Buyers Looking For Amenities, Convenience In 55+ Communities
By ERIN FLYNN JAY
People interested in active adult communities are gravitating toward areas where they can enjoy pools and pickleball courts as they enter semi-retirement.
55places.com recently asked 1,292 potential homebuyers interested in active adult communities about what they’re looking for in their 2025 55+ Housing Survey.
“The top reason adults 55+ are choosing to move is the desire to live in a 55+ community,” said Bill Ness, chief executive officer and founder of 55places.com. “Other top reasons include wanting to live in a new location, be near family and friends, and have better weather.”
53% of respondents said they want to live in a 55+ community. 38% said they prefer to move only to an age-restricted community. Ness said that is because these communities provide residents with perks and amenities that make their day-to-day lives more convenient.
“Some of these perks include low-maintenance and accessible homes, resort-style amenities like pools, clubhouses, fitness centers and dining, and opportunities to connect with like-minded neighbors. Specific amenities will vary from community to community and region to region, with many people enjoying the benefits of warm-weather communities for year-round access to the amenities,” said Ness.
As for amenities, the top three community amenities that the 55+ age group is interested in are a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and an outdoor walking/running trail. Ness said this showcases the importance of remaining active and living a healthy lifestyle to the 55+ demographic.
Traditionally popular destinations in the southeast like Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina remain a top interest. Ness said this is because of the year-round warm climate, lower cost of living and, in the case of Florida, absence of income taxes.
In Florida, GL Homes President Misha Ezratti said that as adults reach retirement or semi-retirement, they often look for a change of pace and choose areas with better weather and tax benefits. He added that with the growing popularity of remote work, even those still active in the workforce can enjoy Florida’s tropical climate and tax advantages while continuing their careers.
Even with current economic conditions, many 55+ buyers are ready for a lifestyle change.
“Their homes may be paid off, or they have significant equity, children have left the home, and they don’t have the daily responsibilities that once filled their routines,” said Ezratti. “These buyers find themselves transitioning to properties that provide a more turnkey, low maintenance lifestyle.”
Ezratti said 55+ communities offer a robust lifestyle that includes access to social activities, fitness amenities, and a sense of community, making them a desirable choice.
“Many buyers in the 55+ age group prefer age-restricted communities because they offer the opportunity to live among like-minded neighbors,” said Ezratti. “These communities are designed to offer a quieter lifestyle, where residents share similar interests.”
Many adults seek communities that offer access to amenities that encourage interaction, connection, and active routines.
“Amenities such as tennis and pickleball courts, art rooms, walking and biking trails, gyms, on-site nail salons and even test kitchens are more than just facilities – they’re engagement hubs which are vital for mental and physical health,” said Ezratti.
Ezratti said that incorporating amenities into the community not only makes them easily accessible but also cost-effective for residents. In many cases, enjoying such a wide variety of interests would require multiple memberships and additional time spent on busy roads.
Realtors should keep the interests of individual clients in mind when helping them select their next home.
Wesley Kang, Founder of 1099Cafe in California, said his 55+ clients are choosing smaller communities near urban centers over traditional retirement spots.
“They’ve moved past wanting golf courses and now it’s all about coworking spaces, podcast studios, and business centers,” said Kang. “A client paid premium for a Pasadena community because it sits near tech incubators and allows home businesses. Today’s 55+ buyers want spaces that support their next ventures, not their retirement!”