Imagine living in a community with cocktail bars, art studios and other amenities that make every day feel like vacation. That’s the reality at today’s most exciting retirement communities.
“Each retirement community has its own unique personality, culture and amenities,” says Bruce Rosenblatt, owner and elder care consultant at Senior Housing Solutions. “Much like choosing a college, the goal is to find a place where you feel a true sense of belonging.”
We’ve rounded up five of the most distinctive retirement communities across the country that could be your perfect fit. Plus, experts share their best tips for choosing and thriving in community living.
5 unique retirement communities
Latitude Margaritaville
Paradise comes alive in this bustling community with locations in Florida, South Carolina and Texas. The website for the community for those 55 and up says residents will “be inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffet, built on food, fun, music and escapism.”
You’ll never run out of things to do here. Residents have access to pools, cocktail bars, pickleball courts, dining halls, fitness centers and countless other amenities. The move-in ready homes (which start at $390,000 for Hilton Head) even have amusing names like Hula and Parrot.
NOHO Senior Arts Colony
Older Americans with a creative side can find themselves at home in this community in Los Angeles. It offers one- and two-bedroom apartments for residents ages 62 and up in the NOHO Arts District of Los Angeles.
But the real appeal is the amenities tailored to the arts. Besides classic features like a pool and fitness studio, the community includes an artists lounge, a computer center for digital arts, a literary studio, a visual arts studio and a 78-seat performing arts theater professionally run by The Road Theatre Company.
Aegis Living Queen Anne at Rodgers Park
Though it may seem like a grand hotel, this Seattle spot is actually a living facility. The Victorian-style community is known for its elegant design, beautifully landscaped gardens and peaceful setting right alongside Rodgers Park.
In many ways, Aegis is like its own small town. Residents have an indoor boardwalk experience complete with a salon, sports den and movie theater, to name a few.
Aegis Gardens Asian Communities
Also offered under the Aegis Living name are the Asian-inspired culturally authentic communities in Fremont, California, and Newcastle, Washington. They’re open to all residents interested in this international lifestyle. The website promises a truly unique experience thanks to the Asian decor, cuisine, activities and integrated feng shui principles. Residents can try their hand at calligraphy or even tai chi.
Amblebrook
Located in historic Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Amblebrook has garnered attention for both its lifestyle features and high-end amenities.
Community members can shop at an on-site farmers market and even grow their own food. Learning experiences are plentiful thanks to a canvas arts and crafts studio, demonstration kitchen, lectures and performing arts opportunities. Outside there’s just as much to do, from a yoga lawn to a bocce ball court. Boredom simply isn’t possible here.
What to keep in mind when choosing a retirement community
Whether you’re considering one of the above options or others you feel may be a better fit, experts say there are steps you should take to help with the decision-making process.
- Get detailed financial information. “Seek professional advice with understanding entrance fees, deposits and community expenses,” says Kelsey Sammuel, co-founder and owner of SB SOS, a concierge senior relocation company.
- Only tour one community per day. Shari Ross, senior living consultant and author at Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E., says this prevents the details from each community from blending together.
- Consider the lifestyle. Will you be able to maintain or enrich your daily activities?
- Tour at different times of day and interact with residents. “Visiting at 8 a.m. during breakfast and then at 4 p.m. when they are between meals can give you a better picture of how the community truly operates,” adds Ross. “Sit down and eat a meal yourself. Chat with residents—do they seem content? If something feels off, it probably is.”
- Work with a senior housing advisor if you need guidance. “These professionals offer deep insight into your area’s communities, including those that may not show up on your radar,” says Rosenblatt.
Ultimately, consider whether the community will truly provide what you need for this next chapter.
“The community may have beautiful chandeliers in the marble lobby and a fancy dining room with a chef-inspired menu, but in the end, those are not the things that will provide the best quality of life,” suggests Ross. “It’s all about the people, the culture and the care—now and in the future.”
How to make the most of a retirement community
Retirement communities have a lot to offer, but being proactive is key to a happy lifestyle! It’s also okay to find you need a little time to adjust.
“There will be shared spaces, social events, rules and routines,” says Rosenblatt. “It may feel like a big shift at first—but give it time. Be open to new people and experiences. You just might find yourself more engaged and fulfilled than you imagined.”
You may even find that you develop new relationships with members of your community or strengthen those you already have if you join with a partner.
“For couples, it can help lessen the burden of being the sole caregiver,” adds Sammuel.
Finally, make yourself feel more at home by bringing familiar items with you.
“Set it up to feel like home, not a hotel room,” says Ross. “This means bringing artwork, special photographs, your favorite recliner. That emotional grounding helps the transition feel less jarring and more empowering.”
With the right community and mindset, this next chapter could be one of your most fulfilling yet.
