Retirement can include many changes, including moving to a new home. Senior living communities are growing in popularity among those in their golden years. It’s predicted that the number of people 65 or older who are moving into senior living communities will grow to 27 million by 2050.1
While most seniors prefer to “age in place” and stay in their own homes as long as they can, it isn’t always possible. For those that need to move on, there is a plethora of retirement communities to choose from that match personal preferences and specific needs — including security and safety, price point, community and care level.
Types of retirement communities
55+
People 55 and older can live in a community of their peers. These communities are a thriving segment of senior life and cater to older adults seeking independent lifestyles with resort-style amenities and active social environments.
They often feature clubhouses and community centers, swimming pools and fitness centers, golf courses, tennis and pickleball courts. Housing options vary to accommodate a wide range of preferences, including apartments, townhouses, or mobile homes, with HOA fees that generally cover exterior maintenance. 2
These age-restricted communities typically don’t offer assistance, but the buildings and residences are often designed for residents who might have limited mobility now or down the road.
Niche communities
Among the many senior communities, niche retirement communities are growing in popularity. Just as the name implies, they appeal to groups of people passionate about a particular lifestyle. Environmentalists, yoga practitioners, academics, and even Jimmy Buffett fans can find a homebase with other like-minded individuals who seek authentic connections in their living community. While these communities are now a small percentage of the senior community, they are a “segment to watch.”3
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer a continuum of options for seniors — a one-stop shop that addresses and supports evolving health, well-being, and social needs as they age. That way there’s no need to worry about moving to a new community for additional care later in life.
A resident can start living independently in an apartment or condominium in the community with organized recreational, social, and physical activities, along with meal plans and on-site restaurants. Later they can transition to more assisted care. Assisted living is like independent living but provides help with activities of daily living such as getting dressed, taking medications, and housekeeping. Memory care communities help residents who have cognitive health issues and require help with their daily health.
Location, location, location
Many retirees want to live near family, friends, and other support systems. Others want to start a new chapter in a new place. Many locales fit the bill. However, some states seem to meet Americans’ needs more than others.
Based on safety, health care and taxes, New Hampshire topped Bankrate’s list of best states to retire in 2025. Four of the top 10 states for retirees are in New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont, and three are in Western states (Idaho, Utah and Wyoming). While Florida has long been thought of as a retirement haven, it came in at 41 on the list, due to ranking poorly for health care, home insurance costs and natural disasters.4
Lifestyle in retirement
Of course, daily routines and activities will play a big role in your life satisfaction. So be sure to do what you enjoy and perhaps take on some new hobbies. Enjoying friends, nature, art, travel, food, and books are all worthwhile pursuits. And so is being active in your community, which can also reestablish your purpose.
Retirement is an exciting time of life. Be sure to live how and where you want to live by planning for it now.
