The Best Retirement Communities in America: Thriving in Every Stage of Your Golden Years

Are you thinking about moving when you retire and exploring your options? Many retirees choose communities designed specifically for older adults — and they’re not just in Florida anymore. There are retirement communities nationwide that offer comfort, convenience, and social connection, whether you’re looking to downsize and live maintenance-free or you’re ready for personal care services. The communities are also popular for their active social calendars, wellness amenities, and onsite dining — because who wants to cook anymore? Based on our picks for the best states to retire, we’ve selected nine of the best retirement communities in America to explore in 2026.

To make it easier to compare your options, we’ve grouped our picks for the best retirement communities into three categories: Active and independent living, assisted living, and continuing care. Whether you’re drawn to beach living or long-term peace of mind, there’s a retirement community on this list for you.

Best Retirement Communities in America for Active & Independent Living

Low-maintenance living, fitness and wellness amenities, and opportunities for social engagement are the hallmarks of the best retirement communities in America for active and independent living. If you’re looking for adventure, culture, or beachside living, the best 55+ communities ensure you’ll enjoy retirement with plenty of company.

1. Freedom Pointe at The Villages — Florida

• Cost of living: 97.9
• Average home value: $392,400
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,350
• Access to healthcare: Skilled nursing, memory care, rehab
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in Florida
• Local amenities: Dining, golf, group fitness, billiards, arts & crafts, happy hours
• Lifestyle: Active, independent living, assisted living

Freedom Pointe at The Villages in Florida is one of the best retirement communities in America, especially for warm weather and an active lifestyle. Florida’s lack of Social Security and pension income taxes means residents have more money to spend on fun, fitness, and social activities. And you won’t have to go far to find entertainment in this area, one of the best retirement communities for active adults. Living in The Villages neighborhoods means opportunities to swim, golf, find a card-playing group to join, or volunteer with a local non-profit. It’s easy to stay engaged and connected.

The community is also close to museums, cafes, and local hotspots like Mystic Ice Cream Cafe, and organizes outings — transportation included — to popular destinations: Shopping and dining at Spanish Springs Town Square, for instance, or catching a performance at the Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center.

If you’re looking for one of the best retirement communities for active adults, Mackenzie Place in Colorado Springs may be your next home.
(Source: Mackenzie Place - Colorado Springs via Facebook)

2. Mackenzie Place Colorado Springs — Colorado

• Cost of living: 110.3
• Average home value: $441,900
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,325
• Access to healthcare: Medical centers close by, visiting physician, 24-hour awake staff, daily check-in system, memory care
• Social Security tax: 4.25%
• Local amenities: Pool, fitness center, theater, dining options, library, game room
• Lifestyle: Independent living, assisted living

Set at the foot of Pike’s Peak in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Mackenzie Place in Colorado Springs is an ideal destination for retirees who value stunning scenery and year-round opportunities to get outside. Often named among the best retirement communities in America for active adults, Mackenzie Place offers access to all kinds of recreation, plus on-site amenities, like a fitness center and pool, theater, library, and arts and crafts room. There’s also a salon and barbershop.

Transportation services are available for residents to get to all the perks of living in Colorado Springs, like grabbing breakfast at the Omelette Parlour, walking or biking the Palmer Park Trail, or improving their golf game at the Colorado Springs Country Club. First-class healthcare providers are located close to Mackenzie Place as well, and the facility offers daily check-ins for residents’ safety.

3. Whispering Chase Skye Active Living — Wyoming

• Cost of living: 100.3
• Average home value: $376,200
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,075
• Access to healthcare: In-home caregivers, third-party assisted-living services upon request, nearby medical centers
• Social Security tax: No state social security tax
• Local amenities: Fitness area, upscale dining options, library
• Lifestyle: Active, independent living

If wide-open spaces are your Golden Era vibe, Wyoming should be on your list to check out. One of the best retirement communities for active adults is Whispering Chase Skye Active Living, set amid the state’s stunning natural scenery just a short drive from mountains, forests, and parks. Residents of Whispering Chase can spend the day in the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens or explore the trails and gorgeous rock formations at the Vedauwoo Recreation Area. This active retirement community keeps residents engaged in health and fitness, lifelong learning, and a roster of hobbies and crafts.

Suite living is available here, with plenty of common spaces to relax or chat with friends, plus full dining service daily. If you do want to get out for a bite, try The Albany, a downtown classic, or grab some coffee with friends at The Boardroom or Central Cafe.

Best Retirement Communities in America for Assisted Living

Seniors looking for a balance between independent living and full care will find that the best retirement communities in America for assisted living fit the bill. Most options nationwide in this category offer private residences along with personal care services, dining, and the opportunity to join social events.

Acts Country House, one of the best retirement communities in America, offers country estate-style living surrounded by beautiful hills, woodlands, and waterways.
(Source: Country House - Acts Retirement via Facebook)

1. Acts Country House — Delaware

• Cost of living: 104.1
• Average home value: $319,300
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,600
• Access to healthcare: In-home caregivers, palliative care, dementia care, skilled care, rehabilitation
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in Delaware
• Local amenities: Clubhouse, social areas, dining services
• Lifestyle: Assisted living

The Acts Country House in Wilmington tops the list for retiring in Delaware with assisted living. On-site healthcare access means that no matter what residents need, there’s a nurse practitioner 24/7 to help out. This ensures not only the safety of residents, but also the peace of mind of families and caregivers knowing their loved ones are well cared for.

The community is surrounded by beautiful hills, woodlands, and waterways, with the grounds easily walkable for all-important exercise. You can also explore the gardens or take advantage of fitness classes in the clubhouse. With easy access to both Philadelphia and Baltimore, residents often enjoy getaways for dining and entertainment. But there’s plenty to do close to home. The Delaware Museum of Nature & Science offers year-round exhibitions and special programming, and the Concord Mall is nearby for shopping excursions.

Friendship Village of Bloomington, one of several 55 and over communities in Minnesota, supports both assisted and active lifestyles.
(Source: Friendship Village of Bloomington via Facebook)

2. Friendship Village of Bloomington — Minnesota

• Cost of living: 107.2
• Average home value: $348,300
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,525
• Access to healthcare: Onsite health center, rehab, skilled nursing, memory care
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in Minnesota if you make below $78,000 as a single or $100,000 for a couple
• Local amenities: Art studio, salon, putting green, pool, computer lab, auditorium
• Lifestyle: Independent living, assisted living

Friendship Village of Bloomington lives up to its name: Friendly and welcoming, just like the city and state it calls home. The community serves retirees with both independent- and assisted-living options, and there are plenty of opportunities for engagement, making everyone feel supported and cared for. Residents can join social clubs, take part in group outings, or tend plants in the community garden.

Four onsite dining options make a healthy diet easy and accessible. Outdoor activities are abundant at places like the Hyland Lake Park Reserve, part of the Three Rivers Park District. Seniors can also stay active in the greater community with outings to places like the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Minnesota Orchestra in Downtown Minneapolis, and Eden Prairie Center for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

3. Willow Valley Communities — Pennsylvania

• Cost of living: 99.5
• Average home value: $363,500
• Average rent (all sizes): $1,775
• Access to healthcare: 24/7 onsite staff, skilled nursing, memory care
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in Pennsylvania
• Local amenities: 12 dining venues, library, swimming pool, pet friendly, bowling alley, gardening space
• Lifestyle: Active, independent living, assisted living

Consistently ranked as one of the best retirement communities in the U.S., the Willow Valley Communities are located in Lancaster, PA. Retirees looking for assisted living are in the right place here, with “Supported Living” options from general health assistance to nursing and memory care.

Amenities onsite include the Willow Valley Cultural Center, an 80,000-square-foot complex with a day spa, aquatics center, theater, and the Vitality Cafe for a healthy post-activity snack. Dance instruction in the ballroom is among the plentiful options for fitness classes and ongoing learning. Another perk? The Pennsylvania landscape, whether you want to explore the trails with visiting family or fish in one of Willow Valley’s stocked ponds. For an excellent slice, pop downtown to Two Cousins Pizza and support a beloved local business.

Best Retirement Communities in America for Continuing Care

“Life plan community” is another name for continuing care — and both terms accurately define what these communities provide. This option is for seniors who want to age in place, meaning they prefer to stay in the same location as their needs change over time. The best retirement communities in America for continuing care provide a blend of independent living, assisted living, and ongoing nursing and memory care all in one place.

1. Orchard Inn at The Baldwin — New Hampshire

• Cost of living: 118.9
• Average home value: $589,800
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,325
• Access to healthcare: Onsite healthcare, onsite hospice, memory care
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in New Hampshire
• Local amenities: Extensive social events, spa and salon, library, fitness center and pool, art studio
• Lifestyle: Active, independent living, assisted living

Orchard Inn at The Baldwin in Londonderry offers all levels of care, including high-quality assisted living and memory support in a home-style setting. Eight households have just 10 residents each in a family-style setting with private suites, personalized nursing care, and opportunities to engage in activities tailored to their interests and capabilities.

The community features chef-prepared meals, a fitness and wellness spa, and common areas for socializing, playing games, and watching movies and TV. Residents can also enjoy a well-stocked library, raised garden beds, and outings to local spots in the Boston suburb of Londenberry, near many of the best places to retire in New Hampshire.

2. Bay Village — Florida

• Cost of living: 105.3
• Average home value: $406,200

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,775
• Access to healthcare: Onsite skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in Florida
• Local amenities: Fitness center, pool, walking trails, art studio, social clubs
• Lifestyle: Independent living, assisted living, continuing care

With a full spectrum of services for retirees in one campus, Bay Village of Sarasota is one of the best retirement communities for continuing care in America. Residents can transition from independent living, when they’re ready, to assisted living or skilled nursing, and then to specialized memory care if needed. Private apartments and cottages provide a warm, comforting environment, while social and wellness programs keep residents engaged and active.

Like many continuing care communities in Florida, Bay Village offers chef-prepared dining, a fitness center and pool, trails, and social clubs and activities. Residents also have all the perks of Sarasota, including restaurants and shopping at St. Armands Circle and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches on Longboat Key and other nearby islands.

3. West Hills Village — South Dakota

• Cost of living: 90.7
• Average home value: $322,500
• Average rent (one-bedroom): $975
• Access to healthcare: Onsite healthcare, assisted living, onsite hospice, memory care
• Social Security tax: No social security income tax in New Hampshire
• Local amenities: Fitness center, pool, library, dining, activities
• Lifestyle: Active, independent living, assisted living

The Dakotas might not seem like an obvious choice for retirement living. But West Hills Village makes a good case for selection as one of the best retirement communities in America for continuing care. Residents can start in independent living apartments and transition smoothly to assisted living and skilled nursing without leaving their familiar community.

The spacious West Hills Village campus offers all the amenities of upscale living, including a fitness center, pool, chef-prepared dining, and social events. But here, the gorgeous South Dakota landscape is right outside your door. Residents enjoy day trips to iconic destinations like the Black Hills, Badlands National Park, and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Best Retirement Communities — FAQs

Q: What is the number one retirement community in the U.S.?
A: The Villages in Florida is known widely as the best-of-the-best retirement communities in America. And what’s not to love? The community has more than 80,000 residents, about 60 golf courses, and a social calendar that never slows down.

Q: What is the best 55+ community?
A: All of the communities on our list are excellent options — you can’t go wrong. But there are distinctions among them. Are you looking for the most affordable places to retire? A packed activities agenda? Or a peaceful haven? Consider what’s important to you in your golden years and make your selection based on those preferences. Standouts include The Baldwin in New Hampshire, Friendship Village in Minnesota, and Whispering Chase Skye in Wyoming.  

Q: What is the best 55 and older community in Florida?
A: If we had to pick two top spots to retire in the Sunshine State, we’d say The Villages, in the north-central region of Florida, and Bay Village, farther south in Sarasota.

Q: Where can I retire on $2,000 a month in the United States?
A: You could retire on $2,000 a month most realistically in Pennsylvania or Wyoming, where costs are generally lower — particularly in rural areas. While it’s possible in other states, it typically requires owning a home outright or choosing a very low-cost community. Another option: Retiring in Canada, where universal healthcare reduces expenses.

Q: What is the 80/20 rule for 55+ communities?
A: The 80/20 rule is a guideline to help budget for retirement — something far too few of us address until it’s just around the corner. The rule suggests that you should save 20 percent of your income for retirement, and use the remainder for living expenses. A good rule of thumb is to have the savings transferred automatically to your retirement account so that you don’t even see it in your bank account. Out of sight, out of mind — until you’re ready.

Q: Are there any downsides to 55+ communities?
A: The best retirement communities in America offer an abundance of benefits — but yes, there are a few downsides to consider. Limited ages may seem restrictive to people who enjoy living among multiple generations (hearing kids play outside in the evenings, for instance). Costs can also be higher than expected — although most communities are all-inclusive, meaning the residents’ needs are fully covered in the overall price, from rent to dining to activities and medical care.

PODS makes moving to one of the best retirement communities in America easier with flexible moving and storage solutions.

PODS Can Help You Move to One of the Best Retirement Communities in America

Make your retirement move flexible with PODS portable moving containers — a convenient option when you’re ready to move to one of the best retirement communities in the U.S. Your portable storage container will arrive right in your driveway for you to pack and load at your convenience. Need a hand with the heavy lifting? PODS can refer you to local packing and loading services to help out. And if your residence isn’t ready when you are, no worries: One month’s storage is included in the cost of every move.

Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Editor’s note: Cost of living scores were obtained from BestPlaces.net. Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe; and average home values were obtained from Zillow. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.

_{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}