Fredericksburg 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview 

Fredericksburg is a suburb of Washington, D.C. in Northern Virginia. One of the most historical cities in the U.S., active adults can enjoy centuries-old buildings, water recreation, and easy access to the amenities of D.C. Retirees are flocking to Fredericksburg for its warm, seasonal weather and quaint downtown community.

Climate & Geography 

Fredericksburg has a subtropical, humid climate, while also experiencing all four seasons. Summers are humid and warm, while winters are cool with some freezing months. Temperatures are higher all around than D.C. because Fredericksburg is more south and inland. Residents can expect 195 sunny days a year, slightly below average, as well as increased rainfall but less than average snowfall.

Located just west of the Potamac, the city itself is bordered by the Rappahannock River and Spotsylvania County. Fredericksburg is considered an ex-burb of D.C., where residents can benefit from the close proximity to the city with little daily connection.

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment 

Fredericksburg has experienced decades of suburban growth, but its downtown area still has more than 350 buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Old Town is not only a historical destination, but also has an abundance of boutique shops, restaurants, and bike paths along the river. History buffs have no shortage of unique landmarks to visit, including the Fredericksburg Battlefield, stately Chatham Manor, Kenmore Plantation, and Mary Washington’s House, among others. 

Active adults can canoe and kayak at Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area, jog at Old Mill Park, and hike at Alum Spring Park. The nearby Potomac River is perfect for summer boat tours as well.

Other local entertainment include several breweries, wineries, and distilleries, as well as Saturday farmers markets and multiple golf courses.

Cost of Living & Taxes 

The overall cost of living in Fredericksburg is higher than the national average, and this is mainly because of the high price of housing. Health care and utilities are generally below average, whereas groceries and transportation tend to match the rest of the U.S.

Though Virginia does not tax Social Security, other forms of retirement income, including pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s are partially taxed. Property taxes in the state are fairly below average, and sales taxes are some of the lowest in the country. Medicine is exempt from this tax, but groceries are taxed at a reduced rate of 2.5 percent.

Health Care

As part of the larger D.C. metropolitan area, Fredericksburg is among the top 25 U.S. communities according to Gallup’s Well-Being Index.

The city has one high performing hospital according to U.S. News, Mary Washington Hospital. It is ranked the No. 8 hospital in Virginia and the No. 5 in the D.C. metro area. The next closest high performing hospital is 25 miles away, the Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center.