Here is a list of ten small towns in Texas that are considered great for retirement based on public safety, quality of life, access to healthcare, and amenities:

1. Fredericksburg

  • Overview: Known for its German heritage and vibrant arts scene, Fredericksburg is located in the Texas Hill Country. The town offers a laid-back lifestyle with wineries, galleries, and antique shops.
  • Amenities: Wineries, art galleries, boutique shopping, German restaurants, and annual festivals.
  • Healthcare: Hill Country Memorial Hospital, with a range of medical services and specialized care.
  • Parks: Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, Cross Mountain Park, and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
  • Other Features: Active senior community, wineries, and cultural activities.

2. Georgetown

  • Overview: Located just north of Austin, Georgetown offers historic charm with modern amenities. Known for its beautifully preserved downtown square.
  • Amenities: Restaurants, shops, golf courses, theater, and art galleries.
  • Healthcare: St. David's Georgetown Hospital, plus proximity to the extensive medical facilities in Austin.
  • Parks: San Gabriel Park, Blue Hole Park, and Inner Space Cavern.
  • Other Features: Sun City Texas, a 55+ active adult community, is nearby with a wide range of amenities and activities.

3. Granbury

  • Overview: A lakeside town southwest of Fort Worth, Granbury boasts a charming historic downtown and a slower pace of life.
  • Amenities: Lake Granbury, boutique shops, live theater, and historic sites.
  • Healthcare: Lake Granbury Medical Center, offering comprehensive healthcare services.
  • Parks: Granbury City Beach, Shanley Park, and Acton Nature Center.
  • Other Features: Active retirement communities, boating, fishing, and lake activities.

4. Rockport

  • Overview: A coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere, Rockport offers beautiful beaches and abundant fishing opportunities. It’s a favorite for retirees seeking a coastal lifestyle.
  • Amenities: Coastal fishing, seafood restaurants, art galleries, and birdwatching.
  • Healthcare: Care Regional Medical Center in nearby Aransas Pass, and Corpus Christi’s medical facilities.
  • Parks: Rockport Beach Park, Goose Island State Park, and Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Other Features: Coastal living, fishing, and birdwatching hotspots.

5. Kerrville

  • Overview: Nestled in the Hill Country along the Guadalupe River, Kerrville is known for its scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and active retirement communities.
  • Amenities: Music festivals, theaters, restaurants, and the Hill Country Arts Foundation.
  • Healthcare: Peterson Regional Medical Center, offering full medical services and specialty care.
  • Parks: Kerrville-Schreiner Park, Louise Hays Park, and the Riverside Nature Center.
  • Other Features: Thriving arts scene, nature activities, and community festivals.

6. Boerne

  • Overview: Located near San Antonio, Boerne offers small-town charm with easy access to big-city amenities. The town has a vibrant cultural scene and is surrounded by beautiful Hill Country landscapes.
  • Amenities: Fine dining, boutique shopping, art galleries, and live music.
  • Healthcare: Methodist Boerne Emergency Center, plus access to San Antonio’s healthcare network.
  • Parks: Cibolo Nature Center, River Road Park, and Joshua Springs Park.
  • Other Features: Historic downtown, active senior communities, and Hill Country wineries.

7. New Braunfels

  • Overview: This town is rich in German heritage and is known for its annual Wurstfest, rivers for tubing, and its proximity to San Antonio and Austin.
  • Amenities: Wurstfest, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, live music venues, and wineries.
  • Healthcare: Christus Santa Rosa Hospital-New Braunfels, plus easy access to medical facilities in San Antonio.
  • Parks: Landa Park, Comal River, and Guadalupe River State Park.
  • Other Features: River recreation, cultural festivals, and proximity to urban amenities.

8. Port Aransas

  • Overview: A small coastal town on Mustang Island, Port Aransas is a popular retirement destination for those seeking a beach lifestyle.
  • Amenities: Beaches, fishing charters, seafood restaurants, and birdwatching.
  • Healthcare: Nearby Christus Spohn Hospital in Corpus Christi and local clinics.
  • Parks: Mustang Island State Park and Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center.
  • Other Features: Gulf Coast living, boating, and wildlife viewing.

9. Wimberley

  • Overview: Located between Austin and San Antonio, Wimberley is a small Hill Country town known for its arts community and natural beauty.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, theaters, wineries, and quaint shops.
  • Healthcare: Local clinics and proximity to larger hospitals in San Marcos and Austin.
  • Parks: Blue Hole Regional Park, Jacob’s Well Natural Area, and Cypress Creek Nature Preserve.
  • Other Features: Strong arts community, nature activities, and quiet, peaceful living.

10. Marble Falls

  • Overview: A charming Hill Country town located on the Colorado River, Marble Falls is known for its scenic beauty, local wineries, and strong community feel.
  • Amenities: Local shops, restaurants, wineries, and lakeside activities.
  • Healthcare: Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Marble Falls, providing comprehensive healthcare services.
  • Parks: Lakeside Park, Johnson Park, and Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Other Features: Lakeside living, boating, and proximity to Hill Country attractions.

These towns offer a blend of safety, quality healthcare, and amenities, making them attractive choices for retirees seeking a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle in Texas.