Lakeville, MA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Lakeville is an idyllic town that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and modern conveniences. Located in Plymouth County, this hidden gem boasts picturesque lakes and ponds, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its natural beauty, Lakeville also has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its historic architecture, quaint downtown area, and annual events. With a low crime rate, excellent schools, and a friendly community, Lakeville is an ideal place to retire and enjoy a peaceful, fulfilling life.

If you're interested in learning more about Lakeville, there are several local resources that can help. The Lakeville town website provides information on local government, services, and events. The Cranberry Country Chamber of Commerce website offers a directory of local businesses and resources, as well as information on upcoming events and community activities. The Lakeville Public Library website is a great resource for book lovers and offers a wide range of programs and services for all ages. Finally, the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation options throughout the region, making it easy to explore all that Lakeville and the surrounding area have to offer.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Living in Lakeville is more expensive than living in other parts of the country. The cost of living is 29.9 percent higher than the U.S. average. Housing costs are especially high, but residents will pay less for healthcare. Notably, Lakeville has a lower cost of living when compared to the rest of the Metro Boston region.

The income tax rate for Lakeville is 5.0 percent. This rate affects earned salaries and wages as well as income earned from interest, dividends, and capital gains. Some capital gains will be taxed as high as 12 percent. Social security is not taxed at the state level, however withdrawals from retirement accounts and most pension income will be taxed. There is no inheritance tax in Massachusetts, and estate taxes are exempt up to $1 million. 

The sales tax rate for Lakeville is 6.25 percent, and this includes all state and local sales taxes. Most groceries and food items are exempt from the sales tax unless they’re complete meals sold from a restaurant or a store. Medical services are not taxed, but medicines and prescriptions are.

Property taxes are high, compared to the rest of the country. In Lakeville, the average residential property is taxed at around 1.12 percent. Most residents can expect to pay around $5,600 annually. There’s a tax exemption for qualifying seniors 65 years of age and older who own a home in Massachusetts and reside in the state at least part-time. The maximum credit is $1,200, and income levels must be met. 

Climate and Geography

Lakeville, MA has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s. Winters are cold and occasionally snowy, with average low temperatures in the mid-20s. The town receives an average of 51 inches of rainfall per year, with the majority falling between May and October. Lakeville has about 200 sunny days per year, which is slightly higher than the national average. Overall, the climate in Lakeville is pleasant and varied, allowing residents to enjoy a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

The geography of Lakeville is defined by its natural beauty and diverse terrain. The town is home to several large bodies of water, including Long Pond and Assawompset Pond, which provide ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Lakeville is also surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, which make it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. In addition to its natural attractions, Lakeville is located within easy driving distance of several major cities, including Boston and Providence, which offer several cultural and entertainment options. With its stunning natural scenery and convenient location, Lakeville is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Lakeville is a town that offers an array of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Lakeville Country Club
• Poquoy Brook Golf Club
• Middleboro Public Tennis Courts
• Lakeville Athletic Club

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Massasoit State Park
• Freetown-Fall River State Forest
• Myles Standish State Forest
• Assawompset Pond

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Lakeville Historical Museum
• Pilgrim Hall Museum
• General Thomas Lincoln House
• Marion Natural History Museum

Performing Arts:

• Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center
• Rogue Theatre Company
• Spire Center for Performing Arts
• The Vault in New Bedford

Shopping:

• Wareham Crossing
• Taunton Depot
• Village South Plaza
• West Plymouth Square

Parks and Gardens:

• Dighton Rock State Park
• Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area
• Fall River Heritage State Park
• Tamarack Park

Festivals and Fairs:

• Lakeville Arts & Music Festival
• Plymouth Art on the Green
• Spirit of Somerset
• CranFest

Health and Wellness

Lakeville and the surrounding areas are home to several hospitals and medical centers that provide top-quality healthcare to residents. One of the nearest major medical centers is the Southcoast Health System, which has multiple locations in the region, including Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River and St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford. These facilities offer a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and cancer treatment. Additionally, Steward Health Care has two hospitals in the region: Morton Hospital in Taunton and Saint Anne's Hospital in Fall River.

In addition to these major medical centers, Lakeville residents have access to several local options for keeping fit and mentally well. There are several wellness centers and fitness facilities in the area, including Lakeville Athletic Club. The town also has several parks and walking trails, which provide opportunities for outdoor exercise and recreation. With its proximity to major medical centers and local options for self-care and wellness, Lakeville is a great choice for active adult homebuyers who prioritize their health and wellbeing.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day 1

Morning:

• Start the day with breakfast at Dave’s Diner, a local favorite for omelets, scrambles, pancakes, french toast, and waffles.
• Spend the morning with a leisurely walk around Tamarack Park and the Assawompset Pond area.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at The Fireside Grill in nearby Middleborough, known for its excellent selection of wraps, sandwiches, salads, and seafood dishes.
• Visit the Old Colony History Museum in nearby Taunton to learn about the region's rich history and culture.

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Charred Oak Tavern in Middleborough, where locals enjoy steak and seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere. They also have an excellent selection of whiskeys.

Day 2

Morning:

• Start the day with breakfast at Our Mom’s Place in Raynham, a local favorite for omelets, scrambles, breakfast sandwiches, waffles, and more.
• Spend the morning exploring Massasoit State Park, which offers a number of scenic hikes.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at Stoneforge Tavern and Publick House, which offers seasonal outdoor dining and features a menu of sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert in the afternoon to learn more about the available options for 55+ communities in the area.

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Cabin, a cozy tavern known for its hearty pub fare and craft beer selection.

Getting to Lakeville, MA

Lakeville is conveniently located off of Interstate 495 and Route 140, making it easily accessible by car from Boston, Providence, and other surrounding areas. For those arriving by air, the closest major airport is Boston Logan International, which is about 45 miles away. Airlines with primary hubs at Boston Logan include Delta, JetBlue, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. Visitors coming from the airport can take the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority’s Middleborough/Lakeville Line directly to Lakeville. Car rental and rideshare options are also available.