As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

New: Community Explorer. Discover Your Perfect Community Quickly Based on Lifestyle, Amenities, and Unit Type.

Try It NOW

home -

reviews -

new york -

saranac lake

Saranac Lake, New York

What It Is Like to Retire in Saranac lake

Saranac Lake is a resort town in northeastern New York near the Canadian and Vermont borders. The population was 5,400 in 2010. The Village is in the Adirondacks Park and much fronts on Flower Lake. Many people have summer homes here in the 3 towns that make up Saranac Lake (St.Armand, Harrietstown, and North Elba). The town of Saranac is 30 miles away. Saranac Lake was named the best small town in New York State and also ranked in The 100 Best Small Towns in America. In 2006 the village was named one of the "Dozen Distinctive Destinations" by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In the late 1800s Saranac Lake was famous as a place to go for a tuberculosis cure. Photo of downtown buildings with porches for tuberculosis patients courtesy of Wikipedia and Opus33 (public domain).

Where to Retire in Saranac lake and Home Prices

Home values have fluctuated within $100,000 to $200,000 in the last few years. There is at least one retirement community in the area.

What Is Special about Saranac lake

Its setting on the Saranac River and Lake Flower, as well as being in the Adirondack Park makes it quite special. The winter carnival is a big attraction. And its collection of well preserved Victorian and antique homes makes it very popular with tourists.

What Is Not Special about Saranac lake

It is quite remote and very cold in winter.

Who Will Like Retirement in Saranac lake

Outdoorsy people or those looking for a quaint historic town will like Saranac Lake. It is popular with people looking for a summer or vacation home.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Tourism is extremely important to the local economy.

Climate and Physical Environment

Saranac Lake is in a lake region in extreme northeastern New York State, only a few miles from Lake Placid. The average January temperature is in the teens and the average July temperature in the 60s.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

North Country Community College is in Saranac Lake. As a tourist destination there is a choice of restaurants. The annual winter carnival is very popular themed event. The Saranac Lake Free Library provides library service.