Nestled in a triangular geographic region west of Austin, north of San Antonio, and east of Junction lies an unexpectedly lush area of tall hills, canyons, oaks and cedars. Among the inspiring scenery are quaint towns, friendly faces, and some of the best barbecue in the United States. Known as the Texas Hill Country, this area has become home to many retirees who seek a serene yet active retirement.
Retirement Living in the Hills of Texas
According to Bob Moos in the May 6, 2008 Dallas Morning News article, “ Boomer Retirees Are Loving What Texas Hill Country Affords Them,” scenic natural surroundings and affordability have put quaint Hill Country towns such as Boerne, Kerrville, San Marcos, and New Braunfels on national lists of sought-after places to retire. Moos also points out the abundant wildlife in the region including wild turkey, deer, rabbits, peacocks, wild boar, and of course, armadillos.
Jim Gansle, president of the Canyon Lake Lodging Association, retired to the Texas Hill Country in 1995. Describing the area around his home just steps from scenic Canyon Lake, Gansle says, "The Hill Country is a great place for retirees. Life is leisurely, with pleasant surroundings, hills of course, woods, lakes, milky green rivers, wildlife, and lots to do.” The Canyon Lake area enjoys close proximity to Austin to the north, San Antonio to the south, and numerous quaint small towns in between.
The emerging picture of the Hill Country as a retirement hotspot abundant in wildlife and natural surroundings is not overstated. According to Kimberly Palmer in the July 31, 2008 U.S. News and World Report article, “10 Best Outdoorsy Places to Retire,” the area is well known for water activities including boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and lazily tubing down the San Marcos River. Other outdoorsy things to do include hiking, bird watching, and hunting.
For a change of venue, retirees can enjoy big-city life within a short distance. To the north, the Texas capital city of Austin is a vibrant town that offers a wide range of exciting diversions in the arts, music, and history. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the largest urban bat colony in North America, located in central Austin underneath the Congress Avenue bridge.
To the south lies San Antonio, a city famous for the Alamo and its colorful Hispanic flair. Visitors can stroll among the sprawling oaks and lush palms of the Riverwalk, dine in authentic Mexican restaurants, watch live shows, learn about Texas history, and enjoy a romantic evening aboard a candlelit dinner boat.
The Texas Hill Country Retirement Advantage
Several retirement hotspots including some in Florida are becoming overpriced and crowded. In contrast, the Hill Country area of Central Texas offers retirees a more peaceful, laid back lifestyle. Given a lower cost of living, beautiful scenery, an abundance of wildlife, numerous activities, and proximity to major Texas cities, it’s no wonder the Texas Hill Country is fast becoming a top retirement hotspot.
See related articles, “How to Get Help Moving in Retirement," "How to Choose the Right Retirement Housing," and "How to Keep in Touch With Family in Retirement."
Daniel Gansle - Daniel J. Gansle is the author of 2012: Day of Reckoning, graduate of Anthropological Studies and expert in ancient Mayan culture.
