A Guide to 55+ Active Living Communities in Wisconsin

 

Plan Your Retirement in America’s Dairyland

Wisconsin is a fantastic location for active older adults looking for a place to indulge in their passions year-round. Lake sports are king in Wisconsin, although the first day of deer hunting season is considered an unofficial holiday. No matter the season, there’s plenty of opportunity to partake in your favorite activities. 

From the state’s six federally recognized Native American tribes to communities of first-generation immigrants, many cultures call Wisconsin home. Big cities like Madison and Milwaukee tend to have the most ethnic and religious diversity in the state. Wisconsin welcomes immigrants from all over the world. The state’s population is growing due to a steady influx of semi-skilled residents looking for a place to find work and raise their families. 

Food and beverage define Wisconsin. From wineries and breweries to Old Country sausages and cheeses, the options are endless. The most important meal to any resident is the “Friday Night Fish Fry.” In every town, on Friday night, Wisconsinites feast on freshly caught local fish and the farm's fresh fried potatoes.

Many 55+ adults love Wisconsin for its attractions, quality of life, and friendly residents. Housing is budget-friendly in active adult communities. Master-planned communities that cater to 55+ residents offer residents a low-maintenance resort lifestyle at a modest price. 

 

55+ Friendly Regions in Wisconsin

Are you looking for the best places to live in Wisconsin as a retiree? Various regions throughout the state have 55+ communities near the forests, lakes, and rivers, giving Wisconsin its natural appeal.

North Central

North Central Wisconsin is best known for its dairy, potato, and cranberry farms. Forests and lakes surround the rural farms. Hiking and mountain biking in the summer are favorite ways to travel the various wind paths from one town to the next. In the winter, the snowmobile is the most popular transportation to your favorite ice fishing spot or Fish Fry.

Wausau is the region’s center, with a population of around 40,000. The Hmong American community is large and active in the region. Many of the first-generation immigrants have chosen to make it their permanent home.  

Northeast

In Northeast Wisconsin, outdoor activities for active older adults reign supreme. Cleveland is a small town that stays active with river and lake fishing. Northeast Wisconsin is the place to live if you believe that the first day of deer hunting season should be an official holiday! During the summer months, canoeing and rafting are essential to the fit and active residents of the area.

If you’re looking for a satisfying shopping experience, you can head to Sheboygan Falls, which has boutique shops with specialty goods alongside fine dining restaurants. It’s also home to an annual county fair.

Northwest

Northwest Wisconsin lies on the border of Lake Superior. Nature lovers choose to retire in this area due to the convenience of the lakeshore and surrounding forests. If waking up to the sounds of birds and the smell of pine are in your retirement dreams, this part of Wisconsin is the perfect destination. Travel to Canada is nearby and convenient. There are many opportunities to build relationships with your Northern neighbors. 

Eau Claire’s claim to fame is its music and arts scene. The Eaux Claires Music & Arts Festival takes place here annually. 

Southeast

Southeast Wisconsin is Wisconsin’s cultural hub. From art museums to the world’s largest music festival, Summerfest, this region is the most active and diverse in the state. Lake Geneva is at the center of the action. History abounds in the area’s historic mansions. Golf courses dot the community, and the hiking trails welcome trekkers year-round. Fishing on Lake Geneva is diverse, with trout, bass, walleye, cisco, perch, and many more waiting for eager anglers. 

History and paranormal enthusiasts will enjoy Whitewater, which has earned the Second Salem moniker due to its witch tales. Kenosha is perfect for retirees looking for an affordable home near Lake Michigan and the Chicago region. 

The big city of West Allis has diverse residents and dining options. There are also multiple walkable parks and the West Allis Farmers Market.

Milwaukee, one of the state’s biggest cities, is a travel hub and metro area. The Waukesha neighborhood is equally fast-paced. It’s achieved acclaim for its natural mineral springs.

Southwest 

Alongside quirky points of interest and historic sites, Southwest Wisconsin is lauded for its natural parks and untouched wilderness. Find world-class fishing, hiking, boating, and hunting in towns like Beaver Dam right along the Beaver Dam Lake.

This region also includes Madison, the state capital. This metropolitan city has endless shopping and dining districts, plus a diverse population with a more progressive political lean than you’ll find in the state’s more rural areas.

 

Fill Your Days With Fun Activities

Wisconsin may be the perfect state for you if you hope to stay active during retirement!

The state’s lakes and forested regions are ideal for hunting, fishing, and hiking. Many senior communities are near nature destinations.

Have a Blast Without Leaving Your Senior Community

Wisconsin’s housing communities are just as fun as the attractions around the state. Many of these homes are waterfront communities around the Great Lakes and other smaller bodies of water. Some have golf courses, while others have community staples like clubhouses and gyms.

Stroll the Community Walking Trails

The best part of moving to Wisconsin is living right alongside nature. You can walk or bike along scenic trails from your community without driving. Walk around the lake, or go for a rewarding hike in communities in the state’s mountainous regions.

Stop By the Clubhouse

Spending time at a clubhouse is the best way to build community with fellow residents. The clubhouse is perfect for a tailgate party to cheer on the Brewers as spring turns into fall. Then prepare for Wisconsin’s Green Bay Packers and the joy of celebrating their games with your neighbors. 

Clubhouses make it easy to share your hobbies with others. It’s the perfect place to get relief from the weather and indulge in a poker game or learn a new technique to perfect your needlework. 

Visit the Fitness Center 

Every community in Wisconsin is complete with a well-equipped gym. In addition to weight rooms and treadmills, many fitness centers in Wisconsin also have indoor pools where you can swim and take part in low-intensity water aerobics. Some communities also host workout classes like yoga, jazzercise, and Pilates.

Explore Wisconsin’s Things to Do for Seniors

Wisconsin's quaint towns and natural parks are ideal for spending weekends away from home. Go camping or play a round of golf with friends. Professional sports are popular in Wisconsin, with the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Milwaukee Brewers calling the state home.

Locally owned businesses like farm stands and breweries can be found in nearly every town. Quirky landmarks are worth visiting, from the International Clown Hall of Fame to the haunted House on the Rock.

Take Up Snow Sports

Wisconsin’s winter months mark the beginning of the season for many sports in the snow. The state is famous for its snowmobile trails. On some winter days, snowmobiling is the preferred mode of transportation. Other snow sports that residents regularly indulge in are ice skating, snow tubing, and ice fishing.

Live Near Wisconsin’s Lakes and Rivers for Water Sports

Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers defrost during the warmer months, and residents flock to the shores. Fishing, boating, canoeing, and rafting are all everyday activities for active retirees.

Summer is the perfect time to go primitive camping in a tent. Some seniors prefer the comforts of an RV or log cabin. Many 55+ active adults hike forest trails. Deer hunting season is prime time for outdoor activities in the autumn.

Play at Casinos

Wisconsin has over two dozen casinos where you can play the penny slots and bet on card games. Standouts include the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in Milwaukee and the Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells in Baraboo.

 

How to Know if Wisconsin is Right for You

Could Wisconsin be the perfect retirement destination? If you’re interested in staying active year-round with winter sports, water sports, hunting, and mountain biking, there are few better places in the nation than Wisconsin.

Wisconsin’s neighborhoods feature affordable properties and friendly neighbors. The high ethnic diversity of its cities lends itself to unique and farm-fresh restaurants, wineries, and breweries. The state also has excellent healthcare facilities for seniors.

 

Wisconsin’s Retiree Communities

Whether you’re hoping to retire in Wisconsin or just want to move into a more suitable residence designed as a 55+ active adult community, find the perfect housing for your needs.

Low Maintenance Communities

Wisconsin gets snow and occasional hail in the winter months. If you’re not keen on property upkeep, low-maintenance communities reduce the need for cleaning and repair. These communities offer snow shoveling, plowing, and routine maintenance services.

Age Restricted Communities

In age-restricted communities, 55+ active adults can enjoy a quiet atmosphere with like-minded community members. These communities have senior-focused amenities such as fitness centers, hiking trails, and group activities designed with active retirees in mind.

Condominium Communities

Condominium (condo) communities are well suited to singles and couples looking to downsize during retirement. In exchange for smaller square footage, condominiums can be more affordable than single-family homes, have HOAs that handle exterior maintenance, and feature many community-focused amenities.

Manufactured Home Communities

Are you looking to move to Wisconsin on a budget?

Manufactured home communities are the perfect solution. Maintain independence in your own single-story space while living within a community.

 

Stay Healthy as You Age Gracefully in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s best healthcare facilities provide exceptional care for seniors. The healthcare and insurance company United Health operates here, as does Elevance Health and HCA Healthcare. CVS Health pharmacies and minute clinics are available in all state regions.

Low-income health care is provided through Medicaid and BadgerCare, while state Medicare is available for those 65 and older.