8 Quaint New England Towns Realtors Predict Will Soon Be Retirement Hot Spots

Across New England, small towns are drawing attention from retirees looking to have it all, including safety, affordability, walkability, and a tight-knit community. As word gets out about these in-demand areas, real estate experts predict it will be harder to make a move, which is why they are suggesting that retirees start considering some of these potential hotspots now.

Keep reading to find out what local real estate pros have to say about these up and coming areas across New England, and what you'll need to do if your plan for a stress-free retirement includes making a move to one of the towns on this list.

Nestled between Lake Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam Lake, Laconia gives retirees stunning scenery and abundant outdoor recreation. Sports fans can catch a baseball game at the Winnipesaukee Muskrats or cheer on the New Hampshire Fighting Spirit hockey team. For an afternoon of treasure hunting, explore the Laconia Antique Center, the largest antique store in the state.

With home values up 2.5% year over year, Laconia is gaining attention as a retirement destination. If this lakeside town is on your radar, it may be time to make your move.

Mystic is becoming an increasingly popular choice for retirees seeking a manageable, walkable town with excellent healthcare access. This historic seaport village offers waterfront homes, restaurants, water activities, and more, all along the Mystic River.

The median sale price is down 7.8% here, so it's likely you can get a great home at a great price before the word gets out about this retirement hotspot.

Known as the Oyster Capital of New England, Damariscotta is home to a charming downtown, vibrant year-round community, and numerous oyster growers along the river.

"This region is just north of Portland — enough so that we have a slower pace, and less busyness," says Dennis H. Hilton, REALTOR® and CEO at Cheney Insurance and Newcastle Realty. Not only that, but Hilton says seniors won't have to duke it out in a bidding war to find a home, since the housing stock in Damariscotta is in good shape.

Known as "Museum Town," North Adams is home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and the Berkshire Art Museum, giving the town a vibrant, creative energy with something always going on.

With a cost of living 25% below the state average and a median sale price around $210,000 as of February, North Adams is especially appealing to retirees on a budget. The real estate market is heating up, with average home values up 12% year over year and high demand fueling a competitive market.

Voted one of the best small towns in America, Essex is ideal for retirees seeking history, culture, walkability, and outdoor activities. Situated near the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, Essex is primed for boating, kayaking, and scenic bike rides.

Home values in Essex are around $574,000, up more than 4% year-over-year. "While property values are a bit on the high side in Essex, taxes are really quite reasonable compared to other Connecticut communities," says Joanne T. Breen, REALTOR® and Associate Broker at ERA Hart Sargis-Breen Real Estate Co.

This quiet town of fewer than 10,000 residents is perfect for those who enjoy fall foliage, with vibrant autumn colors drawing visitors from all over. Located near the White Mountain National Forest and Echo Lake State Park, Conway provides easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

Despite its small population, Conway's market is attractive for retirees. Homes for sale in February were up 25% year-over-year, signaling hope for buyers to secure a good home in Conway at a good price.

Nestled between Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay, Bristol has walkable downtown streets that are lined with boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions that celebrate the town's maritime heritage.

Retirees looking for a quick buy might be in luck. Homes are selling after around 35 days on the market at a median sale price of $515,000. With its welcoming atmosphere and convenience to healthcare and amenities, Bristol is an appealing choice for retirees seeking a peaceful yet active lifestyle.

A neighboring town to Essex, Old Saybrook is one of the nation's oldest communities. Its blend of coastal charm, history, and active lifestyle appeals to retirees. The town is pedestrian- and bike-friendly, making it easy to get around.

While property values in Old Saybrook are high, similar to neighboring Essex, taxes tend to be more reasonable. "Properties in both [Essex and Old Saybrook] fly off the market and remain in high demand," Breen says.

Retirement is an exciting new chapter. Choosing the right place to spend your golden years can make all the difference. While lifestyle and community are important, it's just as critical to consider the cost of living and tax implications.

Each state has different tax laws, and some tax Social Security and retirement income, while others offer more tax-friendly benefits. Be sure to research each state carefully before making a move so that you can avoid making foolish mistakes when it comes to your retirement savings.