Well, the answer is Yes! Investing in a 55+ active adult community can be worth it due to the variety of amenities, low maintenance, a sense of community, security, and resale value.
They provide a range of amenities like fitness centers, swimming pools, and golf courses, adjusting to residents' interests and promoting an active lifestyle. Also, you'll benefit from maintenance-free living, where exterior upkeep and landscaping are handled by community management.
Here, we’ll focus on the question - are 55+ active adult communities worth the investment? Besides, we will discuss various factors to consider before making a decision and provide a balanced perspective to aid potential buyers.
What Are 55+ Adult Communities?
Usually, 55+ adult communities are for residents over 55, also known as active adult communities or age-restricted communities. Based on the federal Housing for Older Persons Act of 1995 (HOPA), these communities are for residents who are at least 55 years old.
There are a variety of housing options available to 55+ communities, including single-family houses, patio homes, townhouses, apartments, condominiums, and mobile homes.
Approximately $3,000 per month is the average cost of senior independent living in the United States. The initial cost of a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) is usually around $402,000, with monthly fees of around $3,555.
However, residents have the flexibility to own or rent their living space, providing choices that suit their specific needs and lifestyles. Their ways of life are active and engaging with recreational spaces, clubhouses, and social activities.
5 Benefits of Living in a 55+ Adult Community
With the growing population of aging boomers, 55+ adult communities are becoming more and more popular. These communities offer a variety of amenities and a sense of community, making them a favorite among retirees.
Here are five benefits of living in a 55+ community:
1. Low Cost of Living
Active 55+ communities often offer more amenities and activities than independent living communities. The monthly cost of living in these communities varies by state, and specific communities may require a one-time move-in fee.
For Example, the United States offers a variety of 55+ communities, such as Sun City Summerlin in Las Vegas and The Villages in Florida. With homes ranging from $200,000 to $1,000,000, retirees can enjoy an active lifestyle in these vibrant environments.
However, In 55+ communities, health care costs can be 30-50% less than in assisted living, making them a more affordable option for retirees.
2. Safety and Security
Active retirement communities are typically gated and located in areas with lower crime rates. Additionally, some communities have on-site security teams, contributing to additional safety measures. Residents in these communities enjoy a peaceful and quiet environment compared to traditional neighborhoods with families.
3. Amenities
Residents can enjoy a variety of amenities, including sports courts, fitness centers, golf courses, dining areas, classes, social events, and more. These communities offer a range of social activities, lessons, and events to keep residents engaged and entertained. By providing opportunities for residents to connect, it enables them to maintain a sense of community.
4. Low or No Maintenance
The homeowners association (HOA) typically maintains the bulk of the community's maintenance, including common areas, landscaping, and shared amenities. Residents can focus on activities they enjoy by maintaining the landscaping in front of their homes and the exteriors of their homes.
HOA fees are usually collected to cover these expenses. They also offer services such as pest control and snow removal, which residents may be able to take advantage of.
5. Quiet Environment
In a 55+ community, you can enjoy a peaceful and serene environment, contributing to a great retirement experience. These communities are often located in tranquil areas, free from the stress of urban life. The peaceful and serene backdrop allows residents to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere. A quiet environment promotes calm and contentment, which makes it the perfect retirement setting.
The Leading 55+ Communities for Active Adults Across America
When it comes to active adult living, several communities across America stand out for their exceptional amenities, housing options, and vibrant lifestyles. Here's a detailed look at some of the leading 55+ communities for active adults:
1. Palm Isles, Boynton Beach, FL
Address: 9545 Palm Isles Dr, Boynton Beach, FL 33437, US
Residents: 2,367
Palm Isles is a gated, adult community nestled in the exciting city of Boynton Beach, Florida, offering a fun and active lifestyle. With well-appointed amenities and a variety of real estate options, this community is designed to adapt to the needs and interests of a wide range of residents.
There are a variety of modern homes available here, including maintenance-free villas, condominiums, and single-family homes in sizes, layouts, and prices to fulfill the demands of every resident.
The size of the homes ranges from 1,620 square feet to over 2,650 square feet. The homeowner association fee covers 24-hour manned gated security, lawn care, irrigation, cable television, trash service, and building maintenance.
The community includes a clubhouse/amenity center, restaurant, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, hobby and game rooms, card rooms, arts and crafts studios, ballroom, theater, tennis, pickleball, shuffleboard courts, etc.
A grand community center with 50,000 square feet provides recreation facilities including a 600-seat performance theater, club rooms, card rooms, arts and crafts center, hobby rooms, and a fitness center.
You'll also have access to a number of educational, healthcare, and employment opportunities nearby. For education, nearby public schools like Citrus Cove Elementary School, Crystal Lakes Elementary School, and Boynton Beach Community High School serve residents.
You can also receive emergency, surgical, and speciality care at Bethesda Hospital East in Boynton Beach, as well as complete medical care at Delray Medical Center.
2. Sun City Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC
Address: 247 Fawnwood Court, Bluffton, South Carolina 29909, US
Residents: 16,000
As the largest active adult community in the South Carolina Lowcountry, Sun City Hilton Head is renowned for its active lifestyle and scenic setting. It is one of the most popular retirement communities. the community features a diverse range of more than 8,200 homes, spanning from the mid-$100,000s to over $1 million.
Its residents enjoy fitness centers, walking trails, and three 18-hole championship golf courses, which accommodate to their health, wellness, and recreation needs.
Residents may have access to educational opportunities provided by local schools and colleges in the surrounding area. Some nearby educational institutions include the University of South Carolina Beaufort - Bluffton Campus, Technical College of the Lowcountry, etc.
There are a number of healthcare facilities and providers in the area. Some of them include Hilton Head Hospital, Beaufort Memorial Hospital, and Coastal Carolina Hospital.
Homeowners Association (HOA) dues cover well-maintained common areas and amenities in Sun City Hilton Head. By maintaining common areas and amenities, the community preserves property values and provides residents with a pleasant and aesthetically pleasing environment.
3. Solivita, Kissimmee, FL
Address: Kissimmee, FL 34759, United States
Residents: 7000
Solivita in Kissimmee, is gaining popularity among retirees for its affordable prices and prime location. The master-planned community of Solivita spans 4,300 acres of exclusive Florida real estate.
The community's affordability is another key draw, with homes available at a wide range of price points. From the mid-$100,000s to the mid-$500,000s, there are housing options to accommodate virtually any retirement budget.
Solivita offers a rich array of activities and amenities, including golf courses, water-based activities, and an extensive calendar of community-wide events. There are more than 150,000 square feet of recreational space at Solivita.
Liberty High School offers opportunities for high school students, while Narcoossee Elementary and Middle School educates younger students. For those interested in technical education and vocational training, Osceola Technical College (oTECH)-Main Campus offers programs.
There are several job opportunities available at the Osceola County School District, including general maintenance specialists, healthcare assistants/nurses, IEP assistants, interpreters, office assistants, and paraprofessionals. The School District of Osceola County, administered by Kelly Education, also offers substitute opportunities for teachers, paraprofessionals, and custodians.
Sum Up
Investing in an active adult 55+ community is a personal decision based on individual preferences and financial considerations. While these communities offer a variety of amenities and services that respond to older adults, it is wise to weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision.
It is essential to carefully research and evaluate different options before making a decision. Ultimately, the value of such an investment lies in the satisfaction and quality of life it brings to its residents. Many 55+ communities provide a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement lifestyle, but their value and benefits vary.
