Choosing the right community to call home is an exciting chapter for many active adults. With countless options offering unique amenities, social opportunities, and scenic locations, deciding can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in! In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular retirement communities, celebrated for their exceptional features, warm atmospheres, and active lifestyles.
Whether you’re dreaming of sunny golf courses, bustling clubhouse events, or peaceful walking trails, these standout communities have become favorites among 55+ homeowners and renters alike. Let’s dive into the places where your next adventure may begin!
1. On Top of the World – Ocala, FL
Mid $100ks – Low $700ks
On Top of the World in Ocala, Florida, is the most popular active adult community of 2024! It’s a standout among 55+ communities, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite for active adults. Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, this sprawling community offers thoughtfully designed homes, world-class amenities, and a prime location near both urban conveniences and natural beauty. With a planned 10,000 homes, it’s not just one of the largest communities in the state but also one of the most welcoming.
What truly sets On Top of the World apart is its commitment to providing something for everyone. From three championship golf courses and resort-style pools to an R/C airplane field and a cultural center, the amenities are unmatched. Residents enjoy a lifestyle that’s not just about relaxation but also exploration and connection. There are over 175 clubs, interest groups, and classes to foster a strong sense of community. It’s no wonder this vibrant community consistently ranks among the most popular retirement communities.
2. The Villages – The Villages, FL
High $100ks – High $2Ms
A close second on our list of the most popular retirement communities is The Villages! This development in Florida is more than a community—it’s a destination for active adults seeking adventure, connection, and convenience. As one of the largest 55+ communities in the country, it’s no surprise that The Villages has captured the hearts of retirees from across the globe. Spanning three counties and 30,000 acres, this self-sustaining town offers everything residents could need. From health care and shopping to dining and recreation, it’s all accessible by over 100 miles of golf-cart-legal streets and trails.
Additionally, The Villages offers an unparalleled range of amenities and activities. Residents can enjoy more than 35 recreation centers, over 100 pools, and 41 executive golf courses. Three charming town squares—Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing, and Brownwood Paddock—serve as hubs for dining, shopping, and free nightly entertainment. Whether it’s joining one of the thousands of clubs, taking fitness classes, or enjoying live music, Villagers never run out of ways to stay engaged.
3. Sun City Hilton Head – Bluffton, SC
Mid $300ks – High $2Ms
Heading out of the Sunshine State and into South Carolina, Sun City Hilton Head offers an unmatched lifestyle. Located just 13 miles from Hilton Head Island, this community has over 8,000 homes and 54 holes of golf. Its setting in South Carolina’s lush lowcountry combines natural beauty with a resort-like atmosphere, making it a top destination for retirees seeking both relaxation and adventure.
At the heart of Sun City Hilton Head is a 45-acre Village Center, a hub of activity that resembles a charming Southern town square. Residents enjoy state-of-the-art fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, a performing arts center, and creative studios for hobbies like ceramics and woodworking. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of trails, a 20-acre fishing lake, and numerous tennis, bocce ball, and pickleball courts. Also, golf lovers revel in three courses designed to suit all skill levels, while casual dining options and social spaces foster community connections.
4. Sun City – Sun City, AZ
Below $100k – Low $1Ms
Sun City Arizona holds the distinction of being the first 55+ community in the United States. It set the standard for active adult living since its inception in 1960. With over 28,000 homes, eight golf courses, and a wealth of amenities, it remains a landmark destination for active adults. Known for its low property taxes and excellent home values, Sun City provides an enticing mix of charm and practicality.
Golf lovers are drawn to Sun City’s impressive array of courses, but there’s far more than just golf to enjoy. Seven recreation centers offer everything from fitness facilities and swimming pools to hobby rooms and a woodworking shop. The community also includes performing arts venues, two libraries, a hospital, and a wide array of sports courts. Miles of walking trails, fishing lakes, and lawn bowling provide additional ways to stay active while enjoying Arizona’s sunny weather.
5. Oak Run – Ocala, FL
Mid $100ks – Low $400ks
Back in Ocala, Florida, Oak Run closes out our top 5 most popular retirement communities of 2024! It’s a vibrant active adult community with a perfect blend of resort-style amenities and convenient living. With over 3,500 homes, five clubhouses, and the Royal Oaks Golf Club, this community provides an active yet relaxed lifestyle. Its prime location near State Highway 200 provides easy access to Ocala’s conveniences, outdoor attractions, and popular destinations like Orlando and Tampa.
Residents enjoy fitness centers, pools, arts and crafts studios, and even a performing arts ballroom. The Palm Grove Club serves as the social hub, while the Orchid Club offers space for creative hobbies, fitness classes, and large events. Additionally, golf enthusiasts love the Royal Oaks Golf Club, featuring an 18-hole championship course and a practice facility. For outdoor fun, Oak Run also has tennis, pickleball, and shuffleboard courts, plus miles of trails for walking and biking.
6. Latitude Margaritaville – Daytona Beach, FL
High $300ks – Low $800ks
Latitude Margaritaville combines the vibrant lifestyle inspired by Jimmy Buffett with the comfort of a 55+ active adult community. Designed by Minto Communities and Margaritaville Holdings, this unique community offers resort-style amenities, thoughtfully designed homes, and a tropical atmosphere that makes every day feel like a vacation. Its central location near shopping, health care, and Florida’s stunning beaches only adds to its allure.
At the heart of the community is the lively Town Square, home to the Fins Up! Fitness Center, the Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant, and the Last Mango Theater, where residents can enjoy performances and social gatherings. The Paradise Pool is the perfect spot to unwind, with its beach-entry design, tiki huts, and poolside bar. For active fun, there are tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball courts as well as walking trails through lush, tropical landscapes. Just minutes away, the golf-cart-friendly Latitude Landings retail center offers convenient shopping and dining options.
7. Sun City Center – Sun City Center, FL
Below $100k – Low $800ks
Sun City Center is a vibrant 55+ community offering resort-style amenities, diverse housing options, and a lively social atmosphere. This self-contained village is home to over 11,000 residents. They enjoy the convenience of nearby grocery stores, retail establishments, and health care facilities. Its prime location near Tampa and the Gulf of Mexico adds to its appeal, making it an ideal choice for active adults seeking a coastal lifestyle.
What sets Sun City Center apart is its impressive amenities spread across three campuses. Residents have access to fitness centers, pools, sports courts, hobby studios, and golf courses. The community also boasts nearly 200 clubs and interest groups, from arts and crafts to continuing education and outdoor activities. Additionally, golf cart-friendly streets allow residents to easily navigate between amenities, shopping areas, and restaurants.
8. Stone Creek – Ocala, FL
High $200ks – Low $700ks
Also in Ocala, Florida, Stone Creek is an active adult community by the renowned builder Del Webb. This gated 55+ community is set against a scenic backdrop and features attached and single-family homes. With 3,800 homes planned, Stone Creek offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Its location in Central Florida places residents within a short drive of the Gulf of Mexico, theme parks like Disney World, and other attractions such as Daytona Beach and the Kennedy Space Center. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
The amenities at Stone Creek are exceptional, with the Reflection Bay social and recreational complex offering a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces. The Reunion Center serves as the heart of the community, hosting social gatherings, dances, and events. Residents also enjoy access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, a resort-style pool, tennis courts, a softball field, and miles of walking and biking trails. Additionally, golf enthusiasts can tee off at the 18-hole Stone Creek Golf Club. With numerous clubs, hobby groups, and social activities, residents can stay as active and engaged as they desire.
9. Solivita – Kissimmee, FL
Low $300ks – Low $700ks
Solivita is a premier 55+ community spanning 4,300 acres of beautifully designed landscapes that blend with nature. Known for its focus on resort-style living, Solivita offers residents a wide range of amenities, activities, and home options, making it one of the top retirement destinations in Central Florida.
The community features more than 150,000 square feet of amenities integrated with lakes, waterways, and greenspaces. With over 20 home collections, Solivita offers a wide selection of models to suit different tastes and preferences. Homebuyers can choose from single-family homes or attached homes. Each home provides open floor plans and features like gourmet kitchens, expansive great rooms, and inviting outdoor spaces.
10. Laguna Woods Village – Laguna Woods, CA
High $200ks – High $1Ms
It’s Laguna Woods Village that takes the last spot in our top 10 most popular retirement communities of 2024! Located in Laguna Woods, California, this is the largest 55+ active adult community on the West Coast. With over 12,700 homes, the community provides various living options, including single-family homes, condos, and co-ops. Residents can enjoy world-class facilities such as seven clubhouses, 36 holes of golf, five swimming pools, an equestrian center, and over 250 clubs and organizations. Its convenient location near the beach and other major Southern California attractions makes it even more appealing.
Whether it’s enjoying the performing arts center, playing golf on the championship course, or getting active with tennis, pickleball, or swimming, there’s something for every resident at Laguna Woods Village. For those interested in arts and crafts, the community features a dedicated clubhouse for hobbies like painting, photography, and ceramics. There’s also a free bus service for residents, making it easy to access all the amenities without having to drive.
11. Holiday City at Berkeley – Toms River, NJ
Mid $200ks – Mid $400ks
Holiday City at Berkeley is a popular 55+ community in Toms River, New Jersey, offering a low-maintenance lifestyle and a variety of amenities, including clubhouses, pools, fitness activities, and social clubs. With over 10,000 homes and 20+ floor plans, it provides a range of options for homeowners. The community is conveniently located near shops, medical facilities, and attractions like the Jersey Shore. It’s a great spot for active adults seeking both a tight-knit community and easy access to nearby entertainment and services.
12. Sun City Huntley – Huntley, IL
Mid $200ks – High $600ks
Sun City Huntley in Huntley, Illinois, offers over 5,400 homes and a wealth of amenities, including golf, tennis, fitness centers, and over 80 clubs. The community features a variety of housing options with low-maintenance living. Also, its convenient location provides easy access to Chicago, shopping, health care, and outdoor attractions.
13. Renaissance at Manchester – Manchester, NJ
High $300ks – Mid $600ks
Renaissance at Manchester is a popular 55+ golf course community in Ocean County, New Jersey, offering resort-style living with a 30,000-square-foot clubhouse, tennis, and a resort-style pool. With over 1,900 homes, residents enjoy various social clubs and activities. Also, its prime location between Philadelphia and New York City makes it a great choice for active adults.
14. Sun City Summerlin – Las Vegas, NV
Low $300ks – High $1Ms
In fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada, Sun City Summerlin offers resort-style living with 7,779 homes, four clubhouses, three golf courses, and over 80 clubs. Nestled in the scenic Spring Mountain Range, it’s minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon, dining, and health care. With endless amenities and a low-maintenance lifestyle, it’s perfect for active adults seeking relaxation and recreation.
15. Fairfield Glade – Crossville, TN
Below $100k – Mid $1Ms
In the Knoxville area, Fairfield Glade offers resort-style living with golf courses, lakes, fitness centers, and social clubs. This vibrant community features a variety of homes and easy access to parks, local attractions, and nearby cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga.
16. Leisure Village West – Manchester, NJ
Mid $100ks – High $300ks
Back in the Garden State, let’s take a look at Leisure Village West. This vibrant 55+ community features three clubhouses, two 9-hole golf courses, and over 50 clubs. With resort-style amenities, low-maintenance homes, and a convenient location near major cities, it’s ideal for active adults seeking recreation and a sense of community.
17. Sun City Grand – Surprise, AZ
High $300ks – Low $1Ms
Sun City Grand is a 45+ community featuring golf courses, resort-style pools, fitness centers, and a day spa. With over 9,800 low-maintenance homes and countless clubs, classes, and activities, it provides an active lifestyle. Also, it offers a prime location near shopping, dining, health care, and Phoenix attractions.
18. Sun City Anthem – Henderson, NV
High $300ks – High $1Ms
Offering stunning views, resort-style amenities, and an active lifestyle, Sun City Anthem earns its place on our list of popular retirement communities. With three clubhouses, two golf courses, and over 50 clubs, residents enjoy endless opportunities for recreation and connection. There are a variety of home styles with modern upgrades for homebuyers to consider. Also, the prime location near shopping, dining, health care, and Las Vegas makes it a sought-after destination for active adults.
19. Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head – Hardeeville, SC
Mid $300ks – High $900ks
Another option for fans of that Jimmy Buffet lifestyle, Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head offers a laid-back atmosphere. Its resort-style amenities include a fitness center, a pool, pickleball courts, and a variety of social spaces. Residents can choose from energy-efficient homes, including villas and single-family options, all designed for a low-maintenance lifestyle. With easy access to beaches, golf courses, and nearby Savannah, Georgia, it’s an ideal location for both relaxation and adventure.
20. Sun City Lincoln Hills – Lincoln, CA
Mid $400ks – Mid $1Ms
One of many popular retirement communities in sunny California, Sun City Lincoln Hills offers a variety of homes and extensive amenities. There are two large recreational centers, 36 holes of golf, and scenic trails within this community. Residents enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle with over 80 clubs and activities, plus easy access to Sacramento and local conveniences.
21. Sun City Festival – Buckeye, AZ
Low $300ks – High $800ks
Another winner from the Grand Canyon State, Sun City Festival offers modern homes, resort-style amenities, and an active lifestyle. Residents enjoy two recreation centers, a golf course, fitness options, and a variety of clubs. Located near the White Tank Mountains, it provides a peaceful, nature-filled setting while being just an hour from Phoenix. It’s perfect for active adults seeking a vibrant community with easy access to local attractions.
22. Robson Ranch – Arizona – Eloy, AZ
Low $300ks – High $900ks
Offering a golf course, pickleball courts, a fitness center, creative arts spaces, and a variety of clubs and events, Robson Ranch Arizona is a vibrant 55+ community. Homes range from attached villas to spacious single-family options, all with a low-maintenance lifestyle thanks to the homeowners’ association (HOA). Located between Phoenix and Tucson, it offers easy access to amenities, health care, and entertainment.
23. PebbleCreek – Goodyear, AZ
Low $300ks – Mid $1Ms
PebbleCreek is a popular 55+ community with two golf courses, multiple clubhouses, a resort-style pool, fitness centers, and hobby studios. Residents enjoy tennis, pickleball, walking trails, and various social clubs. Within the neighborhood, there’s a variety of homes, from low-maintenance villas to spacious single-family options. Also, PebbleCreek is just 20 miles from Phoenix.
24. Sun City Palm Desert – Palm Desert, CA
Mid $300ks – Mid $1Ms
Sun City Palm Desert is a popular 55+ community in Palm Desert, California, offering nearly 5,000 homes. This community also has top-notch amenities like three clubhouses, two golf courses, fitness centers, and a variety of recreational activities. Residents enjoy an active lifestyle with numerous clubs, fitness classes, and outdoor events, all set against the beautiful Coachella Valley. With easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, it’s a great choice for those seeking an engaging and sunny retirement.
25. Kings Point – Sun City Center, FL
Below $100k – Mid $400ks
Our final spot for our 2024 list of the most popular retirement communities is Kings Point. Finishing up back in Florida, this community features two clubhouses, three golf courses, fitness centers, and sports courts. Residents enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle in condo-style homes with access to over 100 clubs and activities. Located near Tampa, it provides easy access to beaches, dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, making it a top choice for active adults.
You Could Live in a Popular 55+ Community!
That’s a wrap on the most popular active adult communities of 2024! From Florida to California, we’ve explored the top 25 developments where active adults are thriving during their retirement years. If any of these popular retirement communities caught your attention, explore more on 55places.com or contact us today. We’ll connect you with a local real estate expert who can help you find your perfect 55+ community!
