Best Retirement Communities in Florida - Find Your Dream Oasis in the Sunshine State
Retirement Florida
Why do People Choose Retirement Communities in Florida?
- Millions of senior citizens reside in Florida, and retirement communities are the perfect way to stay social and engaged in local classes, clubs, sports, and more.
- Florida does not tax social security, nor does it tax any other form of income. Financially, it works out great for retirees.
- Sunny and warm weather happens all year round in Florida, which means it’s easy to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
- Healthcare is a priority in Florida, and retirees can trust excellent healthcare options and feel secure that they are taken care of both mentally and physically.
- Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country filled with sparkling blue waters and sandy shorelines. From secluded to active beach scenes, there’s somewhere for everyone to enjoy.
When it comes to deciding the very best retirement communities in Florida, we took several inputs to compile our list, including easy access to local healthcare and amenities, high quality lifestyles, and costs of living.
15 of the Best 55+ Communities in Florida
Finding the retirement community right for you can feel overwhelming when looking for places in Florida, as there are so many desirable spots to choose from. Based on benefits such as abundant amenities, top notch local healthcare, and affordable costs of living, here are some of the best retirement communities in Florida today.
The Villages is a true “golf-cart community.” Parades of the carts are a regular occurrence.
1. The Villages, FL
- Cost of living: 97.9 (2.1% lower than the national average)
- Average home price: $408,050
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,550
- Access to healthcare: Strong healthcare system with several primary care centers nearby
- Local amenities: Shopping, dining, golfing, entertainment, recreation
- Lifestyle: Active, relaxing, independent, and assisted living options
Located in Central Florida, The Villages is a tight knit community ideal for retirees that come from all walks of life. Residents who enjoy more of an active lifestyle can choose from 50 different golf courses, which include various difficulty levels from newbies to the enthusiasts. The local Sharon Rose Wiechens Preserve also provides the perfect opportunity to get active among a picturesque atmosphere of a lake and plenty of natural beauty.
When you’re in the mood for more of a relaxing day filled with shopping, you can count on the town squares within the community to provide you with the best shopping experience! Whether it be Brownwood Paddock Square or Sawgrass Grove, you have great choices, including local boutiques and national brands.
From apartments, to villas, to luxury dream homes, The Villages is quite flexible with housing options. You don't have to travel far to see the doctor while living in The Villages, as you can rely on plenty of top notch healthcare centers directly in the community!
2. Cypress Lakes Village, FL
- Cost of living: 91.6- Lakeland (8.4% lower than the the national average)
- Average home price: $322,400
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,525
- Access to healthcare: Lakeland Regional Medical Center approximately 30 minutes away
- Local amenities: Community engagement activities, golfing, swimming
- Lifestyle: Active, independent, and assisted living options
Located right between the big Florida cities of Orlando and Tampa, Cypress Lakes Village is the place to be if you want to be close enough to the state’s best attractions in both O-town and Tampa Bay. Whether you prefer more of an active or laidback lifestyle, this community has something to offer for everyone. Community engagement is a priority, and you can attend a number of local events all the way from art club meetings, to bingo, to fitness classes.
Along with a plenty of group events and meetings available to the whole community, residents can enjoy getting active at the two PGA championship golf courses where you can play 36 holes that feature beautiful views of the trees and lakes nearby. As one of the best golf communities in Florida, residents can also stay active at the local heated swimming pools or fitness center.
From small affordable homes to luxury homes along the water, you can expect Cypress Lakes Village homes to feature open concepts with large island kitchens typical of Florida homes.
3. On Top of the World Clearwater, FL
- Cost of living: 102.8-Clearwater (2.8% above the national average)
- Median home price: $175,000
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,825
- Access to healthcare: Several healthcare centers approximately 15 minutes away
- Local amenities: Fitness, education, community engagement
- Lifestyle: Active, independent, and assisted living options
Situated in Clearwater, the On Top of the World retirement community has all the resources you need all in one place and is one of the best retirement communities in Florida near the beach! Whether you want to stay fit at the fitness center, take classes and learn something new, or join one of the local clubs among a vast set of options, this community has what you need to continue an active lifestyle.
Beach bums will certainly appreciate Clearwater. Along with some of the top-rated beaches in America and ideal warm weather, there are plenty of additional options for entertainment and dining. Spend an evening at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre and then grab a bite to eat at Island Way Grill after — or embrace your inner tourist and enjoy the trappings of Clearwater Beach.
4. Indian River Estates, FL
- Cost of living: 98.6 (1.4% lower than the national average)
- Average home price: $326,000
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,850
- Access to healthcare: Several healthcare centers directly in the community
- Local amenities: Fitness, personal chefs, assisted living services
- Lifestyle: Active, independent, and assisted living options
Situated in a 100-acre campus with lovely views of palm trees, lakes, and gardens, residents of this community can enjoy the services of top notch executive chefs, personal trainers, and continuous care from independent living to nursing services.
At Indian River Estates, both the private villas and apartment homes are designed to provide you with the best possible living experience. Life care consultants are also on hand to help you find the ideal accommodations that meet your needs.
Indian River also has quality healthcare easily accessible with on-site facilities.
You can find peaceful, quiet living in Del Webb, with plenty of comfortable homes available.
5. Del Webb Naples, FL
- Cost of living: 113 (13% above the national average)
- Average home price: $590,250
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,315
- Access to healthcare: Naples Community Hospital and several other facilities nearby
- Local amenities: Fitness, golfing, playing sports, unique homes
- Lifestyle: Active, independent living options
Featuring an influx of new construction homes, the retirement community of Del Webb Naples is best suited for those who enjoy more of an active lifestyle! From condos to vibrant single family homes near the beautiful sugar sand beaches, there is a place for every walk of life to settle down in this community. At Del Webb Naples, the best resort living is provided—including two clubhouses, a pool, and a variety of social spaces. Those who love playing tennis, bocce, and pickleball can enjoy their favorite games in the pristine courts, and the fire pit lounge serves as a relaxing setting when you need a break from all the activity.
The resort's activity rooms are designed for various types of events, and the movement studio and fitness center are also ideal for individuals who love to exercise. Golfers can take advantage of the golf simulator and opt for a membership at the Panther Run Golf Club, too.
6. Stone River, FL
- Cost of living: 104.6- Bradenton (4.6% above the national average)
- Average home price: $381,700
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,975
- Access to healthcare: Several healthcare facilities in Bradenton no more than 20 minutes away
- Local amenities: Historic attractions, outdoor recreation, local events, luxurious services
- Lifestyle: Active, independent luxurious living options
For those who are looking for the perfect luxury retirement experience in Florida, the Stone River Retirement Community might just be the right place for you. Located in Bradenton, residents of Stone River community are a part of a community that has quite the rich history. Some of the most popular historical attractions within the city of Bradenton include the Manatee Village Historical Park and The Bishop Museum of Science. Plenty of outdoor recreation is also available at spots like G.T. Bray Park and the Neal Preserve.
Along with unique luxury homes, residents living in the Stone River community can rely on amenities including service 24/7 and upscale resort style dining. The community’s calendar is also filled with events all year round, including fitness classes and shopping outings.
Living in Whisper Walk means views like these are just a short drive away.
7. Whisper Walk, FL
- Cost of living: 114.1 in Boca Raton (14.1% above the national average)
- Median home price: $285,000
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,300
- Access to healthcare: Several healthcare facilities in Boca Raton approximately 20 minutes away
- Local amenities: Clubhouse, pool, sports courts
- Lifestyle: Active, independent living options
The private 55-and-over community of Whisper Walk features nearly 1,500 single-family homes situated in five distinct sections. It has nine lakes and a variety of features, such as a clubhouse and an Olympic-size pool.
While each section of the community is responsible for its own property, the management company of Whisper Walk Inc. maintains the common areas throughout the five sections. These include the guardhouses at each entrance, the sidewalks, the main roadway, and the Sportscenter, which features eight tennis courts and four handball walls. The company also manages the maintenance rooms and lavatories.
8. Reverie at Trailmark, FL
- Cost of living: 110.9 (10.9% above the national average)
- Median home price: $529,900
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,775
- Access to healthcare: Baptist Medical Center 30 minutes away
- Local amenities: Beaches, golf courses, beautiful scenery, new homes
- Lifestyle: Combination of active and relaxed, independent living options
The Reverie at TrailMark is a new 55+ community located in St. Johns County. This community features beautiful new homes and modern amenities, all within the TrailMark master-planned community. Residents of this area can enjoy the serenity of the river, as well as the ocean and St. Augustine's beaches.
Residents of the Reverie community will have the opportunity to connect with the area's natural beauty, which features various areas of interest such as the Atlantic beaches and the nearby PGA championship golf courses. The Reverie at TrailMark features 11 single-family home designs that range from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, which are surrounded by mature oak and pine trees.
9. Century Village at West Palm Beach, FL
- Cost of living: 114.1- West Palm Beach (14.1% above the national average)
- Average home price: $409,300
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,300
- Access to healthcare: Healthcare available within the community
- Local amenities: Clubs, fitness, pool
- Lifestyle: Active, independent living options
South Florida living is done the right way when you choose to reside in Century Village at West Palm Beach. Upon becoming the proud owner of one of the community's condominium units, you'll be able to experience its many features, such as its recreational facilities and lifestyle.
The clubhouse of the community spans almost two acres, which has various meeting rooms that can accommodate groups and individuals looking to improve their skills in bingo, music, and plenty of other activities.
The health club of Century Village has all kinds of exercise equipment and is a great place for people who want to improve their health. It also offers classes such as yoga, Pilates, and dance. Its wave-walking pool can provide low-impact exercise. A pharmacy and an on-site medical building can be found in this community, which provides convenient proximity to your health needs.
10. The Village at Gainesville, FL
- Cost of living: 92.2- Gainesville (7.8% lower than the national average)
- Average home price: $302,400
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,700
- Access to healthcare: North Florida Regional Medical Center serves the community
- Local amenities: Unique architecture within the homes, wellness center, fitness, pool, dining
- Lifestyle: Active, independent and assisted living options
The Village at Gainesville is a 104-acre rental community that features a variety of luxury living options. It also has a wellness center, memory support, and assisted living. Residents of this community pay no entrance fee and have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of services and activities.
This community offers housing options starting with the size and location of your choice, and there are also several distinct architectural styles that can accommodate your preferences. Each residence has been carefully designed to provide you with the necessary features to make your life comfortable.
Residents have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of services and activities. Some of these include a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, and several restaurants.
One of the most important factors that residents consider when it comes to choosing a community for their long-term living is the availability of care services that are designed to meet your needs. This community is equipped with the North Florida Regional Medical Center to provide senior healthcare to residents.
11. Huntington Lakes, FL
- Cost of living: 114.1- Delray Beach (14.1% above the national average)
- Median home price: $363,600
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,825
- Access to healthcare: Delray Medical Center and several other facilities serving the community
- Local amenities: Pools, meeting rooms, theater
- Lifestyle: Active, independent living options
Located in Delray Beach, the Huntington Lakes community is an active adult community that features two and one bedroom condominiums. This community has a variety of activities and amenities that are designed to keep its residents entertained, with a notable large clubhouse that is also surrounded by beautiful green spaces.
The community is situated on the West side of Jog Road near Atlantic Avenue, which is very close to establishments such as supermarkets and restaurants. Also, the nearby beaches and Atlantic Avenue's fine dining and shopping options are only a couple of miles away.
At Huntington Lakes, residents can enjoy all kinds of activities and hobbies. The community's large clubhouse features an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a theater, and four satellite pools. Along with several card and meeting rooms, there is even a theater with over 600 seats for weekly entertainment.
12. Sweetwater by Del Webb Jacksonville, FL
- Cost of living: 95.7- Jacksonville (4.3% lower than the national average)
- Average home price: $301,700
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,500
- Access to healthcare: Mayo Clinic of Jacksonville just 15 minutes away along with several other facilities
- Local amenities: Recreation, sports courts, big homes, highway access to the city
- Lifestyle: Active, independent living options
Located in the Southside of Jacksonville, Sweetwater by Del Webb is a highly-rated 55+ community that features 315 acres of land. Its main clubhouse, Summerland Hall, offers residents a variety of recreational facilities and opportunities designed to keep them active and healthy. The community's two pickleball and tennis courts are another great way for local residents to stay active.
Residents of the Sweetwater retirement community can easily access all parts of Jacksonville with the J. Turner Butler Blvd. and Interstate 295. Nearby facilities include medical, educational, and shopping establishments.
The community features five different floor plans, and the largest one is the two-story Magnolia, which has a total area of almost 2,400 square feet. It features three bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs.
13. Salt Springs Village, FL
- Cost of living: 87- Ocala (10.9% below the national average)
- Average home price: $273,800
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,500
- Access to healthcare: Healthcare facilities like HCA Florida Putnam Hospital approximately 25 minutes away
- Local amenities: Recreation, sports courts, community groups, fitness, golfing
- Lifestyle: Active, independent living options
The natural beauty of Salt Springs Village is enhanced by its many activities and amenities, which are just like those found in larger communities. The community's amenities are all located near the Ocala National Forest, which is a very different lifestyle from the typical condo communities that you would find in Florida. Life in Salt Springs Village is as pleasant as the warm weather that the area receives throughout the year.
Salt Springs Village is a community that values the serenity and beauty of its natural setting. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and lots of activities are often held in the area to foster community bonds, such as golf groups, fitness classes, and shuffleboard courts.
14. The Summit of Winter Garden, FL
- Cost of living: 106 - Winter Garden (6% above the national average)
- Average home price: $588,800
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,050
- Access to healthcare: Several facilities located directly in the Winter Garden area, including Advent Health just 5 minutes away
- Local amenities: Recreation, community groups, art studio, movie theater
- Lifestyle: Active, independent, assisted, and short term living options
Residents of The Summit of Winter Garden enjoy the finest resort-style living at this location, situated south of Colonial Drive and near Fowler Grove. This community features independent living, assisted living, and short-term or respite care.
The community is close to various popular parks and recreation areas, such as Newton Park, Speer Park, and West Orange Trail. It is also conveniently located to area hospitals, such as Orlando Health Central, Advent Health Winter Gardens, and Horizon West.
The Summit of Winter Gardens believes in the concept of Gracefully Living, which is a philosophy that embodies a unique lifestyle that will allow you to age gracefully as you grow older within your golden years.
This community features a variety of activities and dining options that are ideal for a healthy and active lifestyle, and residents can also participate in weekly social gatherings and easily explore their interests. Plenty of amenities are available such as a library, movie theater, and art studio.
15. Sunset Palms, FL
- Cost of living: 102.8 - Pinellas Park (2.8% above the national average)
- Average home price: $323,800
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,875
- Access to healthcare: Several facilities located directly in the area
- Local amenities: Mall, fun attractions, recreation, outdoor scenery
- Lifestyle: Active, independent, living options
The 55+ community of Sunset Palms is situated in the desirable area of Pinellas Park, near the Sandy Beaches and Gulf of Mexico. It is also within walking distance of various establishments such as a shopping mall, restaurants, and other medical facilities.
There is a local museum about automobiles called the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, which is located between St. Pete, Clearwater, and Tampa. It features a vast collection of fascinating vintage vehicles that exhibit exceptional imagination and creativity.
One of the most popular parks in the area is Freedom Lake, which is approximately 33 acres. It was first established in 1976 and is regarded as one of the most beautiful parks in the county. Its paved walking path and numerous pine trees provide residents with a relaxing environment to take a stroll on a nice day!
Best Retirement Communities in Florida — FAQs
A: The Villages is often thought of as Florida’s best retirement community.
Q: What is the best county in Florida for retirees?
A: Pinellas County is one of the best counties in Florida for retirees due to its vibrant community, fun local attractions, and outdoor recreation.
Q: What are the best 55+ communities in Central Florida?
A: Along with The Villages, Salt Springs Village is another top 55+ community in Central Florida.
Q: Is it better to retire on the east or west coast of Florida?
A: If you prefer a laidback lifestyle, the west coast of Florida is for you! The east coast of Florida is often busier with larger crowds.
PODS has the know-how and experience to help you move to your next home in retirement.
Move to One of the Best Retirement Communities in Florida With PODS
When you’re ready to move into one of the best retirement communities in Florida, let PODS know and they can easily help you get there. They can provide you with a portable storage container that will be delivered to your doorstep, where you can pack and load at your own pace. They'll then take it to your new residence once you’re ready. One month of storage is included in the price of the move, so you can easily store all of your belongings without feeling rushed.
Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.
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