Top 15 Must See 55+ Communities in Florida for 2024

Finding the perfect place to retire in Florida is not an easy task. There are so many things to consider - location, price, amenities, additional fees. With so many different options out there to choose from, it can just make things even harder when trying to narrow down your search. The good news? That is what our team here at Explore55Plus does best! We try our best to make the decision-making process as easy as possible for you.

Whether you’ve just started your search in Florida, or you have been planning your Sunshine State retirement for years, we are here to help! Our team has put together a breakdown of our must-see communities of 2024.

Central Florida 55+ Communities

Del Webb Minneola

Del Webb Minneola shines as a jewel in Lake County. This community is perfectly positioned where the excitement of Central Florida is within easy reach, but far enough to maintain its calming atmosphere. It's an ideal haven for those embarking on the adventure of life after 55, bathed in endless sunshine that guarantees outdoor enjoyment is always an option. With a phenomenal view and prime location, a picturesque walk or a joyful moment is always just around the corner. This 55+ community is your gateway to living the lifestyle Florida is celebrated for.

Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes in Leesburg, FL, offers an affordable retirement experience on Retirement Row - a collection of 55+ communities stretching from Leesburg to Clermont. This community stands out for its privacy and accessibility to the luxuries of The Villages, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds. Known as the “Heritage Tree Community,” Highland Lakes is celebrated for its lush green spaces, majestic trees draped in Spanish moss, and tranquil lakes perfect for catch-and-release fishing. It's this blend of natural beauty and peaceful living that has earned Highland Lakes its reputation as one of the top lakeside retirement communities.

Kings Ridge

Kings Ridge, located in Clermont, FL, is special because it is the only community in the area where you can ride your golf cart to local shops and restaurants. There are 2,088 homes in this community built between 1995-2005. Kings Ridge has an all-inclusive HOA unlike many other communities in the area (they even paint your house every 8 years!). Two clubhouses, pools, racquet courts, and two golf courses – 1 executive and 1 championship – all feature absolutely beautiful views and outdoor areas throughout the community.

Cresswind at Victoria Gardens

Cresswind at Victoria Gardens in DeLand, Florida epitomizes active adult living, offering a perfect mix of comfort and engagement. DeLand, steeped in rich history, buzzes with activities ranging from vibrant art festivals to captivating music events, thanks to Stetson University's influence. For those craving variety, the community's location is a gateway to diverse experiences. Just 20 minutes from the beach, residents can easily enjoy sun-kissed shores and ocean breezes. A brief journey can also lead you to the lively streets of Downtown Orlando, the magical gates of Disney and Universal Studios. Life at Cresswind at Victoria Gardens is anything but ordinary.

Solivita

Located in Kissimmee, FL, Solivita is one of the larger communities on our list with 5,900 homes. It’s an established gated community that still offers new construction homes, along with resales. Set on 4,300 acres, Solivita has ensured that its residents always have something to enjoy. With 11 outdoor pools, indoor pools, fitness centers, restaurants, sports courts and clubhouses throughout the community, residents will truly experience ‘resort-style’ living.

Del Webb Oasis

Disney lovers – this one is for you! This brand spanking new community is just 9 minutes away from the parks. You’ll also be conveniently located at Flamingo Crossings Village Town Center which is 200,000 sq ft of dining and shopping. Once complete, this charming community will have around 450 homes ranging in square footage from 1,579-3,453 – Single Family and Villa options available. While there aren’t as many amenities as Del Webb Sunbridge, Del Webb Oasis still boasts a 12,000 sq ft clubhouse, fitness center, pool, pickleball and tennis courts, beautiful walking paths, and more. Del Webb Oasis is our TOP pick for those wanting to be close to Disney!

Del Webb Sunbridge

This highly popular community has so much to offer, we hardly know where to start. As our Explore55Plus Expert Mary Mateo says, Del Webb Sunbridge is “resort-style living at its best… stepped up a notch!” Located in the Lake Nona area, this community is comprised of 1,300 homes ranging from the Villas to the 40, 50, and 65 ft frontage lots. Surrounded by conservation and nature trails, community gardens, and farmers markets, this stunning option is perfect for the nature lover who values convenience. There truly is something here for the whole family. From the Hammock Club, pools, and other state-of-the-art amenities; to the surrounding area with entertainment and restaurants galore. – there are even multigenerational sections of this immaculate master-planned community. It won’t be hard to convince the whole family to move to Sunbridge! (We can help them find their perfect home, too!)

Lakeland & Winter Haven 55+ Communities

Lake Ashton

Nestled in the heart of Florida's breathtaking landscapes, Lake Ashton sets the standard where luxury meets lakeside living. With the option of having your own boat slip, this community offers more than just stunning views. Engage in a variety of activities: an 18-hole golf course, bowling alley, theatre room, and an on-site restaurant and bar. Unique to Lake Ashton, select homes feature RV-sized garages for the avid traveler. Whether you're sailing on the lake or enjoying the variety of amenities, Lake Ashton is your gateway to a fulfilling lifestyle in the heart of Florida. Perfect for those seeking adventure on and off the water.

Traditions at Lake Ruby

Just a stone's throw from Lake Ashton, Traditions at Lake Ruby is a lovely 55+ community. This community is crafted by Lennar - a developer known for their commitment to quality and community. With a collection of only 700 homes, Traditions at Lake Ruby fosters a warm, tight-knit atmosphere where neighbors quickly become friends. Positioned along the shores of sparkling Lake Ruby, the community center offers residents breathtaking water views, making every morning swim in the pool a serene experience. This is not just a place to live; it's a community that promises a lifestyle filled with beauty, tranquility, and connection, all nestled in the picturesque backdrop of Central Florida.

Ocala 55+ Communities

Oak Run

Oak Run is a dynamic 55+ golf community located just 20 minutes away from Lake Weir. This Ocala area community features three clubhouses filled with events and clubs for an active social life. With a wide selection of home styles, it ranks as one of the top active adult communities in Ocala. Positioned in a prime yet secluded spot, Oak Run offers a sense of private worldliness with the Gulf of Mexico only an hour's drive away. For those interested in city attractions or business in Tampa and Orlando, travel time is under 95 minutes, combining the tranquility of retirement living with easy access to urban conveniences.

Ocala Preserve

Ocala Preserve in Ocala, Florida, offers an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of 55+ living with its unique charm. One resident remarked it was so striking upon first visit, she felt compelled to photograph it, highlighting its immediate appeal. Imagine lounging by the lake on circular couches, sipping tea as kayaks glide by—a serene picture of community life. For those preferring action, Ocala Preserve doubles as a golf resort, offering ample activities to keep you engaged. While not age-restricted, it lends itself to other 55+ communities, providing a peaceful environment with just enough youthful energy to keep things lively.

Tampa Bay Area 55+ Communities

Valencia del Sol

Valencia Del Sol in Tampa welcomes residents with a stunning gated entry, leading to a world of luxury. The 25,000-square-foot clubhouse is a hub of activity, featuring a grand social hall, café, fitness center, arts and crafts room, and sports lounge. The resort-style pool, complete with beach entry, whirlpool spa, lap lanes, and sun-soaked cabanas, offers relaxation and recreation. A dog park and event lawn cater to both pets and their owners, ensuring lively evenings with farmers’ markets, movie nights, and live concerts. For the sports enthusiast, tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts await. With a plethora of groups and classes, Valencia Del Sol offers boundless possibilities for engagement and enjoyment in retirement.

Sun City Center

Sun City Center is often compared to The Villages. It is a premier retirement destination within the Tampa Bay area. This community boasts world-class golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools, with the unique perk of being able to navigate the entire area via golf cart. Beyond the physical amenities, Sun City Center is distinguished by its strong community spirit. Despite its size, with over 10,000 homes, residents enjoy a close-knit atmosphere, facilitated by a wealth of social events, cultural activities, and volunteer opportunities that make it easy to connect with neighbors. Sun City Center is committed to a high quality of life, with clean, well-maintained streets and spaces, excellent healthcare facilities, and easy access to highways, airports, and entertainment.

Jacksonville Area 55+ Communities

Summer Bay at Grand Oaks

Summer Bay at Grand Oaks is a fresh addition to St. Augustine, Florida's retirement community scene. It is a Pulte Homes masterpiece with construction starting in 2021. As an exclusive, age-restricted enclave within the broader Grand Oaks, Summer Bay offers a unique blend of privacy and community. While Grand Oaks caters to all ages with diverse sections and amenities, Summer Bay shines with its own set of features, including an outdoor firepit, community garden, and a resort-style pool, setting a high bar for leisure and relaxation. The community is celebrated for its scenic beauty, boasting lake and park views that foster a deep connection with Florida's natural landscape, making it a haven for those seeking a tranquil yet engaging retirement lifestyle.

WaterSong at RiverTown

WaterSong at RiverTown is a notable new 55+ community near Jacksonville, FL. This expansive community offers an intimate setting within the expansive RiverTown, master-planned by Mattamy Homes. Here, residents experience the boutique feel of a smaller community with the extensive amenities typically found in larger developments. Exclusive to WaterSong residents is an amenity center featuring a Biergarten by the pool and a cozy fire pit, ideal for enjoying warm evenings outdoors. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the walking trails along the St. Johns River, where you might spot a manatee. Beyond the community, Jacksonville's vibrant city life and the historic charm of St. Augustine are also within easy reach, making WaterSong a coveted location for those seeking a retirement community that has it all.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Florida is known for its diverse array of retirement communities, each with its unique charm and array of amenities designed to cater to the active adult lifestyle. From the tranquil lakeside settings of Lake Ashton and Highland Lakes to the vibrant, activity-filled communities like Del Webb Oasis and Valencia del Sol, there's a perfect match for every preference and budget.

Our journey through the 15 must-see communities of 2024 showcases the best that Florida has to offer, ensuring that your retirement years are as fulfilling and enjoyable as possible. Let Explore55Plus guide you to your dream retirement community, where new adventures and friendships await.