Georgetown is the undisputed center of retirement living in Williamson County, and for good reason. As the county seat and home to Sun City Texas, Georgetown has built a reputation as one of the best places to retire in all of Texas. The city blends small-town Texas charm with the amenities and healthcare access that retirees need.
Sun City Texas is the headline attraction. Developed by Del Webb, this massive active adult community spans over 5,300 acres and includes more than 9,000 homes, making it the largest 55+ community in the state. Sun City is a gated, age-restricted community with an astonishing range of amenities: three 18-hole golf courses, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, woodworking and ceramics studios, a ballroom, a dog park, and multiple dining options. With over 50 chartered clubs covering everything from photography to line dancing to veterans' groups, the social life inside Sun City is rich and varied. Many residents describe the community as having a small-town feel within itself, where neighbors become close friends and there is always something to do.
Beyond Sun City, Georgetown's historic downtown square is one of the most charming in Texas. The square features locally owned restaurants, antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and regular community events including Market Days, a summer concert series, and the famous Red Poppy Festival each April. The Williamson Museum on the square provides local history and rotating exhibits.
Healthcare in Georgetown is anchored by St. David's Georgetown Hospital, which provides emergency services, surgical care, imaging, and outpatient specialties. The hospital is conveniently located just minutes from Sun City, and multiple medical office complexes nearby house primary care physicians, cardiologists, orthopedic specialists, and other providers who accept Medicare.
Outdoor recreation is a major draw. Garey Park is a 525-acre city park with miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing ponds, a playground, an equestrian area, and a dog park. Lake Georgetown, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, offers boating, fishing, swimming, and camping along the San Gabriel River. Blue Hole Park features a natural spring-fed swimming area in the heart of the city. The San Gabriel Trail system connects parks and green spaces throughout Georgetown, providing paved paths for walking and cycling.
Georgetown's cost of living is moderate for Central Texas. The median home price is approximately $400K, with a wide range available from smaller homes in older neighborhoods to custom builds in newer developments. Property tax rates are around 2.1%, and seniors 65 and older benefit from homestead exemptions and a school district tax freeze. The city has a strong sense of community, active volunteer organizations, and a welcoming atmosphere that consistently draws retirees from across the country.