The Best Small Towns To Retire In Illinois
Retirement is an exciting new chapter in your life. You may be looking to downsize, reduce costs, or enjoy a peaceful lifestyle. Whatever the reason, you may be thinking of relocating to a small town that offers all the things you desire. These best small towns in the state of Illinois are ideal for retirees. Whether it is affordability or access to amenities and services, each of these charming towns provides its own unique combination of features designed with senior living needs in mind.
Galena
Galena is a small town nestled in the northwest corner of the state and located on the banks of the Mississippi River. With its rolling hills, quaint shops, historic buildings, and friendly people, Galena is an ideal destination for retirees looking to slow down and enjoy life.
It boasts a vibrant art and music scene with galleries, theaters, and an annual outdoor festival. Retirees can enjoy the Galena Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce and local artisanal products every second Wednesday of the month. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Apple River Canyon State Park or discover one of the many wineries in Jo Daviess County. The town also boasts excellent public schools and healthcare facilities that provide quality care to its residents. For those who love small-town charm without sacrificing modern amenities, Galena is an ideal retirement destination.
Arcola
Located just south of Champaign-Urbana, this charming town offers a safe and friendly atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. From its historic downtown area to its expansive nature trails and parks, Arcola is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retirement. For starters, Arcola offers some of the most affordable housing in Illinois. Retirees can find beautiful homes at reasonable prices that are perfect for settling into a comfortable retirement lifestyle. In addition to low-cost housing options, Arcola also boasts a variety of amenities, such as shopping centers, restaurants, and a wide variety of recreational activities.
In Arcola, there is no shortage of things to do outdoors. Hiking and camping at the nearby Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a popular activity. The town also boasts its own golf course, Kaskaskia Country Club, a lake for fishing and swimming, as well as several parks perfect for walking or simply relaxing in nature's beauty.
Murphysboro
Located in Jackson County, Murphysboro offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with small-town charm, all while still being close enough to larger cities for additional amenities. The city is home to approximately 7,000 residents, making it one of the smaller towns in the area. Murphysboro is nestled between hills and farmland along the banks of the Big Muddy River and gives retirees access to an array of outdoor activities, such as Lake Murphysboro State Park, which features miles of nature trails for hikers and bikers alike.
For those seeking a more urban experience, Murphysboro is only a short drive away from larger cities like Carbondale and Marion. Residents can access big city amenities while still living in the serenity of small-town life. For those seeking medical care, there are two hospitals located within 10 miles of Murphysboro: Memorial Hospital and Heartland Regional Medical Center. Both hospitals have a full staff of professionals offering a variety of medical services.
Paxton
Situated in Ford County, the town of Paxton has a population of approximately 4,400 people. It has a charming downtown area with an array of shops and restaurants, and its location provides easy access to nearby cities such as Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, Champaign-Urbana, Springfield, and Decatur.
Retirees living in Paxton can enjoy scenic views of farmland from their homes or take advantage of outdoor activities at nearby parks like Allerton Park. The city also offers many cultural attractions each summer that include music, food vendors, and parades. Retirement-aged residents can find plenty of housing options ranging from affordable single-family homes to luxury condos and retirement communities with amenities.
Petersburg
Petersburg is a small town located in the heart of Menard County, not far from Springfield. With a population of just over 2,000 people, it is an ideal location for those looking to retire in a peaceful and secluded area. This charming town offers something for everyone, from beautiful parks and outdoor activities to great restaurants and shops.
For retirees who enjoy the outdoors, Petersburg provides plenty of opportunities for recreation. The city has public parks offering picnic tables, playgrounds, pavilions, and walking paths. In addition, the nearby Sangchris Lake State Park boasts acres of nature trails perfect for biking or hiking. When it comes to food, Petersburg offers enough variety to keep everyone happy. From Italian and Mexican eateries to barbeque and burgers, there are plenty of local restaurants that offer something for everyone.
Olney
Olney is a small town located in the southeastern region of the state. It is the perfect spot for those looking to retire in a peaceful and friendly atmosphere. This quaint town offers plenty of activities for retirees who want to stay active. There are multiple golf courses, such as the Richland Country Club, numerous walking paths, and several parks that offer scenic views of nature. Olney also has a vibrant cultural atmosphere with a variety of museums, galleries, libraries, and theaters available to visitors and residents alike.
The social atmosphere in Olney is friendly and inviting, with a variety of clubs and events available for residents. From weekly bingo games at the local senior center to monthly book club meetings, retirees will find plenty of ways to stay connected with their neighbors. There are also several churches throughout town that provide spiritual guidance for locals who wish to participate in worship services.
Salem
Salem is another great option for retirees who want to enjoy small-town living in southern Illinois. Located in the heart of southern Illinois, Salem offers a tranquil lifestyle and a rich history to explore. With a population of just under 8,000 people, Salem boasts all the amenities and services one may need during retirement without being overwhelming or overcrowded.
The community has plenty to offer; walking trails, golf courses, parks, fishing ponds, and tennis courts can provide hours of recreational activities. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are several museums dedicated to local history and culture, such as the Salem Area History Museum, as well as shopping centers with interesting boutiques. Additionally, Salem's close proximity to St Louis provides easy access to big city attractions such as the zoo, botanical gardens, and professional sports games.
No matter what kind of retirement lifestyle you are looking for, there is an ideal spot in Illinois for you to call home. From Galena to Salem, these welcoming communities are just a few of the many incredible places to consider for your retirement journey. With each one offering something different yet equally appealing, take time to explore these gems in the Prairie State.
