Living in a 55-plus community offers more than just a place to live—it’s about embracing a lifestyle designed for people aged 55 and older.
A 55-plus community is specifically crafted for vibrant adults aged 55 and over—places where architectural design, amenities, and social dynamics are tailored to mature lifestyles. These communities often simplify day-to-day living by bundling maintenance, security, and shared facilities into one seamless experience.
Residents frequently cite streamlined living—no more yard work, gutter fixes, or estate maintenance—as a huge relief. Proximity to healthcare, shopping, and cultural venues adds everyday convenience. Combined costs often include taxes, utilities, and insurance, simplifying life further.
These offer homes, common areas, and recreational facilities for active living without medical support—perfect for independent individuals aged 55+.
Choose a community shaped around your interests—golf courses, faith-based groups, pets, waterfront access, or university-affiliated learning.
Especially common in Florida and Texas, these communities allow long-term stay with lots maintained by management—ideal for budget-friendly, leisurely living.
Some communities blend upscale design with golf, spa, clubhouse, and concierge living—at a higher cost but greater luxuries.
Communities like Village Hearth in Durham, NC, foster LGBTQ-inclusive cohousing with shared meals, art spaces, and communal living. And innovative models like Varcity’s Texas A&M plan offer intergenerational living blending senior housing with academic access and wellness monitoring.
Benefits include:
For example, Laguna Woods in California illustrates the power of community-focused living. A resident shared:
“We’re all in this together, and we watch out for each other.”
After downsizing, they pay around $1,200/month for HOA-managed maintenance—freedom from homeownership burdens.
Under the HUD’s Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), communities must ensure minimum age requirements—like at least one resident being 55+ in 80% of units—while excluding children under 19 from permanent residency.
From essentials to lifestyle luxuries, many communities include:
Monthly living costs in these communities typically range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on home type, amenities, and geographic location.
In Laguna Woods, for example, a couple downsized from a large home and now pay $1,200 monthly HOA that covers taxes, maintenance, and repairs.
The cost of living in 55+ communities is generally well below assisted living, which averages $3,500–$10,500 monthly.
Choosing the right state can bring tax advantages and lifestyle benefits. For instance, Florida’s lack of income tax and warmer climate make it attractive—but beware of rising housing and insurance costs.
Nebraska, Missouri, and Illinois cities like Lincoln, St. Louis, and Champaign rank high on living affordability and quality of life.
Laguna Woods, CA: A retiree couple sold a $1.07M home and moved into a 55+ co-op for $525K; their HOA frees them from maintenance and lets them stay socially active.
Texas A&M’s Varcity Community (Opening ~2027): Offers coursework access, student interactions, wellness tracking, and intergenerational living.
A well-chosen 55-plus community can unlock an enriched, social, carefree lifestyle—grounded in independence, convenience, and well-being. The key steps: