Hobe Sound, FL 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Nestled along Florida's picturesque Treasure Coast, Hobe Sound is a popular retirement destination for those seeking an active and vibrant lifestyle. With its stunning natural beauty, tranquil beaches, and year-round pleasant weather, Hobe Sound beckons retirees with its idyllic charm. Residents can revel in the area's recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and golfing. Hobe Sound's proximity to natural areas like Jonathan Dickinson State Park and Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge makes it a nature lover's paradise, providing endless opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring. The town's convenient location puts residents within reach of world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. Whether indulging in the laid-back coastal lifestyle, engaging in community activities, or immersing oneself in the beauty of the surroundings, Hobe Sound offers retirees an enriching and fulfilling retirement experience.

For more information about visiting or moving to Hobe Sound, here are some local resources that can provide valuable insights:

• The Hobe Sound Nature Center website publishes information about the fascinating wildlife and environmental conservation efforts in the area, as well as educational programs and volunteer opportunities.
• The Chamber of Commerce for Hobe Sound website helps visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of the local business community and explore the services, amenities, and benefits available in Hobe Sound.
• The Hobe Sound Community Chest website offers information on local charitable organizations and ways to contribute to the community's well-being through various initiatives.

Affordability and Cost of Living in Hobe Sound

The world-class beaches and abundance of active adult communities attract plenty of retirees to the Treasure Coast of Florida.  Active adults who want to settle in Hobe Sound should also consider the area’s overall cost of living. Residents enjoy the good fortune of Florida’s tax-friendliness with the advantages of no income, inheritance, or estate taxes. And at 6.5 percent, the sales tax in Hobe Sound is average compared to many areas of the country. However, the property tax rate in Hobe Sound, at 0.91 percent, ranks among the highest in the nation. Residents tend to pay more for property taxes for the benefit of living in Hobe Sound. 

Fortunately, homeowners can take advantage of Florida’s Homestead exemption which exempts up to $25,000 of the first $50,000 of the assessed value of a home and an additional $25,000 for values between $50,000 and $75,000. This helpful exemption could potentially save homeowners up $50,000 depending on their eligibility and their home’s value. The overall cost of living in Hobe Sound ranks approximately 11 percent higher than national averages. Residents tend to pay more for everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare, and housing expenses can soar nearly 30 percent above national averages.

Climate and Geography in Hobe Sound

Hobe Sound enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate, making it an ideal destination for retirees seeking comfortable year-round weather. Summers in Hobe Sound are warm and balmy, with average midsummer highs in the low 90s. Winters are mild and inviting, with average lows in the mid-50s. The area experiences an abundance of sunshine, boasting around 232 sunny days per year. Hobe Sound receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 63 inches, with the wettest months occurring during the summer season. This desirable climate allows residents to engage in outdoor activities and enjoy the beauty of the region throughout the year.

Situated along Florida's Atlantic coast, Hobe Sound offers a range of natural wonders. The town has easy access to pristine beaches with soft sands and clear turquoise waters, where retirees can soak up the sun, take leisurely walks, or enjoy water activities. Hobe Sound is also bordered by the Indian River Lagoon, a remarkable estuary teeming with wildlife and providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The area is rich in lush vegetation, including mangrove forests and cypress swamps, creating a serene and picturesque environment. Hobe Sound is close to nature reserves and state parks that offer trails for hiking and biking, as well as a glimpse into Florida's diverse ecosystems. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Hobe Sound offers a vibrant array of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options to cater to various interests and preferences. No matter what you are interested in, the Hobe Sound area has many fun things to do and see.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Hobe Sound Golf Club
• Eaglewood Golf Club
• Medalist Golf Club
• The Soundings Yacht & Tennis Club

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Jonathan Dickinson State Park
• Cypress Creek Natural Area
• Blowing Rocks Preserve
• Indian River

Museums and Historical Sites:

• House of Refuge Museum
• Stuart Heritage Museum
• Loggerhead Marinelife Center
• Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

Performing Arts:

• A.C.T. Studio Theatre
• Maplewood Playhouse
• Jon Mullen Performing Arts Center
• Lake Park Black Box Theater

Shopping:

• Fairway Plaza
• The MarketPlace at Hobe Sound
• Tequesta Fashion Mall
• Gallery Square North

Parks and Gardens:

• Peck Lake Park
• Gomez Preserve Nature Trail
• J.V. Reed Park
• Heathcote Botanical Gardens

Festivals and Fairs:

• Hobe Sound Festival of the Arts
• Hobe Sound Farmers Market
• Market on Main

Health and Wellness

Hobe Sound offers a range of healthcare facilities and services to cater to the needs of active adults. The town is near major medical centers, ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare options. Martin Health System, part of Cleveland Clinic Florida, operates hospitals in nearby Stuart and Port St. Lucie, providing advanced medical care and specialties. 

Hobe Sound is also supportive of holistic wellness, with numerous fitness centers, yoga studios, and walking trails available to promote physical fitness and well-being. The town's serene natural environment and access to outdoor activities further contribute to a healthy and active lifestyle.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Hobe Sound 55+ Communities

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Harry and the Natives, a local favorite known for its charming atmosphere and tasty dishes.
• Visit Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty and observe diverse wildlife.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, head over to Blue Water Barbecue, where locals enjoy smoked delights like brisket, pulled pork, burnt ends, and chicken.
• After lunch, drive over to Blowing Rocks Preserve, which features a number of shorter day hikes to enjoy the area’s natural wonders.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Catfish House, a local favorite for deliciously battered and fried seafood.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Galaxy Diner in nearby Stuart, a local favorite for omelets, pancakes, and more.
• Explore the beautiful Jonathan Dickinson State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, or canoeing along the Loxahatchee River.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at Two Brothers Pizza, which serves calzone, grinders, and a wide selection of specialty pizzas.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to gather valuable information and insights about the various 55+ communities in Hobe Sound.

Evening:

• Head to The Grille at Martin’s Landing for dinner, which serves locally sourced produce, quality seafood, and delectable steaks.

Getting to Hobe Sound, FL

Hobe Sound is conveniently accessible by both car and air. For visitors traveling by car, major highways leading to the area include Interstate 95 and Florida's Turnpike. These highways provide convenient access to Hobe Sound from various locations throughout Florida and neighboring states.

For those arriving by air, the closest major airport to Hobe Sound is Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) located in West Palm Beach, approximately 35 miles south of Hobe Sound. PBI is served by several major airlines, including American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. The airport serves as a primary hub for American Airlines and offers convenient connections to numerous domestic and international destinations. Visitors can rent a car or use a taxi or rideshare service to get from PBI to Hobe Sound.