Retiring in Central Florida isn’t just about sunny skies and warm weather—it’s about embracing a lifestyle full of adventure, relaxation, and connection. Whether exploring local attractions, enjoying community events, or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine, Central Florida offers the perfect backdrop for an active and fulfilling retirement. Discover why this region is a retiree’s dream and uncover some hidden gems.
Why Retire in Central Florida?
Central Florida checks all the boxes for retirees looking for a vibrant and affordable place to call home. Here’s what makes it so unique:
- Golf Galore: Central Florida is a goldmine for golfers. Residents who retire to a golf course community have daily access to the courses.
- Year-Round Sunshine: Say goodbye to snowy winter days and hello to sunny days. The weather is perfect for retirees who want to play pickleball with their neighbors and then swim laps in their active older adult community pool.
- Active Lifestyle: The semi-tropical climate and flat terrain are ideal for exploring the myriad bike and hiking trails that crisscross the neighborhoods. Lake Winnemissett is the city of DeLand’s’ boating and fishing center.
- Thriving Communities: Central Florida is home to some of the best 55+ communities, with a great selection of shopping, healthcare, and entertainment choices conveniently located nearby.
Perks Of Living In Central Florida
Along with the excellent climate, Central Florida has unique attractions that are perfect for active older adults. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Amusement Parks
Central Florida is home to Walt Disney World Resort, the most iconic amusement park in the world. Retired Disneyphiles can spend days lost in the Magic Kingdom. For fans who prefer being around the glam of showbiz, Orlando is near Universal Studios, also located in Orlando.
Sports and Entertainment
For professional basketball fans, Central Florida is home to the Champion NBA team, Orlando Magic. Retirees who prefer to try their luck at the tables will find a world-class casino cruise ship just south of Port Orange in the cruise ship hub of Port Canaveral.
Fishing and Watersports
Lake Harris is the largest of the “Ocklawaha Chain of Lakes” located in Central Florida. On the west side of Lake Harris is the retirement hub of Leesburg. On the east side, the newest 55+ community, Cresswind at Lake Harris, features a private marina to dock your boat in between bass fishing and waterskiing trips.
The Benefits of 55+ Communities
Retiring in Central Florida is easiest when you live around people who share your love for community and fun. Age-restricted communities are designed to keep your body, mind, and spirit active and engaged.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Group Activities: Everything from pickleball tournaments to social gatherings at the dog park and holiday gatherings are easy to join when you live in one of Central Florida’s active older adult communities. Some neighborhoods have live entertainment, and interesting lecturers come to you, so you don’t have to leave the neighborhood.
- Resort-Style Amenities: The Clubhouse is the heart of Central Florida retirement communities. It houses air-conditioned gyms, crafts rooms, game rooms, and a catering kitchen. Whether you’re looking for an intense workout, gentle yoga, or learning a new craft, you’ll find a group activity that suits your lifestyle.
- Low-Maintenance and Safety: Buying your next home in a Central Florida retirement community means you won’t have to worry about keeping the lawn mowed or tripping over children’s toys left in the street. You can also bond with your neighbors and know everyone is watching out for each other, which contributes to the safety of your home.
Home Options Of 55+ Communities in Central Florida
Retirees in Central Florida are blessed with housing options for every budget. Whether buying for a complete lifestyle change or to use as a second home, a Central Florida home suits your needs.
- Single-Family Home Communities – Buying a home built specifically for active older adults to age in place is a popular choice for seniors. In Ocala, you will find 55+ communities with single-story homes in gated communities that are part of a larger all-ages community.
- Condominium Communities—The advantage of buying a condo in a 55+ community is that the HOA handles all the maintenance. You will find new condos with private garages in the Orlando area of Central Florida.
- Manufactured Home Communities – Manufactured home communities make up the majority of budget-friendly 55+ communities in Central Florida. You will find your next home in Central Florida with options from the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico in Clearwater to the retirement capital of Leesburg.
- Luxury Rentals – Snowbirds looking for a place to winter will find luxury rentals in Leesburg and Orlando.
- Waterfront Communities – Whether you want to buy your next home in a 55+ community on Lake Harris or the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Port Orange, water sports can be the center of your active adult retirement.
Ready to Start Your Central Florida Adventure?
Retiring in Central Florida is about more than just great weather—it’s about creating a life full of connection, adventure, and joy whether your ideal retirement centers around entertainment, golf, or the water, a 55+ community in Central Florida has something for everyone.
Visit Active Adult Living to explore 55+ communities in Central Florida and find your perfect retirement home.
