Moving to The Villages, Florida: What You Need to Know

The Villages, Florida, is one of the most popular active adult communities in the United States. Located in central Florida, about an hour north of Orlando, this massive 55+ community offers a unique lifestyle filled with recreation, entertainment, and convenience. If you're considering moving to The Villages, here’s what you need to know.

1. Lifestyle & Community
The Villages is often referred to as "Florida’s Friendliest Hometown," and for good reason. It is designed to foster social interaction and an active lifestyle. The community has over 150,000 residents and is divided into multiple neighborhoods, each with its own charm. Residents enjoy an extensive list of activities, including:

Over 3,000 social clubs for every interest imaginable
Dozens of golf courses (most are free for residents)
Multiple town squares offering live music every night
A strong sense of community with events, parades, and gatherings

2. Housing & Cost of Living
The Villages offers a range of housing options, from patio villas to designer homes. Prices vary widely depending on the size and location, but as of recent years, home prices typically start around $250,000 and go up to over $1 million. There are also resale homes available, which can sometimes be a more affordable option.

Additional costs to consider:

Amenity fees (~$189/month) cover access to recreation centers, pools, and more.
Bond payments: New homes come with a Community Development District (CDD) bond that covers infrastructure costs, often ranging from $10,000–$40,000.
Golf cart expenses: Many residents get around using golf carts, so this could be an added cost if you choose to purchase one.

3. Healthcare & Services
The Villages has its own healthcare system, including The Villages Regional Hospital, multiple urgent care centers, and specialty clinics. Additionally, Orlando’s world-class medical facilities are just a short drive away. The community also has grocery stores, shopping centers, and professional services, making daily life very convenient.

4. Climate & Weather
The Villages has a warm, sunny climate year-round, with mild winters and hot summers. While this is great for outdoor activities, the summer heat can be intense, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Hurricanes are rare in this part of Florida, but summer storms and high humidity are common.

5. Transportation & Accessibility
Most residents use golf carts to get around, as The Villages has over 100 miles of golf cart paths connecting neighborhoods to shopping, dining, and recreational areas. Additionally, The Villages provides shuttle services to Orlando International Airport.

6. Things to Consider Before Moving
Age restrictions: The Villages is a 55+ community, though some younger family members (under specific conditions) may live there.
HOA-style living: While The Villages does not have a traditional HOA, deed restrictions apply to maintain the community’s appearance.
Crowds & growth: The Villages continues to expand, which means more amenities but also more traffic and higher demand for services.

Is The Villages Right for You?

If you’re looking for an active, social, and maintenance-free lifestyle, The Villages could be a perfect fit. However, it’s best to visit first—consider renting a home for a few months to experience life there before making a permanent move.

Would you like specific recommendations on neighborhoods or home-buying tips in The Villages?