When your hard work and meticulous planning are finally about to pay off in the form of your dream retirement, you probably have a lot of questions. Your location and the neighborhood you live in will play a big part in your lifestyle. Active adult communities are increasingly popular and are an important consideration for new retirees. They’re often located in desirable retirement destinations, have on-site amenities, and feature affordable homes, condos, or apartments. Still, the age question is a big concern for many. What is the average age of active adult community residents? This casual question is generally connected to a deeper concern: Will I fit in?
Ensuring you’re comfortable in your community is a smart move. Age is a common denominator that can unite people with common interests. While it shouldn’t be your only consideration when choosing a retirement community, learning the average age of residents can help you make your choice.
Common Misconceptions About Active Adult Communities
Learning if you’ll fit in at an age-targeted community isn’t only about the age of the active adult community residents. 55+ communities offer a range of amenities and activities along with desirable living conditions. However, every active adult community is unique, and they are often made up of an eclectic mix of couples and individuals of various ages. Understanding what active adult communities are actually like requires dispelling myths about what they aren’t.
Here are some of the myths you may have heard and the truth about what these vibrant communities are really like.
Active adult communities are only for the elderly.
The truth is, active adult communities are filled with residents of various ages ranging from mid-fifties through 80s or even 90s. Communities typically offer amenities to suit various personalities and activity levels.
Living in a 55+ community is boring.
In reality, active adult community residents have more opportunities than those in typical neighborhoods. Amenities range from swimming pools and social clubhouses to fitness rooms and many other on-site features.
You lose your independence in a 55+ community.
Realistically, adults in an active adult community have the same freedoms as when living at home. You can come and go as you please and may even have more access to public transportation depending on your location.
It’s too expensive.
The truth? It varies. While some active adult communities have high HOA fees, the costs are often comparable to the bills you pay at home for maintenance and other services. Most retirees have little difficulty finding affordable active adult communities that have more to offer than traditional neighborhoods.
Ages of Active Adult Community Residents
There is no exact average age for residents in an active adult community. While studies show that the average adult resident is 76, almost 25% of respondents in a survey were younger than 70. Perhaps more importantly, the lifestyle residents are seeking has more commonality than age. Residents seek out active adult communities for an enjoyable lifestyle and a sense of community rather than healthcare or living assistance.
Factors Affecting the Average Ages of Residents
If living among peers of a similar age is a major factor in your decision, you may be able to find information that points to an average age in 55+ communities. For example, communities in urban areas may be more likely to house younger residents. Since residents often stay put in these communities, an established community may be more likely to house residents in their late 70s or 80s.
Finding Your Ideal Active Adult Community
Achieving your dream retirement requires substantial research and an idea of what to look for when exploring 55+ communities. While you may want to consider the average age of residents, elements like the climate, local entertainment, and the community atmosphere are also important.
When Age Is More Than Just a Number
Idioms like “age is just a number” and “you’re only as old as you feel” are only good advice if you’re talking about yourself. If being among peers of similar age is important to you, there are ways you can learn more about the average age of residents in communities you’re interested in.
- Average Age of Community Members: The age of active adult community residents is likely to be aligned with the general area. You may be able to find census information or other data that will give you an idea of the average ages of the population in an area.
- Age of the Community: New communities with new builds are most likely to attract the younger subset of the 55+ age bracket. Those just reaching retirement years are often looking for the newest homes, tech upgrades, and popular amenities.
- Visit and Socialize: When you’re seriously considering a community, a visit is a must. Take some time to explore the community, meet residents, and get a feel for the place.
Location
For many active adults, the search for the ideal 55+ community begins with a specific geographical area. You may be seeking a retirement community close to popular beaches or one that offers urban living close to a major city. Considering entertainment options, proximity to entertainment and available green spaces will help you decide if the lifestyle beyond a community’s gates is right for you.
Community Atmosphere
A sense of community and a social life are some of the biggest perks for active adults seeking a 55+ community. While the average age in a community can range from 55 to 95, available activities, social interactions, and resort-style amenities may be a better indicator of how you’ll fit in with current residents in a community.
When considering the average age of residents in an active adult community, it pays to remember that active can mean different things to different people. Some active adults prefer to stick to a specific fitness routine or play sports while others may prefer to be socially active at clubhouse gatherings or while lounging by a sparkling pool. Many 55+ communities offer a range of amenities that allow active adults to mingle in a comfortable atmosphere provided by a welcoming community.
When you’re ready to find your ideal active adult community, 55places is here to help. Contact us today to learn more!
