Wilbraham, MA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

The town of Wilbraham is a suburb of Springfield in Western Massachusetts, six miles north of the Connecticut border. A relaxed environment and neighborly atmosphere make it an enticing option for those looking for 55+ communities in Wilbraham.

Climate & Geography in Wilbraham

The majority of Massachusetts, including Wilbraham, experiences a humid continental climate. Therefore the area experiences warm summers, cold, snowy winters and plenty of rainfall throughout the year.

The surrounding terrain in Central Massachusetts is a mix of flatlands, rolling hills, and mountains, with wetlands interspersed throughout. The west end of Wilbraham and beyond into Springfield is situated in the Connecticut Valley Lowland. The east end of the town is dominated by the Wilbraham Mountains range, Mount Vision, and Wigwam Hill. Further to the east is more mountainous  terrain. Additionally there are a number of ponds and creeks throughout town, and the Chicopee River runs along the northern border.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

Wilbraham is mostly a rural town, and residents will find a tight-knit community filled with local activities and events. Popular events include annual holiday parades and a summer concert series. An additional local hotspot is Rice Fruit Farm. Rice Fruit Farm has a store and bakery that sells fresh goods, as well as a popular restaurant.

Active adults who enjoy outdoor recreation will feel right at home in Wilbraham. There are a number of nature preserves and greenspaces among the mountains. There are plenty of scenic locations to hike, camp, bike, kayak, and more. Additionally, Golfers can tee off at the Country Club of Wilbraham.

The town is conveniently placed on the outskirts of Springfield allowing residents easy access to all that the city has to offer. Entertainment options include the Basketball Hall of Fame, Titanic Museum, Forest Park Zoo, Six Flags New England, as well as plenty of other cultural attractions.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living in Wilbraham is slightly higher than the national average. Housing is about 25 percent above the national average, however it is 50 percent lower than the state's average.

Massachusetts does not tax Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. Income from IRAs, 401(k)s, and any other retirement savings accounts are fully taxed at the state rate of 5.05 percent. Although property taxes can run high, homeowners who are 65 and older may qualify for a real estate tax credit. Massachusetts has a statewide sales tax rate of 6.25 percent.

Health Care

Massachusetts generally ranks among the top states in Gallup’s Well-Being Index, and scores high on the social and physical factors.

55+ community residents in Wilbraham have several nearby options for health care. While there are no hospitals in Wilbraham, there are several in nearby Springfield. BayState Medical Center which is ranked the No.1 hospital in Springfield.