not the first name that comes up when you talk about tourist locations. But it is home to some of the most beautiful mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, and botanical gardens. Something seniors will value.
The Blue Ridge Parkway here is more popular. You drive across lots of picnic spots with mountain views, especially when it’s the season for fall foliage. During spring, you can visit the grand Biltmore Estate, known for its wine tasting events.
The gardens, the history, and the art- the life here is the complete opposite of what you have been experiencing in big metropolitan cities like NYC.
What Makes This City Senior-Friendly
The winters are mild in Asheville. So, you can take a walk outside with your dogs without worrying about snow blizzards. One major thing people usually complain about is the lack of job opportunities here. That’s true. But considering you are retiring soon, that’s irrelevant to your decision.
The Mission Hospital here has reputed cardiology and orthopedic departments. And, to give some purpose to seniors living alone, there’s the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC Asheville. It teaches you courses on arts & history. The institute also carries out several wellness programs, keeping the 55+ demographic in mind. It’s an indicator that you will find enough support here as you age.
Fun Fact: Did you know Asheville is considered one of the most dog-friendly cities? Good news, if you have a furry friend at home.
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Bend, Oregon
If we have to say one thing about Bend, Oregon, it would be outdoorsy. Yes, it’s a very energetic and adventurous place to live. The Deschutes River Trail is ideal for afternoon walks or late-night strolls.
During winter, drive 20 miles to Mt. Bachelor for snowshoeing or skiing. For enjoying spring with your friends, there’s the Old Mill District, filled with shopping centers, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, outdoor concerts, and whatnot.
But the most underrated place would be the Drake Park & Mirror Pond. It’s a shaded park with beautiful pathways. You will spot ducks swimming in the ponds during summer. Looks like something out of a painting.
What Makes This City Senior-Friendly
There’s the Bend Senior Center offering fitness programs, dance, and social events. Additionally, St. Charles Medical Center offers primary care to its citizens. Plus, the city is very pet-friendly.
The crime rates are also lower than the country’s average. So, it’s a safe and fun place to spend your 60s in. Overall, the city is extremely colorful and full of outdoor activities to do in all seasons.
Fun Fact: Did you know Bend, Oregon, has almost 300 days of sun in a year? Yes, if you love basking under the sun after living in a cold state for years, this is the place for you.
Bottom Line
Even though a four-season town sounds amazing, retirees, especially those above the age of 55, need some basic facilities in proximity to their house to ensure a smooth life. So, places that offer both are goldmines you shouldn’t overlook. All three cities we mentioned above have dedicated communities for seniors.
If you are more into cultural or ethnic style living, Asheville is a good option. Bend, Oregon, is more about outdoor movement and a recreational hub. Lake Geneva is calm, scenic, and offers a more well-rounded lifestyle for everyone.