Top 10 Reasons to Retire in Lake Geneva or Lauderdale Lakes

Retirement is a time to relax, enjoy your surroundings, and focus on the things that matter most. Whether you dream of a laid-back lake lifestyle, an active boaters lifestyle, or a peaceful retreat, Lake Geneva, Delavan Lake and Lauderdale Lakes offer some of the best retirement options in Wisconsin.

With scenic beauty, a welcoming community, and plenty of activities, these two destinations provide an ideal environment for retirees who want to enjoy life to the fullest. As local real estate experts with eXp Realty, Kim & Joel Reyenga have helped many retirees find their perfect home in Lake Geneva, Lauderdale Lakes, and surrounding areas.

Here are the top 10 reasons why you should consider retiring in Lake Geneva or Lauderdale Lakes.

1. Lakefront Living & Scenic Beauty

One of the biggest draws of Lake Geneva and Lauderdale Lakes is the stunning lakefront scenery. Whether you want a lakefront home, a condo with water views, or easy lake access, these areas provide relaxing and picturesque surroundings perfect for retirement.

• Lake Geneva, Williams Bay & Fontana offer a large, vibrant lakefront community with beautiful homes, beaches, and waterfront dining.
• Lauderdale Lakes & Delavan Lake is a more secluded and peaceful option, perfect for retirees looking for a quieter atmosphere while still enjoying lake access.

With breathtaking sunrises, walking paths along the lake, and year-round beauty, it’s no surprise that so many retirees choose Walworth County’s lake communities.

2. Lake Geneva Area Lake Living Compared to Other Lake Destinations

Compared to other lakefront retirement destinations in the U.S., Lake Geneva and Lauderdale Lakes offer close proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison

• Lower property taxes than similar lakefront areas in Illinois or Minnesota.
• A variety of housing options, from luxury homes to affordable townhouses and condos.

For those looking to downsize while still enjoying a lake lifestyle, these areas provide excellent value for homebuyers.

3. Year-Round Activities for Active Retirees

If you want to stay active and social during retirement, both Lake Geneva and Lauderdale Lakes offer plenty of recreational activities:

• Boating, fishing, and kayaking on the lakes.
• Golfing at top courses like Geneva National Golf Club,  Grand Geneva, Abbey Springs, and Evergreen Golf Course.
• Hiking and biking trails in Big Foot Beach State Park and Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy.
• Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter months.

For retirees looking for a lifestyle of adventure and activity, there’s always something to do.

4. Access to High-Quality Healthcare

As retirees consider healthcare access, Lake Geneva provides excellent medical services and hospitals close by.

• Mercyhealth Hospital in Williams Bay offers comprehensive care and specialized services.
• Aurora Lakeland Medical Center in Elkhorn provides additional healthcare options.
• Multiple senior wellness programs and home healthcare services are available for aging-in-place needs.

Living in an area with top-tier healthcare ensures peace of mind for retirees.

5. Vibrant Downtown & Community Events

Lake Geneva’s charming downtown and Lauderdale Lakes’ tight-knit community make both areas great for retirees who enjoy social activities and cultural events.

• Lake Geneva’s historic downtown offers boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.
• Farmers’ markets, art fairs, and festivals keep the community engaged year-round.
• Lauderdale Lakes & Elkhorn hosts community gatherings, fishing tournaments, and social clubs for residents.

Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down—these communities offer plenty of ways to stay connected and involved.

6. Mild Summers & Scenic Fall Colors

Wisconsin offers beautiful seasonal changes, but without the intense heat of southern retirement destinations.

• Summers in Lake Geneva and Lauderdale Lakes are comfortable and perfect for outdoor activities.
• Autumn brings stunning fall foliage, making every drive or walk feel like a postcard moment.
• Winters provide opportunities for snow activities, but the area is well-equipped with plowed roads and winterized homes.

For retirees looking for a balanced climate with four distinct seasons, Wisconsin is a great choice.

7. Golf Courses & Country Club Living

For retirees who love golf, there are plenty of premier courses in Walworth County.

• Geneva National Golf Club – Offers three championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino.
• Abbey Springs Golf Course – A private, picturesque course in Fontana with a full-service country club.
• Evergreen Golf Club – A public course with a relaxed atmosphere and well-maintained fairways.

Many retirees choose homes in golf course communities, allowing them to enjoy golf and a social club atmosphere year-round.

8. Close Proximity to Chicago & Milwaukee

One of the advantages of retiring in Lake Geneva or Lauderdale Lakes is the easy access to major cities.

• Chicago is just 90 minutes away, making it easy for trips to museums, theaters, and sports events.
• Milwaukee is less than an hour away, providing access to concerts, shopping, and international travel via Milwaukee Mitchell Airport.

This ideal location allows retirees to enjoy a peaceful lake lifestyle while staying connected to urban amenities.

9. Low-Maintenance Housing Options for Retirees

For those looking to downsize or find a low-maintenance home, both Lake Geneva and Lauderdale Lakes offer:

• Condominiums with HOA services that handle landscaping and exterior maintenance.
• 55+ communities with resort-style amenities.
• Smaller single-family homes designed for retirees who want less upkeep.

With a variety of housing options, retirees can enjoy their lifestyle without the stress of home maintenance.

10. Strong Real Estate Investment & Legacy Planning

Buying property in Lake Geneva Delavan Lake or Lauderdale Lakes is not just a retirement decision—it’s also a smart investment.

• Home values in these areas have appreciated steadily, making it a great choice for long-term wealth.
• Lakefront properties retain high demand, offering strong resale potential.
• Many retirees choose to purchase a vacation home first, renting it seasonally before transitioning into full-time retirement.

With the right real estate strategy, retirees can secure their future while enjoying the best years of their life.

Find Your Dream Retirement Home with Kim & Joel Reyenga

If you’re considering retiring in Lake Geneva, Delavan Lake or Lauderdale Lakes, Kim & Joel Reyenga of eXp Realty can help you find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and budget.

As local real estate experts, they specialize in lakefront homes, retirement-friendly properties, and low-maintenance housing options for those looking to retire in Walworth County.

Contact Kim & Joel Reyenga Today

Call/Text: (262) 325-9867
Email: joel.reyenga@exprealty.com
Website: YourWiscoHome.com

Start your retirement journey in one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful and welcoming communities. Let Kim & Joel Reyenga guide you to your dream home in Lake Geneva, Delavan Lake or Lauderdale Lakes.