Overview
Less than an hour away from Baltimore in Central Maryland, Westminster is a welcoming community that offers retirees plenty of activities to enjoy. From an animated community arts center to the number of historic sites in the area, Westminster is a charming city with lots to explore. In addition, the city offers several events and festivals throughout the year.
Climate & Geography
The climate in Westminster is categorized as humid subtropical. This means the city experiences all four seasons with hot, humid summers and cool to mild winters. Residents can expect more rainfall than average, less snowfall, and approximately 204 sunny days throughout each year.
Westminster is situated on hilly land within the Piedmont Plateau region of Maryland. Copps Branch flows through Westminster.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Retirees seeking a city that offers plenty of community involvement will want to consider Westminster for retirement. The city hosts several events throughout the year, including the Wine and Beer Festival, Fallfest, and the Secret Garden Music, Arts, and Wine Festival.
Active adults with an interest in history will be thrilled by Westminster’s preservation of the city’s historic past. Built over 100 years ago, visitors can explore the historic Union Mills Homestead or take a tour at one of the buildings owned by the Historical Society of Carroll County.
The city’s destination for creativity, the Carroll Arts Center hosts a variety of musical events, art exhibits, theater productions, and films. In addition, the arts center offers classes to adults for activities like art and yoga.
Active adults looking to get outside will find that there are a number of opportunities in the area. Baugher’s is a fruit orchard in Westminster that offers seasonal picking and a year round restaurant, bakery, and fruit market. Retirees can enjoy a trail hike with wildlife views at Hashawha Environmental Center, or go fishing at Hashawha Lake.
Baltimore is under an hour away from Westminster, putting even more shopping, dining, and entertainment options within easy reach.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The overall cost of living in Westminster is above the national average, which is mainly due to the higher cost of homes and housing.
Maryland’s income tax ranges from 2 percent to 5.75 percent, and counties are allowed to levy additional tax. Social Security benefits are not taxed, however, property taxes are higher than average. Sales tax in Westminster is on the lower end of average, at 6 percent.
Health Care
Carroll Hospital, located within Westminster, is ranked the No. 7 hospital in Maryland, according to U.S. News. The hospital is rated as high performing in four procedures and conditions. Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in Baltimore, is ranked the No. 1 hospital in the state. The hospital is nationally ranked in 15 specialties, and high performing in seven procedures and conditions.