There are many things that make Connecticut the perfect place to retire. In this state, we enjoy sunny summers, vibrant autumns, and snowy winters. We live surrounded by historic buildings, urban convenience, and rural beauty. We’re one of the oldest states in the nation. Our landscape is varied, including coastal beaches, lush forests, green pastures, and extensive cityscapes.
We are a state of culture and learning, full of institutions of higher education and museums. In our state, you can watch the sunrise over the ocean, spend the day at the beach during the summer, eat delicious seafood and then do it all over again the next day. There’s a lot to love here. If you’re looking for the perfect community for your retirement in Connecticut, we’ve got ideas for you. Here’s what we suggest.
New Milford
New Milford is fairly small. With a population of only 27,000, New Milford is just large enough that most people would not refer to it as a “little town.” It’s a big draw for seniors, who make up approximately 15% of the population.
There’s a lot to do in this quiet community. Residents of New Milford enjoy access to recreational activities such as fishing, rafting, canoeing, and kayaking. The town is home to Lovers Leap State Park, Candlewood Valley Country Club, Bad Dream Brewing, and New Milford TheatreWorks.
Despite its small size, New Milford has a full-service hospital including an emergency and urgent care department, cancer center, orthopedic and spine care center, and primary care facilities. For residents who need additional services, New Milford is within easy driving distance of urban centers like Bridgeport, New York City, and New Haven.
New Haven
New Haven is the third-largest city in Connecticut, home to over 130,000 people – nearly 14% of whom are seniors. As a thriving urban community, New Haven has all the convenience of a big city – including good healthcare and an extensive public transportation system. New Haven is home to many restaurants, bars, and places for dancing. And, if you’re a theater-goer, you’ll enjoy seeing the productions at Yale Repertory Theater, Long Warf Theater, or the Shubert Theater.
New Haven is also home to several well-respected healthcare networks and medical facilities including Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven Medical Center, Yale Medical Center, and Cornell Scott Hill Health Center.
Danbury
With an overall population of 85,000 (including 14% who are seniors), Danbury is smaller than New Haven, but still large enough that most seniors will be able to find the services they need within their community. For some seniors, one of the most attractive features about Danbury is its municipal golf course, known to be one of the top public golf courses in the nation. Residents who tire of the experience at the Danbury golf course are also within easy driving distance of Bloomfield, where another premium golf course is available.
Danbury is also situated at Candlewood Lake, where residents can enjoy boating, fishing, water sports, kayaking, and canoeing. Candlewood Lake is a major tourist attraction in Connecticut, so there are many businesses in Danbury that cater to tourists. The town is full of good restaurants, parks, and little shops. One more thing that makes Danbury an attractive place to live: just over an hour away from New York City.
Madison
Madison is a small place for sure – its population is only 18,000 people – but 24% of the people who live there are seniors. Located on Long Island Sound, Madison is home to Hammonasset Beach State Park, where visitors enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities.
Madison has an Amtrak Station that can take you to New York via New Haven, so you don’t have to feel cut off, even if you don’t drive. As a senior living in Madison, you’ll also have access to the Madison Senior Center, Madison Art Cinema, RJ Julia Booksellers, The Sculpture Mile, and more.
Stonington
Stonington is one of the best Connecticut beach towns. The overall population of Stonington is 18,600, but nearly a quarter of the people who live there are seniors. This seaside village is a big draw for tourists from within the state. With two wineries in town and several breweries in the area as well, Stonington is a community that attracts people who enjoy some of the finer things in life.
Stonington is also home to a couple of museums, art studios, and a weekly farmers market. For people who enjoy a little poker from time to time, Stonington is located close to Foxwoods Casino.
Retiring in Connecticut? Make Aging in Place Changes to Your Home
Is Connecticut a good state to retire in? You bet! There are many quaint towns in CT where people retire happily. Whether you move to one of the Connecticut coastal towns or somewhere inland, it’s important to make your house safe for seniors. Once you’ve purchased a house, hire a contractor to make age-in-place updates, if they’re needed.
That might involve moving your owner’s suite to the first floor for easy access, or remodeling your whole house to ensure that your hallways are wide enough and your floors are non-slip. Work with a contractor with the skills to make your changes safely, and a good reputation for performing quality work.
At Fine Home Contracting, we help homeowners in Connecticut make their house their forever home. To find out more about how you can make your home a comfortable place to live in retirement, contact us for a free consultation.
About the Author: David Perrotti
