Overview
Gettysburg is a small town located in Central Pennsylvania that is southwest of Philadelphia and northwest of Baltimore. Gettysburg is a quaint town that holds a vital place in American history. It’s home to many museums and historical sites dedicated to the Civil War, making it an ideal location for active adults looking for a charming town to retire.
Climate & Geography
Gettysburg experiences all four seasons, a result of its northeast location. When compared to the rest of the country, Gettysburg receives a lower than average number of sunny days, a higher than average amount of rainfall, and a lower than average amount of snowfall.
Gettysburg is located in a hilly, forested area in Central Pennsylvania. The town is approximately 140 miles southwest of Philadelphia and approximately 62 miles northwest of Baltimore. The Monocacy River and part of the Potomac River flows through the town and into the Chesapeake Bay.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
As a major battleground during the Civil War, Gettysburg is filled with museums and historical sites commemorating the importance of the town’s past. Some locations include the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, Jennie Wade House, and the Gettysburg National Cemetery. Locals can participate in tours to learn more about the impact that the Civil War had on the town of Gettysburg. Besides historical tours, Gettysburg offers a variety of ghost tours through the town.
Gettysburg has a close-knit feel with plenty of community events and festivals. The Main Streets offer views of historical buildings to those who pass by, with various options for shopping and dining. Gettysburg provides residents with all the essentials within a close distance to home. More extensive shopping and entertainment options are available inBaltimore, just over an hour away from Gettysburg.
Active adults looking to get outside in Gettysburg enjoy the Gettysburg National Military Park, which offers plenty of walking trails surrounding the historic battle site.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The overall cost of living in Gettysburg is lower than both the state and national averages. The cost of housing lowers the overall cost of living since the median home cost in Gettysburg is lower than the national average, and just slightly higher than Pennsylvania’s state average.
Property taxes in Pennsylvania are higher than average, and Social Security is not taxed in Pennsylvania. Income tax in Pennsylvania is 3.07 percent, but municipalities can tax income as well. Retirees may qualify for income tax exclusions.
Health Care
There is one hospital located in Gettysburg, WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital, which is not ranked by U.S. News. However, there are two regionally ranked medical centers and hospitals located within 25 miles of Gettysburg. They are Carroll Hospital Center and Chambersburg Hospital. Carroll Hospital Center is ranked high performing in four adult procedures/conditions. Chambersburg Hospital is ranked high performing in three adult procedures/conditions.