Active adult communities come in a variety of sizes, from intimate neighborhoods with only a few houses to sprawling resorts with thousands of homes. Some of the largest developments include upwards of 10,000 homes alongside attractive amenities and beautiful grounds.
For homebuyers looking to be a part of an expansive, diverse neighborhood, here are 10 of the country’s largest retirement communities.
1. The Villages – The Villages, FL
Mid $100s – High $1Ms
Opened in 1978, The Villages is the largest age-restricted development in the world, and it’s still growing. This community spans three counties, three zip codes, and over 20,000 acres. The Villages offers countless amenities, including dozens of recreation centers, golf courses, shopping centers, swimming pools, and much more. Residents can also stay active and social with the hundreds of clubs, groups, activities, and classes offered within the community.
Request more information about The Villages here.
2. Sun City – Sun City, AZ
Below $100k – High $800s
Sun City is the country’s oldest active adult community, and it’s also one of the largest with just over 27,000 homes. Opened in 1960, Sun City has 11 golf courses, seven recreation centers, 19 shopping areas, and an impressive line-up of amenities, activities, and community services. Located just 16 miles from Downtown Phoenix, this community also offers residents easy access to all the world-class entertainment, dining, and shopping that the city has to offer.
Request more information about Sun City here.
3. Sun City West – Sun City West, AZ
Low $100s – High $600s
Located just 19 miles from Downtown Phoenix, Sun City West was developed by Del Webb between 1978 and 1997. Today, it has nearly 17,000 homes in a wide range of styles and prices. The resort-style amenities at this community include four spacious clubhouses, nine golf courses, 27 tennis courts, mini-golf, gardening plots, and much more.
Request more information about Sun City West here.
4. Laguna Woods Village – Laguna Woods, CA
Mid $100s – Mid $1Ms
In Southern California’s picturesque Orange County, Laguna Woods Village offers 12,736 homes in a variety of sizes, styles, and prices. This community is situated on 2,100 acres of rolling hills, and the beach is only a 10-minute drive away. Residents of this resort-style haven enjoy amenities at seven clubhouses as well as 36 holes of golf, numerous sports courts, and an equestrian center.
Request more information about Laguna Woods Village here.
5. Green Valley Recreation – Green Valley, AZ
Below $100k – Low $1Ms
Encompassing several active adult communities, Green Valley Recreation is a unique organization that serves over 13,000 homes. When residents move to any Green Valley Recreation community, they have access to the amenities in every community. This includes 13 recreation centers, eight golf courses, and numerous outdoor amenities.
Request more information about Green Valley Recreation here.
6. On Top of the World – Ocala, FL
Below $100k – Low $400s
Started in 1981 and still growing to this day, On Top of the World plans to have 10,000 homes upon completion, making it one of the country’s largest active adult communities. This luxurious development is set in the heart of Ocala, the Horse Capital of the World. A few highlights of the impressive amenities include multiple clubhouses, swimming pools, hobby and game rooms, and outdoor sports courts.
Request more information about On Top of the World here.
7. Sun City Grand – Surprise, AZ
Low $200s – Mid $800s
Sun City Grand is a great fit for many active adults as it offers 9,802 homes including condos, villas, and single-family homes. The resort-style amenities feature three clubhouses, three 18-hole golf courses, hobby and game rooms, sports courts, and the Lifelong Learning Academy. Within the community, there’s also a wealth of clubs, groups, activities, and classes for almost every hobby and interest.
Request more information about Sun City Grand here.
8. Sun City Hilton Head – Bluffton, SC
High $100s – Mid $1Ms
Set in the middle of a resort community, Sun City Hilton Head opened in 1995 and has plans for approximately 8,200 homes. This prime retirement destination features a 45-acre Town Center and Amenity Complex, 54 holes of golf, a performing arts center, and much more. Residents of this active lifestyle community are also within 13 miles of the world-famous Hilton Head Island with its noteworthy beaches, golf courses, and boutiques.
Request more information about Sun City Hilton Head here.
9. Sun City Summerlin – Las Vegas, NV
Mid $200s – Low $1Ms
Set against the Spring Mountain Range, Sun City Summerlin is Nevada’s largest active adult community. It includes 7,779 homes in a wide variety of sizes and styles. Four clubhouses offer numerous amenities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, sports courts, hobby and game rooms, and the 312-seat Starbright Theater.
Request more information about Sun City Summerlin here.
10. Sun City Texas – Georgetown, TX
Low $200s – Low $1Ms
Elegant homes and impressive amenities make Sun City Texas an attractive retirement destination. Plans for 7,500 homes include both attached duplex and single-family designs. The community also offers resort-style amenities such as an 86,000-square-foot clubhouse, three 18-hole golf courses, two indoor pools, nine miles of walking and biking trails, and much more.
