Choosing the right 55+ community is crucial for retirees seeking an active, fulfilling lifestyle. Across the U.S., there are many top-notch communities that offer a variety of amenities, social activities, and peaceful living environments. Whether you're looking for a golf-centric community, a location with access to nature, or a place filled with exciting recreational options, here are some of the best 55+ communities in the U.S.
1. The Villages
Location: Central Florida
Overview: Often considered the gold standard for active adult communities, The Villages in Florida is one of the largest and most popular best 55+ communities in US. With over 130,000 residents, The Villages offers an impressive array of amenities, including:
- 12 country clubs
- 50+ recreational pools
- 100+ golf courses
- Hundreds of clubs and organizations
The community offers a wide range of activities, from arts and crafts to organized social events, and it’s known for its vibrant social scene. Residents can enjoy a variety of fitness classes, organized outings, and more. The Villages is also a great option for retirees who want to stay active with ample outdoor space for walking, biking, and golfing.
2. Sun City Summerlin
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Overview: Sun City Summerlin is one of the largest and most sought-after 55+ communities in the Las Vegas area. This expansive community offers beautiful homes, a wide range of amenities, and a relaxing environment while still being close to the excitement of the Las Vegas Strip. Key features include:
- Four clubhouses
- Three 18-hole golf courses
- Fitness centers and swimming pools
- Social clubs, arts and crafts rooms, and more
Sun City Summerlin’s proximity to Las Vegas offers retirees the chance to enjoy world-class entertainment, dining, and shopping while residing in a peaceful, active adult community.
3. Del Webb at Lake Las Vegas
Location: Henderson, Nevada
Overview: Del Webb at Lake Las Vegas is an exceptional 55+ community that combines luxury living with a peaceful lakeside setting. Located just outside Las Vegas, this community is ideal for those who want a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to the excitement of the city. Amenities include:
- A beautiful 320-acre lake for boating and fishing
- A clubhouse with a fitness center and event spaces
- Walking and biking trails
- Resort-style swimming pool and spa
Del Webb at Lake Las Vegas is perfect for retirees seeking a luxurious lifestyle with plenty of recreational activities, including hiking, golfing, and relaxing by the lake.
4. Solivita
Location: Kissimmee, Florida
Overview: Solivita is a picturesque 55+ community located in Central Florida, offering retirees a relaxed and active lifestyle. The community is renowned for its focus on wellness and offers a host of activities and amenities, such as:
- Two 18-hole championship golf courses
- A 32,000-square-foot clubhouse
- Fitness centers, tennis courts, and multiple swimming pools
- Walking and biking trails throughout the community
With over 4,300 acres of land, Solivita is a community that offers a wide range of housing options, recreational activities, and natural beauty, making it a favorite for retirees who want to embrace an active lifestyle while staying connected to nature.
5. Pulte Homes’ Active Adult Communities
Location: Nationwide
Overview: Pulte Homes has developed a series of 55+ communities across the U.S. that cater to retirees looking for beautiful homes, low-maintenance living, and resort-style amenities. Some of the best-known Pulte communities include:
- Del Webb communities in various states
- Sun City communities in states like Arizona, Nevada, and Florida
- Pulte’s active adult neighborhoods in places like Texas, Michigan, and California
These communities offer a wide range of amenities, from clubhouses and fitness centers to golf courses and hiking trails. Pulte communities are known for their high-quality construction and attention to detail in creating homes that are designed for active living.
6. CantaMia at Estrella
Location: Goodyear, Arizona
Overview: CantaMia at Estrella is a resort-style 55+ community that offers a scenic desert landscape with access to luxurious amenities and outdoor activities. This community is located just outside Phoenix and provides a tranquil retreat for retirees looking for a relaxed yet active lifestyle. Amenities include:
- A 29,000-square-foot clubhouse
- A resort-style pool and spa
- Tennis courts and fitness centers
- Hiking and biking trails
CantaMia is perfect for those who want to enjoy the desert beauty of Arizona while staying engaged in a variety of fitness programs, clubs, and social events.
7. 55+ Communities in Arizona: Sun City Grand and Sun City West
Location: Surprise and Sun City West, Arizona
Overview: Arizona is home to several outstanding 55+ communities, with Sun City Grand and Sun City West being two of the most popular. These communities, developed by Del Webb, offer:
- Multiple golf courses
- Recreation centers with fitness rooms and pools
- Arts and crafts rooms, as well as social clubs and organized events
- Proximity to excellent shopping and dining options
Both communities are located in Surprise and Sun City West, offering a relaxed, suburban atmosphere with easy access to the amenities and activities in nearby Phoenix.
8. The Woodlands
Location: The Woodlands, Texas
Overview: The Woodlands is a master-planned community located just north of Houston, Texas, known for its natural beauty, walking trails, and peaceful surroundings. Although it isn’t exclusively a 55+ community, it offers a dedicated active adult living neighborhood known as The Woodlands Waterway. This area is ideal for retirees who enjoy an upscale lifestyle surrounded by nature. Key amenities include:
- Multiple golf courses and recreational spaces
- A wide range of walking, hiking, and biking trails
- Lakes and parks for outdoor activities
- A dynamic social environment with clubs and events
The Woodlands offers a combination of serenity and access to vibrant city life, making it a great option for retirees who want to be close to nature while still enjoying cultural events and urban conveniences.
9. The Reserve at Lake Keowee
Location: Seneca, South Carolina
Overview: The Reserve at Lake Keowee is a luxury 55+ community located on the pristine shores of Lake Keowee in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This community offers breathtaking views, a range of recreational activities, and beautiful homes. Amenities include:
- A Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course
- A lakeside clubhouse with a fitness center and event spaces
- Water sports and fishing on Lake Keowee
- Walking and biking trails
The community is perfect for retirees who enjoy a quiet, nature-filled lifestyle with opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor adventures.
10. Avenel Preserve
Location: Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area
Overview: Avenel Preserve is a smaller, exclusive 55+ community located in the Washington, D.C. metro area. It offers a peaceful and serene environment with easy access to the nation’s capital, making it a great choice for those who want to explore the city’s cultural offerings while enjoying a quiet lifestyle. Key features include:
- Beautiful homes with scenic views
- A community clubhouse and fitness center
- Social clubs and group activities
Avenel Preserve offers a tranquil setting with access to urban amenities, making it ideal for retirees who want to experience the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
There are countless 55+ communities across the U.S. that cater to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences. From the luxury resorts of Florida and Nevada to the nature-focused communities in Arizona and South Carolina, retirees can find a community that fits their vision of the ideal retirement. Whether you're interested in staying active, making new friends, or enjoying a peaceful retreat, the perfect 55+ community is out there waiting for you.
