Warren County 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Warren County, NJ is a hidden gem for those seeking a fulfilling retirement experience in a picturesque setting. Located in the beautiful Garden State, this charming county offers unique attractions and natural wonders that make it an ideal destination for active adults. From its tranquil rolling hills and scenic countryside to its quaint historic towns, Warren County is a place where time slows down, allowing you to savor each moment and create lasting memories. 

Retirees can immerse themselves in the county's cultural offerings, including art galleries, theaters, and community festivals. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the county's vast array of outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Warren County's strategic location also allows for convenient access to larger metropolitan areas, ensuring that retirees can enjoy a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle while still being within reach of urban amenities. With its warm and welcoming community, breathtaking natural beauty, and a wide range of recreational and cultural activities, Warren County is the perfect place to embark on a fulfilling retirement adventure.

For more information about visiting or moving to Warren County, NJ, you can explore the following local resources:

• The official website of Warren County provides information for visitors and residents on local businesses, the region’s history, and more.
• The Warren Parks website features information on the area’s many natural spaces, including opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Active adults considering a move to Warren County in northern New Jersey should carefully consider the cost of living, everyday expenses, and taxes of the area. The state imposes an income tax that ranges from 1.4 percent on up to $20,000 to 10.75 percent for amounts greater than $1 million. Luckily, social security benefits are not included in the income tax, and the state has recently allowed helpful exemptions for retirees. Eligible retirees may exempt from taxes up to $150,000 from pensions, annuities, IRA accounts, and other retirement funds, which helps active adults keep more money in their pockets.

Some of the most hurtful expenses in New Jersey are housing and property taxes. The property tax in Warren County is 1.92 percent, which places twenty-first of all the counties in the nation for median property tax payments by its residents. New Jersey also levies an inheritance tax on any inherited property worth more than $500. The sales tax in Warren County is 6.625 percent, although groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.  

There are multiple cities and townships in Warren County, so the overall cost of living varies depending on the location. For example, the cost of living in Blairstown is about 13 percent higher than national averages with residents paying nearly 25 percent more for housing. Meanwhile, residents of Phillipsburg, on the opposite end of Warren County, enjoy a cost of living that averages seven percent less than that of other Americans, and residents also save about 26 percent on housing compared to national averages. Active adults should take these differences into consideration when deciding where to settle down.

Climate and Geography

Warren County experiences a delightful four-season climate, offering retirees a range of weather throughout the year. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average midsummer highs in the mid-80s, providing an ideal climate for outdoor activities and exploration. Winters are crisp, but not overly harsh, with average lows in the high teens. This allows retirees to enjoy seasonal activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or simply cozying up by the fireplace. The county receives an average annual rainfall of around 49 inches, ensuring that the landscape remains lush and vibrant. Moreover, Warren County boasts an impressive number of sunny days per year, averaging around 204, allowing retirees to revel in abundant sunshine and embrace an active and outdoor-centric lifestyle throughout the seasons.

The geography of Warren Count is a treasure trove of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Nestled within the scenic Kittatinny Valley, the county features rolling hills, picturesque farmland, and lush forests that paint a breathtaking backdrop for retirees seeking tranquility and natural splendor. The region is also home to the Delaware Water Gap, a stunning natural wonder carved by the Delaware River, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and awe-inspiring vistas. The county’s terrain provides retirees with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, including fishing in serene lakes and rivers, exploring hiking trails that wind through pristine woodlands, and immersing oneself in the county's rich wildlife. The geography of Warren County not only provides a beautiful backdrop for retirement but also encourages an active and fulfilling lifestyle, fostering a strong sense of connection with nature and a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate the great outdoors.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Warren County offers a plethora of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping destinations, and entertainment options to cater to the varied interests of retirees. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, enriching cultural experiences, or retail therapy, this vibrant county has so many fun things to do and see.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Panther Valley Golf & Country Club
• Fairway Valley Golf Club
• Hawk Pointe Golf Club
• Chester Tennis Club

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Jenny Jump State Forest
• Worthington State Forest
• Roaring Rock Park
• Delaware River

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Lebanon Township Museum
• Red Mill Museum Village
• Shippen Manor
• Rutherfurd Hall

Performing Arts:

• Shawnee Playhouse
• Country Gate Players
• Hackettstown Center for the Arts
• Roy’s Hall

Shopping:

• Mill Street Co-op
• Mansfield Commons
• The Port Colden Mall
• Hastings Square

Parks and Gardens:

• Beaver Brook Wildlife Management Area
• Miller Park
• Hopatcong State Park
• Kittatinny Valley State Park

Festivals and Fairs:

• Warren County Farmers' Fair & Balloon Festival
• Hackettstown Oktoberfest
• Festival in the Borough

Health and Wellness

While Warren County itself may not house major medical centers, its proximity to renowned healthcare facilities ensures that residents have access to top-quality care. Just a short drive away, hospitals such as Hackettstown Medical Center and St. Luke's Warren Campus provide comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and state-of-the-art facilities. These centers offer peace of mind and reassurance for active adults through convenient access to expert care.

In addition to the hospital options, Warren County also offers various resources for self-care and maintaining overall well-being. Fitness enthusiasts can explore local gyms and fitness centers, which provide a range of exercise programs, classes, and amenities tailored to different fitness levels and interests. For those seeking mental wellness, the county offers counseling services, therapy centers, and meditation classes that promote emotional well-being. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the county's abundance of parks and trails, allowing for invigorating walks, jogging, or peaceful moments surrounded by nature's tranquility. With a focus on self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, Warren County ensures that active adults have access to resources and amenities that contribute to their overall well-being.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day One

 Morning:

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Uncle Buck’s Diner in Belvedere, where locals gather to enjoy omelets, breakfast sandwiches, french toast, pancakes, and more.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the Beaver Brook Wildlife Management Area, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of nature and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a delightful lunch at Marley’s Gotham Grill in Hackettstown, known for buffalo wings, burgers, paninis, and more.
• Take a leisurely stroll down Hackettstown’s Main Street, exploring the many shops and taking in the sights along the way.

Evening:

• Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at James on Main, also in Hackettstown, where locals enjoy woodfired delicacies in two-, three-, or five-course meals.

Day Two

 Morning:

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Washington Diner, which serves staples like three-egg omelets, benedicts, breakfast sandwiches, and much more.
• Embark on a scenic drive through Warren County, exploring the picturesque landscapes and charming towns that make this area so appealing for retirees.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, head over to Enzo’s Pasta Grill in Washington, a favorite for pizza, stromboli, salads, and more.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to gain valuable insights into the various 55+ communities in Warren County. Discuss your preferences, needs, and priorities to make an informed decision about your future retirement home.

Evening:

• Enjoy a leisurely dinner at William’s Irish Tavern, which is also in Washington, where shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, Irish whiskey steak, and more are served daily.

Getting to Warren County, NJ

Getting to Warren County is convenient and accessible by various means of transportation. If you're traveling by car, major highways such as Interstates 78 and 80 serve as primary routes into the county. For those arriving by air, the closest major airport to Warren County is Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), located approximately 60 miles east of the county. Newark Liberty is served by numerous major airlines, including United, Delta, American, and JetBlue. As one of the primary hubs in the Northeast region, Newark Liberty International offers a wide range of domestic and international flight options for travelers. Car rental, taxi, and rideshare options are available to help visitors travel easily from EWR to picturesque and peaceful Warren County.