15 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania for Empty Nesters
Pennsylvania, known for its captivating history, stunning natural beauty, and a diverse range of offerings, emerges as an ideal destination for those in the empty nest phase seeking a fresh beginning. The “Keystone State” presents a myriad of options, tailored to various tastes.
Whether one yearns for the tranquillity of a suburban ambiance or the vibrancy of a city brimming with culture, Pennsylvania has something for everyone. This guide takes a comprehensive exploration of the top 15 best places to live in Pennsylvania for empty nesters.
It offers insights to assist you in making an educated choice. Join us on this adventure as we begin at number 15 and work our way up to the ultimate selection at number 1.
15. Altoona
Nestled within Allegheny Mountains, Altoona offers a refreshing retreat for empty nesters with a love for nature and outdoor pursuits.
This is graced by the presence of the Horseshoe Curve, a historical railroad and National Historic Landmark that invites you to embark on scenic train journeys, evoking nostalgia and tranquility.
Furthermore, Altoona presents an appealing prospect with its affordable housing options and a cost of living that won’t strain your finances, making it a prudent choice for retirees.
The tight-knit community here fosters a deep sense of belonging, and you’ll find ample social opportunities through various community centres and groups. In addition, Altoona’s healthcare facilities are well-equipped, offering residents peace of mind for their health and well-being.
Altoona is great, but there’s definitely better places to live in Pennsylvania for empty nesters.
14. Erie
Perched on the southern shores of Lake Erie, this city provides a refreshing waterfront lifestyle. Empty nesters can savor the beauty of Presque Isle State Park, a serene peninsula adorned with pristine beaches and an abundance of recreational activities like biking, hiking, and bird-watching.
Erie also has a rich cultural scene, with attractions such as the Erie Art Museum and the Warner Theatre, offering opportunities for artistic engagement and a diverse array of performances.
Housing in Erie is attractively priced, with options ranging from historic homes to contemporary condos, accommodating various preferences and budgets.
Furthermore, Erie ensures access to quality healthcare with institutions like UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, delivering top-notch services to its residents.
13. Bethlehem
Next on the list of the best places to live in Pennsylvania for empty nesters is Bethlehem. Bethlehem has a rich historical history that has created a lively cultural tapestry for its citizens to explore.
The downtown area, steeped in history, showcases meticulously preserved Moravian buildings with a charming collection of boutique shops and restaurants, promising a delightful experience. For empty nesters, there are many festivals to immerse in throughout the year, including the ten-day celebration of music and arts known as “Musikfest”.
The city also caters to various recreational interests with its variety of parks and golf courses. Moreover, Bethlehem offers a wide range of housing options, from historic homes to contemporary apartments, all competitively priced.
When it comes to healthcare, Bethlehem shines with top-notch facilities like St. Luke’s University Health Network and Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg, ensuring comprehensive healthcare services for its residents.
12. Doylestown
Doylestown, Bucks County’s proud county seat, offers empty nesters a peaceful and culturally rich lifestyle.
This town has many museums, including the Mercer Museum and the Michener Art Museum, that showcase its culture and history. Its downtown has tree-lined streets and a charming selection of boutique stores and restaurants, making shopping and dining enjoyable.
Beyond these delights, Doylestown generously offers an array of recreational opportunities, with an abundance of parks and scenic trails awaiting outdoor enthusiasts.
Housing options in Doylestown span the spectrum, from historic homes to modern condos, catering to a all tastes. Doylestown Hospital stands as a bastion of healthcare excellence, ensuring the well-being of its residents.
Moreover, the town thrives with an active and closely-knit community, cultivating a warm and inviting environment that truly embraces empty nesters.
11. Lancaster
Lancaster, known for its lush agricultural scenery and the iconic Amish community, offers empty nesters a serene and grounded lifestyle. The heart of the city is graced by Central Market, the country’s oldest farmers’ market, where you can discover a vibrant array of local produce.
Downtown Lancaster has a mix of restaurants, galleries, and theaters, providing a culturally enriching experience. History enthusiasts can delve into the local past at the Lancaster History Museum.
There are lots of different types of properties in Lancaster, ranging from historic homes to modern apartments, all available at reasonable prices. Additionally, the city boasts a well-established healthcare system, with facilities like Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, ensuring the health and well-being of its residents. This makes Lancaster one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania for empty nesters.
10. West Chester
West Chester emerges as a delightful haven for empty nesters, skillfully blending historical charm with contemporary comforts. The downtown area comes alive with a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues, offering a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle. The presence of West Chester University infuses the town with youthful vitality, inviting opportunities for lifelong learning and artistic enjoyment.
Housing in West Chester caters to all tastes and budgets, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone. When it comes to healthcare, the area shines with top-notch facilities, including Chester County Hospital, ensuring residents’ health and security.
9. State College
State College, home to Penn State University, has a vibrant cultural scene with several museums, galleries, and theaters, making it a great place for empty nesters. The city has so much natural beauty, with places like the Arboretum at Penn State offering a tranquil oasis for relaxation and recreation. State College’s housing market is great, featuring various options from condos to single-family homes.
Furthermore, the healthcare system in State College is robust, with institutions like Mount Nittany Medical Center providing a wide range of services to ensure the health and well-being of its residents.
8. Greensburg
Greensburg offers empty nesters with a revitalizing living experience, boasting a vibrant cultural scene and picturesque natural surroundings. The Westmoreland Museum of American Art shines as a cultural gem, housing a splendid collection of art and hosting a variety of events throughout the year.
The city also has several parks and recreational areas, promising abundant opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Greensburg’s housing options are budget-friendly, encompassing everything from historic homes to modern apartments, accommodating lots of specific preferences and financial plans.
Additionally, the healthcare system in Greensburg is top-notch, with institutions like Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital providing comprehensive services, ensuring a safe and healthy living environment for its residents.
7. York
York, a city steeped in history, offers a vibrant tapestry of experiences for empty nesters. The historic district has beautifully preserved architecture and many appealing boutique stores and restaurants.
The York County History Center weaves a captivating narrative of the region, fostering a deep appreciation for this storied locale. With a variety of parks and recreational facilities, York encourages a healthy and active lifestyle.
Housing in York is reasonably priced, catering to a variety of tastes with options ranging from quaint historic homes to contemporary apartments. The healthcare infrastructure is robust, with well-equipped facilities like WellSpan York Hospital ensuring the health and well-being of its residents.
6. Swarthmore
Swarthmore, a charming suburb of Philadelphia, extends an inviting place for empty nesters seeking a tranquil yet engaging environment. The esteemed presence of Swarthmore College injects youthful energy and enriching educational and cultural opportunities into the town.
A must-visit, the Scott Arboretum offers a sprawling setting for leisurely strolls amidst lush gardens. Swarthmore’s housing landscape is wonderfully diverse, encompassing historic houses and modern town-homes, catering to a wide spectrum of tastes.
The healthcare system is steadfast, with a network of hospitals and clinics conveniently situated, ensuring that residents have ready access to top-notch medical services.
5. Sewickley
Sewickley, nestled alongside the Ohio River, offers a peaceful backdrop and a vibrant sense of community that’s perfect for empty nesters. The village ensures a fulfilling lifestyle with lovely tree-lined avenues and a warm downtown center decorated with a variety of stores, restaurants, and cultural events. A true community hub, the Sewickley Public Library houses a vast collection and hosts numerous events throughout the year.
Housing options in Sewickley cater to various preferences, from elegant Victorian homes to modern condominiums. The healthcare landscape is well-established, with facilities like Heritage Valley Sewickley Hospital providing excellent medical services to the community.
4. Narberth
The close-knit community of Narberth, a quaint yet lively borough on the Main Line of Philadelphia, is one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania for empty nesters desiring a simpler, more relaxed lifestyle.
The downtown area hums with activity, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that nurture a vibrant sense of community. Local gems like the Narberth Community Library and the Narberth Community Theater are beloved fixtures, hosting lots of of events and performances year-round.
Housing options in Narberth cater to a range of preferences, offering a selection of charming homes and modern apartments. The healthcare system is robust, with numerous healthcare facilities conveniently located, ensuring easy access to medical services for residents.
3. Lititz
Lititz, crowned as “America’s coolest small town” in 2013, boasts a rich history and a tight-knit community that’s an ideal fit for empty nesters. The town’s historic district is a treasure trove of splendid architecture, complemented by an array of charming boutique shops and eateries, promising a delightful and unhurried way of life.
Lititz Springs Park takes center stage as a communal gathering spot, offering scenic strolls and hosting community events all year round.
Housing options in Lititz are diverse, ranging from historic homes to modern developments, ensuring there’s something for every taste and budget. The healthcare infrastructure is solid, with well-established facilities like UPMC Lititz, providing residents with access to quality healthcare services.
2. Jenkintown
Jenkintown, a charming municipality just outside of Philadelphia, provides a tranquil yet vibrant living environment for empty nesters. The community here is close-knit, coming together for a multitude of local events held throughout the year, creating a strong sense of belonging. Jenkintown is blessed with various parks and recreational facilities, encouraging residents to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.
Housing options in Jenkintown, range from historic homes to contemporary apartments, accommodating a variety of preferences. The healthcare system in Jenkintown is excellent, with a range of healthcare facilities nearby, ensuring residents have convenient access to medical services.
1. Media
Media, a borough that genuinely embodies the spirit of community and offers a rich and fulfilling lifestyle. It is the best place to live in Pennsylvania for empty nesters.
Known as “Everybody’s Hometown,” Media lives up to its nickname by creating a warm and welcoming environment. The borough has a lively downtown area featuring an array of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, promising a vibrant and enriching lifestyle.
A standout attraction is Rose Tree Park, offering a lush green space for relaxation and recreation. Housing in Media caters to a wide array of preferences, with options ranging from beautiful homes to modern apartments.
The healthcare landscape in Media is excellent, with facilities like Riddle Hospital providing top-notch medical services to the community.
Conclusion – Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania for Empty Nesters
In conclusion, Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of charming locales perfectly suited for empty nesters seeking a vibrant and fulfilling chapter in their lives. From the timeless appeal of Lititz to the close-knit community spirit of Media, each destination on this list boasts its own unique attractions and amenities, thoughtfully catering to a variety of preferences and lifestyles.
Whether you’re enticed by the cultural richness of a town like Jenkintown or the serene ambiance of a borough like Narberth, you’re bound to uncover a place that truly resonates as “home” in the picturesque state of Pennsylvania. As you navigate your options, we trust that this guide serves as a valuable resource in assisting you in discovering the perfect locale to embrace and enjoy your golden years.
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