5 Mind-Blowingly-Simple Reasons Boomers Are Trading Suburbs For Active Adult Communities

For retired Baby Boomers, moving somewhere new is an integral part of our retirement plans. Some may move to be closer to their children or grandchildren, while others may elect to trade fast-paced suburban life for small towns. Of course, many are moving to 55+ active adult communities! Here are 5 reasons why you should consider that latter option.

1. The location is great for retirees.

Guess what? When you move to an active adult community, developers have already scouted out the location and made sure it’s desirable to retirees before building the community. For example, most active adult communities are close to hospitals, beauty salons, restaurants, and shops. Of course, you may still want to research the area to make sure it offers everything you’re looking for, but there’s a pretty good chance it will!

2. There’s plenty to do in the community.

Active adult communities will grant you access to countless amenities and activities, right within your own backyard. From shuffleboard to horseshoes to book clubs, you’ll always have your fill of entertainment. Plus, being active is healthy!

3. You’ll have a built-in sense of community and support.

Many fellow residents will be in the same boat as you: newly retired and new to the area. In my experience with active adult communities, almost every resident had relocated from somewhere else. As such, that fosters a feeling of togetherness that’s the backbone of any tightknit community.

4. You’ll make new friends.

And speaking of a feeling of togetherness, you’ll have your pick of friends! It’s easy to meet people who share your interests, especially when they join the same clubs or do the same activities. In no time at all, you’ll have a whole new social circle, made up of your neighbors and club friends.

5. You can discover new hobbies.

Have you ever wanted to take up creative writing? Or maybe learn how to paint? At an active adult community, you can do just that! They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but as a retiree with a new lease on life, I say that’s patently false. In fact, retirement is the perfect time to try out new hobbies. You have all the free time in the world. The only limit to your creativity is you. So, get out there, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace new experiences! There’s no better time than now.

Traditional Living vs. Active Adult Communities

Making the switch to an active adult community can be an attractive option for Baby Boomers and retirees of any age! But how does the cost compare to traditional living in a single-family home?

Generally, living in a traditional home can be more affordable upfront, especially if your mortgage is paid off. However, there are ongoing expenses to consider, including:

• Property taxes: These can vary depending on location and home value but can be a significant yearly cost.
• Home maintenance: Repairs, replacements, and yard upkeep all add up over time.
• Utilities: You’ll be responsible for electricity, water, gas, trash removal, and potentially internet/cable.

On the other hand, active adult communities typically involve an upfront entrance fee, which can range considerably depending on location, amenities, and housing type. There are also ongoing monthly homeowners association (HOA) fees.

Understanding HOA Fees and Amenities:

HOA fees cover a variety of services and amenities. This can include:

• Exterior maintenance: The community takes care of lawns, landscaping, snow removal, and building upkeep.
• Common area maintenance: This includes pools, clubhouses, gyms, and other amenities.
• Utilities: Water, trash removal, and sometimes even cable or internet may be included.
• Security: Some communities have gated entrances or security personnel.

Potential Savings:

While the upfront cost of an active adult community might seem higher, there can be long-term savings to consider. Here’s how:

• Reduced maintenance costs: You won’t be responsible for fixing a leaky roof or mowing the lawn.
• Lower utility bills: Sharing resources within a community can lead to lower energy costs.
• On-site social activities

The Bottom Line on Active Adult Communities

The best choice depends on your individual needs and financial situation. Carefully consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and the amenities offered by different communities. Running the numbers and comparing costs over time can help you decide which option offers the best financial value for your golden years!