Best Retirement Communities Near Tampa

If you’re an older adult living in Tampa, then you’ll definitely have your fair share of retirement communities to choose from! In fact, when we were doing our research for this article, we noted that there were 7 pages of Tampa retirement community listings on Google alone. And that’s without any of the search filters turned on! If you’re ready to move to a retirement community but don’t feel like spending hours on Google, then you’ve come to the right place, because we’ve already found the BEST ones near you!

Our research process:

1. As previously mentioned, we start our search on Google, where we find the highest-rated listings with the most reviews. From there, we visit their websites and continue our research. We try to figure out what level of care every community offers. Are they solely an independent living community, or do they have other care options that could prove useful if your health needs change? Are they transparent about how much their community costs? What sort of amenities can you expect to enjoy? Do they have fine dining? Do their apartments seem roomy and inviting?
2. Next, we circle back around to Google and read the reviews, both good and bad. If there’s a one or two-star review, we always note what the reviewer didn’t like about the community. We try to pick out common threads between reviews, whether they’re negative or positive. For example, if an overwhelming number of reviews mention the good food and professional staff, we know those things are probably top-notch!
3. And finally, we poke around their social media pages, which usually include Instagram and Facebook. If they have a YouTube, we watch some videos, especially if there’s a tour of the community or apartments!

^{_{Author’s note: While we LOVE doing research and helping seniors, we also strongly encourage all our readers to do their own research and visit each of these communities in person. Testimonials and reviews paint only half of the picture. So, schedule an in-person visit if possible. Take your time and ask yourself some important questions. Does the community seem safe? Is it clean? Is the staff kind and professional? Are they able to answer all your questions, and do they seem happy or reluctant to do so? Do the residents seem happy? Does the community offer all the services and amenities that would make your life there comfortable? In the end, if you don’t think a certain retirement community is the right fit for you, listen to your gut!}}

1. Arbor Terrace Citrus Park

• What it is: An award-winning retirement community in Tampa.
• Features we love: Arbor Terrace is more than a facility. It’s a tight-knit community designed for every resident, regardless of their hobbies, preferences, or interests. You can enjoy your best, stress-free life, as the staff handles all your laundry, transportation, and cooking. Of course, this will give you even more time to take walks, have spa days, and visit the wellness center for personal guidance. Additionally, Arbor Terrace is pet-friendly!
• What others are saying: U.S. News & World Report recognized Arbor Terrace as a Best Independent Living Community in 2024!

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2. Aston Gardens at Sun City Center

• What it is: Exceptional senior living in Sun City Center, FL.
• Features we love: Aston Gardens at Sun City Center offers not one, not two, not three, but SIX lifestyle programs, designed to meet every want and need. The same can be said of their spacious apartments, which boast multiple floor plans, and their resort-style amenities. There’s bocce ball and golf for sports enthusiasts and a large library for bookworms. Nature lovers will appreciate the beautifully landscaped grounds. Residents of all persuasions will enjoy peace of mind, thanks to 24-hour security.
• What others are saying: “I feel blessed to have found this location,” one Google user wrote in their 5-star review. Others praised the delicious meals and wealth of amenities, with one noting that it’s “as if I am living in a five-star resort.”

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3. Aston Gardens At Tampa Bay

• What it is: All-inclusive senior living.
• Features we love: Many older adults view Florida as the retirement mecca, and Aston Gardens at Tampa Bay proves the Sunshine State deserves that reputation! This lush, sun-drenched community boasts everything from educational programs to concierge services. The elegant ballroom harkens back to your prom days, while the gazebo-enclosed hot tub offers pure tranquility. Visit their website today to schedule an in-person visit or to take a virtual tour!
• What others are saying: One glowing website testimonial reads: “Everything about Aston Gardens has been amazing. Robyn was outstanding. She took a very difficult situation and made it enjoyable and easy! The place we found for my dad was everything we were looking for and more. This should be number one on your list if you’re looking for a great independent living community!”

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4. Discovery Village At Tampa Palms

• What it is: Supervised independent living.
• Features we love: Every day can feel like a vacation at Discovery Village, thanks to the resort-style pool, Legend’s Club & Bar, and state-of-the-art fitness center! You can also enjoy gourmet dining and even take in a movie or two—all while never setting foot outside the campus. Every tastefully designed apartment comes fully furnished, with granite countertops, spacious walk-in closets, and an emergency response call system. It’s truly retirement living at its finest!
• What others are saying: 4.7 stars for Discovery Village at Tampa Palms on Google!

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5. Freedom Plaza

• What it is: A continuing care retirement community in Sun City Center, FL.
• Features we love: Located just minutes from downtown Tampa, this self-contained community has it all! From a private lake to an 18-hole executive golf course and putting green to numerous walking trails, you won’t have to search hard to find something to enjoy. And speaking of enjoyment, some of the many activities include group fitness classes, lifelong learning programs, and pickleball. There’s even a general store!
• What others are saying: Freedom Plaza is a multi-award-winning community. U.S. News & World Report recognized it as a Best Continuing Care Retirement Community for 2024. Additionally, it received the National Quality Approval Gold Seal from the Joint Commission.

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6. Grand Villa of Clearwater

• What it is: Resort-style senior living in Clearwater, FL.
• Features we love: Situated on three acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, this beautiful community offers resort-style living and luxurious amenities in a family-friendly atmosphere. The well-designed apartments range from studio to one to two-bedroom apartments. The well-manicured grounds and walking paths are great places to enjoy the famous Florida sunshine.
• What others are saying: Not only was Grand Villa of Clearwater named a “Caring Star” on Caring.com in 2023, but it also passed a Florida state survey for having ZERO deficiencies, an award given to facilities with the highest standards of care.

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7. Osprey Heights Gracious Retirement Living

• What it is: A luxurious independent living community in Valrico, FL.
• Features we love: Boasting over 40 unique floor plans and an array of recreational opportunities, Osprey Heights is truly independent living at its finest! This community has a little something for everyone, from trivia nights to museum excursions to fitness classes. Additionally, your monthly rent includes three chef-prepared meals daily, transportation, housekeeping, and more!
• What others are saying: Osprey Heights holds a perfect 5-star rating on Facebook!

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8. Presbyterian Villas of Tampa

• What it is: A senior apartment community in South Tampa.
• Features we love: Centrally located in South Tampa, this affordable community aims to enhance your quality of life! Residents can enjoy a large multipurpose room, a well-stocked library/game room, and a computer room. And while there’s a lot to do within the community, downtown Tampa and its offering of shops and restaurants are only minutes away!
• What others are saying: Presbyterian Villas of Tampa holds an oh-so-close to a 5-star rating on Google, where users note the friendly staff and clean, well-maintained facilities.

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9. Westminster Palms

• What it is: Active senior living in St. Petersburg, FL.
• Features we love: Nestled in the heart of beautiful Historic Old Northeast, Westminster Palms is overflowing with art, culture, natural beauty, and luxurious amenities. Enjoy maintenance-free living and gorgeous apartment homes with high-quality touches like granite countertops and custom cabinetry. You can get your sweat on in the state-of-the-art fitness center and enjoy some coffee at the Crossroads Cafe. How’s that for top-notch senior living?
• What others are saying: “I would gladly send my family members to live here! Beautiful location, and amazing staff,” reads one 5-star Google review. Others noted that their loved ones are happy and well-attended at this facility.

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10. Westminster Shores

• What it is: A 26-acre, waterfront community with independent living in St. Petersburg, FL.
• Features we love: If you’re looking for a community brimming with stunning waterfront views and a vibrant lifestyle, look no further than Westminster Shores. Amenities include a waterfront restaurant, a deep-water launch for kayaks and canoes, and a heated, outdoor pool. The staff will take care of housekeeping and transportation, giving you more time to pursue your hobbies!
• What others are saying: “My mom spent 10 wonderful years at Westminster Shores. The community feel and activities helped her make wonderful friends,” begins one 5-star Google review. The user goes on to add: “When it was time for mom to leave The Shores and go into memory care, Brian Parks, Brett Montegny and the team helped make the transition seamless and meaningful.” Westminster Shores holds a 4.6-star rating on the platform.

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