55+ Communities in Cape Cod Area | Active Adult Lifestyle

The Cape Cod area offers a serene coastal environment with picturesque landscapes and a distinct New England charm. Known for its sandy shores, historic lighthouses, and quaint seaside villages, the area provides a peaceful setting for those seeking a relaxed and engaging lifestyle. The area boasts a rich maritime history, coupled with a thriving arts and cultural scene, making it an ideal destination for individuals looking to enjoy their retirement years in a coastal community that values both tranquility and a sense of community.

Cape Cod's three largest cities each have their unique charm. Hyannis, known as the commercial and transportation hub, offers a vibrant Main Street with shops and restaurants. Falmouth, with its charming historic district and picturesque harbor, provides a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Sandwich, the oldest town on the Cape, features a quaint village atmosphere and beautiful beaches, making it a serene place to call home.

For those exploring the Cape Cod area, several local resources offer valuable information.

The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce provides insights into the region's businesses as well as extensive tourist information.
The Cape Cod Times is the local news source, offering updates on community events and news.
City of Barnstable is the official website for the town and its neighborhoods, including Hyannis.

Cape Cod Area Affordability and Cost of Living

The Cape Cod, MA area tends to have a higher cost of living compared to the national average. Housing costs, in particular, are very high, with home prices reflecting the desirable coastal location. Groceries and utility costs are 10 to 15 percent higher than national averages, while healthcare and transportation are slightly lower than the U.S. average. The region offers a range of recreational activities, from outdoor pursuits like beach outings to cultural events, and the costs associated with these can be moderate to slightly above average. It's worth noting that while expenses may be higher, residents often find the quality of life and the unique coastal lifestyle to be well worth the investment.

When it comes to overall taxation, Massachusetts has a 6.25% state sales tax, both groceries and medication are exempt and localities are not permitted to add additional tax on top of the state sales tax. Property taxes are determined at the local level, and rates can vary across different towns on Cape Cod. For specific property tax information, individuals can refer to the local assessors' offices. Massachusetts does not have an inheritance tax, but it does have an estate tax on estates valued at over $1 million. Social Security benefits are not taxed but other retirement income is generally subject to the 5 percent state income tax though there are certain exemptions and deductions available. Individuals seeking detailed and up-to-date information on taxation in the Cape Cod area can visit the Massachusetts Department of Revenue website.

Cape Cod Area Climate and Geography

The Cape Cod area features a temperate maritime climate characterized by distinct seasons. Winters are generally cool, with average temperatures ranging from around 25 to 39 degrees. Snowfall is moderate, averaging about 20 inches annually, creating a scenic winter landscape. Summers are pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 61 to 78 degrees. Humidity levels can rise during the summer months, reaching around 70 percent but the coastal location provides a refreshing sea breeze. Annual rainfall averages around 45 inches. While the region is not immune to severe weather events, such as occasional winter storms or summer hurricanes, Cape Cod's coastal geography often provides a degree of natural protection.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod offers miles of pristine sandy beaches and picturesque dunes. The Cape Cod National Seashore, stretching over 40 miles, showcases the area's natural beauty and provides opportunities for outdoor activities. Additionally, the region is dotted with charming villages, salt marshes, and cranberry bogs. For those who appreciate varied landscapes, Cape Cod is within a few hours' drive of the Berkshire Mountains in western Massachusetts, offering a different terrain for hiking and exploration. The Cape is also known for its numerous freshwater ponds, providing serene settings for relaxation and recreation.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment Near Cape Cod Area

The Cape Cod area offers a rich tapestry of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment for residents and visitors to enjoy. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or art lover, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal region.

Golf and Racquet Sports Near Cape Cod

Hyannis Golf Course in Hyannis
The Ridge Club in Sandwich
Cape Cod Country Club in East Falmouth
Mid-Cape Racquet & Health Club in West Yarmouth

Hiking, Biking, and Boating Near Cape Cod

Shining Sea Bikeway in Falmouth
Cape Cod Rail Trail in Brewster
Nickerson State Park in Brewster
Cape Cod Canal in Bourne

Parks and Gardens Near Cape Cod

Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich
Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich
Cape Cod National Seashore in Wellfleet
Brewster Gardens in Plymouth

Museums and Historical Sites Near Cape Cod

Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dennis
Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum in Provincetown
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum in Hyannis
Plimoth Patuxet Museums in Plymouth

Performing Arts Near Cape Cod

Cape Playhouse in Dennis
Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater in Wellfleet
Cape Symphony in Hyannis
The Melody Tent in Hyannis

Shopping Near Cape Cod

Mashpee Commons in Mashpee
Main Street Hyannis in Hyannis
Chatham Main Street in Chatham
Provincetown Shopping District in Provincetown

Festivals and Fairs Near Cape Cod

Barnstable County Fair in Falmouth
Provincetown International Film Festival in Provincetown
Yarmouth Seaside Festival in Yarmouth
Wellfleet OysterFest in Wellfleet

Health and Wellness Near Cape Cod

For 55+ active adults in the Cape Cod area, maintaining health and wellness is seamlessly woven into the fabric of the community. The area is home to reputable medical centers including Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, Falmouth Hospital in Falmouth, and Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth, all of which offer comprehensive medical services and specialized care.

In addition to excellent medical facilities, Cape Cod fosters a culture of wellness with numerous opportunities for self-care and fitness. The area boasts scenic walking and biking trails, providing both physical activity and the chance to connect with nature. Local fitness centers and yoga studios offer tailored programs for varying fitness levels, promoting a holistic approach to health. There are several farmers markets in the area including the popular Barnstable Village Farmers Market. The markets ensure that residents have convenient access to fresh, locally-sourced produce, contributing to a well-rounded and health-conscious lifestyle.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Cape Cod Area 55+ Communities

Embarking on the journey to find the perfect retirement destination in Cape Cod involves not only researching potential 55+ communities but also immersing oneself in the local lifestyle. This 2-day itinerary combines visits to key attractions with opportunities to savor the culinary delights of the region.

Day One

Morning:

Start the day with breakfast at The Daily Paper, a popular local restaurant in Hyannis.
Explore the Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dennis to appreciate the region's cultural offerings.
Visit the Cape Cod Maritime Museum to learn about the region's seafaring history.

Afternoon:

Enjoy lunch at Alberto's Ristorante in Hyannis, a renowned Italian restaurant.
Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore in Wellfleet for a scenic coastal experience.

Evening:

Have dinner at the Brewster Fish House which is known for its fresh seafood and welcoming ambiance.

Day Two

Morning:

Begin the day with breakfast at the Red Cottage Restaurant, a charming staple in the area since 1951.
Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss potential 55+ communities in the area and to tour those you are interested in.

Afternoon:

Have lunch at local favorite Hangar B Eatery in Chatham, offering a unique dining experience.
Take a leisurely stroll along Main Street in Chatham, exploring its charming shops and boutiques.

Evening:

Conclude the day with dinner at Cape Sea Grille in Harwich Port, specializing in seafood with oceanfront views.

Getting to the Cape Cod, MA Area

Getting to Cape Cod is convenient, with various transportation options available for visitors. Here are directions for different modes of transportation:

By Car:

Cape Cod is accessible by car, and major highways leading to the region include:

From the north, take I-95 S to I-195 E, then follow signs for Cape Cod.
From the west, take I-495 S to MA-25 E or I-195 E and follow signs for Cape Cod.
From the south, take I-195 E, and follow signs for Cape Cod.

By Air:

The nearest major airport is Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), located approximately 70 miles northwest of Cape Cod. Airlines serving Boston Logan include major carriers such as Delta, American Airlines, United, and JetBlue.

By Bus:

Bus services, such as Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines, operate services to Cape Cod from various locations, including Boston and Providence. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority also provides bus services within the region.

By Train:

Amtrak offers train services to Boston's South Station, where visitors can transfer to bus or other transportation options to reach Cape Cod. The CapeFLYER, a seasonal train service, operates directly from Boston to Hyannis during the summer months.

By Ferry:

Ferries are available from Boston to Provincetown and from several locations on the mainland to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.