by Robert Borges on August 15, 2025
Active Adult Communities Explained: What They Are & Why They’re Popular
If you’ve ever wondered, “What is an active adult community?” you’re not alone. As more Americans reach retirement age, this lifestyle option is becoming one of the fastest-growing real estate trends in the country.
An active adult community—sometimes called a 55+ community or active lifestyle community—is a residential neighborhood designed primarily for adults aged 55 and over. These communities offer a blend of independence, low-maintenance living, and access to amenities that encourage residents to stay physically, socially, and mentally engaged.
For nearly 30 years, Private Communities Registry (PCR) has helped retirees and active adults discover their ideal lifestyle community. Featuring hundreds of amenity-rich active adult communities across the U.S., PCR makes it easy to search by region, home price, amenities, and social opportunities, and connect directly with community representatives.
What Are Active Adult Communities?
Active adult communities are age-targeted neighborhoods where residents enjoy a combination of privacy and community living. While they vary in size, style, and location, most are designed to:
- Cater to adults 55+ (though some allow younger residents if one household member meets the age requirement)
- Provide low-maintenance homes—often with lawn care, exterior upkeep, and trash removal included
- Offer resort-style amenities like golf courses, pools, walking trails, and fitness centers
- Encourage a vibrant, connected lifestyle through clubs, events, and group activities
Unlike traditional retirement homes or assisted living facilities, active adult communities focus on independence and choice, making them perfect for people who want to enjoy life without the burdens of heavy home maintenance.
Who Are Active Adult Communities For?
You don’t have to be fully retired to enjoy an active adult lifestyle. These communities are ideal for:
- Empty nesters looking to downsize
- Pre-retirees who want to live somewhere fun and convenient while still working
- Retirees seeking like-minded neighbors and a more social lifestyle
- Snowbirds who split time between two locations
- Outdoor enthusiasts who value proximity to golf, hiking, boating, and other recreational activities
Many residents simply want the community, convenience, and facilities to live a more comfortable and stress-free life.
Where Are Active Adult Communities Located?
Active adult communities can be found in nearly every state, but most are located in retirement-friendly regions known for mild weather, tax advantages, and abundant recreation. Popular destinations include:
- Southeast – Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas are home to many golf, beach, and active lifestyle communities. For example, some of the best places to retire in Georgia mountains combine stunning views with year-round activities.
- Southwest – Arizona and Nevada offer sunshine, desert landscapes, and championship golf courses.
- Mountain West – Colorado and Idaho feature scenic gated mountain communities with outdoor adventure at your doorstep.
PCR makes it easy to browse hundreds of communities by location so you can find the perfect match.
What’s Included in an Active Adult Community?
One of the biggest benefits of active adult living is the low-maintenance lifestyle. Many communities include:
- Exterior maintenance – Lawn care, landscaping, and snow removal
- Security features – Gated entries and neighborhood patrols
- Resort-style amenities – Golf, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and walking trails
- Clubhouses & social spaces – Restaurants, lounges, arts studios, and fitness centers
- Community events – Holiday gatherings, wine tastings, travel clubs, and continuing education classes
This allows residents to focus on enjoying life, not maintaining a property.
Benefits of an Active Adult Community
Living in an active adult community offers a variety of lifestyle perks:
- Social connection – Make friends easily through shared activities
- Wellness opportunities – Onsite fitness centers, yoga classes, and hiking trails
- Recreational access – From championship golf to boating and pickleball
- Peace of mind – Secure, well-maintained environments
- Time freedom – Spend less time on chores and more on hobbies
For golf lovers, many communities are located within or near premier golf clubs—if you’re a retiree who loves to golf, here are tips for choosing the best golf club sets for seniors.
Housing Options in Active Adult Communities
Home styles vary but often include:
- Single-family homes – Private yards and garages with HOA-managed exterior care
- Townhomes & patio homes – Low-maintenance layouts with shared walls
- Condos – Ideal for lock-and-leave lifestyles
Most feature open floor plans, energy efficiency, and modern finishes, offering comfort without the upkeep of a larger property.
FAQs About Active Adult Communities
1. What’s the age requirement for an active adult community?
Most are designed for residents 55+, though some allow younger residents if one household member meets the age minimum.
2. Are pets allowed?
Yes, most welcome pets, though rules vary by community.
3. How much do active adult communities cost?
Home prices range widely—from under $200K to over $1M—depending on location, amenities, and home type. HOA fees are typically extra.
4. Can I work while living in an active adult community?
Absolutely. Many residents are still employed or run home-based businesses.
5. Do I have to participate in community activities?
No, participation is entirely optional—though many find the social opportunities to be one of the best perks.
Find Your Ideal Active Adult Community with PCR
For nearly three decades, PCR has been the trusted resource for retirees and active adults looking to find their perfect community. Explore hundreds of listings, filter by location, budget, or amenities, and connect directly with community representatives to start your next chapter.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
