For many active adults, 55+ communities offer connection, convenience, and low-maintenance living. Recent sales data from the team at 55places.com revealed which states have the most home purchases in age-restricted communities. These states continue to rise as popular choices for homebuyers exploring what’s next.
Each state offers its own blend of climate, lifestyle appeal, and community options. In this overview, we take a closer look at the five states with the most 55+ community home sales and what makes them appealing places to consider for your next chapter.
1. Florida
Florida has long been synonymous with retirement, and Central Florida remains one of its hottest regions for 55+ buyers. The state remains a top seller thanks to its affordability and retiree-friendly lifestyle. Additionally, Florida combines sunny weather with mild winters, creating the perfect environment for year-round outdoor living, from golfing and walking trails to poolside socializing and community events.
Florida also offers a wide range of active adult communities with resort-style amenities, maintenance-free living, and social opportunities. Paired with a variety of housing options and access to quality health care, it’s no wonder retirees continue to flock to the Sunshine State.
Top-Selling Area: Central Florida
Affordability is one of the biggest draws. Home prices in many of Central Florida’s active adult communities tend to be lower than those in coastal destinations or major metropolitan areas. According to data from 55places.com, the median list price of a home in a 55+ community in Central Florida is $322,400. This allows retirees to maximize their retirement savings and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle without financial strain.
Central Florida’s weather is another attractive feature. With year-round sunshine and mild winters, it’s a haven for people who want to avoid snow, ice, and cold-weather maintenance. This climate also supports an active, outdoor-friendly lifestyle, from golfing and swimming to year-round walking and socializing.
The region also has dozens of age-restricted communities offering clubhouses, fitness centers, golf courses, events, social clubs, and resort-style amenities. Communities like On Top of the World are nationally recognized for their robust activity calendars and social engagement opportunities.
Health care access, retiree-focused services, and Florida’s tax-friendly environment further solidify its place among the country’s top retirement destinations.
2. New Jersey
New Jersey may surprise some as a top retirement state, but it has one of the nation’s most consistently strong markets for 55+ homebuyers. This state appeals especially to retirees who want to remain close to the East Coast’s major cultural hubs.
Its appeal lies mainly in its unbeatable convenience. Retirees can stay close to family while enjoying easy access to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, plus airports, health care centers, and cultural attractions.
The state also offers a diverse mix of active adult communities, from low-maintenance neighborhoods to larger developments with clubhouses, fitness centers, and social programming. Paired with scenic parks, charming small towns, and access to both beaches and rural escapes, New Jersey delivers a well-rounded lifestyle that many retirees find hard to beat.
Top-Selling Area: Central New Jersey
Proximity is the biggest factor. Central New Jersey gives retirees easy access to New York City, Philadelphia, and other cultural hubs while offering a quieter, suburban lifestyle. This is a perfect match for active adults who want entertainment, medical centers, transportation hubs, and big-city amenities within reach—but still want the calm and comfort of community living.
The region also offers a lifestyle that feels familiar to many longtime Northeast residents. Four distinct seasons, established suburban neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community all appeal to those who don’t want a dramatic geographic or cultural shift in retirement.
Compared with coastal luxury markets or major metro centers, Central New Jersey’s active adult communities often offer more attainable home prices. This makes it a great fit for retirees who want to stay local without paying big-city premiums. According to data from 55places.com, the median list price of a home in a 55+ community in Central New Jersey is $485,000.
Plenty of 55+ communities in this region offer amenities such as clubhouses, tennis courts, pools, social groups, and maintenance-free living, making it easy for active adults to enjoy a vibrant retirement. Check out Renaissance at Manchester to discover why New Jersey is one of the top-selling states for 55+ homebuyers.
3. California
California remains a desirable yet complex retirement destination. While its cost of living is higher than average, the Golden State continues to attract many retirees thanks to its world-famous climate, relaxed coastal lifestyle, and abundant amenities.
With near-perfect weather, miles of iconic coastline, and endless recreation opportunities, it’s a place where active adults can enjoy outdoor living year-round—whether that’s beach walks at sunset, scenic hikes, or afternoons spent exploring vibrant neighborhoods.
The state also offers an impressive mix of 55+ communities, many designed with resort-style amenities, sophisticated home designs, and proximity to world-class health care. The Villages Golf & Country Club is a prime example of peak California retirement. For retirees willing to invest in premium living, many California cities offer a relaxed yet luxurious experience that few places can match.
Top-Selling Area: Los Angeles-Orange County
The weather is a huge draw for retirees. Southern California’s consistent sunshine, mild winters, and low humidity offer a comfortable environment that’s ideal for outdoor living. Retirees can enjoy beaches, walking paths, parks, hiking, and nearly year-round sunshine.
The region also offers a wealth of cultural and lifestyle amenities, from world-class museums and theaters to exceptional dining, shopping, and entertainment. Retirees drawn to vibrant cities with active social scenes find SoCal irresistible.
Another advantage for retirees is access to high-quality health care systems and medical specialists. The Los Angeles–Orange County area is home to some of the nation’s best hospitals and wellness providers, giving retirees peace of mind as they age.
Despite the high cost of living, California offers certain financial perks for retirees, including no tax on Social Security benefits and property tax protections for long-term homeowners. For some, these financial factors soften the impact of higher home prices and living costs.
The trade-off in this region is primarily affordability. According to data from 55places.com, the median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Los Angeles–Orange County area is $568,990. Many retirees moving here prioritize lifestyle and climate over housing costs, making it a destination best suited for retirees with flexible budgets.
4. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has quietly grown into a strong retirement market. It appeals to retirees who value culture, proximity to major cities, and moderate home prices.
Retirees who want to stay close to family in major hubs like New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia appreciate the state’s central location and manageable cost of living.
The state also delivers rich cultural amenities, from historic landmarks and museums to theaters, parks, and an incredible food scene. With a variety of 55+ communities at more moderate price points than those in nearby coastal states, Pennsylvania provides convenient living, strong health care networks, and a vibrant lifestyle without the premium price tag.
Top-Selling Area: Philadelphia
Affordability sets the Philadelphia area apart from other northeastern metros. Active adult communities here often offer more affordable pricing than those in New York, New Jersey, or coastal New England. According to data from 55places.com, the median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Philadelphia area is $518,585. Retirees get more home for their money without giving up access to amenities and culture.
The region provides easy access to New York City, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and other major metropolitan destinations. This makes it appealing to retirees who want to stay close to adult children, grandchildren, and longtime social networks.
Four distinct seasons, historical charm, and well-established communities create a sense of familiarity and comfort for those who prefer not to relocate to a dramatically different region of the country. Philadelphia also boasts excellent health care options, leading universities, and strong public transit systems, making it easier for older adults to stay active and engaged.
5. Arizona
Arizona rounds out our list of the top-selling states for 55+ homebuyers, and the Phoenix area in particular consistently ranks at the top in both interest and home sales for 55+ communities. With sunny days, mild winters, and low humidity, Arizona is a dream setting for retirees who love golfing, hiking desert trails, or simply enjoying warm, clear days year-round.
The state also stands out for its relative affordability and broad range of active adult communities. Many retirees find they can enjoy resort-style amenities, spacious homes, and low-maintenance living at a lower cost than in many coastal or urban markets. Quail Creek is a stunning example of luxury retirement on a far more affordable scale than California and New York. Add in quality health care, easy travel access, and a welcoming social atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Arizona continues to be one of the country’s most popular destinations for 55+ living.
Top-Selling Area: Phoenix
The warm, dry climate is a huge selling point, especially for retirees who want to avoid humidity or rainy winters. Arizona’s desert environment offers sunny days, beautiful landscapes, and ideal conditions for outdoor recreation, including golfing, hiking, biking, and simply socializing outdoors.
Affordability is another factor that draws retirees to this area. While the Phoenix metro area has grown significantly, many of its active adult communities remain more budget-friendly than those in coastal regions or high-cost metropolitan areas. According to data from 55places.com, the median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Phoenix area is $437,900. Retirees coming from California, the East Coast, or the Midwest often find they can purchase more spacious or newer homes for less.
Phoenix is also one of the country’s most mature retirement markets, with dozens of large-scale 55+ communities offering resort-style amenities, clubs, events, pools, fitness centers, and planned activities. This built-in community structure makes it easy for retirees to meet people, socialize, and enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle. Additionally, health care access is strong, with numerous hospitals, specialists, and wellness centers tailored to active adults.
What These States Reveal About Today’s Retirees
Looking at these five states shows how diverse retiree priorities have become. Florida and Arizona remain classic choices for sunshine lovers seeking affordability and outdoor living. California draws those who prioritize climate, culture, and coastal beauty despite its cost. New Jersey and Pennsylvania show that northeastern states still hold tremendous appeal for retirees who value proximity to family, seasons, and familiarity.
The common denominator is the active adult community lifestyle. These communities offer amenities, social connections, maintenance-free living, and a sense of belonging that many retirees now rank just as highly as climate or affordability.
Pick a Top State for Retirement and Find Your Slice of Paradise
Retirement today is more customizable than ever, and the top-selling states for 55+ homebuyers reflect a wide range of lifestyles, budgets, and priorities. Some retirees want endless sunshine and resort-style amenities, while others prefer easy access to family, world-class health care, or a vibrant cultural scene. No matter your vision for the next chapter, there’s a community—and a state—that fits it perfectly.
The best part? You don’t have to navigate these choices alone. Whether you’re still exploring possibilities or ready to schedule tours, 55places.com can help you compare communities, understand the local lifestyle, and find the perfect fit for your retirement goals.
Ready to uncover your ideal place to live your best life? Contact us today and let us guide you toward the community that feels like home.
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