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Besides its spellbinding beauty, ease of commute (to both New York CityÌý²¹²Ô»å Philadelphia), and myriads of outdoor attractions, retiring in the Poconos is a money-wise decision because Pennsylvania does not tax retirement income, including 401(k). The Poconos, which is mostly in Pennsylvania's northeastern section and spans the three counties of Wayne, Pike, and Monroe, is also home to some outstanding medical facilities. If you are looking to retire in this year-round nature playground, the following are the six top-ranked towns in the Poconos for retirees.  

Jim Thorpe 

Known across the nation for its extraordinary architecture, Jim Thorpe also scores big on retirement appeal. Often abbreviated as JT, this Poconos charmer is filled with exciting scenes and residents. Retiring next to a beautiful downtown shopping area, one of the northeast's most intimate concert venues (The Mauch Chunk Opera House is smack in the middle of Jim Thorpe's historic district), and numerous unique outdoor spots —- could be among life's best decisions. Lehighton is just 9 minutes away by car and hosts several reputable hospitals. These include the St. Luke's Lehighton Campus, which was recognized with America's 50 Best Hospitals Award. And boasting a median age of 49, seniors will easily find similarly-aged folks with which to build a strong social support network. According to Redfin, the town's median home price stood at $$258,000 in December 2023, modestly lower than the state average of $270,500. 

Dingman Township

If you love retiring right on the water, you may be thrilled by the fact Dingman Township provides doorstep access to several glimmering lakes, many of which provide excellent boating and swimming opportunities. The town is also incredibly safe, mostly quiet and peaceful — and features lots of beautiful hiking areas and waterfalls. While the town's shopping scene often meets residents's needs for essential items, Milford, which boasts more amenities, is just 11 miles away. For health care, Saint Luke's Hospital Monroe, the recipient of several awards, including the Critical Care Excellence Award, is about half an hour's drive away. Many more hospitals are within thirty miles of town. Moreover, homes here tend to be more affordable and boast a median value of $222,700, according to Niche.com, while the community is known to be sunny-faced and helpful.

Stroudsburg

Murals and museums, inviting restaurants, and fancy boutiques stand side by side in this Pennsylvania treasure, whose eclectic downtown district is known to hold visitors in a trance-like state. Homes here fetch a median price of about $320,000 — arguably a tiny price to pay for being close to Route 80 and 33, several ski resorts, including Camelback — and numerous big-city amenities. For perspective, New York City is just about an hour and a half away. According to niche.com, seniors aged 55 and above comprise a whopping 45% of the town's population. This means you will easily fit in and not feel out of place. And for any medical condition requiring urgent attention, Saint Luke's Hospital Monroe, a recipient of several prestigious awards, is at your doorstep.

Smithfield Township

Considering what it offers, Smithfield Township could just be the best place to live in Pennsylvania's Monroe County. Expect a delightful mix of rural and suburban feel here, in environs where most residents own their homes. You will fall in love with Smithfield's zest of a small town and enjoy its deliciously charming ambiance. The Delaware River provides miles of tasty riverfront views (and action) — while the Kittatinny Mountains to the east and the Delaware Water Gap — provide a º£½ÇÉçÇø of outdoor adventures. Retiring here comes with quick access to medical care, mostly at the many hospitals in East Stroudsburg and Stroudsburg, both within smelling distance of Smithfield. The same applies to shopping needs and other desirable amenities. Smithfield also offers significant ethnic diversity, going by the fact Blacks comprise nearly 30% of the town's social demographic. Finally, homes here are relatively affordable and have a median listing price of just $225,00.

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The fact seniors aged 55 and above comprise an incredible 43% of Hawley's population (according to niche.com) — is among the many factors that speak to Hawley's retirement appeal. This town sits on the picture-perfect edge of Lake Wallenpaupack and, therefore, perfectly meets the needs of water lovers. Needless to mention, you will need a paddle board, comfortable hiking shoes, and flip-flops. While a senior will find many essentials within the town's precincts, Scranton, home to Geisinger Community Medical Center, is just 33 miles down the road. And Honesdale, home to Wayne Memorial Hospital, is just 9 miles away. Besides, Hawley boasts a median age of 46.1. Finally, expect to pay just about $360,000 for a beautiful home here, going by the town's median home value. 

Waymart

Known to be safe, incredibly friendly, and fun-filled, Waymart deservedly rounds off this list of 6 top-rated towns in the Poconos for retirement. Though the town is small and boasts a population of just about 1,300, the peace and quiet here cannot be exchanged for the º£½ÇÉçÇø. While one can find essentials in town, including some casual but classy restaurants, Scranton is just 24 miles down the road, a driving distance of less than half an hour. Plus, the median age of Waymart residents stands at 41, just where life begins — according to the much-quoted adage. According to Data USA, Waymart homes boasted a 2021 median price of just $154,600. And although there has been an uptick, the price points are still much lower than the state's average.

The Takeaway

If you are looking for a beautiful town to retire and relax, the Poconos should be on your bucket list. The chance to retire right on the water — and minutes from awe-inspiring mountain peaks — also comes with quick access to big-city amenities, including excellent medical facilities. One can hop on a bus to New York for Broadway shows, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. If looking for specific recommendations, big names such as the architecturally spellbinding Jim Thorpe will have to feature. Other top-rated towns in the Poconos to retire include Dingman Township, Stroudsburg, Smithfield, and Hawley. Just make your pick.