55+ Community Pros and Cons: Is an Active Adult Community Right for You?

A 55+ community (also called an active adult community or age-restricted community) is a neighborhood where at least one resident must be 55 or older, and no one under a certain age (usually 18 or 19) can live there permanently.

• **Age restriction**: At least one person 55+; no one under 18-19 can reside long-term
• **Active adult focus**: Designed for independent, active seniors
• **Amenities**: Clubhouses, pools, fitness, golf, activities
• **HOA**: Homeowners association manages common areas and enforces rules
• **Not healthcare**: These are NOT assisted living or nursing care facilities
• **Examples**: Del Webb, Sun City, Robson Ranch, Latitude Margaritaville

Here's why millions of seniors choose age-restricted communities:

• **Maintenance-free living**: HOA handles landscaping, exterior maintenance, common areas
• **Social opportunities**: Easy to meet neighbors, join clubs, participate in activities
• **Age-appropriate amenities**: Fitness classes, pools, golf designed for seniors
• **Peace and quiet**: No loud neighbors, college students, or young children
• **Safety**: Gated communities, security patrols (at some)
• **Downsizing opportunity**: Smaller, single-story homes ideal for aging in place
• **Like-minded neighbors**: Everyone is 55+ and in a similar life stage
• **Active lifestyle**: Encourages staying physically and socially active

The drawbacks to consider before making the move:

• **HOA fees**: $100-$400+/month, and they increase every year
• **Strict rules**: HOA controls paint colors, landscaping, parking, rentals, etc.
• **Age restrictions**: Grandchildren can't live with you; limited extended visits
• **Less diversity**: Lack of age and demographic diversity
• **Resale challenges**: Smaller buyer pool (only 55+ can buy)
• **Lack of kids**: No sound of children playing—some miss this
• **Cookie-cutter feel**: Many communities look very similar
• **No healthcare**: If you need assisted living, you have to move
• **HOA tyranny**: Some HOAs are overly strict or mismanaged

Here's what to budget for when considering a 55+ community:

55+ communities typically have strict HOA rules. Here are common ones:

• **Age**: At least one resident 55+; no one under 18-19 long-term
• **Guest limits**: Grandchildren may visit for only 30-60 days/year
• **Exterior appearance**: Must approve paint colors, door colors, landscaping
• **Parking**: No RVs, boats, or commercial vehicles visible
• **Rentals**: Many communities restrict short-term rentals (Airbnb)
• **Pets**: Often 2-pet limit, size/breed restrictions
• **Noise**: Quiet hours enforced
• **Approval required**: Fences, sheds, solar panels often need HOA approval

Active adult communities are ideal for:

• **Active seniors**: You enjoy fitness, activities, and socializing
• **Downsizers**: You want to leave a large home and yard behind
• **Maintenance-haters**: You don't want to mow lawns or fix roofs
• **Social butterflies**: You value community and making new friends
• **Those without young grandchildren nearby**: Age restrictions won't be an issue
• **Safety-conscious**: Gated communities appeal to you
• **Budget-conscious (relatively)**: You can afford $200-$400/month HOA fees

Not all 55+ communities are created equal. Here's how to choose:

1. 1Visit multiple communities—don't settle for the first one
2. 2Talk to current residents about their experience
3. 3Review the HOA budget and fee history (are fees skyrocketing?)
4. 4Read the CC&Rs carefully—know what rules you're agreeing to
5. 5Check amenities—do they match your lifestyle?
6. 6Evaluate location—proximity to family, healthcare, shopping
7. 7Assess home quality—are they well-built or cheaply made?
8. 8Research builder reputation (if new construction)
9. 9Consider resale value—does the community have strong demand?

Most retirees fund their 55+ home by selling their primary residence and downsizing. However, ongoing costs (HOA fees, property taxes, insurance, utilities) can add $500-$1,000+/month on top of a mortgage or the cash purchase price. These fees increase with inflation, so ensuring your retirement income can cover rising costs is critical for long-term financial security.