These days, the Baby Boomer generation wants more from life. The career may have ended but that doesn't mean life, and the desire to enjoy it does. Let's be honest, for most retirees it's finally time to focus on themselves after a long life of caring for others. In a way, retirees are just beginning to discover who they're going to be when they grow up. If that's where you are in life, Boston neighborhoods should be at the top of your list for retirement destinations. Empty nests syndrome may have hit a few years ago, and you've probably been thinking that big house in the suburbs, close to the schools and little league fields is not really right for you these days. If you're looking to downsize to a home where you can start enjoying life, with a bit less yard work and a lot more life, consider Boston. You'll find numerous neighborhoods with great options for housing in a variety of price ranges. You'll also find the culture and amenities you expect from a city, with all four seasons, and no need for a shovel! That's right, because with excellent public transportation, high walk scores, and the level of safety of most Boston neighborhoods, this is a destination that many retirees call home. Not sure where to start looking? Consider one of the following neighborhoods, perfect for those looking for a bit less space and a lot more scope for life.
If you're looking for the energy of Back Bay, but not the price tag, consider Brookline as a retirement destination. You'll have access to Boston's amazing public transit system, specifically the Green Line, just minutes away from all that downtown has to offer. But more more than that, Brookline offers it's own kind of bustling charm, with great restaurants, galleries and shops (Coolidge Corner and Brookine Village being the two main shopping districts in the neighborhood). Whether you're looking for a night out, or a place to spend a rainy afternoon, you'll find it easily in Brookline. Walk Score for Brookline is a 79, meaning pretty much any errand can be accomplished on foot! Interestingly enough, within Brookline proper are some smaller neighborhoods with even higher walk score: Coolidge Corner at 91, and Washington Square at 83! If you're looking for community, Brookline, along with abutting Brighton, is also the cultural hub of the Jewish community of Greater Boston. Home of the 64 acre Larz Anderson Park and Auto Museum, Brookline includes other unique draws including one of the four oldest puppet theaters in the country, and Olmsted Park, a park in Boston's Emerald Necklace. From outdoor activities, to community events, to a busy cultural calendar, Brookline offers plenty of opportunities to contribute, engage, and enjoy!
If you're a foodie at heart, and want to stay connected to the culture of the city, you can't go wrong with Boston's South End. Growing in popularity with retirees, the South End is best known for shady streets lined with Victorian brownstones (over 300 acres of them), it's ethnic diversity, and SoWa with it's "Restaurant Row" where every type of food is available and wonderful! This area is also home to many young artists. The neighborhood has numerous galleries, small pubs, and a number of mom and pop groceries. In the South End, you'll immediately feel "at home" surrounded by a vibe that is friendly, familiar, and provides a true sense of community.
If you crave activity, and the hustle and bustle of the city, consider the Boston neighborhood of Back Bay. You'll have access to shopping, restaurants, public transportation, and be within walking distance of Boston's famed Hatch Shell for concerts with the Boston Pops, the Boston Public Library, Symphony Hall, and more. Back Bay is Boston's most affluent neighborhood, so expect a higher price tag for real estate, but you get what you pay for, and the Back Bay has much to offer. Copley Square at its center provides activities year-round, with live concerts, a Farmer's Market, ethnic festivals, and proximity to some of the best shopping around, including Newbury Street's boutiques and galleries. As mentioned previously, Boston has an excellent public transit system. Back Bay station's Orange Line also provides direct access to Acela service to get you to NYC in a snap. This neighborhood provides access to it all, in homes filled with luxury, history and style. When it comes to retiring, not everyone wants to move to Florida or the Southwest. Choosing the Boston neighborhood that connects with your spirit allows you to enjoy the New England you grew up with, or wish you did. Cape Cod or Maine are just a car ride away, and you'll enjoy all the excitement and energy of the city, with plenty of space to get out and explore. Let's admit it, now you've got the time and the money to live the life you've planned for. Boston provides the opportunity to settle in and explore your future.
