If you’re dreaming of golden years bathed in sunshine, surrounded by vibrant communities and endless possibilities, then Florida has undoubtedly crossed your mind. The sheer variety of options can feel a little overwhelming, can’t it? Deciding where to plant your roots for this exciting new chapter is a big step, and wading through countless possibilities requires some insight.
That’s precisely why delving into where others are focusing their retirement research can be so incredibly helpful. Based on insights gleaned from website analytics and the hundreds of emails pouring in from readers planning their move, a clear picture emerges of the places generating the most buzz and interest right now. This list, compiled for 2025, highlights the spots that people are truly reading about and asking about the most.
Leading the way on this list for the upcoming year is Ocala. This area presents a truly unique blend that captures the hearts of many. Imagine a place where rich history intertwines with a thriving equestrian culture, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural environments. Ocala offers this delightful combination, promising a lifestyle that’s both engaging and serene.
The downtown district in Ocala adds another layer of appeal, featuring a wonderful collection of interesting shops and delightful restaurants waiting to be explored. It’s the kind of place where, quite genuinely, no one struggles to find something fulfilling or fun to do on any given day.
Within the Ocala area, On Top of the World Communities stands out as a premier destination for active adults. This community truly lives up to its name, offering an environment where residents can curate a schedule that perfectly suits their desires, whether that’s being packed with activities or delightfully unhurried. It’s all about finding your perfect pace.
The amenities available at On Top of the World are simply staggering. Picture yourself enjoying a round on one of the three golf courses, totaling 54 holes of play! Or perhaps you’d prefer a dip in one of the indoor or outdoor swimming pools, a game on the tennis, bocce, racquetball, or basketball courts. For the aviation enthusiast, there’s even a dedicated 14-acre R/C flying field!
Beyond sports, the community boasts a comprehensive fitness center, a health club and spa for relaxation and wellness, and convenient restaurants right on site. Cultural venues provide opportunities for entertainment and enrichment. And for those who love to connect and engage, there are over 175 clubs, leagues, hobbies, and lifelong learning opportunities to choose from. With around 20 different floor plans available, there are options designed to fit every budget, starting in the $200k’s.
Journeying about an hour north of Orlando, we discover a place that is consistently recognized as one of the best-selling communities in the entire country, retirement-focused or otherwise. This is The Villages, a destination of remarkable size and scale that truly stands apart in Florida.
The Villages is home to a massive population, exceeding 150,000 residents. The sheer magnitude of the amenities is impressive: more than 700 holes of golf, 200 pickleball courts, 100 recreation centers, and 100 swimming pools. It’s a place designed for active living and social connection on an unprecedented level.
Finding your tribe is easy here, with over 3,000 clubs and organizations residents can participate in, covering virtually every interest imaginable. An “enrichment academy” supports a commitment to lifelong learning, providing opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Dining and shopping options abound, with more than 100 restaurants, a wide range of shops, grocery stores, and conveniently located medical offices.
Adding to the unique appeal of The Villages is the nightly offering of free live entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere every evening. And perhaps one of the most defining features is that nearly everything within this expansive community is accessible by golf cart, making getting around incredibly convenient and enjoyable. All of this comes with remarkably low monthly fees, less than $200.
Heading to Florida’s East Coast, Port St. Lucie and its neighboring towns within St. Lucie County invite you to experience what they proudly promote as “the real Florida.” This area cultivates a perfect atmosphere, particularly appealing to golf lovers or anyone seeking the charm of a small, friendly beach town where life feels relaxed and genuine.
In Port St. Lucie, Valencia Parc at Riverland emerges as one of the newest and most exciting 55+ communities. This development masterfully combines GL Homes’ signature resort-style 55+ living experience with the expansive and thoughtfully designed 4,000-acre master-planned community of Riverland. The result is a Florida lifestyle that truly is second to none.
A key feature of Valencia Parc at Riverland is the incredible connectivity provided by miles of eco-friendly greenways. Imagine walking or riding your golf cart seamlessly to access all the amenities right within your own neighborhood and even extending to nearby shops and restaurants. While daily needs and fun are within reach, a car ride allows for a perfect day spent relaxing at the beach, just a short distance away. The promise here is simple yet powerful: a million ways to have fun without the daily hassle of driving everywhere.
Moving southwest, near Fort Myers, we encounter Babcock Ranch, a town built with forward-thinking principles. Notably, it’s a solar-powered community, highlighting a commitment to sustainability. The design prioritizes walkability and bike-ability, and like The Villages, a significant portion is golf cart accessible, fostering a convenient and active outdoor lifestyle.
Babcock Ranch garnered national attention in 2022 when news stories from prominent outlets like CNN and 60 Minutes highlighted its remarkable resilience and how well the community fared during the impactful Hurricane Ian. Situated on approximately 18,000 acres, it enjoys the unique advantage of being adjacent to an extensive wilderness preserve, offering residents immediate access to nature’s beauty.
An 870-acre solar farm plays a role in powering sections of the community. Life here is enriched by numerous amenities, including clubhouses, inviting pools, a golf course for enthusiasts, miles of hiking and biking paths, and scenic greenways. The presence of lakes provides perfect opportunities for outdoor adventures, from kayaking to fishing. While there are several appealing single-family home and condominium neighborhoods for retirees throughout Babcock Ranch, the first dedicated 55+ neighborhood, Regency at Babcock Ranch, opened its doors in 2023.
Next on the list is Wesley Chapel, a community quickly emerging as a premier destination for retirees seeking a dynamic blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. Its appeal stems from several factors: the reliably warm climate Florida is famous for, its convenient proximity to the vibrant city of Tampa, and the wide array of lifestyle options available within the community itself.
Wesley Chapel offers a compelling mix designed for those ready to fully embrace their golden years. You’ll find a fantastic array of activities, well-appointed amenities, and diverse housing options tailored specifically to the needs and desires of retirees. It’s a place where convenience meets leisure.
The featured community in this area is Valencia Ridge, an all-new development in the greater Tampa region. Valencia Ridge promises the ultimate in 55+ luxury living, showcasing contemporary home designs that are both stylish and functional. The heart of the community is its world-class amenities package.
Prepare to be impressed by the incredible 55+ lifestyle centered around the world-class clubhouse. Here, residents can enjoy multiple pools, dedicated pickleball and tennis courts for friendly competition, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and inviting spaces like a restaurant and bar, a sports lounge, and a spacious social hall perfect for gatherings and events. The community aims to provide an experience where, truly, nothing compares to the lifestyle offered here.
Travel to Florida’s Gulf Coast near Panama City Beach, and you’ll find Watersound, a place that is expected to become increasingly prominent in discussions about retirement destinations in the coming years. Situated in the Florida Panhandle, just off Scenic Highway 30-A in the heart of South Walton County, Watersound offers a desirable coastal location, approximately 17 miles northwest of Panama City Beach and 30 miles east of Destin.
The reason for the anticipated buzz around Watersound is its selection as the location for the third Jimmy Buffett-inspired Latitude Margaritaville retirement community. Given the significant amount of land the developer has acquired, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound possesses the potential to grow to a size comparable to, or even larger than, The Villages over the coming decades. The space and vision are certainly there.
Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is the second such community in Florida and the third overall when including the Hilton Head location. Situated on Northwest Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast, between Pensacola and Panama City, it offers a distinct coastal vibe. The amenities, already in place or coming soon, paint a picture of a relaxed, fun-loving lifestyle: a Latitude Town Square with a bandshell for entertainment, the Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant, a 2nd Floor Overlook Bar offering panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway, and a Paradise Pool complete with a beach entry, cabanas, and tiki huts.
Additional amenities include the Fins Up! Fitness Center, the Barkaritaville Dog Park for furry friends, courts for tennis and pickleball, and access to the water via the Port of Indecision Kayak Launch. Walking trails allow residents to explore their surroundings. With home prices starting in the $300k’s, it aims to bring the laid-back Margaritaville spirit to retirement living.
Parrish represents a growing community located in Manatee County, benefiting from a strategically appealing location. It sits roughly halfway between the major cities of Tampa and Sarasota, making either about a 30-minute drive away. Furthermore, it’s approximately 25 minutes from St. Petersburg, a drive that includes traversing the picturesque Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Parrish offers a pleasing blend of rural charm and convenient, easy access to modern conveniences found in the nearby larger cities. This balance makes it a particularly attractive option for retirees who appreciate a quieter setting but still want shops, restaurants, and entertainment within easy reach. A significant factor attracting retirees to Parrish currently is that home prices here tend to be a little lower compared to what you might find in the bigger metropolitan areas, offering potentially more home for your money.
Woodland Preserve is highlighted as Kolter Homes’ latest new home community in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, situated within Parrish. This gated, 55+ neighborhood presents a contemporary collection of flexible floor plans. These designs are spacious, ranging from 2- up to 5-bedrooms, and offer various structural and design options to customize your living space. Residents of Woodland Preserve will have full access to their own dedicated community clubhouse and a suite of amenities.
The amenities available to residents include a fitness center for staying active, pickleball courts for friendly competition, and a pool featuring lap lanes for swimming workouts. Both indoor and outdoor social spaces are provided, perfect for gathering with neighbors and friends. A key part of the lifestyle at Woodland Preserve is the appreciation and integration of the community’s natural beauty. Those interested are invited to join a VIP list to be among the first to receive detailed community information.
Next, we look at St. Augustine, famous throughout the country for being the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement. If you possess an appreciation for history, this city is absolutely the perfect place to consider. Located along the east coast of Florida, it sits approximately 45 minutes south of Jacksonville and a little over an hour north of Daytona Beach, placing it conveniently between larger urban centers.
Beyond its significant historical sites, St. Augustine is a city brimming with culture, offering tons of great shopping opportunities and a variety of unique places to eat, promising diverse culinary experiences. For retirees, the presence of two truly wonderful retirement communities further enhances its appeal. If you find yourself passionate about any combination of history, culture, shopping, and food, the nation’s oldest city could indeed be a wonderful option for your retirement years.
Reverie at TrailMark is presented as a 55+ community located in St. Augustine. The community features The Lodge, a spacious 4,600 sq. ft. Lakeside Clubhouse that serves as a central hub for resident activity and social interaction. This clubhouse provides both indoor and outdoor social spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the Florida weather while connecting with neighbors.
For the active resident, there are six pickleball courts available, supporting the sport’s growing popularity among retirees. The community also boasts a resort-style pool and spa for relaxation and leisure, alongside a catering kitchen perfect for hosting events. Uniquely, and sounding like a truly cool amenity, The Lodge includes an open-air Biergarten, providing a relaxed spot for socializing. Housing options include 11 new single-family home designs, ranging in size from 1,500 to 3,000 sq. ft., with options for lakeside and preserve homesites. Prices for these homes start in the $300,000s.
Heading further south along Florida’s Gulf Coast, we arrive at Port Charlotte. Situated almost exactly halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers, this community is often considered one of the true hidden gems of this coastline. Its desirable location and welcoming atmosphere naturally make it a destination for many boomers who are looking forward to enjoying their retirement years.
Port Charlotte is a small-town community positioned right on the water of Charlotte Harbor. This prime location provides residents with access to an extensive network of waterways, stretching over 165 miles. As you might imagine, this makes all kinds of water activities incredibly popular here, from boating and fishing to kayaking and simply enjoying the waterfront lifestyle.
Within the popular Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda area, Kings Gate offers a friendly, gated neighborhood community specifically for residents age 55 and up. Its location ensures easy access to a wide array of conveniences and attractions, including beautiful beaches, various marinas, peaceful wildlife sanctuaries, and airports, many of which are within a 15-minute drive or even less. Convenience is clearly a key feature here.
Kings Gate homeowners enjoy access to a range of community amenities designed to foster an active and social lifestyle. These include a recreation center, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and spa perfect for swimming laps or relaxing, and tennis courts. An on-site activities director helps coordinate events and opportunities for residents, and a variety of resident clubs and social events make it easy to meet people and pursue hobbies. For golf enthusiasts, membership to the community’s 18-hole golf course and facilities is also available. Homes in Kings Gate start in the $20,0000s.
Lakewood Ranch earns its spot on this list thanks to its highly in-demand central west coast location. Its proximity to popular cities like Sarasota and Bradenton adds significantly to its appeal. What makes Lakewood Ranch particularly suitable for a variety of retirement tastes is the diverse offering of both 55+ and all-ages neighborhoods, allowing retirees to choose the living environment that best suits their preferences and family situations.
The community is designed with lifestyle in mind, featuring appealing destinations like Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. This area provides residents with an ideal downtown experience, filled with an eclectic collection of boutiques perfect for browsing and unique eateries offering diverse dining options. Main Street is also the home of Lakewood Ranch Cinemas and, importantly, hosts regular concerts and festivals throughout the year, creating a lively cultural hub.
A newer addition is Waterside Place, the most recent commercial destination at Lakewood Ranch. This area integrates a wide range of restaurants and retail stores seamlessly with apartment living, all set right on the water. It’s a vibrant, picturesque spot for dining, shopping, and socializing.
Cresswind Lakewood Ranch is highlighted as a 55+ new home community within Lakewood Ranch. Situated east of Sarasota and Bradenton, this community has been notably named the #1 multigenerational neighborhood in the nation, suggesting a harmonious blend of different living environments. Cresswind Lakewood Ranch offers a variety of resort-style amenities specifically designed for active adults.
Amenities here include a fitness center for health and wellness, an art studio for creative pursuits, and courts for tennis and pickleball. Residents can relax or exercise in the resort-style swimming pool or the resistance pool. Beyond the community gates, residents also enjoy quick access to Lakewood Ranch’s extensive facilities, including golf courses, a polo club, and a vast 75-acre sports campus. Essential services like schools, shops, restaurants, and a hospital are also conveniently close. The white sand beaches and cultural attractions of Sarasota are easily reachable within a 30-minute drive. Homebuyers at Cresswind can choose from nineteen spacious home plans, specifically designed with active adults in mind, featuring open floor plans and energy-efficient designs.
Next on the list is Palm Coast, recognized as a popular destination for retirement due to a compelling combination of factors. Its beautiful weather provides the perfect climate for year-round enjoyment. The affordable cost of living makes it financially appealing, and a wide range of recreational activities ensures there’s always something engaging to do.
Palm Coast is located on the northeast coast of Florida, within Flagler County. The city holds a strategic position along the Intracoastal Waterway and is bordered by the expansive Atlantic Ocean to the east, offering abundant opportunities for water-related activities and scenic views. Geographically, it’s situated approximately 30 miles south of St. Augustine and about 25 miles north of Daytona Beach, providing a convenient middle ground with easy access to the amenities and attractions of both cities.
Palm Coast’s location is indeed convenient, providing residents and visitors with seamless access to both natural attractions, like beaches and waterways, and the urban amenities available in neighboring cities. This area is also notable for being ranked as one of the top beach towns in the country, highlighting the quality of its coastal environment and lifestyle.
Reverie at Palm Coast is featured as a brand-new 55+ community set within this desirable location. It occupies a naturally beautiful setting, placing residents right at the heart of the abundant activities, great golf courses, and sparkling ocean waters that contribute to the area’s high ranking as a beach town. The community is designed to be a central hub for active living.
Reverie will include a staffed amenities center, ensuring resident needs are met and activities are well-managed. Outdoor features include a zero-entry swimming pool, perfect for easy access, and a separate spa for relaxation. The fitness center is equipped with a fitness on-demand video system, offering flexibility in workouts. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the 6 tournament-style pickleball courts. Social life revolves around the grand event lawn, multiple gathering areas, and a party bar. The community will host social clubs and provide a separate aerobics area. Unique amenities include a golf simulator and a putting green, catering to golfers. The community offers 15 different home designs spread across 3 home collections, ranging in size from 1,693 sq. ft. to over 3,700 sq. ft., with options for 2- and 3-car garages. Pre-construction prices start from the mid-$300,000 to mid-$500,000 range, with many choices available for homesite views, design elements, and options.
Heading back to Southwest Florida, Naples is presented as a community that brings together the very best elements of shopping, recreation, and beautiful beaches. While many places in Southwest Florida offer these attractions, residents of Naples would confidently argue that their city provides the absolute best versions of all three, setting a high bar for quality and experience.
The historic downtown area of Naples is a highlight, filled with high-end shops and exclusive boutiques, offering a refined retail experience. The surrounding areas are renowned for being home to numerous championship-level golf courses, making it a golfer’s paradise. And true to its coastal location along the southern Gulf Coast of Florida, Naples boasts some of the most stunning beaches you will find anywhere, with soft sands and beautiful water inviting relaxation and leisure.
Valencia Sky is introduced as GL Homes’ newest 55+ community in the Naples area. It promises a lifestyle that seamlessly combines luxury living with incredible coastal convenience, situated just 6 miles from downtown Naples. As a Valencia community, it features a state-of-the-art clubhouse that serves as the central hub for activities and amenities.
The clubhouse offers multiple pools for swimming and relaxation, dedicated pickleball and tennis courts, and a fully equipped gym for fitness. Social and dining options are available with a restaurant/bar, a sports lounge, and an event hall perfect for community gatherings and private parties. Being located just minutes from the upscale 5th Avenue South shopping district and the iconic Naples Pier means that the best of Naples’ retail, dining, and coastal attractions are always within easy reach. Those interested are encouraged to request information to learn more about this luxurious and convenient retirement option.
Finally, completing this portion of the list is Palm Beach, described as a sun-soaked paradise. This area offers a truly unique blend that captures the essence of luxury, history, and remarkable natural beauty. Whether your passion lies in appreciating art, exploring diverse culinary scenes as a foodie, or simply looking to relax and unwind by the beach, Palm Beach genuinely has something to appeal to everyone.
Palm Beach County itself is notable as the largest county in Florida by area, boasting an impressive 47 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. This extensive coastline provides numerous access points to beautiful beaches and water activities. Based on available information, Palm Beach County is estimated to have more 55+ communities than any other county in Florida, indicating a significant focus on catering to the retirement demographic and offering a vast selection of living options.
Cresswind Palm Beach at Westlake is highlighted as a 55+ community offering a resort-style amenities package. The central amenity hub is Club Cresswind, featuring various facilities designed for active and social living. These include pools for swimming and leisure, fitness facilities for maintaining health, arts studios for creative expression, and a range of sports courts for friendly competition and active play.
Conveniently situated between Wellington and Palm Beach Gardens, residents at Cresswind Palm Beach enjoy easy access to a wide array of attractions. This includes beautiful beaches along the coast, extensive shopping destinations, and the vibrant cultural and entertainment offerings of nearby West Palm Beach. It’s a community designed to provide both a luxurious on-site experience and effortless access to the best of the surrounding Palm Beach County area.
Exploring these highly sought-after locations reveals a tapestry of retirement possibilities across Florida. From the historic charm of St. Augustine to the sprawling, amenity-rich landscape of The Villages, or the coastal luxury of Naples and the innovative sustainability of Babcock Ranch, the options reflect a diverse set of priorities and dreams. Whether drawn by the call of the ocean, the allure of championship golf, the desire for abundant social activities, or the appeal of a peaceful, nature-integrated setting, the ideal Florida haven seems to be out there, waiting. These places, standing out in the research of countless prospective residents, paint a vivid picture of the vibrant, fulfilling retirement experiences that await under the Florida sun.
Related posts:
Florida woman taking case over ‘outrageous’ fines to state Supreme Court after wracking up nearly $200,000 in penalties
Cities are trying a new approach to clearing homeless tent encampments
Zohran Mamdani pledges to slash small fees and fines in half for small businesses
