Topsfield, MA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Topsfield, MA, is a charming New England town that would make an excellent retirement destination for those seeking a peaceful and friendly community. The town has a rich history, dating back to the 1600s, and boasts many well-preserved historic homes and buildings. The area is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with many parks and conservation areas to explore. Topsfield is also home to the Topsfield Fair which is the oldest agricultural fair in the country, and the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. 

Here are some local resources for those interested in visiting or moving to Topsfield:

• Topsfield MA - Official Town Website provides information on town services, local events, and community resources.
• North Shore Chamber of Commerce offers information on local businesses, events, and attractions in the North Shore region, including Topsfield.
• Topsfield Historical Society provides information on the town's history and historic sites, including the Parson Capen House and other local landmarks.

Affordability and Cost of Living 

Topsfield's cost of living is almost 52 percent higher than the national average, but it is still popular with 55+ homebuyers. Housing costs are the biggest expense for most residents, with the median home price in Topsfield being around $835,800, which is much higher than the national average. Healthcare is quite a bit lower than the U.S. average while groceries, utilities and transportation costs are 5 to 12 percent higher than the national average. Property taxes throughout Massachusetts are high and Essex County is no exception, homeowners in Topsfield can expect to pay about one percent of a property's fair market value in taxes. There are some property tax credits for Massachusetts residents who are 65 or older. 

Massachusetts has a state income tax of a flat 5 percent although taxable income over $1 million is subject to an additional 4 percent. Social Security and government pensions are not taxed but all other forms of retirement income are taxed. Massachusetts does have estate tax but no inheritance taxes. Sales tax throughout the state is 6.25 percent.

Climate and Geography 

Topsfield receives about 48 inches of rain per year, most of it in October. Winter temperatures typically range from mid teens to low 20s. It is warm and humid in Topsfield during the summer, with temperatures averaging between the middle 70s and mid 80s, with a humidity level of 70%. Average snowfall in Topsfield is 55 inches with the highest chance of snow during the month of February. 

Topsfield is located in the scenic North Shore region of Massachusetts, about seven miles from the Atlantic Coast. The town is bordered to the east by the Ipswich River and its surrounding wetlands provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including beavers, otters, and numerous bird species. Nearby Bradley Palmer State Park, features over 700 acres of rolling hills, forests, and meadows, as well as hiking and equestrian trails. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

Despite its small size, Topsfield offers a variety of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment options. Here are some of the interesting things to enjoy:

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Ipswich Country Club
• Wenham Country Club
• Black Swan Country Club

Hiking, Biking and Boating

• Bradley Palmer State Park
• Willowdale State Forest
• Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary

Museums and Historical Sites

• Topsfield Historical Society
• Parson Capen House
• Ipswich Museum

Performing Arts

• The Topsfield Playhouse
• The Community House
• Firehouse Center for the Arts

Shopping

• Topsfield Commons
• The Shops at Hilltop
• Rowley Country Store

Parks and Gardens

• Bradley Palmer State Park
• The Topsfield Fairgrounds
• Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary

Festivals and Fairs

• Topsfield Fair
• Ipswich Ale Brewery Oktoberfest
• Essex County Greenbelt Spring Birding Festival

Health and Wellness 

Topsfield is close to major medical centers, such as Beverly Hospital and Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in nearby Burlington. Both hospitals offer a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency care.

For those looking to keep fit and healthy there are several parks and trails that provide spaces for hiking, biking, and walking. Bradley Palmer State Park, located in Topsfield, offers over 700 acres of forests, meadows, and wetlands to explore. There are also fitness centers, yoga studios and wellness services such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and nutrition counseling in the area. There are farmers markets both in Topsfield and the surrounding towns where residents can buy straight from the farm produce, baked goods, and other fresh foods.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Topsfield, MA is a charming town land with its rich history and natural beauty, it's no surprise that many 55+ homebuyers are considering Topsfield. To get a better sense of the town, we recommend spending at least two days in the area to tour 55+ communities, meet with a local community partner agent, and explore the town's many attractions.

Day One

Morning:

• Start the day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at Topsfield Bakeshop, a popular cozy coffee shop and bakery.
• Visit the Topsfield Historical Society to learn about the town's rich history and see exhibits featuring local artifacts.
• Take a stroll through the Topsfield Town Common, a picturesque park in the heart of town.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Braccia's Four66 Pub & Grille, a popular spot for sandwiches and pasta.
• Visit Bradley Palmer State Park, a 721-acre park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.

Evening:

• Have dinner at Boxford Community Kitchen, which has been serving the area since 1946 and is for its comfort food and expansive menu.

Day Two

Morning:

• Have breakfast or coffee at Zumi's Espresso, a local favorite known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to tour the retirement communities and learn more about the town's amenities.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Maggie's Farm, a fun and casual spot serving modern tavern fare.
• Visit Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, a 2,800-acre wildlife sanctuary with hiking trails, birdwatching, and more.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at iPazzi, a beautiful restaurant offering fine Italian food made from local fresh ingredients.

Getting to Topsfield, MA

Topsfield is easily accessible by car, train, or plane. Visitors have multiple options for transportation depending on their location and preference.

By Car:

If you are driving to Topsfield, there are several major highways that connect to the area. From Boston, take I-93 North to I-95 North and follow signs for Topsfield. From the west, take the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) to I-95 North, and from the north or south, take I-95 to Exit 50 and follow signs for Topsfield.

By Air:

The nearest major airport to Topsfield is Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), located approximately 25 miles south of Topsfield. BOS is a hub for several major airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, JetBlue, and United, among others. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare to Topsfield. Alternatively, you can take public transportation from the airport to Boston's North Station and then take a commuter rail train on the Newburyport/Rockport line to Topsfield station.

By Train:

The nearest Amtrak station is located in Boston, Massachusetts. The station is located about 25 miles south of Topsfield. Topsfield has a commuter rail station, which is served by the Newburyport/Rockport line and provides regular service to Boston's North Station, as well as several other towns and cities in the region.

By Bus:

Several bus companies provide service to Topsfield, including Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines.