Safest Places to Retire in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania combines affordability, rich history, and diverse lifestyles, making it an attractive choice for retirees. The state doesn’t tax Social Security income or most retirement accounts, helping you stretch your savings. With world-class hospitals and scenic locations, Pennsylvania offers practical benefits alongside charm.

Although winters can be snowy, the scenic countryside, cultural attractions, and friendly communities ensure a fulfilling retirement. From bustling towns to peaceful rural areas, there’s a spot in Pennsylvania for everyone.

What Are the Safest Places to Retire in Pennsylvania?

Lancaster

Lancaster offers a peaceful lifestyle in the heart of Amish Country, blending historic charm with modern conveniences.

Retirees can explore the unique Amish culture by visiting local farms, shopping at markets, or enjoying a traditional buggy ride through the scenic countryside. For a truly memorable experience, attend an Amish-style dinner or check out one of the area’s popular quilt shops.

The Lancaster Central Market, one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the country, is a must-visit. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and meats to baked goods and handcrafted items. The area is also home to plenty of farm-to-table restaurants, giving you easy access to locally grown, fresh food.

or history buffs, Lancaster doesn’t disappoint. Tour Wheatland, President James Buchanan’s historic home, or visit the Ephrata Cloister, an 18th-century religious community offering a glimpse into Pennsylvania’s rich past.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Long’s Park, a favorite spot for concerts, picnics, and walking trails. The Lancaster County Central Park offers scenic spots for hikes, playgrounds for grandkids, and picnic areas. Don’t miss the Conestoga Greenway Trail, a paved path perfect for walking or biking, which connects various parks and neighborhoods throughout the county.

Lancaster’s cost of living is below both Pennsylvania and national averages. Housing costs are especially reasonable, with plenty of choices ranging from cozy homes to retirement communities.

The Red Rose Transit Authority runs a public bus system in Lancaster, but it has limited routes and schedules. Most retirees find it helpful to have a car for errands, appointments, or trips outside the city center.

Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health is a highly respected 786-bed regional health system offering:

For highly specialized care, residents can travel to Philadelphia, about 75 miles away, where hospitals like Penn Medicine and Jefferson Health offer top-tier medical services.

Weather in Lancaster:

While Lancaster experiences less extreme weather than many regions, summer thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and occasional hail. These storms sometimes lead to localized flooding or power outages, so it’s worth being prepared during the storm season.

Doylestown

Doylestown is a safe, charming town perfect for retirees.

Its downtown area has cozy streets filled with boutique shops, local cafes, and art galleries, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. If you’re into history or art, you’ll love the Mercer Museum with its fascinating collection of pre-industrial tools and the Michener Art Museum, which showcases Pennsylvania Impressionism and other American works. Don’t miss Fonthill Castle, a quirky concrete masterpiece built by Henry Chapman Mercer—it’s truly one of a kind.

For outdoor fun, Peace Valley Park is a local gem, offering scenic walking trails, picnic spots, and a peaceful lake where you can fish or boat. The nearby Delaware Canal State Park is perfect for a quiet stroll or bike ride along its scenic towpaths. Both spots give you plenty of chances to enjoy nature and stay active.

Exploration and daily tasks are pretty easy with the Bucks County Transport system, which serves the town and nearby areas. That said, it doesn’t cover everywhere, so having a car is handy for errands and appointments.

While Doylestown’s cost of living is a bit above the national average, it’s still more affordable than many other spots in the Northeast. Housing costs are higher, but there are options to suit a range of budgets, from cozy townhomes to larger properties in peaceful neighborhoods.

Doylestown Hospital is a 242-bed non-profit community hospital that provides a wide range of services, including:

Weather in Doylestown:

State College

Don’t discount this college town if you want a peaceful retirement. State College has a youthful energy that’s contagious, but it also offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for retirees.

It’s a great place to retire if you’re looking for a community with a youthful energy and a love of learning. The university brings a wealth of cultural opportunities, and there’s always something going on, from art exhibits and lectures to sporting events and concerts.

Penn State brings concerts, lectures, and art exhibits to town, so you’ll never be bored. The Palmer Museum of Art and the Center for the Performing Arts are popular spots for retirees looking for entertainment. For something a bit more relaxing, head to the Arboretum at Penn State, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy the peaceful walking trails.

If you love the outdoors, you’ll feel right at home. Mount Nittany offers hiking trails with incredible views of the valley. Nearby Rothrock State Forest has even more trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. And if water activities are your thing, Black Moshannon State Park is perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just soaking up the scenery.

The CATA bus system covers most of the area, so you can actively participate in town life.

The cost of living in State College is a little higher than average, but it’s still more affordable than many other spots in the Northeast. Whether you want to live near the lively downtown or in a quieter neighborhood, there’s something for every budget.

Mount Nittany Medical Center is a 260-bed acute care hospital with a wide range of services, like:

Weather in State College:

Bethlehem

Bethlehem is a city with character and heart, where historic charm meets modern-day convenience.

Once the hub of the steel industry, Bethlehem has transformed into a vibrant town full of art, culture, and community events, making it an inviting choice for retirees. Walk through the historic Moravian district to take in beautiful 18th-century architecture, or spend an evening at SteelStacks, where concerts and festivals bring the community together year-round.

If you love the outdoors, Bethlehem has plenty to offer. The Lehigh Canal Towpath is a peaceful spot for walking or biking, while the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor gives you miles of trails and rivers for hiking, kayaking, or birdwatching.

Bethlehem’s downtown thrives with activity, from its locally owned boutiques and cozy cafes to bustling art galleries. It’s also home to seasonal events, like the Christkindlmarkt, a festive holiday market filled with crafts, gifts, and local treats. The welcoming atmosphere and small-town feel make everyday errands or outings enjoyable.

Bethlehem strikes a good balance for retirees—it’s affordable compared to other Northeastern cities, yet it doesn’t skimp on quality of life. Housing ranges from historic townhomes to low-maintenance senior-friendly developments, so you’ll find something that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Public transportation through LANtaBus covers most areas in and around Bethlehem, but schedules can vary. A car is often the best way to get to appointments, grocery stores, or nearby parks. Streets are manageable, and parking is usually easy to find, even in the downtown area.

St. Luke’s University Health Network is a major healthcare provider in the Bethlehem area, with several hospitals and clinics throughout the region. St. Luke’s University Hospital – Bethlehem Campus is a 400-bed facility that offers a wide range of services, including:

Weather in Bethlehem:

Bethlehem’s weather is predictable, with low risks for extreme conditions like tornadoes or wildfires. Summers bring some thunderstorms, but winters are mild compared to other parts of the Northeast.

Mechanicsburg

Mechanicsburg is a quiet, friendly town with everything retirees need to live comfortably. Just outside Harrisburg, it offers the charm of small-town living with access to modern conveniences.

Mechanicsburg is surrounded by green spaces perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or a bit of adventure. Yellow Breeches Creek is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking, while Adventure Park has walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events.

Looking for a peaceful escape? The Mechanicsburg Nature Trail is a local favorite for a relaxing stroll. The nearby Appalachian Trail also offers scenic hiking for those who want a bit more adventure.

Visit Paulus Farm Market for fresh produce, baked goods, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Mechanicsburg Museum Association, which showcases the town’s rich railroad history. And don’t miss Jubilee Day, the annual summer event packed with live music, food vendors, and crafts.

The cost of living in Mechanicsburg is slightly higher than the national average but still manageable. You’ll find a mix of cozy homes in quiet neighborhoods and senior-friendly communities to fit different budgets.

Mechanicsburg has the Capital Area Transit (CAT) bus system, but many residents find having a car more convenient for errands and appointments, especially if you want to explore nearby Harrisburg or the shopping and dining on Carlisle Pike.

Living in Mechanicsburg is affordable. Housing costs are 6% lower than the national average, so you can find a nice home or a senior-friendly community. Utilities are 3% higher, and transportation costs, like gas and bus fares, are about 4% more. Even with these, living here stays budget-friendly overall.

Mechanicsburg offers excellent healthcare options. UPMC West Shore, a 166-bed facility, provides a range of services, including:

Weather in Mechanicsburg:

What Are the Best Healthcare Options for Seniors in Pennsylvania?

Which City Has the Lowest Crime Rate?

Doylestown ranks as Pennsylvania’s safest city, with a violent crime rate of 0.5 per 1,000 people and a property crime rate of 5 per 1,000 people, offering retirees unmatched security and peace of mind. State College follows closely, with a violent crime rate of 0.9 and a property crime rate of 9.9, making it a safe, lively choice. For a mix of affordability and safety, Mechanicsburg is another great option, boasting a violent crime rate of 1.1 per 1,000 people and a welcoming community.

Is Pennsylvania Senior-Friendly and Accessible?

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