Annapolis, MD 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview

Annapolis is the state capital of Maryland, located in Anne Arundel County in Central Maryland. This quaint city on the Chesapeake Bay appeals to retirees for its rich culture and history, as well as access to plenty of outdoor recreation. 

Climate & Geography

The climate in Annapolis is humid subtropical, meaning summers are hot and humid, while winters are cool to cold. The close proximity to the Chesapeake Bay helps to regulate temperatures in the spring and summer months, as well as preventing extreme lows in the winter. Residents can expect more rainfall and less snowfall than the national averages, and approximately 208 sunny days throughout each year. 

Situated in the Atlantic Coastal Plain region, the terrain surrounding Annapolis is mainly low, flat land and marshlands. The highest point in the city is only 50 feet above sea level. Severn River makes up the northern border of the city, with several estuaries that branch off and flow into the city limits. 

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment

Active adults who enjoy being outdoors can take advantage of the city's 200 acres of parks. Nearby, Quiet Waters Park is a 340-acre park that provides numerous amenities including water access, paved trails, an ice-skating rink, and a dog beach. 

The city hosts several seasonal events, festivals, and parades to celebrate the local culture, in addition to the dozens of museums, historical sites, and monuments. Annapolis is also well-known for its thriving community theater scene, with two popular venues located in the city's historic district. 

The larger cities of Baltimore and Washington D.C. are located less than 30 miles away, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways to enjoy even more shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The overall cost of living is higher than the state and national averages. This is primarily due to the extremely high cost of homes and housing. Grocery and utility costs are also slightly above average, although health care and transportation costs are below average. 

Maryland is considered moderately tax friendly to retirees. Social Security benefits are exempt from income tax, while IRAs and other retirement savings accounts are fully taxed. Pensions are also taxed, but there is an deduction available for residents who are 65+. Property taxes are close to average, however because of the high cost of homes and housing this can be a significant expense. Maryland does have a homestead tax credit that puts a 10% limit on the annual increase of assessed value, and the credit reduces the tax burden by the amount that exceeds 10%. The state sales tax is 6%.

Health Care

The Baltimore metro area ranks in the top 115 communities on Gallup's Well-Being Index.

There are two hospitals within 15 miles of Annapolis. They are Anne Arundel Medical Center and University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center. Anne Arundel Medical Center is regionally ranked and rated high performing in seven adult procedures and conditions. University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center is regionally ranked and rated high performing in four adult procedures and conditions.