The safest places to retire in Massachusetts, like Newton, Amherst, and Lexington, offer low crime rates, excellent healthcare, and lively, welcoming communities. Retirees in Massachusetts enjoy access to top healthcare facilities, vibrant arts and culture, and a range of outdoor activities.
The state’s four-season climate provides variety—cooler than the South but milder than northern New England. Extreme weather events are rare, but their frequency and intensity have been increasing over the decades. Massachusetts ranks 9th for flood risk and 10th for storm risk, with moderate ratings for other extreme weather risks.
While living costs can be higher in some parts, Massachusetts balances safety, culture, and strong senior services, making it a great choice for retirement.
What Are the Safest Places to Retire in Massachusetts?
Newton
- Violent Crime Rate: 0.8 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 10.1 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with cold winters and occasional snowstorms
Newton offers a safe, suburban atmosphere with quick access to Boston’s urban perks.
Newton-Wellesley Hospital provides specialized care, including joint replacement, cardiology, and comprehensive rehab services.
Summers reach the 80s°F, ideal for outdoor activities, while winters dip to the 20s°F with typical snowstorms. Unlike more coastal areas like Cambridge, Newton has a lower risk of flooding but shares the common New England winter challenges.
Amherst
- Violent Crime Rate: 0.7 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 9.8 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Low to moderate, with snowy winters and mild summers
Amherst’s college-town feel creates a lively, engaging community.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital covers a wide range of care that seniors need now and down the road. Seniors get access to specialized cardiology, thorough geriatric care, and physical therapy programs to stay mobile and recover faster. The hospital also offers oncology services, surgery, diagnostic imaging, and outpatient rehab. From regular check-ups to more advanced treatments and wellness programs, Cooley Dickinson is there to support seniors in keeping their health on track for the long haul.
Amherst enjoys summers in the comfortable 70s°F, and winters drop to the 20s°F with frequent snowfall. The inland location reduces exposure to coastal storms, but the town does face severe weather, including heavy snow, flooding in residential areas from natural waterways, and strong winds. Amherst’s closeness to the Claredon-Lindon fault also poses an earthquake risk, and severe weather can cause power outages.
Lexington
- Violent Crime Rate: 0.6 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 8.5 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with cold winters and potential for snow
Lexington provides retirees with a mix of history and modern amenities.
Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington provides top-notch care and draws patients from around the world for its specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, orthopedic treatment, liver and kidney transplants, and neurosurgery. Recognized among the top 50 U.S. hospitals for heart care and home to the leading live-donor liver transplant program, Lahey offers seniors access to award-winning medical services.
Summers in Lexington are warm, hitting the 80s°F—great for walks in the park or community events. Winters average in the 20s°F with regular snowfall, giving that classic New England feel. Residents enjoy clear, crisp days mixed with snowy afternoons perfect for cozying up indoors. While Lexington doesn’t get the harsh coastal storms some Massachusetts towns face, winter can still bring heavy snow and cold winds. The changing seasons add a nice touch, offering warm, activity-filled summers and cozy, snowy winters that many retirees love.
Cambridge
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.1 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 15.2 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with occasional flooding and winter storms
Cambridge offers city life surrounded by classic architecture, with brick buildings, ivy-covered facades, and cobblestone streets. The community is vibrant, filled with students, artists, and longtime residents who enjoy local events, cozy cafes, and farmers’ markets.
Mount Auburn Hospital gives seniors quality care with geriatric services, cardiac care, and rehab programs. It’s rated highly for several adult procedures, offering reliable treatment options for different health needs. As a teaching hospital, it stays up-to-date with the latest medical practices. Seniors can count on everything from routine check-ups to specialized heart care and recovery support right in their community.
In Cambridge, summers can get up to the 80s°F, and winters drop to the 30s°F, often bringing snowstorms. The city has a high chance of heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding—42% of buildings are at risk, especially near the Charles River. Summers come with high heat risk, and droughts happen pretty often too.
Northampton
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.0 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 12.1 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Low, with cold winters and mild summers
Northampton has a creative, small-town vibe. Your neighbors might be artists, musicians, or educators, making the community welcoming and diverse. Downtown is full of local boutiques, bookstores, and coffee shops filled with friendly conversation. Farmers’ markets, art galleries, and street performances add to the lively, connected feel.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital offers cardiology, surgery, and physical therapy as part of the Mass General Brigham network.
Summers in Northampton are nice and comfortable, hanging around the 70s°F—great for enjoying local events. Winters, though, drop to the 20s°F and bring plenty of snow. Seniors should be ready for the occasional winter storm and icy streets, which can make getting around trickier. While extreme weather isn’t too common, snow and ice can still be a hassle in the colder months.
What Are the Best Healthcare Facilities in Massachusetts for Seniors?
- Newton: Newton-Wellesley Hospital offers joint replacement, cardiology, and rehabilitation.
- Amherst: Cooley Dickinson Hospital supports seniors with cardiology, geriatric care, and physical therapy.
- Lexington: Lahey Hospital & Medical Center provides advanced cardiac care and orthopedic services.
- Cambridge: Mount Auburn Hospital specializes in geriatric care, outpatient rehab, and cardiac services.
- Northampton: Cooley Dickinson Hospital offers cardiology and physical therapy as part of the Mass General Brigham network.
Is Massachusetts Senior-Friendly and Accessible?
Massachusetts offers senior-friendly living, with many towns recognized by AARP for their age-friendly initiatives. The state joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, showing its commitment to enhancing life for older residents. An action plan focuses on improving housing, transportation, social participation, and health services to create livable environments for all ages.
Many towns and cities feature walkable downtowns and a range of housing options that suit seniors. The MBTA offers accessible public transportation, complete with ramps, lifts, and priority seating, while many areas also provide paratransit services.
Housing costs can be high, especially in the Boston area, which poses challenges for seniors on fixed incomes. Massachusetts winters bring harsh weather, making it harder for some older adults to get around and stay active. But the strong healthcare system and vibrant community programs still make the state appealing for retirement despite these challenges.
What City Has the Lowest Crime Rate?
Wayland boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Massachusetts, with a violent crime rate of just 0.1 per 1,000 people and a property crime rate of 0 per 1,000 people.
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