Have you been thinking of packing your bags and heading to Florida? It’s no wonder – with its balmy temperatures, beautiful coastline, and the myriad of leisure activities available in the Sunshine State, it’s one of the most attractive places to retire in the United States. Whether you're looking for a small town with affordable prices or a bustling city on the coast, this guide will give you all the inside scoop on the best places to retire in Florida.
Best Places to Retire in Florida
Deciding to retire in Florida can be overwhelming, but with all the options, it’s important to find the right place for you. Are you looking for a tranquil community with plenty of outdoor activities? Or are you searching for exciting and vibrant nightlife? Consider these eight great places to retire in Florida.
- Lakewood Ranch
- Ocala
- Tampa
- Jacksonville
- St.Augustine
- Fort Myers
- Kissimmee
- Delray Beach
Lakewood Ranch
Retiring in Lakewood Ranch, FL is an increasingly popular choice for those looking for a community offering near-perfect amenities and an ideal central west coast location close to cities such as Sarasota and Bradenton. This large master-planned community is spread across acres of rich greenspace and trails built around many charming neighborhoods, it’s no wonder why people are choosing to call Lakewood ranch home.
The Main Street at Lakewood Ranch is a key feature of the area, providing residents with an intriguing collection of eateries, boutiques, a movie theater, and much more. It's also where year-round events and festivals take place. Although Lakewood Ranch is classed as an all-ages community, there are several fantastic retirement neighborhoods on offer including Cresswind at Lakewood Ranch and Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch.
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Ocala
Ocala is the ultimate destination if you are looking to retire from natural environments and a unique blend of history, horses, and amenities. Home to two of the most sought-after 55+ communities in Florida, On Top of the World and Del Webb Stone Creek, both locations feature stunning golf courses as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and more.
In addition to the great facilities offered at each retirement community, downtown Ocala boasts many quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes that give off a true hometown vibe. With so much natural beauty to explore and conveniences for residents to enjoy their retirement years, it's clear why retiring in Ocala is such a desirable option!
Other amenities offered in these communities include:
- Restaurants
- Cultural Venues
- Health Club
- Bocce Courts
- Spa
Tampa
When most people think of Tampa, what comes to mind are electric nightlife, lively sports teams, and endless entertainment. But Tampa is also home to some of the most outstanding retirement communities in the state. And not just that but many of these communities have the luxury of being located right on the water and filled with many delicious restaurants and shopping options.
If you're wondering where precisely in Tampa is the best place to retire, look no further than King's Point. With over 5,200 homes this premier gated community features two large clubhouses, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and over 200 club options. This is one community that takes the meaning of active adult living to an entirely different level.
Some of the other notable retirement communities in Tampa include:
- Valencia Del Sol's
- Esplanade Tampa
- Howell Park Condominiums
Jacksonville
Nestled along the north Atlantic coast, Jacksonville has become one of the top places to retire for those looking for a desirable mix of beaches, city life, and outdoor adventures. From exclusive 55+ communities to relaxed coastal neighborhoods, Jacksonville is full of options for retirees seeking a laid-back retirement lifestyle.
Also known as the "River City on the Sea" due to its many picturesque waterways and bridges, Jacksonville offers an abundance of activities for those who enjoy the outdoors. The city's numerous parks, trails, and beaches provide plenty of opportunities to explore, as well as offer excellent fishing or boating spots.
Del Webb eTown is probably one of the most talked about communities in Jacksonville and has attracted many retirees worldwide. Meet new friends in the private clubhouse or challenge yourself to a game of pickleball on the sports courts. Whatever you choose to do you won't be running out of things to do anytime soon.
St.Augustine
If you're a history lover, retiring in St. Augustine may just be the ticket to living your dream life. Known as the ‘oldest city in the county’, this coastal treasure will make history come alive right outside your front door. With culture radiating throughout its cobblestone streets and unique attractions around every corner, this city is truly a place like no other.
Whether you're looking to retire within Parkland Preserve at Wolf Golf Village or Reverie at Trailmark, these two communities offer a tranquil escape with all the convenience of being situated only 45 minutes south of Jacksonville. Retiring in St.Augustine will not only keep you in touch with history but also provide you with plenty of exciting entertainment options.
Take a ride on the famous trolley or explore the rich Spanish heritage that St. Augustine has to offer, this city is sure to keep you entertained and engaged as you enjoy your golden years!
Fort Myers
From the moment you arrive in Fort Myers, you will instantly be surrounded by a feeling of serenity and calmness. With its crescent beaches and picturesque sunsets, Fort Myers is one of the top spots for retirees who are looking to enjoy the breathtaking views and unmatched atmosphere.
Some of the most beloved things to do in Fort Myers include deep-sea fishing, boat tours, shopping, and golfing at some of the most remarkable courses in the state. There is also a fantastic selection of restaurants throughout the area that serve up some of the most delicious mouth-watering dishes.
Retirees will find comfort and convenience with many 55+ communities featuring amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, game rooms, and more! From colorful condo communities to waterfront homes and villas, Fort Myers has made it a roaring success for all types of retirement lifestyles.
Some of the most popular 55+ communities in Fort Myers include:
Kissimmee
Retirees are captivated by the beauty, charm, and fun of Kissimmee. Located just south of Orlando, this small city is the perfect spot for those wanting to enjoy all that Central Florida has to offer. From a vibrant downtown area full of delicious restaurants to its proximity to world-famous theme parks, Kissimmee is teeming with activities and experiences for those who are ready to embark on the next chapter of their life.
Kissimmee also offers an array of 55+ communities that provide retirees with access to a wide variety of amenities such as golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, and more. Be sure to check out some of the popular ones like Solvita and Four Seasons at Orlando. Both of these retirement communities exude a sense of luxury and relaxation with the added bonus of being close to all the action of Orlando.
Delray Beach
Those looking for small-town charm with big-city culture and entertainment will find retiring in Delray Beach, Florida an amazing fit. Located just an hour up the coast from Miami, this small beach town offers an abundance of art galleries and nightly entertainment options in its exciting downtown area.
For those who are ready to settle down, Avalon Trails is one of the newest retirement communities featuring over 100 single-family homes and 208 attached villas. Being only 6 miles away from the beach makes Delray Beach ideal for anyone looking to enjoy proximity to it without being right on it.
Whether you are looking for relaxation or excitement, there's something special awaiting everyone at Delray Beach. Experiencing Delray Beach in person will help you see why so many choose to retire here each year.
Retiring in Florida doesn’t have to be a distant dream. With many vibrant cities and towns, there is something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to the retirement lifestyle. From St. Augustine to Fort Myers and Kissimmee, explore all that Florida has to offer and start living the retirement life that you have long been dreaming of. Hopefully, this blog will put you on the right path to a life full of discoveries, experiences, and countless possibilities!
Jeff Tricoli is a specialist, who works hard to make the home selling and buying processes as smooth as possible. He fights every day to help his clients meet their real estate goals and do what is best for their families. Whether you’re looking to sell a house, an office building, or hundreds of acres, he would love the opportunity to talk with you about putting his best-in-class marketing solutions and services to work for you.