Thinking about retiring? World Atlas lists these 8 New England towns as 'perfect'

Katie Landeck, USA TODAY NETWORK - New England
·4 min read

Starting to think about retiring?

World Atlas, a website specializing in geography-related resources and entertainment, has curated a list of the top eight towns in New England to retire to.

And while the idea of retiring in New England might have you skeptically thinking about shoveling snow and taxes, consider this: "New England states are often ranked among the best in the nation for healthcare access, safety, and quality of life. And .... they boast some of the best amenities of any region in the United States," World Atlas wrote.

Factors World Atlas looked at when creating their unranked list included affordability, crime rates and proximity to amenities.

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Lincoln, Rhode Island

Median Home Listing price in March 2024: $379,000

What World Atlas likes about it: The proximity to a Providence was a plus, including being close to the award winning Miriam Hospital. The also loved the "attractive neighborhoods" and the local green spaces including Lincoln Woods State Park and the Blackstone River.

Auburn, Massachusetts

The Merriam Library, right, opened in 1911 next to Town Hall. The garage that can be glimpsed behind the building housed the town hearse.
The Merriam Library, right, opened in 1911 next to Town Hall. The garage that can be glimpsed behind the building housed the town hearse.

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $410,000

What World Atlas likes about it: Calling Auburn "the essence of a small American town," World Atlas was enthusiastic about the green spaces including Lake Auburn, Dr. Arthur and Dr. Martha Pappas Recreation Complex, and Dark Brook. They also liked the number of family-owned restaurants, and the town's proximity to Worcester, the second largest city in New England, and Saint Vincent Hospital.

New London, Connecticut

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $252,500

What World Atlas likes about it: The diversity of New London's population was a draw to the region as was the history of the town. It's home to Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum, and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, the site of the largest Revolutionary War battle in Connecticut. Other attractions are the sandy beach at Ocean Beach Park, The Garde Arts Center, the dog-friendly Harkness Memorial State Park, and the award-winning Lawrence and Memorial Hospital.

Keene, New Hampshire

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $375,000

What World Atlas likes about it: If you're looking to enjoy the outdoors, the Asuelet Rivers flows right through town and the Robin Hood Park offers plenty of walking paths to get your steps in. If you pictured yourself continuing your education, Keene State College offers courses for seniors.

Yarmouth, Maine

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $749,000

What World Atlas likes about it: Besides being located in the state most consistently ranked as the safest in the country, this town has plenty of amenities that World Atlas liked. The Royal River, and nearby park, add ambiance to the town, and there is the Twin Brook Recreation Area that is perfect for walking a dog. And if you find yourself needing a joint replacement, Maine Medical Center, a 2024 recipient of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Outpatient Joint Replacement Award is located in nearby Portland, just a 15 minute drive away.

Camden, Maine

The Curtis Island Lighthouse is an easy trip to make from Camden, Maine. It is a short walk from street parking to see it from the shore.
The Curtis Island Lighthouse is an easy trip to make from Camden, Maine. It is a short walk from street parking to see it from the shore.

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $742,500

What World Atlas likes about it: "A quaint downtown area, one of the coolest libraries in the state, and the blue waters of the world’s second-largest ocean — are features that will pique the interest of any retiree," World Atlas said about this town. "You have the Mt. Battie Trailhead as well, which offers spectacular views — even if a bit more exerting."

In addition, they recommended checking out Curtis Island Lighthouse, Megunticook Falls (located in the center of town) and Camden Amphitheater. Nearby, Rockport, is home to the Pen Bay Medical Center.

Northampton, Massachusetts

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $550,000

What World Atlas likes about it: Not just a college town, Northampton is nestled on the edge of the Berkshires with the outdoor activities to match.

"Retiring here, therefore, comes with being close to several pristine lakes for swimming, lush vineyards for wine tasting, and a rich menu of other natural attractions. Mount Holyoke Range State Park, for instance, besides overwhelming the senses, boasts 30 miles of hiking trails," World Atlas wrote. "Then there is the Connecticut River, the longest river in New England. Elwell State Park, which is bounded by the river on every side, is a nice spot to fish, bike, or chat with a friend."

Phippsburg, Maine

Median Home Listing Price in March 2024: $487,568

What World Atlas likes about it: If you want to retire somewhere a little bit secluded, consider Phippsburg. The small town has a population of just 2,000 people, with the Kennebec River, Center Pond and and the Cooley Center Pond Preserve. But if you find yourself in need of a little more, Mid Coast Hospital is just 10 minutes away in Brunswick and Portland is only about a 40-minute drive away.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: World Atlas names New England's best towns to retire in. See the list