Yardley, PA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview

Yardley is a borough in Eastern Pennsylvania located along the state border of New Jersey and northeast of Philadelphia. Its prime location and plenty of greenspaces have made it a desirable option for retirees. Besides that, the city is home to a quaint downtown, and many forest preserves, state parks, and historical sites which surround the city. 

Climate and Geography

The climate in Yardley is classified as humid continental, meaning the area experiences all four seasons with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Residents can expect more rainfall and less snowfall than the national averages, and about 200 sunny days throughout each year. 

Situated in the Piedmont Plateau region, the surrounding terrain is mostly plains and low, gently rolling hills. The Delaware River, which also delineates the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, makes up the eastern border of the borough. 

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

Yardley is surrounded by scenic greenspaces, including state parks and forest preserves. Some of the more popular outdoor attractions in the area are Shady Brook Farm, Howell Living History Farm, and Lower Makefield Parks and Recreation. Those who love playing golf will have plenty of courses to choose from, the largest being Makefield Highland Golf Clubs. 

The borough also has many historic sites, including art sculptures and statues, and meaningful landmarks such as Garden of Reflection 9/11 Memorial and Touchstone Art Gallery. Aside from that, Yardley’s downtown area has plenty of local wineries, breweries, restaurants, antique shops, and more. 

For convenient access to even more shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Philadelphia can be reached in about an hour via car or public transit. There are also public transit options that go to New York City within two to three hours, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. 

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living in Yardley is higher than the state and national averages. The housing and transportation indexes are significantly higher than the national average. Utility and grocery costs are slightly higher than the national average, while health care is slightly below. 

Pennsylvania is one of the most tax friendly states in the nation. All forms of retirement income, including Social Security benefits are exempt from state income taxes for residents who are 60+. Property taxes are fairly high, which can be a significant burden because of the high cost of homes. To help offset this cost there is a homestead exclusion, as well as a property tax rebate program for residents who qualify based on age and income level. The sales tax rate for Pennsylvania and Yardley, is 6 percent. 

Health Care 

The Philadelphia metro area ranks in the top 105 communities on Gallup’s Well-Being Index.

There are many hospitals and medical centers in and around Yardley. They are St. Mary Medical Center-Langhorne and Rothman Specialty Hospital, which are both rated high performing in at least two procedures by U.S News, and Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County, which is rated high performing in one procedure.