Avon 55+ Retirement Communities

Nestled in the Farmington Valley, Avon is a charming town with a lot to offer 55+ homebuyers. With its picturesque New England landscapes and proximity to cultural and outdoor attractions, it's no wonder why so many active adults are choosing to make Avon their home. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, or skiing, this area boasts a wealth of recreational opportunities, including the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, which spans nearly 84 miles and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Avon has no shortage of fantastic restaurants serving up everything from classic New England fare to international cuisine. With its perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and community, Avon is an ideal place for retirees looking to enjoy all that life has to offer.

For more information about visiting or moving to Avon, check out the town's official website. The Farmington Valley Visitors Association also has an excellent website with information on area attractions and events. And if you're interested in learning more about the area's rich history, be sure to visit the Avon Historical Society's website.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Connecticut imposes a state income tax of 3 percent on up to $20,000 for married joint filers and up to $10,000 for individuals. The income tax increases to 6.99 percent on amounts more than $1 million for married joint filers and more than $500,000 for individuals. This tax includes most retirement income, including Social Security, pensions, dividends, interest, and annuities. However, only 50 percent of social security is taxed, and there are also exemptions available for those who receive income from pensions or annuities.

Since there are no local or county sales tax rates in Connecticut, residents of Avon pay the state flat rate of 6.35 percent. Groceries and medications are exempt from this sales tax across the state, which provides an added benefit for retirees. On another positive note, there is no inheritance tax to consider. However, Connecticut is the only state to have a gift tax, and there are also estate taxes. Estate and gift taxes only apply with estates and gifts valued at more than 9.1 million dollars.

Avon, located in Hartford County, has one of the highest median property taxes in the country. The average homeowner pays 1.74 percent of a home’s assessed value, which is about 5.23 percent of homeowners’ total income on average. Active adult homeowners who are 65+ can take advantage of property tax credits that help alleviate these tax burdens.

In addition to high taxes, the cost of living in Avon averages more than 16 percent higher than the national average. Residents of Avon pay more than most for just about everything, including groceries, transportation, healthcare, and utilities.

Climate and Geography

Avon experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Average midsummer highs are typically in the low 80s, according to Best Places, and average winter lows range from the mid-teens to the mid-20s. The town receives an average of 55 inches of rainfall per year, which is higher than the national average. Snowfall is common in the winter months, with an average of 35 inches of snow per year. Avon enjoys an average of 190 sunny days per year, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Avon is located in the Farmington River Valley, nestled between the Talcott Mountain Range to the east and Nepaug State Forest to the west. This unique geography creates a picturesque and varied terrain, perfect for hiking, cycling, and skiing. The area boasts numerous parks and preserves, including the Talcott Mountain State Park, which offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. The Farmington River, which runs through town, is a popular destination for fishing and kayaking. With its breathtaking scenery and varied terrain, Avon offers retirees a fantastic location to enjoy the great outdoors.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Avon offers a wide variety of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment options for active adult homebuyers.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Farmington Woods Golf Club
• Golf Club of Avon
• Gillette Ridge Golf Club
• Farmington Valley Racquet Club

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Farmington Canal Heritage Trail
• Talcott Mountain State Park
• Nepaug Reservoir
• Farmington River

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Hill-Stead Museum
• Heublein Tower
• Stanley Whitman House
• Avon Historical Society

Performing Arts:

• Bridge Street Live
• Hartford Symphony Orchestra
• The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
• Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center

Shopping:

• The Shops at Farmington Valley
• Simsbury Commons
• Apple Hill Commons
• Westfarms

Parks and Gardens:

• Horse Guard State Park
• Buckingham Park
• Alsop Meadows
• Mills Pond Park

Festivals and Fairs:

• Avon Farmers Market
• Summer Farm Festival (Farmington)
• Celebrate! West Hartford
• Pancake Festival (Hartford)

Health and Wellness

Avon is home to several medical centers and hospitals that provide exceptional care for retirees. The University of Connecticut Health Center, located in nearby Farmington, is a world-renowned medical facility that offers top-notch care in a variety of specialties, including geriatric medicine. Hartford Hospital is a comprehensive medical center that provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, heart and vascular care, and cancer care.

For those looking to maintain their health and wellness, Avon offers several options for self-care and fitness. The town is home to numerous yoga and Pilates studios, as well as gyms and fitness centers, including the Farmington Valley YMCA. Additionally, there are several parks and trails in the area, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. The Avon Free Public Library offers numerous resources for mental wellness, including access to books, online resources, and meditation programs. With a variety of options for medical care and wellness, Avon is an excellent location for active adults looking to maintain their health and wellbeing.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day One

Morning:

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Toasted OAT Canton, a popular spot among locals.
• Head to Talcott Mountain State Park for a morning hike with stunning views of the area.

Afternoon:

• Take a break for lunch at the charming and cozy Avon Country Deli, which is known for its signature sandwiches and salads.
• Visit the Farmington Valley Arts Center to see local art and explore the gardens.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at The North House, a casual fine dining establishment featuring soups and starters, cheese plates, burgers, and more.

Day Two

Morning:

• Grab breakfast at New Hartford Diner, where locals enjoy breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, and french toast.
• Take a stroll around the picturesque Elizabeth Park Rose Garden.

Afternoon:

• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to explore potential 55+ communities in the area.
• For lunch, head to Max a Mia Ristorante to enjoy some authentic Italian-American cuisine you won’t soon forget.

Evening:

• End the day with a relaxing dinner at the cozy and welcoming Seasons Restaurant & Tap Room.

Getting to Avon, CT

If traveling by car from the Hartford area, Avon is accessible via Highway 44, which also approaches town from the west. Highway 202 runs south into Avon, and West Avon Road approaches the area from the south. The closest major airport is Bradley International, which is approximately 30 minutes from Avon by car. Many Amtrak lines run through Connecticut, including the Northeast Regional, the Hartford Line, the Valley Flyer, and the Vermonter, all four of which stop in Hartford.