Peterborough, Ontario: A Guide for Active Retirees

Peterborough residents of all ages have a lot to be excited about! A thriving entertainment scene and a growing economy certainly put the city on the national stage for younger residents. A welcoming environment and high-quality schools make the city appealing to families, especially those with growing children.

What about those who are looking forward to retirement living? The number of people selling their homes and downsizing to Peterborough might be a sign of great things to come! In this post, we’ll talk about why and how to downsize to our favourite place.

Searching for a new place to call home after retirement? Somewhere with gorgeous surroundings, a supportive community, and a ton of fun activities to enjoy all year long? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Living in Peterborough!

What to Do in Retirement

If you’re still working, you might be dreaming of the day you can officially say “goodbye” to early mornings and rigid routines. As that time draws near, the vision gets a little more real, and a practical plan becomes essential.

Your journey begins with an honest assessment of your finances. If you currently own a home, a real estate professional can help you estimate how much it is worth in today’s market.

Your next steps may include selling your existing property and renting a smaller place where there’s no mortgage and less maintenance to fuss with. Alternatively, you may cash in on your equity and head for somewhere warm. If you choose to buy, Peterborough’s relatively affordable real estate options are just one of the many reasons it’s a popular choice for retirees.

However, downsizing well is about much more than your finances. It’s about your lifestyle, and that is where Peterborough really shines.

Do you want even more details to help you visualize living your best life in Peterborough? Check out the posts below:

Things to Do When You Retire in Peterborough

If your days at work are drawing to a close, you might be wondering “what do retired people do?” In Peterborough, the answer is simple: anything you want or can imagine!

In the past, activities for seniors may have been defined by reading or watching TV. And there’s nothing wrong with relaxing and taking it easy – you’ve earned it after a lifetime of hard work!

However, many retirees are committed to staying engaged, active, and living life to the fullest. Once again, Peterborough is the place to be!

You could take advantage of the many amenities and programs just for seniors and retirees in the city. Facilities such as Activity Haven Centre, Maple Ridge Recreation, and McDonnel Street Activity Centre all present opportunities to get out and socialize with people your own age.

Just don’t imagine for a moment that you are limited to just “seniors’ activities.” Being in Peterborough means you’re always close to the heart of the action – and the scenery!

Those new to Peterborough are always delighted by the incredible scenery everywhere, even during a simple stroll through the neighbourhood. There are parks, trails, gardens, and even beaches where you can spend your days exploring the great outdoors.

There are also plenty of entertainment options. You may have outgrown the bar scene, but you can still get out and experience some of Canada’s top talent, whether it’s a live play at The Theatre On King or watching a dance routine at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre.

Do your retirement dreams depend on selling your existing home? The posts below can help:

Learning Is for All Ages

Peterborough has a reputation as a university town, and rightly so. It is home to some of Canada’s most respected post-secondary institutions, such as Trent University and Fleming College. There’s a definite youthful vibe, but programs are open to everyone of any age. Continuing Education allows you to pursue the passions you never had time for when you were working full-time.

Imagine learning to code, honing your chef skills, or mastering a new language, all on your terms and timeline. In addition, The Art School of Peterborough offers classes in pottery, stained glass, oil painting and more. Before or after class, you can browse the many boutique shops or grab a coffee with friends in downtown Peterborough.

For the athletically minded retiree, Peterborough offers many options to stay active. For example, why not lace up your skates and learn a few new tricks? Even if you’re currently a wall clinger, the adult CanSkate program will have you gliding in no time.

If tearing up the ice doesn’t appeal to you, there’s always bowling, shuffleboard, pickleball, or golf. Whether you’ve got the skills or just need an excuse to socialize, you’ll always feel welcome at The Peterborough Curling Club, Peterborough Seniors Hockey Club, and more!

Planning to buy your next home and retire in Peterborough? The posts below will help you plan for success:

Choosing Your Peterborough Neighbourhood

Now that you have an idea of what to do after retirement, it’s a matter of choosing where you want to go. The City of Peterborough consists of four separate quadrants built around the downtown core, north, west, south, and east.

If you’re looking for a safe, friendly neighbourhood that is highly walkable, you might consider the east end. This section boasts East City, one of Peterborough’s most exciting condo communities! Even if you don’t reside in the building itself, you can enjoy nearby amenities such as local cafes, bakeries, shops, as well as the Rotary Greenway Trail and Rogers Cove. These are beautiful spots for a stroll or bike ride any time of the year!

The green and scenic west end is popular with younger families, but is also ideal for older residents who prefer a peaceful, elevated way of life. Jackson Park is nearby, as is the prestigious Kawartha Golf & Country Club.

South Peterborough is primarily defined by convenience. Lansdowne Place Mall and the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre are in close proximity.

Peterborough’s north end is the closest you can get to Cottage Country without actually being in Cottage Country, which is also why Peterborough is often called “The Gateway to the Kawarthas.” This area is just 10 minutes away from the gorgeous Village of Lakefield. Close to home, you’ll find a host of big box stores, as well as several adult subdivisions where the snow removal and lawn care are all taken care of for you.

Downtown Peterborough is ideal for young-at-heart retirees who crave excitement. Living here, you’ll be within walking distance of libraries, a movie theatre, and every amenity you’ll ever need. You can also stroll over to admire the waterfront, thanks to its breathtaking location along Little Lake and the Otonabee River.

Do you want to know more about buying, selling, or downsizing your home in Peterborough or Kawartha Lakes? Our Peterborough real estate agents are happy to help! Reach out to team@jeffandkatie.ca or call 705-243-9797 to start the conversation today.