OVERVIEW
Single adults are welcome in 55+ and active adult communities, and approximately 32% of people ages 50 to 59 are single. Age-restricted communities offer meaningful advantages for single residents, including HOA-managed exterior maintenance, gated security, on-site amenities like clubhouses and pools, and organized social programming that reduces isolation. Some 55+ communities specifically cater to singles with dedicated social events, while most mixed communities offer equally strong social opportunities for residents living alone.
It often seems that 55+ communities are designed for couples. Advertisements for active adult communities show smiling couples, often hand in hand. However, about 32% of people between 50 and 59 are single, whether divorced, widowed, or never married.
Is there a place for single people in these communities? What kind of community is best for you? Will you fit in with your married neighbors? Here’s what you need to know.
Pros and Cons of 55+ Communities for Single People
First of all, not all active adult communities are created equal, so you should also consider the community you choose. But in general, you should take a good look at how it will affect your life.
PROS
Many of these pros are good for couples too, but if you live alone, especially if you have no children or they live a distance away, these perks might mean more to you.
Lower Maintenance
Even if you can handle all of the chores that come with homeownership, you may not want to. Chores are even less fun when they aren’t shared, and it can be frustrating. For once-married people, the previously shared to-do list can be both overwhelming and emotional.
Many 55+ communities provide maintenance, at least for outdoor areas, taking on chores such as shoveling snow, mowing, and blowing leaves. Shoveling snow is particularly important, as it is not only time-consuming but can also be dangerous for some older adults. Another advantage is that if you decide to travel, you don’t have to arrange maintenance during your absence.
Higher Security
Many 55+ communities are gated. For singles over 55, this means a lot of peace of mind, especially for women. Your home may even come with a security system installed. Security will help keep you safe and protect your home and belongings when you are away.
Great Location
Over 55 communities are typically located in areas retirees find desirable. This might mean being close to a really good hospital, but it can also mean good access to entertainment options.
Communities also often have their own amenities, such as clubhouses, pools, libraries, and craft facilities. They may also offer a shuttle service to shopping, entertainment, and medical care, which can become increasingly important as you age. These on-site amenities allow you to stay independent longer and encourage socialization.
Social Opportunities
Single retirees are even more vulnerable to loneliness, and loneliness can cause depression and cognitive impairment. On-site amenities also include opportunities for residents to get together. Book clubs, classes, yoga, and even just spaces for socialization help people come together.
Some communities particularly cater to single people and may have social events just for you. And, of course, opportunities to be social can also mean opportunities to date. Plenty of older adults find a new person in their fifties or sixties, if that’s your choice.
CONS
Making a move to a 55+ community is a meaningful transition, and like any big step, it’s worth thinking through. You may be relocating, which could mean some distance from family, friends, or favorite restaurants. Settling into a new place takes adjustment, and it helps to plan ahead so the move feels smooth and exciting rather than overwhelming. Here are a few other things worth considering as you weigh your options.
HOA Fees
Most communities have a homeowner’s association (HOA). HOAs are great. They help with maintenance, handle common areas, and mediate disputes. However, you will have to pay an HOA fee to cover those services.
Make sure that you find out what the fees are ahead of time and allow for them in your budget. If you don’t pay, you may find yourself facing collections or even a lien on your home. And rarely, you might have to pay a special assessment to cover a major issue, such as the clubhouse needing a new roof. Very low fees increase the risk of special assessments.
Community Rules
55+ communities also have rules. They may have rules about pets, vehicles, house color, and more. These are often similar to other communities with HOAs. There may be rules about who can use the amenities, and you may have to pay an extra fee for your grandchildren to use the pool.
Before choosing a community, ask to see their policies and governing documents to make sure they align with what you are okay with.
Should You Opt for a Singles Community?
One option is to choose a community that caters specifically to singles. You would be surrounded by other single people, and the mixers and outings would not require someone to be part of a couple. In general, these communities have distinct social environments. It reduces the risk of becoming a third wheel and increases the chance of meeting a new partner.
However, you may be just as comfortable in a mixed community, especially if you aren’t interested in dating. The home and amenities you want are more important.
Evaluate What’s Best for You
If you aren’t sure, touring the communities you are considering is the best option. You can look at both communities for 55+ singles and those that are more oriented towards families. Talk to the residents and work with a real estate agent. Don’t pick the first community you look at without touring anywhere else, because you might find another one is even better. But there is absolutely no cut-and-dried answer. Your decision depends on factors such as your social preferences, specific amenities you want, and what you are looking for.
Either way, you have plenty of options. Work with an expert who can guide you through the process and make sure you find the right community for you.
FAQ: 55+ Communities for Single People
Can single people live in a 55+ community?
Yes. About 32% of people ages 50-59 are single—divorced, widowed, or never married—and 55+ communities welcome single residents. While marketing often features couples, many communities have a significant single population and offer social programming that doesn’t require a partner. Some communities even host events specifically for single residents.
Are 55+ communities good for single people?
Yes. For single adults, 55+ communities offer built-in social opportunities, lower-maintenance living, and a sense of security that can be harder to find living alone in a traditional neighborhood. Book clubs, fitness classes, hobby groups, and communal gathering spaces help reduce isolation. Communities with gated access and on-site amenities also support independence and safety.
Will I fit in as a single person in a 55+ community?
In most communities, yes. While some residents are couples, many are single, and the social programming is designed to be inclusive. Clubs, classes, and events provide natural opportunities to meet people without needing a partner. If fitting in with other singles is a priority, look for communities with social events specifically for single residents, or consider a community that caters to singles.
Is it easier to make friends in a 55+ community as a single person?
Yes. 55+ communities are designed to encourage social connection through clubs, classes, shared amenities, and organized events. For single adults who may not have a built-in social network, these structured opportunities make it much easier to meet neighbors and build friendships. Many residents cite the social aspect as the primary reason they chose community living.
Can you date in a 55+ community?
Yes. Many single residents in 55+ communities find new relationships through social events, clubs, and everyday interactions. Communities with singles-oriented programming provide even more natural opportunities. Dating isn’t the focus of community living, but the social environment makes it possible for those who are interested.
Are 55+ communities safe for people living alone?
Yes. Many 55+ communities are gated, providing an added layer of security that’s especially valuable for single residents. Some homes come with security systems installed. The community setting also means neighbors are nearby and looking out for one another. For single women in particular, gated communities offer significant peace of mind both at home and while traveling.
What if I want to travel as a single person in a 55+ community?
55+ communities are well-suited to a travel-friendly lifestyle. HOA-managed maintenance means your lawn, landscaping, and exterior upkeep are handled while you’re away. Gated communities add security for your home and belongings during extended absences. You don’t need to arrange for someone to cover household tasks—one of the biggest practical advantages for single residents who travel.
Do 55+ communities help with loneliness?
Yes. Loneliness is a significant risk for single 55+ adults and can contribute to depression and cognitive decline. 55+ communities are specifically designed to encourage social interaction through clubs, classes, shared spaces, organized events, and resident-led activities. Even casual encounters—at the pool, the mailbox, or the clubhouse—provide daily social contact that reduces isolation.
How do I find the right 55+ community as a single person?
Start by identifying your priorities: social programming, security, maintenance, location, amenities, and budget. Decide whether a singles-oriented community or a mixed community better suits your personality. Tour your top options and talk to residents. Work with a real estate expert who understands your needs as a single buyer.
Let the Experts at 55places Help You Find the Right 55+ Community for You
55places exists to help active adults discover the right 55+ community. Everyone brings their own priorities and dreams to the search, and we’re here to help you find a community you’ll love. Our network of real estate experts is ready to guide you every step of the way, offering knowledgeable support whenever you want a trusted partner in your search. Together, we can help you simplify your life, expand your horizons, and find a place that truly feels like home. Contact 55places.com today!
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