Oxford 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Located in the beautiful state of Connecticut, Oxford is a charming town with a population of just over 12,000, Oxford boasts a tight-knit community with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating, all within a short distance from the town. Oxford offers a peaceful and close-knit community in beautiful surroundings, it's a great place for those seeking a relaxing and enjoyable retirement.

Affordability and Cost of Living 

Oxford, CT, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other areas of Connecticut. The cost of housing in Oxford is slightly higher than the national average, but it is more affordable compared to other cities in the state. According to BestPlaces, the median home cost in Oxford is $449,300, which is higher than the national median home cost. However, it is worth noting that the cost of living in Connecticut is higher than the national average, so overall expenses in Oxford may be slightly higher.

In terms of groceries, utilities and other essentials, Oxford is higher than elsewhere in the country. According to BestPlaces, the cost of groceries in Oxford is about 10 percent higher than the national average. Entertainment and recreation costs in Oxford can vary, but there are many free or low-cost options available, such as visiting local parks, hiking trails, or exploring the town's historic sites.

Connecticut has high property taxes, the state average is 1.63 percent while the property tax in New Haven County where Oxford is located is 1.69 percent. State income taxes in Connecticut range from 3 to 7 percent depending on income and filing status. Connecticut recently changed its tax code so that pensions and annuities are no longer taxable for most seniors, and soon IRA distributions will follow suit. By 2026, Connecticut will cease taxing social security. In Connecticut, property taxes are high, though senior citizens with lower incomes can get a tax credit.

Climate and Geography 

Summers in Oxford are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Humidity is usually between 70 and 80 percent, summer rainfall is about 4 or 5 inches during the summer. Winters in Oxford are cold and snowy, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-40s with an average snowfall of around 45 inches per year.

Oxford is located in southwestern Connecticut, with the Housatonic River running through the town. There are rolling hills and dense forests, with many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and boating. Oxford enjoys easy access to major metropolitan areas, including New Haven, Bridgeport, and Hartford, all within a 45-minute drive. The town is also situated within a few hours' drive of popular vacation destinations, including the Berkshires, Cape Cod, and the Adirondack Mountains. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

It doesn't matter if you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Oxford.

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Oxford Greens Golf Course
• Great River Golf Club
• Quaker Farms Country Club

Hiking, Biking and Boating

• Southford Falls State Park
• Hop Brook Lake Recreation Area
• Larkin State Bridle Trail

Museums and Historical Sites

• Little Red Schoolhouse Museum
• Quaker Farms Historic District
• Oxford Historical Society Museum

Performing Arts

• Town of Oxford Summer Concert Series
• Performing Arts Programs at Oxford High School

Shopping

• Oxford Marketplace
• The Shoppes at Southbury Plaza
• The Shops at Oxford Valley

Parks and Gardens

• Jackson Cove Park
• Mitchelltown Road Preserve
• Veterans Memorial Park

Festivals and Fairs

• Oxford Strawberry Festival 
• Seymour Pumpkin Festival 
• Bethlehem Fair in nearby in Bethlehem, CT
• Quaker Farms Fire Company Carnival 

In addition to these activities, Oxford is also home to numerous local sporting events, including high school football and basketball games. 

Health and Wellness 

Oxford, CT is a great place for 55+ active adults to maintain their health and wellness. The closest hospital to Oxford is Griffin Hospital in nearby Derby, Griffin Hospital is a non-profit community hospital with 160 beds. Yale-New Haven Health in New Haven is the largest hospital in the area and is a teaching hospital for the Yale School of Medicine. 

In addition to the medical centers, Oxford, CT offers a range of local options for self-care and staying fit. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the town has several parks and hiking trails that offer an excellent opportunity for physical activity. Jackson Cove Park is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and picnicking, while Black Hog Brewing Company offers outdoor yoga classes. The town also has several fitness centers that provide a variety of exercise classes and equipment for those looking to stay active. 

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

If you're considering retiring to an area like Oxford, it's a good idea to take a trip and explore the community. Here is a two-day itinerary to help you get a feel for the area.

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a cup of coffee and breakfast at Oxfords Baking Company, a local bakery with a range of pastries, sandwiches, and beverages.
• Visit the Quaker Farms Historic District to learn more about the town's history. It's a great place to take a leisurely walk and admire the architecture of the homes.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at the Oxford House, a cozy restaurant serving American fare in a casual setting.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Black Hog Brewing Company, which offers beer tastings and tours of their facilities.

Evening:

• For dinner, visit Koi Sushi & Asian Fusion, they offer a range of sushi rolls as well as noodle bowls, stir fry, and more.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Oxford's own Country Corner Diner, a classic American diner with a variety of breakfast options.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent. They will be able to show you around the area and provide valuable information about the retirement communities available in Oxford.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the Bronx Deli, which serves Italian sandwiches and other lunch fare.
• Explore Jackson Cove Park's trails and shoreline. You can also go fishing or swimming from the beach in the summer. 

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at the Vyne Restaurant and Bar, which serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Getting to Oxford, CT

Oxford, Connecticut is a small town located in the southwestern part of the state, about 30 miles west of New Haven and 70 miles northeast of New York City. Here are directions to Oxford via different modes of transportation:

Oxford is easily accessible by car via major highways. The main highways into the area include:

• Interstate 84: If you're coming from the east or west, take Exit 16 for CT-188 South towards Oxford.
• Route 8: If you're coming from the north or south, take Exit 22 for CT-67 towards Oxford.

The closest major airport to Oxford is Bradley International Airport (BDL), located about 70 miles northeast in Windsor Locks, CT. Several major airlines fly into BDL, including Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, and other smaller regional services.

The nearest Amtrak train station is located in New Haven, CT, about 30 miles east of Oxford. 

The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Waterbury, CT, about 10 miles southeast of Oxford.