Holden, MA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Holden is a charming New England town that offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. With its picturesque streets lined with colonial homes, quaint downtown area, and lush green spaces, it's no wonder that Holden has become a popular destination for retirees. The town boasts an abundance of recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating, and golf courses. With easy access to nearby cities like Worcester and Boston, Holden offers the perfect balance of small-town living and big-city excitement. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy your golden years or stay active and engaged in the community, Holden is sure to please.

If you're considering retiring in Holden there are several local resources you can turn to for more information. The Holden Area Chamber of Commerce website offers a wealth of information about the town's business community, events, and attractions. The Holden Historical Society’s website contains information on the local history and links to local events. Finally, for information about local schools, town services, and more, check out the official town website.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Residents in Holden will pay Massachusetts state income taxes at a rate of 5.0 percent on salaries, wages, pensions, and any income that’s received from interest and dividends. Capital gains are taxed between 5 percent and 12 percent. There are no state taxes on social security income. Any withdrawals from a retirement account, however, will be taxed. Massachusetts residents do not have to pay an inheritance tax at the state level. Estate taxes are not levied until the estate’s value exceeds $1 million.  

Visitors and residents to Holden pay 6.25 percent in sales tax, and that’s inclusive of state, city, and county sales taxes. There isn’t a tax on groceries, but buying food from a restaurant or complete meals from a store will make the purchase taxable. Medicines are taxed but medical services are not.

Property taxes in Holden and throughout Massachusetts are higher on average than the rest of the country. In Holden, most residents can expect to pay around 1.50 percent, and those taxes are due quarterly. Active adults who own a home in Holden and meet federal and state income thresholds can apply for a tax exemption. Seniors 65 years of age and older who qualify can claim a tax credit of up to $1,200.

The cost of living in Holden is generally lower than the cost of living in Massachusetts, but it’s 15.1 percent higher than the average cost of living in the U.S. Housing costs are especially high in Holden and throughout the Worcester metro area.

Climate and Geography

Holden experiences a humid continental climate, which means that the town has warm summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach an average high of 80 degrees, while in the winter months, temperatures can dip down to the mid-teens, according to Best Places. Holden receives an average of 47 inches of rainfall per year, with the most precipitation occurring in the summer months. However, despite the rainy summers, Holden enjoys around 200 sunny days per year, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the town's many outdoor attractions.

Located in Worcester County, Holden is nestled in the heart of Central Massachusetts. The town's geography is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine lakes and rivers. This terrain provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, and more. The town is also located just a short drive away from several state parks, including Wachusett Mountain State Reservation and Rutland State Park, which offer even more opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, Holden's proximity to larger cities like Worcester and Boston means that residents can enjoy all the amenities of urban living while still experiencing the serenity and natural beauty of small-town life.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Holden offers recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment options for active adults to explore. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, learn about the region's history and culture, or simply indulge in some retail therapy, Holden provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy area attractions.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Holden Hills Country Club
• Kettle Brook Golf Club
• Worcester Country Club
• Holden Towers Tennis Courts

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Wachusett Reservoir
• Rutland State Park
• Quinsigamond State Park
• Asnebumskit Hill Trailhead

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Worcester Art Museum
• General Artemas Ward Museum
• EcoTarium Worcester
• Worcester Historical Museum

Performing Arts:

• Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts
• Worcester Chamber Music Society
• Fenwick Theatre
• Holden Bandstand

Shopping:

• Centerwood Terrace
• Lincoln Plaza
• Northborough Crossing
• Mid Town Mall

Parks and Gardens:

• Holden Town Forest
• Nick’s Woods
• Green Hill Park
• Moore State Park

Festivals and Fairs:

• Holden Days
• Lavender Farm Fest
• Dudley Grange Strawberry Festival
• Apple Fest at Wachusett Mountain

Health and Wellness

There are several hospitals and medical centers near Holden. The closest major medical center is UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, which is just a short drive away. UMass Memorial is a nationally recognized leader in healthcare, with a wide range of medical specialties and services. In addition to UMass Memorial, there are several other hospitals in the Worcester area, including Saint Vincent Hospital and HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, both of which offer high-quality medical care.

For those looking for local options for keeping fit and mentally well, Holden has several options available. The town has several fitness centers, including Anytime Fitness and eXcel Fitness, where residents can work with trained professionals to improve their physical fitness and maintain their health. Additionally, Holden is home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, including Wachusett Reservoir and Cascade Park, where residents can enjoy the benefits of spending time in nature and staying active.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day 1

Morning:

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast at 122 Diner, where locals enjoy omelets, benedicts, pancakes, and waffles.
• Head to Wachusett Mountain State Reservation for a morning hike, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at Holden Pizza, known for its specialty pizzas, white pizzas, and submarine sandwiches.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Holden Hills Country Club, which features an 18-hole golf course and a tennis court.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Harvest Grille in nearby Jefferson, a cozy local restaurant and bar serving everything from chicken marsala and New York strip steak to New England seafood favorites.

Day 2

Morning:

• Start the day with breakfast at Theo’s Breakfast & Lunch, which is a short drive away in Paxton, MA.
• Take a scenic drive to the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, known for its beautiful plants and walking trails.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Westside Steak & BBQ. This Worcester eatery serves ribs, barbecue chicken, pulled pork, and brisket daily.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to discuss your retirement options and get more information about the area.

Evening:

• Finish the day with dinner at Val’s Restaurant, where locals gather to enjoy seafood appetizers, homemade soups, burgers, and steaks.

Getting to Holden, MA

Holden is located in central Massachusetts, approximately 60 miles west of Boston. Visitors driving to Holden can take major highways such as I-90, also known as the Massachusetts Turnpike, or I-290 to reach the area.

For those arriving by air, the closest major airport is Boston Logan International Airport, which is located approximately 60 miles east of Holden. Several major airlines, including Delta, American, United, and JetBlue, fly into Boston Logan from primary hubs across the United States and the world. Visitors can also consider using Worcester Regional Airport, which is located approximately 15 miles from Holden and offers flights from JetBlue and American Airlines to several major cities.

Active adults looking to travel to Holden by train can take an Amtrak to Worcester and drive or use a ride-sharing service.