Discover Active Adult Living
in Northeast Florida
55+ Communities | Coastal Lifestyle | Resort Style Amenities
55+ New Construction. 1% New Construction Buyer Credit Applied to Closing Costs
*Jacksonville-area buyers of any new-build home receive a 1 % credit toward closing costs—no special status required.
Active Adult (55+) Communities in Northeast Florida
🌴 Why Northeast Florida is Ideal for Active Adults
Northeast Florida is one of the area’s most sought-after regions for Active Adult Communities and retirement living. Its great appeal lies in the pleasant year-round weather and miles of stunning beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Recreational options — both indoor and outdoor — for retired and active adults are extensive. Florida’s First Coast (Northeast Florida) stretches from Flagler County north to the Georgia state line.
Many local 55+ communities offer a tranquil vibe compared to the more congested areas of Florida’s east coast. Aside from Jacksonville and Gainesville, the First Coast remains relatively rural with lush natural surroundings. If you’re seeking a more peaceful, active lifestyle, the First Coast is a wonderful place to call home.
☀️ Climate & Geography
Retirees and active adults are drawn to Northeast Florida’s mild climate, where they can enjoy four seasons without harsh winters. Temperatures rarely dip below freezing. Summers range from the low 70s to the high 90s, while winters offer daytime highs in the upper 60s and nighttime lows in the mid-40s.
There are numerous active adult communities across Northeast Florida’s thirteen counties. Popular locations include St. Augustine, St. Johns, Jacksonville, The Beaches, Amelia Island, and Fernandina Beach.
🎭 Recreation, Culture & Entertainment
The First Coast provides an abundance of recreation and cultural attractions ideal for retirees and active adults. With many 55+ neighborhoods located near the coast, residents enjoy activities like fishing, surfing, boating, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the beach. Inland, you’ll find opportunities for hiking, kayaking, hunting, camping, and canoeing.
St. Augustine — the oldest city in America — offers a rich historical backdrop along with shopping, dining, and attractions for all ages and budgets.
Jacksonville is home to two professional sports teams: the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL) and the Jacksonville Icemen (ECHL Hockey).
💰 Cost of Living & Taxes
Compared to other Florida metros, age-restricted communities in Northeast Florida are attractively priced. Residents benefit from a slightly lower cost of living, particularly in areas farther from the coast. Homes located near waterways, the beach, or Jacksonville typically carry higher price tags.
🏘️ Featured 55+ Communities by County
St. Johns County 55+ Communities
Click a region below to view 55+ communities in that area.
Nocatee: Ponte Vedra
- Del Webb Ponte Vedra – Riverwood at Nocatee: Ponte Vedra – One of Northeast Florida’s most established and amenity-rich 55+ communities.
- Del Webb Nocatee: Ponte Vedra – One of the most desirable Del Webb communities in the country.
SilverLeaf
- Reverie at SilverLeaf – Gated 55+ neighborhood with clubhouse, resort pool, pickleball, and scenic trails.
World Golf Village
- Cascades at World Golf Village – Clubhouse, pickleball, tennis, indoor/outdoor pools.
- Parkland Preserve at WGV – Affordable new homes by Freedom Homes in a gated setting.
- The Legends at World Golf Village – Condominiums with private amenities and scenic golf views.
- The Residences at WGV – Maintenance-free condos near the World Golf Hall of Fame.
St. Johns
- Stillwater – Lennar Homes – Golf-cart friendly, gated, with resort-style amenities and on-site golf.
- WaterSong at RiverTown – Premier 55+ living along the St. Johns River with resort-style amenities.
St. Augustine
- Bridge Bay at Bannon Lakes – Pulte Homes with clubhouse access and walking trails.
- Reverie at TrailMark – Newest Dream Finders active adult community with nature trails and modern amenities.
- Summer Bay at Grand Oaks – Maintenance-free homes and vibrant community center.
- Villages of Seloy – Gated 55+ community with clubhouse and tranquil lake views.
Duval County
- Del Webb eTown – Smart living meets vibrant lifestyle, near St. Johns Town Center.
- Del Webb Sweetwater – Long-established favorite with extensive amenities and social clubs.
Clay County
- Freedom at Arbor Mill – Quietly tucked away in Oakleaf area with clubhouse and dog park.
Nassau County
- Del Webb Wildlight – Minutes from Amelia Island, this master-planned community is booming.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be 55 to buy in a 55+ community?
Most communities require at least one resident to be 55+. Some allow younger spouses or partners to live in the home.
What’s the difference between HOA and CDD?
HOA fees cover day-to-day maintenance, landscaping, and amenities. CDD (Community Development District) fees repay bonds used to build infrastructure like roads and utilities—some communities don’t have CDDs.
Can I use VA or FHA financing in a 55+ neighborhood?
Yes, in many cases. It depends on the builder and whether the home meets VA or FHA lending requirements.
Are pets allowed in 55+ communities?
Most active adult communities are pet-friendly, but there may be restrictions on the number, size, or breed of pets. Always check community rules.
Can my grandkids visit or stay overnight?
Yes! Guests of any age can usually visit and even stay overnight, but long-term stays by underage residents may be restricted.
Are there age-restricted and age-targeted communities?
Yes. Age-restricted communities legally require residents to meet the age minimum, while age-targeted ones are marketed to 55+ but have no legal age restrictions.