Enfield 55+ Retirement Communities

Enfield, CT is a small town near the Massachusetts border that offers a wonderful quality of life for active adults. Located in southern New England, Enfield is surrounded by picturesque parks and forests. The town's history is reflected in its many historic landmarks and architecture, providing a unique glimpse into New England's past. The Enfield area also offers access to theaters, museums, and other attractions. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the town provides a variety of recreational opportunities, from hiking and fishing to golfing and skiing. With its peaceful setting and proximity to the many amenities available in the Hartford area, Enfield, CT is an ideal location for 55+ homebuyers looking to enjoy an active and fulfilling retirement.

For more information about visiting or moving to Enfield, CT, please check out the following local resources:

• The official website for the town of Enfield, CT provides information about the town's history, government, services, and events.
• The North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce website offers resources for businesses, residents, and visitors, including a calendar of events and a directory of local businesses.
• The Enfield Public Library provides access to a wealth of resources, including books, media, and programs for all ages. The library's website also offers online resources, such as e-books and research databases.

Living in Enfield, CT costs about as much as it does to live anywhere else in the U.S. The cost of living in this suburban city is only about 1.7% higher than the national average. Housing costs are actually cheaper, comparatively, to the rest of Connecticut and to the rest of the country. However, residents typically pay more for utilities, healthcare, and groceries.

Enfield income taxes are the same as the rest of the Nutmeg State, and all income that’s federally taxable is also taxed by the state. Residents will pay between 3% and 6.99%, depending on their income levels. Pensions and other retirement benefits are taxed at the same rate as wages. Social security income is taxed in Enfield as well, however only 50% of those benefits are taxed by the state.

There is no specific sales tax in the city of Enfield that is higher than the state sales tax rate of 6.35%. That sales tax applies to every purchase except for most grocery items and medications. When residents buy a meal in a restaurant, sales tax does apply. Digital purchases in Connecticut are also taxed.

Residents do not have to pay an inheritance tax in Enfield. There is an estate tax on any gift or estate that has a value of more than $12.92 million. The estate tax rate has a 12% maximum. 

Property taxes in Enfield are higher, on average, than the rest of the country. Homeowners can expect to pay an average property tax rate of 1.96%. There is some property tax relief for low-income residents who are 65 years of age or older.  

Climate and Geography

Enfield, CT has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average highs in the mid-80s, while winters are cold and snowy, with average lows in the mid-teens, according to Best Places. The average annual rainfall is around 46 inches, and the town receives an average of 190 sunny days per year. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making them ideal seasons for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and biking.

The geography of Enfield, CT is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and numerous bodies of water, including the Connecticut River, which runs along the town's western border. The town's natural beauty is a major draw for residents and visitors alike, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Enfield is also located close to several state parks and forests, including Shenipsit State Forest and Scantic River State Park, which offer even more opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. In addition, Enfield's central location makes it easy to explore the rest of New England, with popular destinations such as Hartford, Boston, and Providence a short drive away.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Enfield, CT offers recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment options. Here are some of the area’s popular attractions.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Grassmere Country Club
• Suffield Country Club
• Enfield Tennis Club

Hiking, Biking and Boating:

• Scantic River State Park
• Powder Hollow Park
• Windsor Locks Canal State Park Trail
• Connecticut River

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Martha A. Parsons House Museum
• Enfield Historical Society
• Mark Twain House & Museum (Hartford)

Performing Arts:

• Opera House Players
• Broad Brook Opera House
• Cinemark Enfield Square 12

Shopping:

• Enfield Commons
• Brookside Plaza
• Southwood Plaza

Parks and Gardens:

• Sferrazza Memorial Park
• Brainerd Park
• Stony Brook Park

Festivals and Fairs:

• Enfield Fourth of July Celebration
• Enfield Regional Farmers Market (June-October)
• Enfield Food Truck Festival
• Fall Festival

Health and Wellness

Enfield, CT is located within close proximity to several major medical centers, including Johnson Memorial Hospital in nearby Stafford, CT, Hartford Hospital, and UConn Health, also in Hartford. These medical centers offer a wide range of services, including specialized care for active adults.

For those interested in keeping physically and mentally well, Enfield offers several options. The town has several fitness centers and gyms, including Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness, as well as yoga and Pilates studios such as Yoga Joint, LLC and TrueBody Fitness & Yoga. In addition, there are several parks and recreational areas in and around Enfield that are ideal for outdoor exercise, including Scantic River State Park and Powder Hollow Park. For those in need of specialized care, the town also has several local pharmacies and medical supply stores, such as Walgreens and Enfield Drug.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day 1

Morning

• Start the day with breakfast at Country Diner, a local favorite known for their breakfast burritos, omelets, french toast, and breakfast sandwiches.
• Visit Scantic River State Park for a morning walk along the river.

Afternoon

• Have lunch at Acapulcos, a local Mexican restaurant serving quesadillas, chimichangas, enchiladas, and more.
• Visit the Mark Twain House and Museum in nearby Hartford to learn about the life and works of the famous American author and humorist.
• Enjoy an afternoon round of golf at Grassmere Country Club or a round of tennis at the Enfield Tennis Club.

Evening

• Dine at Lulu’s Restaurant, a local favorite for gourmet pizza, calzones, grinders, pasta dishes, and more.
• Catch a movie at the nearby Cinemark Enfield Square 12 theater.

Day 2

Morning

• Grab breakfast at Mark’s Restaurant just east of the Connecticut River, where locals enjoy omelets, breakfast burritos, and pancakes.
• Visit the Connecticut Trolley Museum to learn about the history of trolleys and take a ride on one.

Afternoon

• Have lunch at Smoke BBQ Cafe, which serves up pulled pork, kielbasa, brisket, burnt ends, and much more.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to learn more about the retirement communities in the area.

Evening

• Take a trip across the Connecticut River and enjoy a dinner at nearby restaurant Three Figs. This cozy local favorite is known for brick oven pizza, an enticing array of small plates, and entrees featuring New England seafood.
• End the night with a scoop or three at Smyth’s Ice Cream, a local favorite since 1977.

Getting to Enfield, CT

Enfield, Connecticut is easily accessible via Interstate 91 North from Hartford, or 91 South from Springfield, Massachusetts. The closest major airport is Bradley International in Windsor Locks, which is only about 20 minutes away from Enfield proper, and Boston Logan International Airport is typically a two-hour drive. Amtrak trains also stop in Windsor Locks, ensuring that active adults looking to explore 55+ communities in and around Enfield will have plenty of ways to travel there.