Nickname Pennsylvania’s “Dutch Country,” Lancaster County is about 46 miles wide and 43 miles long. It’s linked together with distinctive towns and villages of all sizes.
The city of Lancaster is towards the middle of its namesake county, with Ephrata being half an hour northeast. This region is known for its gently rolling farmlands, Mennonite and Amish cultures, Revolutionary War history, covered bridges, golf, theatres, and festivals. This region is fast becoming a popular area for retirement, for these reasons and others.
The tax burden for active adults in Pennsylvania is modest since Social Security and retirement account income are both exempt from taxes. Pension income for residents ages 60 and over is also exempt. The state sales tax rate is 6%, and state property tax rates range from around 0.87% to 2.45%.
Active adults who are researching Lancaster and Ephrata PA real estate will also want to know that excellent medical care is provided by Penn Medicine-Lancaster General Health. Its main hospital in Lancaster city is rated as high-performing in four adult specialties by U.S. News & World Report.
Everything else you might need to maintain your low-maintenance, highly-rewarding lifestyle is right at your fingertips in this region. They also have some affordable 55+ communities perfect for those who prefer smaller, peaceful neighborhoods.
Timber Villa – Elizabethtown, PA
Mid $200ks – Low $300ks
Situated about 10 miles from Hershey and 20 miles from Harrisburg, Elizabethtown is probably best known for its Elizabethtown College. It’s a small, private institution that also offers adult classes. Another highlight of this peaceful borough is the Conewago Trail, a five-mile park with running, cross-country skiing, and bicycling trails. It’s also just 10 minutes from the stunning Susquehanna River.
Timber Villa has 102 attached, resale homes built between 1983 and 1999. They offer one to three bedrooms, one to two-and-a-half bathrooms, and attached garages. Options include walkout basements, decks, and vaulted ceilings. A monthly homeowners’ association (HOA) fee provides for trash and snow removal, lawn care, and exterior home maintenance. Although there’s no community clubhouse, the Elizabethtown Fitness Club is just four miles away.
Heritage Strasburg – Strasburg, PA
Mid $300ks – Mid $400ks
Strasburg has a rich cultural history, an Amish flavor, and an excellent outlet shopping mall at The Shops @Rockvale. A quaint town, it has many family tourist attractions like the Sight & Sound Theatres, the Li’l Country Store & Miniature Horse Farm, and the National Toy Train Museum. It’s also great for antiquing and has several golf courses nearby.
Active adults especially enjoy living at Heritage Strasburg because they can walk right into the downtown area. Within the community, there are 106 homes sized from 1,194 to 2,209 square feet. They offer two to three bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. All come with first-floor master suites and eat-in kitchens. Larger models also have eat-in kitchens, outdoor living spaces, and great rooms.
Watson Run – Gordonville, PA
Mid $400ks – Low $500ks
Watson Run is another small active adult community and will have 178 single-family homes when complete. There are seven different models, from 1,348 to 2,471 square feet. They offer one to three bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. A private clubhouse has a cozy fireplace lounge, a catering kitchen, and other community rooms. There are also walking and biking trails and an outdoor pool on the property.
Gordonville is about a 20-mile drive from Downtown Lancaster, and it’s near County Acres Campground and the family-friendly Dutch Wonderland. The friendly town of Paradise is two minutes away, and it’s home to churches, grocery stores, and Paradise Community Park.
Stonecroft Village – Womelsdorf, PA
High $200ks – Mid $500ks
Stonecroft Village has 214 single-family homes in 14 models ranging from 1,380 to 2,495 square feet. These well-designed, one- and two-story homes have two to three bedrooms, two to two-and-a-half bathrooms, first-floor master suites, and attached garages. The modern clubhouse is a perfect gathering place for homeowners, and the grounds feature beautiful mountain views, and a scenic pond and gazebo.
Womelsdorf is 17 miles north of Ephrata, and it’s close to U.S. Route 422. This small borough is in Berks County, which borders Lancaster County to the north. Homeowners can simply take West High Street in town to do their shopping, go to church, visit the Womelsdorf Swimming Pool, or grab some fresh air at Conrad Weiser Park.
55places Has Real Estate Experts in Pennsylvania
If you’re ready to explore 55+ communities in Pennsylvania, we’re here to assist! At 55places, we’ll connect you with a local real estate expert who specializes in active adult living. From your first inquiry to the final purchase, they’ll be there every step of the way. Reach out today and let us help you find your perfect home.
