The Most Popular Lifestyle Communities of 2024
by Robert Borges on February 20, 2024
Greetings from Private Communities Registry (PCR)! It is once again time for the much-anticipated annual unveiling of our most popular master-planned lifestyle communities. We’re thrilled you’re here to discover and explore some of the country’s most desirable communities.
Featuring hundreds of communities from all over the country, PrivateCommunities.com attracts prospective homebuyers searching for the perfect community to call home. Whether it’s active adults, retirees, or families, PCR’s audience is looking for more than just a home—they’re looking for a lifestyle.
Based on location, amenities, social opportunities, and lifestyle preferences, the communities showcased on PCR appeal to a wide range of buyers and their desires.
What Are Lifestyle Community Homebuyers Looking For?
Before we announce this year’s most popular communities, let’s examine the kind of things today’s homebuyers are looking for in their ideal community.
Each year, PCR surveys site visitors to discover the behavior, motivations, and financial situations of those looking to buy or rent in a master-planned community. According to this year’s survey, 85% of respondents cited “active lifestyle amenities” as the reason they want to live in a community—specifically selecting walking/biking trails (73%), swimming pools (72%), and fitness centers (71%) as their most-preferred community amenities.
Going beyond just the amenities, last year saw some common denominators in the kind of lifestyle people prefer as well. Half of those surveyed are looking to settle down in an active adult 55+ community, for example. As far as specific recreational activities, living near a golf course, beach, and/or lake was also preferred by most searchers. In addition, 48% of those surveyed prefer relocating to a community are doing so in search of “warm weather.”
Not surprisingly, many of the communities on this “best of” list include the lifestyle amenities searchers seek.
How Were the Winners Selected?
Ultimately, PCR users are drawn to the site by the country’s very best communities. And while all of the 250+ communities on PCR generated great interest among prospective buyers, some rose to the top to reach our “award-winning” status.
This year’s diverse list includes several categories broken down by state/region:
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Florida
Georgia
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Mid-Atlantic
West
With dozens of appealing and desirable communities in each region, we narrowed them down to recognize the most popular based on a wide range of data that combines user engagement, page visits, and information requests from the previous year (2023).
So let’s dive in and explore the most popular communities for 2024! If you’re interested in learning more about any of the winners featured here, just click the image or link and you can explore their showcase and request more information directly from the community.
Top Arizona Communities
Arizona consistently stands out as a prime real estate haven for retirees, luring them in with the promise of warm summers and mild winters. In the contemporary landscape, a growing number of vibrant and active adults are choosing Arizona as the focal point for their quest for a community-based lifestyle. The Grand Canyon State, featured prominently on PCR, plays host to a collection of exceptional communities that embody the essence of comfortable living against a breathtaking desert backdrop. Here are the most sought-after Arizona communities of the year, curated to align with the preferences of our visitors.
Encanterra, A Trilogy Resort Community- Queen Creek, AZ
Estrella- Goodyear, AZ
K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Victory at Verrado- Buckeye, AZ
Trilogy® at Verde River™- Rio Verde, AZ
Top Arkansas Communities
Despite going unnoticed by many, Arkansas boasts numerous distinctive qualities that make it an appealing place to call home. Known as the Natural State, Arkansas immerses residents in a realm of natural splendor, with the Ozark Mountains spanning from Northern Arkansas to Southwest Missouri, offering breathtaking panoramas, untouched forests, crisp air, and crystal-clear lakes. While there is just one Arkansas community on the 2024 list, it’s certainly a big one—in fact, it’s the nation’s largest gated community with an astonishing suite of amenities.
Hot Springs Village- Hot Springs, AR
Top California Communities
Encompassing an impressive expanse of over 160,000 square miles, California emerges as a colossal presence, boasting not only a robust business environment but also claiming the title of the most populous state in the U.S. Within this vast tapestry of diversity, California unfolds as a playground for master-planned communities and residential real estate, offering a spectrum of lifestyle options to its residents. Scattered strategically across the entire state, PCR proudly illuminates 13 standout California communities that epitomize excellence in design, amenities, and community living. Here are the most popular in 2024, each a testament to the Golden State's unique attributes that make it so desirable for lifestyle buyers.
Vivir at Esperanza- Ontario, CA
Heritage Placer Vineyards- Roseville, CA
K Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Terra Lago- Indio, CA
Trilogy® Bickford- Lincoln, CA
Top Florida Communities
The demand for master-planned lifestyle communities finds its pinnacle in the Sunshine State, showcasing the robust market evident in Florida's impressive contribution to this year's list of top communities. Spanning from the Panhandle to the Gulf Coast, reaching the Treasure Coast, and extending even to the vibrant cityscape of Miami Beach and beyond, PCR showcases nearly 70 exceptional communities throughout Florida. As reported by our visitors, we unveil the most sought-after communities, shedding light on the unparalleled popularity and appeal of these Floridian havens.
Fiddler’s Creek- Naples, FL
Grand Palm- Venice, FL
Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach- Daytona Beach, FL
Latitude Margaritaville Watersound- Panama City Beach, FL
On Top of the World Communities- Ocala, FL
PGA Village Verano- Port St. Lucie, FL
The Club at Ibis- West Palm Beach, FL
Top Georgia Communities
Embarking on a quest for the ideal community, individuals exploring Georgia's diverse landscapes—from the pristine coastal expanses of the Golden Isles to the majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and from the historic districts in the south to the dynamic metropolis of Atlanta—discover a plethora of enticing options. Positioned as a highly favored destination among PCR's audience, Georgia proudly hosts a collection of this year's most sought-after communities. The state's rich tapestry of offerings beckons those in search of an unparalleled living experience, elevating Georgia's prominence as a prime real estate hub.
Cumberland Harbour- St. Mary’s, GA
Savannah Quarters®- Savannah, GA
Top North Carolina Communities
Spanning across the Tar Heel State, PCR proudly showcases nearly 40 exceptional communities that capture the essence of North Carolina's diverse landscapes. Whether one seeks coastal charm, the allure of mountainous retreats, or the distinctive appeal of the Sandhills-Piedmont region, the state offers a rich array of choices. Amidst this expansive selection, numerous North Carolina communities have emerged as major points of interest for our visitors. Delve into the most popular options, each reflecting the unique character that defines North Carolina's real estate landscape.
Albemarle Plantation- Hertford, NC
Balsam Mountain Preserve- Sylva, NC
Bear Lake Reserve- Tuckasegee, NC
Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure- Lake Lure, NC
St. James Plantation- Southport, NC
Top South Carolina Communities
Standing tall and holding its own against its northern counterpart, South Carolina boasts an equal number of prominently featured communities on PCR, captivating our audience with the same fervor. Whether in pursuit of premier golfing experiences, sun-kissed beaches, invigorating outdoor recreation, or world-class amenities, visitors flock to South Carolina for a comprehensive array of offerings. This state effortlessly ticks all the boxes, making it a natural choice for inclusion on this year's list. Explore the Palmetto State's selection of sought-after communities, each contributing to its well-deserved representation as a prime destination for those seeking the epitome of Southern living.
Callawassie Island- Callawassie Island, SC
Cresswind Charleston- Summerville, SC
Dataw Island- Dataw Island, SC
K. Hovnanian's® Four Seasons at Carolina Oaks- Bluffton, SC
Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head- Hardeeville, SC
McCord's Ferry at Lake Marion- Santee, SC
Savannah Lakes Village- McCormick, SC
Top Tennessee Communities
Brimming with advantageous attributes, including favorable taxes, attractively priced real estate, and a pleasant year-round climate, the great state of Tennessee has evolved into a thriving hub for active adults in search of amenity-rich communities. Unsurprisingly, the Tennessee communities showcased on PCR have emerged as some of the most popular among our visitors. These communities stand atop the list, representing the epitome of what makes Tennessee an irresistible haven for those desiring a harmonious blend of affordability, favorable weather, and a wealth of recreational amenities.
Fairfield Glade- Fairfield Glade, TN
Top Texas Communities
Despite being outnumbered by communities from other states on PCR, the featured Texas communities command substantial attention and interest. Whether residents are already immersed in the Lone Star State's vibrant landscape or prospective homebuyers are contemplating a move from out of state, Texas emerges as a preferred destination. The state's draw lies in its diverse offerings, ranging from world-class golf and tennis facilities to equestrian havens, neo-traditional neighborhoods, retirement communities, gated enclaves, and meticulously planned master communities. Texas, with its expansive array of lifestyle options, captures the imaginations of those seeking not just a home, but an immersive and fulfilling living experience. As we delve into the most searched communities this year, Texas always impresses with its expansive variety.
Boot Ranch- Fredericksburg, TX
Pecan Plantation- Granbury, TX
Top Virginia Communities
Embarking on a journey from charming seaside resort towns to the troves of historical landmarks and vast expanses of pristine wilderness, the Commonwealth State of Virginia stands as a treasure trove of diverse lifestyle communities. From the allure of golf courses and tennis facilities to the majesty of equestrian estates and the tranquility of retirement communities, the real estate landscape in Virginia is a canvas painted with possibilities. PCR visitors are invited to explore the pinnacle of Virginia's offerings, as we present the communities that reign supreme, embodying the essence of a state that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty, and a bevy of lifestyle options.
Colonial Heritage- Williamsburg, VA
K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Charlottesville- Ruckersville, VA
The Crest at Linton Hall- Lansdowne, VA
Trilogy® at Lake Frederick- Lake Frederick, VA
Top Mid-Atlantic Communities
Immersed in a rich history, adorned with vibrant big cities and enchanting small towns, the idea of settling down in the Mid-Atlantic region appeals to families, active adults, and retirees alike. The communities dotting this landscape have emerged as resounding hits on PCR, capturing the imaginations of those seeking a harmonious blend of history, culture, and modern comforts. From the picturesque landscapes of Virginia and West Virginia to the storied charm of Pennsylvania, the scenic beauty of New Hampshire, and the coastal draw of Delaware, the Mid-Atlantic region showcases an impressive list of communities. Among these, a select few have garnered particular attention from our discerning visitors, standing out as quintessential representations of what makes settling in this region an enticing and rewarding endeavor.
Amblebrook Gettysburg- Gettysburg, PA
K. Hovnanian's® Four Seasons at Hatteras Hills- Magnolia, DE
K. Hovnanian's® Four Seasons at Kent Island- Chester, MD
Top West Communities
In the realm of lifestyle community homebuyers, the sentiment often echoes, "the west is the best," and those navigating this gorgeous region are discovering a goldmine of opportunities on PCR. Beyond the well-established popularity of community listings in Arizona, California, and Texas, the western landscape unfolds with a panorama of possibilities. From the rugged terrains of the Rockies to the coastal gems of the Pacific Northwest and the hidden gems tucked away in the deserts of Nevada, the West beckons with a diverse array of communities that cater to every discerning taste. As we venture beyond the familiar favorites, join us in exploring the best of the rest of the West.
Find Your Lifestyle with PCR
There you have it. In all, 59 outstanding communities top our 2024 list—congratulations to the winners!
We invite you to explore all the unique communities featured on PCR to see photos, discover amenities, find real estate, and request more information.
By location, community type, amenities offered, home prices, and more, you can customize your search as you begin your quest to find the perfect lifestyle. Get started today at PrivateCommunities.com.
