Find the Best Places to Retire and Discover Your Ideal Community

Retirement Communities

Find the Best Retirement Communities in the U.S.

Retirement marks an exciting new chapter—and finding the perfect place to live it begins here. At Private Communities Registry (PCR), we’ve spent the past 30 years connecting homebuyers with the nation’s best retirement communities, active adult neighborhoods, and 55+ lifestyle destinations.

Whether you’re ready to relax by the beach, golf year-round, or enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle surrounded by like-minded neighbors, PCR helps you discover the ideal place to call home.

What Are Retirement Communities?

Retirement communities—sometimes known as 55+ communities, active adult communities, or independent living communities—are designed for older adults seeking an engaging, low-maintenance lifestyle.

Residents typically enjoy resort-style amenities, social clubs, and recreational opportunities tailored to health, wellness, and connection.

Popular features include:

  • Clubhouses and community centers
  • Golf courses, tennis, and pickleball
  • Swimming pools and fitness centers
  • Walking trails and nature preserves
  • On-site dining and social clubs
  • Continuing care or healthcare options (in select communities)

Why Retire in a Planned Community?

Retirement communities combine the comfort of home with the benefits of an active, social lifestyle. Homebuyers are drawn to these neighborhoods for their:

  • Lifestyle: Opportunities for recreation, wellness, and lifelong learning.
  • Connection: A sense of belonging among neighbors in the same life stage.
  • Convenience: Low-maintenance living with services like landscaping and home upkeep.
  • Security: Many are gated or staffed for added peace of mind.
  • Location: Access to nearby shopping, dining, healthcare, and cultural attractions.

Whether you’re seeking year-round sunshine, mountain tranquility, or lakeside serenity, there’s a community to match your ideal retirement lifestyle.

Explore Retirement Communities by Location

Your perfect retirement home is out there—and you can find it here. PCR makes it simple to browse hundreds of retirement communities across the U.S., sorted by state, region, and city.

Explore top destinations like:

  • Florida Retirement Communities: From coastal enclaves to golf-centric master-planned neighborhoods.
  • Arizona & Nevada: Desert retreats with endless sunshine and resort amenities.
  • Carolinas & Georgia: Southern charm with easy access to beaches, mountains, and culture.
  • Mid-Atlantic & Northeast: Convenient to family, friends, and major metro areas.
  • Western & Mountain States: Scenic, adventure-filled communities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Each community page includes photos, amenities, lifestyle highlights, and real estate options—so you can compare and connect directly with developers or agents.

Types of Retirement Communities You’ll Find on PCR

PCR showcases every style of community for today’s active adults:

  • 55+ Communities: Age-restricted neighborhoods designed for those 55 and better.
  • Active Adult Communities: Focused on wellness, recreation, and social connection.
  • Golf Communities: Championship courses and country club living.
  • Gated Communities: Privacy, peace, and security.
  • Waterfront & Lake Communities: Resort-style living on the water.

Each listing provides details about homes for sale, amenities, lifestyle features, and contact information so you can take the next step with confidence.

Why Choose PCR?

For over three decades, PCR has been the trusted online resource helping retirees and active seniors find the right community for their lifestyle.

  • 30+ years of expertise in connecting homebuyers with lifestyle communities
  • Comprehensive listings of hundreds of the best retirement communities nationwide
  • Trusted by builders and developers of top master-planned communities
  • Expertly curated information that helps you compare and make confident decisions

When it comes to finding your ideal retirement destination, PCR delivers experience, trust, and results—all in one place.

Start Your Retirement Community Search

Explore retirement communities across the U.S. with PCR and discover a lifestyle that fits your vision for the future.

From single-family homes and condos to luxury estates and low-maintenance villas, find your perfect match today—and connect directly with communities that fit your goals.

Start your search here to explore communities by state, region, or lifestyle—and let PCR help you find the perfect place to retire.


Filtered Results (110)

Albemarle Plantation

Hertford, North Carolina Retirement Community
Hertford, North Carolina
A scenic Dan Maples signature golf course and a 166-slip deepwater marina highlight this gated waterfront community in the Albemarle Sound region of northeastern North Carolina. Choose from a selection of homes, townhomes and condos priced from $225,000 to $850,000; Lots from $30,000 to $200,000. Read More...

Discovery Package Available
Request More Information

Blue Ridge Mountain Club

Boone, North Carolina Retirement Community
Boone, North Carolina
Blue Ridge Mountain Club is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway between Blowing Rock and Boone, NC. With elevations over 4,000 feet in areas, residents enjoy long-range views. Amenities include a trail network, ATV trails, and a community park and pavilion. Residents of the private mountain community also enjoy a restaurant, fitness facility/clubhouse, pool, great lawn, and more. Lots from $125,000 to $1.8 million; Cabins, Condos, and Custom Homes from $900,000 to $10 million. Read More...

Request More Information

Brunswick Plantation

Calabash, North Carolina Retirement Community
Calabash, North Carolina
Home to one of the 50 best golf courses in the United States, this gated golf community is conveniently located on North Carolina’s southern coast, 20 minutes from Myrtle Beach, SC, and a stone’s throw to Sunset Beach. In addition to year-round golf and a plethora of beach and water activities, residents gain access to exclusive amenities including an 11,000 square foot community center, on-site restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, multiple tennis and pickleball courts, and a variety of active clubs and classes. Homes priced from the mid $300,000s; Condos from the mid $100,000s; Townhomes from the mid $200,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

Cresswind Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina Retirement Community
Charlotte, North Carolina
This Charlotte, NC 55+ community is located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still within easy reach of Uptown attractions. Resort-style amenities include an 18,000-square-foot clubhouse, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, pickleball, bocce, and walking & biking trails. Clubs and programs are offered for every hobby. NASCAR, golf, and mountains are easily accessible. Homes priced from the $400,000s to the $700,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

Del Webb Wilmington at Mallory Creek

Leland, North Carolina Retirement Community
Leland, North Carolina
Del Webb Wilmington at Mallory Creek in Leland, NC, is a 55+ active adult community blending tranquility and convenience, just 15 minutes from downtown Wilmington and 30 minutes from popular beaches. It offers resort-style amenities like a clubhouse, pools, a fitness center, pickleball courts, and a community garden. Residents enjoy a golf cart-friendly environment, walking trails, a dog park, and various clubs and activities. With nearly 800 new ranch homes and easy access to major highways, the NC community is perfect for an active, engaged retirement. Homes priced from the upper $300,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

Flowers Plantation

Clayton, North Carolina Retirement Community
Clayton, North Carolina
This 3,000-acre gated community is located just 20 minutes outside of North Carolina's Research Triangle. Along with quick access to the Triangle's renowned healthcare, shops, dining, and entertainment venues, this master-planned community offers a diverse selection of amenities, including a clubhouse, fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis, walking trails, and more. Homes and townhomes from the $300,000s to $1 million. Apartment rentals starting at $1,450/month.. Read More...

Request More Information

Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation

Leland, North Carolina Retirement Community
Leland, North Carolina
This North Carolina gated golf community offers an active lifestyle just five minutes from historic downtown Wilmington. Amenities include 27 holes of championship golf, indoor and outdoor pools, a pro shop & restaurant, a brand-new fitness & wellness center, walking trails, and tennis courts. Lots priced from $100,000 to $200,000; Homes from the $400,000s to $700,000; Condos/Townhomes from $300,000 and up. Read More...

Request More Information

Ocean Ridge Plantation

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina Retirement Community
Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
90 holes of championship golf, coastal living, and protected woodlands are defining features of this community located between Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC. Amenities include three clubhouses, a private beach club, tennis, racquetball, swimming, fitness, a nature park, and a community garden. Homes starting in the $500s to $1.5 million, and buildable lots starting in the low $50s to the $300s. Read More...

Discovery Package Available
Request More Information

River Landing

Wallace, North Carolina Retirement Community
Wallace, North Carolina
River Landing is a master-planned community highlighted by 36 holes of championship golf designed by Clyde Johnston. Situated along the Northeast Cape Fear River, there is much to do within this 2,000-acre property: biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, tennis, golf, kayaking, and boating. Lots priced from $30,000 to $150,000; Homes from $400,000 to $1 million. Read More...

Request More Information

Rivers Edge Golf Club & Plantation

Shallotte, North Carolina Retirement Community
Shallotte, North Carolina
Rivers Edge Golf Club & Plantation is conveniently located close to three of the most pristine beaches on the east coast. Rivers Edge is known for its all-inclusive amenities and active lifestyle which includes an award-winning 18-hole Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course, River Hall Residence Club, 27-acre freshwater Palmer Lake, oceanfront beach club, walking & biking trails, and views of the Shallotte River and its tributaries. Water, golf, and nature view homesites, homes, and townhomes are available. Lots from $20,000 to $200,000; homes & townhomes from the $300,000s to $1 million+. Read More...

Request More Information

Ryan Homes at Lakes at Riverbend

Navassa, North Carolina Retirement Community
Navassa, North Carolina
Ryan Homes at Lakes at Riverbend is a North Carolina community near Wilmington and the Cape Fear River in Navassa, NC. Its convenient location, low-maintenance homes, and resort-style amenities make the community perfect for families, active adults, and retirees. Amenities include a 5,000 square foot clubhouse with a fitness center and adjacent beach entry swimming pool, gathering area with fire pit, three pickleball courts, bocce court, play lawn, and walking trails. Townhomes priced from the high $200,000s. Homes priced from the mid $300,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

Sea Trail Plantation

Sunset Beach, North Carolina Retirement Community
Sunset Beach, North Carolina
This golf and resort community offers the best in coastal living, along with championship golf courses, resort-style amenities, and a wide variety of homes. Recreational offerings include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, walking & biking trails, tennis & pickleball courts, fishing ponds, and weekly activities for all interests. Myrtle Beach's Grand Strand is just 30 minutes away. Lots from $60,000 to $190,000. Homes, Townhomes, Condos from $220,000 to the low $900,000s. Read More...

Discovery Package Available
Request More Information

The Coves Mountain River Club

Lenoir, North Carolina Retirement Community
Lenoir, North Carolina
Breathe in the mountain air, and savor the wildflowers; you’ve found your new home in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Welcome to The Coves Mountain River Club, a 3,200-acre gated community on the Johns River. Private trails wind past sparkling streams and mountain overlooks. Gardens, picnic pavilions, kayak access points, equestrian facilities, and more await. End the day with a glorious sunset at the ridgetop clubhouse. Home sites from $39,900 - $139,900. Cabins, Cottages, and Traditional Homes are available. Read More...

Request More Information

Trilogy® Lake Norman

Denver, North Carolina Retirement Community
Denver, North Carolina
Trilogy® Lake Norman is a new gated and master-planned 55+ retirement community about half an hour northwest of downtown Charlotte. The community will combine resort-like social and recreational amenities with a selection of new homes for sale near Lake Norman and Interstate 77. Homes are priced from the $400,000s to the $600,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

Waterford of the Carolinas

Wilmington, North Carolina Retirement Community
Wilmington, North Carolina
Located along the Cape Fear River in North Carolina, Waterford of the Carolinas offers the best of coastal and city living. Resort-style amenities coupled with immediate access to downtown Historic Wilmington and Atlantic beaches give residents ample room to relax and explore. Most of the homes and lots are lakefront or offer water views. Lots priced from $59,900 to $269,900; Homes from $239,900 to $499,900. Read More...

Discovery Package Available
Request More Information

Winding River Plantation

Bolivia, North Carolina Retirement Community
Bolivia, North Carolina
This award winning master-planned community offers a waterfront club lifestyle with a 27-hole Fred Couples Signature Golf Course, tennis, swimming, deep water marina for boating and fishing, and more. The community is just 30 minutes from Wilmington, NC and one hour from Myrtle Beach, SC. Lots priced from $35,000 to $600,000; Homes, Townhomes, and Condos priced from $250,000 to $3,000,000. Read More...

Request More Information

Amblebrook Gettysburg

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Retirement Community
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
This 55+ community in Adams County, Pennsylvania offers a farm-to-table lifestyle and single-story new homes designed for active adults. Amenities include clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pools, tennis & pickleball, bocce ball, lakes & fishing streams, community gardens, and more. Historic Gettysburg is minutes away. Homes priced from $349,990-$594,990. Read More...

Discovery Package Available
Request More Information

Penn National

Fayetteville, Pennsylvania Retirement Community
Fayetteville, Pennsylvania
Penn National in Fayetteville, PA, is a premier master-planned golf and active adult community featuring two championship courses, resort-style amenities, and a lively social scene. Nestled beside Michaux State Forest, residents enjoy abundant outdoor recreation, over 40 clubs and activities, and convenient access to nearby Gettysburg and Chambersburg. Offering both new and resale homes with golf course and mountain views, Penn National is one of Pennsylvania’s most desirable 55+ communities. Homes priced from the low $200,000s to the high $800,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

The Paddock at Equine Meadows

Red Lion, Pennsylvania Retirement Community
Red Lion, Pennsylvania
The Paddock at Equine Meadows is a 55+ community in Red Lion, PA, offering low-maintenance ranch-style condos in a peaceful York County setting. With a clubhouse, fitness center, walking trails, and nearby golf courses, residents enjoy an active lifestyle minutes from York’s shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Condos priced from the mid $200,000s. Read More...

Request More Information

Traditions of America at East Petersburg

East Petersburg, Pennsylvania Retirement Community
East Petersburg, Pennsylvania
Traditions of America at East Petersburg is a premier 55+ active adult community in Lancaster County, PA, offering resort-style amenities, a vibrant social scene, and low-maintenance single-family and attached homes. Residents enjoy a clubhouse with fitness, swimming, pickleball, wine tasting, and more—plus walking trails, nearby golf, and access to Central Pennsylvania attractions. With first-floor living options and a lock-and-leave lifestyle, this community is perfect for retirees seeking convenience and fun in East Petersburg. Homes priced from the high $500,000s to the high $700,000s. Read More...

Request More Information