55+ Communities in Tampa Bay Area | Active Adult Living

Florida's Tampa Bay area is one of the state's most popular retirement destinations. With beautiful beaches, diverse attractions, and excellent health care, the area has plenty to offer active adult retirees. With many 55+ retirement communities in the Tampa Bay area, there’s no shortage of great places to live.

Tampa Bay Area Climate & Geography

The state’s sunny beaches are the main draw for retirees looking for 55+ communities in the Tampa Bay area. Located on Florida's western coast, Tampa Bay opens into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Active adults can enjoy visiting a range of beaches and parks all within an hour of each other. This lets residents enjoy the variety of many different settings or stick with their favorites. Here are a few popular beaches and parks in the area:

Hudson Beach
Clearwater Beach
Ben T. Davis Beach
Davis Island Beach
Lettuce Lake Regional Park
Cypress Point Park

Being a port of call for several cruise lines makes Tampa Bay an ideal home for retirees who love cruising. Tampa Bay is home to many popular cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Holland America, and Carnival Cruise Lines.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment in the Tampa Bay Area

Closer to home, the city of Tampa offers diverse cultural attractions such as:

The Tampa Museum of Art
The Henry B. Plant Museum
The David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

There are lots of shopping options as well as great restaurants ranging from casual fare to fine dining. The WestShore Plaza offers upscale shops; Hyde Park has eclectic finds; and there are bargains at Ellenton Premium Outlets. Moreover, there are nearby exciting local attractions like Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, and Adventure Island.

Those who decide to enjoy their retirement years in the area can choose from many active adult communities in the Tampa Bay area. Some may pick a home in well-known areas like Clearwater or St. Petersburg. However, many retirees are moving to communities south and north of Tampa. From beautiful beaches and attractions to shopping and dining, it's no wonder that Tampa Bay appeals to adults seeking an active lifestyle.

Health Care in the Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay is home to excellent health care options. Highly respected hospitals include:

Tampa General Hospital
Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
St. Joseph's Hospital
James A. Haley Veterans Hospital

Retiring in the Tampa Bay Area FAQs

What are the best places to retire in the Tampa Bay area?

St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Dunedin are popular areas in the county that retirees flock to. Here are a few communities for adults 55 and older that residents rate highly:

These communities offer residents resort-style living with clubhouse amenities, fitness centers, golf courses, various floor plans, and more.

How much does it cost to live in a 55+ community in the Tampa Bay area?

As of 2023, the average cost of residing in an age-restricted community is between $1,500 to $4,000 per month. This is due to HOA fees, onsite amenities, security services, and other expenses.