Ever thought living costs could rise faster than your blood pressure during a Red Sox game?
Some Massachusetts towns specialize in just that, turning your dream retirement into a fiscal fitness test.
Let’s dive into the top spots where retirees should tread carefully, or better yet, not at all.
Table of Contents
1. Springfield, Massachusetts
Springfield, located in western Massachusetts, has a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. It’s known for being the birthplace of basketball and home to the Basketball Hall of Fame. The city also boasts beautiful parks and museums.
However, Springfield struggles with high crime rates compared to the national average. The city also experiences relatively high property taxes which can be a burden for retirees on a fixed income.
Residents face long winters with substantial snowfall that can be challenging for older adults, especially those with mobility issues.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: High crime and property taxes coupled with harsh winters make Springfield less appealing for retirement.
2. Brockton, Massachusetts
Brockton, known as the “City of Champions” due to its boxing history, offers a suburban feel with access to amenities. The city has a variety of local shops and restaurants, and is fairly close to Boston.
Despite its perks, Brockton has faced challenges with crime and public safety. The city also has a higher cost of living, which can stretch retirement budgets thin.
Public transportation options are limited, making it difficult for those who no longer drive to get around easily.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Elevated crime rates and a high cost of living make Brockton a challenging place for retirees.
3. Fall River, Massachusetts
Fall River boasts a rich history with its old mills and vibrant Portuguese community. It’s known for the Battleship Cove, the world’s largest collection of World War II naval vessels.
However, the city struggles with one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, which affects the local economy and public services. Housing is often less expensive, but the quality of available housing varies significantly.
The educational system in Fall River faces challenges, which may not directly affect retirees but impacts the overall community vibrancy and safety.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic challenges and varying housing quality place Fall River on this list.
4. Lawrence, Massachusetts
Lawrence is a city with a deep industrial history, primarily built around the textile industry. It has a diverse population and is known for its vibrant cultural festivals.
The city faces significant economic issues, with one of the highest poverty rates in Massachusetts. The crime rate is above average, which may concern potential retirees looking for a safe, peaceful place to settle.
Infrastructure in Lawrence is also in need of improvement, with many areas needing better roads and public services.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic difficulties and infrastructural decay make Lawrence less attractive for retirees.
5. Chelsea, Massachusetts
Chelsea, the smallest city in Massachusetts in terms of area, is located directly across the Mystic River from Boston. It offers great public transportation options and proximity to Boston’s resources.
Despite its location, Chelsea suffers from high living costs, particularly in terms of housing and healthcare, which can be a significant drawback for retirees.
The city has also been heavily impacted by environmental issues, including higher levels of pollution, which can affect residents’ health.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: High costs and environmental concerns make Chelsea a less desirable option for retirees.
6. New Bedford, Massachusetts
New Bedford is known for its deep roots in the whaling industry, which is celebrated at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The city has a scenic harbor and a variety of historic sites.
Despite its rich history, New Bedford has one of the higher crime rates in the region. Additionally, the city’s schools are often rated below state averages, which can impact community resources and services.
The cost of living here is reasonable, but the economic challenges and public safety concerns may deter some retirees.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Public safety issues and economic challenges make New Bedford less suitable for retirees.
7. Lynn, Massachusetts
Lynn, located near the Atlantic Ocean, offers beautiful beaches and an extensive park system. It is also known for its historical architecture and vibrant arts scene.
However, Lynn struggles with urban challenges such as congestion, pollution, and higher crime rates compared to other towns in Massachusetts. The city also experiences a relatively high cost of housing.
Accessibility issues for seniors, including inadequate public transportation for those who do not drive, can make living here difficult.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: High living costs and accessibility concerns make Lynn less appealing for retirees.
8. Holyoke, Massachusetts
Holyoke is known for its innovation during the industrial revolution, particularly for its paper industry. The city hosts a vibrant St. Patrick’s Day parade, the second-largest in the U.S.
Despite its cultural offerings, Holyoke faces economic difficulties with one of the highest poverty rates in the state. The city also deals with challenges related to crime and public safety.
The aging infrastructure and lack of modern amenities can be problematic for retirees looking for convenience and comfort.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic and infrastructural issues place Holyoke on this list.
9. Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Fitchburg lies in the heart of Massachusetts and offers a blend of urban and rural living. It has several parks and recreational areas, making it attractive for those who enjoy the outdoors.
However, the city’s economy is not as robust as some others in the state, with lower median incomes and higher unemployment rates. Public services can be inconsistent, and the city has a relatively high crime rate.
Moreover, the city’s public transportation system is not well-suited for those who rely on it, especially seniors.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic struggles and inadequate public transportation make Fitchburg less desirable for retirees.
10. Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Pittsfield, located in the picturesque Berkshires, offers a rich cultural life with its theaters and museums, like the Berkshire Museum. The area is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
Despite these attractions, Pittsfield has faced economic downturns, leading to a decreased population and fewer services. The city also has a higher than average age demographic, which could impact the availability of services for a growing retiree population.
Winters here can be harsh and long, which might be challenging for some retirees, especially those with health issues.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic challenges and harsh winters make Pittsfield a difficult choice for retirees.
11. Haverhill, Massachusetts
Haverhill, located on the New Hampshire border, offers historical charm with its well-preserved Queen Anne architecture. It’s home to several parks and recreation areas.
Despite its scenic views and historical sites, Haverhill struggles with educational and public service funding. The town also has a moderately high crime rate, which could be a concern for retirees seeking a peaceful community.
Additionally, the town is prone to heavy snowfall and harsh winters, which can pose difficulties for elderly residents.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Public service challenges and harsh weather conditions make Haverhill less suitable for retirees.
12. Malden, Massachusetts
Malden is close to Boston and offers a multicultural atmosphere with diverse dining options and community events. It also has several green spaces and parks.
However, the city suffers from high housing costs, which can be prohibitive for retirees on a fixed income. Malden also experiences traffic congestion and urban sprawl, impacting the quality of life.
Public transport is available but may not fully cater to the needs of less mobile seniors, limiting their independence and accessibility.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: High living costs and transportation issues make Malden a less appealing option for retirees.
13. Taunton, Massachusetts
Taunton, known as the “Silver City,” is famous for its rich history in silver smithing. The city features a number of historic sites and a laid-back, suburban environment.
Despite its historic charm, Taunton has higher property taxes and a cost of living that might stretch retiree budgets. The city also has issues with public safety, with crime rates being a particular concern.
The healthcare facilities in Taunton are adequate but may not meet the needs of a growing elderly population looking for specialized care.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: High living costs and safety concerns place Taunton on this list.
14. Revere, Massachusetts
Revere is best known for its public beach, the oldest in the United States. The city offers easy access to Boston and a variety of local amenities.
However, Revere faces challenges like noise and air pollution, particularly due to its proximity to the airport. The city also struggles with crowded living conditions and a high cost of living.
While public transportation is accessible, the overall environment may not provide the peaceful retirement setting many desire.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Environmental pollution and high living costs make Revere less desirable for retirees.
15. Chicopee, Massachusetts
Chicopee is known for its diverse industrial history and is home to several large parks. The city provides a range of community services and has a relatively lower cost of living compared to other Massachusetts towns.
However, Chicopee experiences some economic stagnation which affects local investment and community services. The city also has a noticeable crime rate that could be off-putting for retirees looking for safety.
The public transportation system is limited, making it difficult for those who do not drive to navigate the city effectively.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic challenges and limited public transport options place Chicopee on this list.
16. Lowell, Massachusetts
Lowell boasts a significant historical background with its national historical park and a thriving arts scene. The city is rich in cultural diversity and offers various festivals and events throughout the year.
Despite its vibrant community, Lowell has higher than average unemployment rates and some areas with dense population leading to higher crime rates. Property taxes here are also on the higher end.
Additionally, the city’s infrastructure, particularly in older neighborhoods, is in need of updating, which can affect everyday comfort and accessibility for retirees.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Economic and infrastructural issues make Lowell less appealing for retirees.
17. Attleboro, Massachusetts
Attleboro, often recognized for its jewelry manufacturing industry, offers several parks and a small-town feel despite being close to major cities like Providence and Boston.
The city, however, is grappling with rising living costs, particularly in healthcare and housing, which can be burdensome for retirees on fixed incomes.
While Attleboro has a variety of community resources, the services available to seniors, such as public transportation and healthcare, may not be as comprehensive as needed.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Increasing living costs and inadequate senior services make Attleboro challenging for retirees.
18. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem is renowned for its historical significance, particularly the 1692 witch trials, and attracts tourists year-round with its museums and cultural events.
While Salem’s vibrant tourism industry boosts the local economy, it can also make the city crowded and expensive, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The influx of visitors can lead to congestion and a noisier environment, which might be unappealing for retirees seeking peace and quiet.
The cost of living in Salem is also significantly higher than in many other parts of the state, particularly in terms of housing and recreational activities.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Tourist congestion and high living costs make Salem less optimal for retirees.
19. Marlborough, Massachusetts
Marlborough is an industrial city with a strong business community and good job opportunities. It offers numerous parks and recreational facilities.
However, the city’s industrial nature can lead to higher levels of pollution. Marlborough also suffers from a lack of affordable housing, which can be a major issue for retirees on a budget.
Furthermore, the city does not have a robust public transportation system, which limits mobility for those who cannot drive.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Pollution and a lack of affordable housing and public transport options place Marlborough on this list.
20. Framingham, Massachusetts
Framingham offers a mix of urban and suburban living with a variety of shopping and dining options, as well as access to healthcare services.
However, Framingham faces challenges such as traffic congestion and high property taxes. The city also has areas with significant noise due to major highways and urban density, which can detract from the peaceful environment retirees might prefer.
The demographic shift towards a younger population can also mean fewer community services targeted to seniors, affecting their lifestyle and social options.
Why it’s not ideal for retirees: Urban noise and high costs make Framingham a less attractive place for retirement.