By Ben Durant.

Vermont’s picturesque landscape, charming small towns, and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to retire. Among the state’s many wonderful towns, Essex and Manchester stand out as two exceptional choices for those looking to retire and age in place. Here’s a closer look at what makes these towns perfect for retirement.

Essex, Vermont

Located in Northwest Vermont in Chittenden County, just a short drive from Burlington, Essex offers a picturesque and peaceful environment. When combined, Essex and Essex Junction’s aggregate population makes it the second-largest town in Vermont, but in reality, “Essex” (Town and Junction) feels nothing like a city and everything like small-town Vermont with all the quaint charm one might expect. Location-wise, Essex is juxtaposed between Mount Mansfield and Lake Champlain.

Vibrant Community Spirit

Essex is known for its welcoming and close-knit community. Many seniors have a very active social life, either on the golf course or morning coffee at the Quality Bake Shop. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets, concerts, and festivals. These events foster a strong sense of belonging and provide plenty of opportunities for socializing. The Essex Experience, a unique shopping and dining destination, adds to the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Many seniors move here to be near family that have settled here; others may have worked for IBM in the past and couldn’t wait to get back home.

Access to Quality Healthcare

Healthcare is a top priority for retirees, and Essex excels in this area. The town is near the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, ensuring residents have access to top-notch medical care. Additionally, there are several local clinics and specialists available.

Convenient Amenities

Essex offers a variety of amenities, including grocery stores, pharmacies, excellent restaurants, wine shops, and cafes. The town’s convenient location also provides easy access to additional services in nearby Burlington. Essex has multiple public golf courses and is only 35 minutes from Smugglers’ Notch Resort, which offers world-class alpine skiing. On the other end, Essex is just a few miles from the shores of Lake Champlain and all that it has to offer.

Housing Options

Essex provides diverse housing options suitable for aging in place, from single-family homes to single-level living condominiums. Many homes are designed with accessibility in mind and feature senior-friendly amenities. Notable senior communities include Mansfield Place, which offers assisted living and memory care services, and The Residence at the Essex, which provides independent living with a full range of amenities provided by the Essex Resort & Spa. It’s truly independent living at its best. Next door, you’ll find Maple Ridge Assisted Living and Maple Ridge Memory Care; both are beautiful facilities that offer exceptionally good care.

Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, located in Southwest Vermont, lies closer to Saratoga Springs, NY, than to Essex, but it also offers a truly notable Vermont retirement experience. Manchester is an exquisite resort town that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and convenient amenities, making it an ideal place to retire.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Manchester is nestled in the Green Mountains and offers stunning landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities, particularly fly fishing and golf. It’s hard not to think of Manchester without thinking of Orvis and fly fishing. Orvis was founded in Manchester in 1856 by Charles F. Orvis, who started by crafting high-quality fly-fishing equipment. Today, Manchester is home to Orvis’s flagship store and the Orvis Rod Shop, where many of their fly rods are still handcrafted. Many sportsmen from around the world view Manchester as a mecca and flock here to attend a sporting class or to pick up a handmade rod. The Equinox Resort & Spa is a mecca in its own right for those interested in golf and was named one of the top 75 courses in the US by Golf Digest Magazine. In winter, Manchester is very close to Stratton and Bromley mountains, rounding out Manchester as a truly four-season resort town.

Access to Quality Healthcare

Manchester is well-served by healthcare facilities, including the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center and local clinics. The town’s healthcare services ensure residents have access to quality medical care.

Convenient Amenities

Manchester offers a wide range of amenities, including charming shops, cafes, and restaurants in its downtown area. The local library, community center, and senior center provide various programs and activities to keep seniors engaged and active.

Diverse Housing Options

Manchester provides a variety of housing options suitable for aging in place. Whether it’s single-family homes, condominiums, or senior living communities, retirees can find housing that meets their preferences and needs. Notable senior communities include Equinox Terrace, which offers assisted living, memory care, and respite care. The Equinox Village is another important community providing upscale independent living with a broad range of amenities.

Why Choose Essex or Manchester?

Both towns offer a blend of natural beauty, vibrant community spirit, and essential amenities that cater to retirees. Their strong healthcare systems, convenient amenities, and diverse housing options make them ideal places to age in place. The cultural and recreational opportunities available in both towns ensure that retirees can lead fulfilling and active lives.