The Ultimate Ranking of the Best 55+ Communities in Houston Looking for the best 55 communities in Houston Texas? Our experts have done the research for you. See our expert guide on the best places to retire in.

So you’re about to turn 55 (or you’ve already turned 55) and you’re dreaming of finally moving into a community of people who share the same age and interests as you.

Imagine this: That community of your dreams will have a fitness center and several walking trails so you can continue living an active lifestyle, but you also want it to have a library, a ballroom, and an arts and crafts room where you can indulge in all your other hobbies.

But it doesn’t stop there. As a retiree, you’re imagining yourself traveling the world. You want to lock your house and just leave, but you also want to make sure that it will still be there when you return — with a well-manicured lawn, if that’s not too much to ask.

So you search online for the best retirement communities for active adults, or you ask your friends, but there’s just so many options. It can be very overwhelming. Which of them has the best amenities? Which of them are near to your preferred medical center?

And most importantly, which of them fits your budget?

We understand that choosing the best active adult community can be a complicated and hard decision to make.

This is why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the best 55+ communities in Houston. We want to make sure that you’ll have the right information you need to make the best choice on where to spend your retirement years.

Let’s dive right in.

For personalized advice and downsizing tips, please contact Paige Martin, lead of the Houston Properties Team and ranked as the #1 Keller Williams Realtor in the State of Texas. She will also be happy to give you recommendations on homes for sale in 55 plus communities in Houston based on your budget and location preferences.

See the Best 55 Communities in Houston Expert Guide in PDF Get the full Insider Guide To Houston’s Best 55 Communities in an easy-to-read Adobe Acrobat format. Save to your desktop or read on your mobile. Get PDF Now

Table of Contents

Best 55+ Communities in Houston By the Numbers

We've included below the summary of real estate statistics for Houston's Best 55 Retirement Communities. Please contact us, your best Houston realtor, for more data or for an analysis of which communities may be best for you.

Community Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes 1. Del Webb Sweetgrass $230K 1,148 – 2,636 sq. ft. 1,500 2. Windsor Lakes The Woodlands $230K 1,491 – 2,666 sq. ft. 572 3. CountryPlace $230K 669 – 4,891 sq. ft. 841 4. The Heritage at Towne Lake $230K 1,500 – 4,000 sq. ft. 841 5. Amberwood at Fall Creek $270K 1,524 – 1,888 sq. ft. 58 6. The Village at Tuscan Lake $280K 1,109 – 2,581 sq. ft. 336 7. Wellspring at Tamarron $288K 1,595 – 2,694 sq. ft. 109 8. Water Crest on Lake Conroe $290K 1,440 – 3,913 sq. ft. 31 9. Heritage Grand in Cinco Ranch $300K 1,425 – 2,858 sq. ft. 650 10. Bellavita at Green Tee $300K 1,500 – 2,400 sq. ft. 675 11. Windsor Hills $330K 1,733 – 2,738 sq. ft. 443 12. Bonterra at Woodforest $360K 1,606 – 3,063 sq. ft. 700 13. Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch $370K 1, 344 – 2,878 sq. ft. 700 14. Dell Webb The Woodlands $430K 1,263 – 2,796 sq. ft. 262 15. Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands $200K – >$1M 1,300 – 1,500 sq. ft. 3,000

Best 55 Communities in Houston Texas

For a custom list of homes for sale in the following 55 communities in Houston TX, contact Paige Martin, ranked as the #1 Individual Agent with Keller Williams in Houston, #1 in Texas, and #5 in the United States. Paige Martin is also the leader of the Houston Properties Team, the #1 ranked boutique real estate team in Houston.

1. Del Webb Sweetgrass

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $230K 1,148 – 2,636 sq. ft. 1,500 Single-family

Situated about 25 miles from downtown Houston, Del Webb Sweetgrass is one of the best active adult communities in Texas. It’s located in Richmond near US 59 and is a mere 2.3 miles away from OakBend Medical Center via FM 762 Road.

The subdivision currently offers single-family floor plans and is estimated to have 1,500 homes ranging from 1,148 to 2,636 square feet. Del Webb Sweetgrass homes for sale are from the $140s, and the median home value is $230k. Properties currently available are single-family, one-story homes.

Area of Town

Southwest Houston

Del Webb Sweetgrass Amenities

Residents can enjoy a state-of-the-art 27,000 square-foot amenity center called The Lodge. It features indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, a computer classroom, an amphitheater, an event lawn, and a fishing pier.

The center’s multi-purpose rooms host a variety of health and fitness programs such as Zumba, yoga, and pilates, as well as other community activities. The community also features a 50-acre lake and 4 miles of walking trails.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Del Webb Sweetgrass

The community is located near Oak Bend Medical Center (2.3 miles) and Memorial Hermann Medical Center (29.3 miles).

2. Windsor Lakes The Woodlands

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $230K 1,491 – 2,666 sq. ft. 572 Single-family, attached

If you want to know how to find 55+ communities in The Woodlands Texas, look no further. Located west of Interstate 45 and just off Highway 242, Windsor Lakes The Woodlands is one of the most popular 55+ communities in The Woodlands TX today.

A gated 55+ community with first-class amenities and a village-like atmosphere, it was started in 2003 by Lennar Homes and was finished in 2006. It features both single-family and attached homes that range in size from 1,491 to 2,666 square feet.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

Windsor Lakes The Woodlands Amenities

The community boasts of Windsor Lodge, a 20,000 square-foot clubhouse that is exclusive to Windsor Lakes residents. It features an exercise room, a billiards room, an arts and crafts room, a library, a multi-purpose room, a stage and catering kitchen, and an audio-visual room.

Residents can also opt to swim in the outdoor pool or walk and bike among the numerous walking and biking trails in the community. Windsor Lakes also has a full-time activity director that oversees several social clubs for residents like clubs for bridge, poker, readers theater, dance, garden, etc.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Windsor Lakes The Woodlands

The community is located near CHI St. Luke’s Health-The Woodlands Hospital (0.8 miles) and the Houston Methodist Medical Center 1 (1.2 miles).

3. CountryPlace

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $230K 669 – 4,891 sq. ft. 841 Single-family and townhomes

A low-maintenance, gated community, CountryPlace is considered one of the best 55+ communities in Pearland TX. It’s situated south of Houston at McHard Road and Texas 288, south of Beltway 8. Its location provides easy access to over 140 restaurants in Pearland, shops at the Pearland Town Center, the Hobby Airport, and the Space Center Houston.

Homes in CountryPlace were built between 1981 and 2000, with 841 single-family homes and townhomes ranging from below $100K to over $300K. The median price of homes for sale in CountryPlace is $230K.

Area of Town

Southeast Houston

CountryPlace Amenities

Residents of CountryPlace can enjoy planned activities such as tennis, poker, bridge, and fitness classes. There is a clubhouse with an exercise room, a craft room, a library, a multi-purpose room, tennis courts, and a pool. The CountryPlace Golf Course is an 18-hole course that welcomes all levels.

Nearest Medical Facilities to CountryPlace

The nearest medical facility to CountryPlace is the Texas Medical Center (10.7 miles).

4. The Heritage at Towne Lake

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $230K 1,500 – 4,000 sq. ft. 841 Single-family and townhomes

The Heritage at Towne Lake is one of the 55+ communities in Cypress TX. It’s an upscale subdivision in the master-planned community of Towne Lake that features a 350-acre stocked lake with 15 miles of shoreline and over 300 acres of open parks. Just outside the community are shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities in the Cy-Fair area. Highway 290 provides direct access to downtown Houston.

Most homes for sale at The Heritage at Towne Lake are one-story floor plans by Village Builders ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 square feet. These properties are priced from $270K to $725K.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

The Heritage at Towne Lake Amenities

The Heritage Lodge is the heart of most community activities, featuring a fitness center, billiards room, arts and crafts room, library, ballroom, a lap pool, and a spa.

Residents can enjoy the outdoors at the waterfront walking trails, community gardens, picnic pavilions, community boat docks and fishing piers, and over 24 miles of recreational trails.

Nearest Medical Facilities to The Heritage at Towne Lake

Medical services around The Heritage are provided by the Houston Methodist Primary Care Group (26.4 miles) and Excel Urgent Care (5.8 miles).

5. Amberwood at Fall Creek

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $270K 1,524 – 1,888 sq. ft. 58 Single-story attached

Amberwood at Fall Creek is one of the best adult communities located in Humble, just 15 miles from downtown Houston. Nestled in a semi-secluded, wooded area of master-planned community Fall Creek, Amberwood is known for its maintenance-free homes.

The neighborhood is comprised of 58 single-story attached homes, although some feature a second level. Homes for sale in Amberwood at Fall Creek range from 1,524 to 1,888 square feet and are priced from $259K to $285K.

Area of Town

Northeast Houston

Amberwood at Fall Creek Amenities

Residents of Amberwood have access to the Redstone Golf Club with two 18-hole courses, a practice range and a clubhouse with a restaurant. Also, just a mile away is The Park at Fall Creek, a resort-style activity center with lighted tennis courts, a picnic area, and a children’s playground.

There’s also the Aquatic Center that has a six-lane competition pool and water amusement features, and a recreation center with a pool, sunbathing areas, a jacuzzi, and a cabana.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Amberwood at Fall Creek

Medical facilities near Amberwood at Fall Creek include Humble Medical (3.6 miles), Memorial Hermann Summer Creek Primary Care (5.7 miles), and Cypress Creek Hospital (17.9 miles).

6. The Village at Tuscan Lakes

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $280K 1,109 – 2,581 sq. ft. 336 Single-family

The Village at Tuscan Lakes is a gated community by Del Webb Texas for adults 55 and over. Situated in League City, the neighborhood is conveniently located near I-45 and Highway 96. It is 28.9 miles southwest of Houston.

Developed between 2007 and 2016, homes for sale in The Village at Tuscan Lakes range from $200K to $308K. The community consists of 336 single-family homes with floor plans ranging from 1,109 to 2,581 square feet.

Area of Town

Southeast Houston

The Village at Tuscan Lakes Amenities

Amenities in the community include a 12,000 square-foot clubhouse where residents can work out in the fitness center. The clubhouse also has a multi-purpose room, a library, an arts and crafts studio, a billiards table, a catering kitchen, and a ballroom.

Outside, there is a patio, pool, and putting green, as well as horseshoe, bocce ball, and shuffleboard courts. Residents can also use the walking and biking trails or go fishing in the stocked pond.

Nearest Medical Facilities to The Village at Tuscan Lakes

The community is serviced by the UTMB Health League City Campus Hospital (3.6 miles).

7. Wellspring at Tamarron

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $288K 1,595 – 2,694 sq. ft. 109 Single-family

Nestled within the master-planned community of Tamarron in the Katy-Fulshear area, Wellspring is a gated neighborhood for adults over 55. The community’s location in Tamarron makes it one of the best 55+ communities in Houston because it provides easy access to healthcare facilities, restaurants, and retail stores along I-10, the Westpark Tollway, and Grand Parkway.

The community consists of 109 single-family homes, ranging from 1,595 to 2,694 square feet. Homes for sale in Wellspring at Tamarron range from $250K to $310K.

Area of Town

Southwest Houston

Wellspring at Tamarron Amenities

Residents can also use The Club at Tamarron, the community’s 4-acre amenity complex which features a 4,700 square-foot clubhouse, fitness center, pools, splash parks, and a playground.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Wellspring at Tamarron

The community’s medical services mainly come from the Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital (31.3 miles).

8. Water Crest on Lake Conroe

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $290K 1,440 – 3,913 sq. ft. 31 Single-family

Located in Conroe, Texas, Water Crest on Lake Conroe is a new active retirement community built by D.R. Horton. It features 31 single-family homes that range in size from 1,440 to 3,913 square feet and with a median home value of $290K.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

Water Crest on Lake Conroe Amenities

Residents of Water Crest on Lake Conroe can enjoy the clubhouse that also serves as a community center for the subdivision. For those who are inclined towards outdoor activities, Lake Conroe is located nearby and is perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports.

What’s great about this community is that the amenities are not only for residents — even visiting family members can enjoy them too. The grandchildren of residents can have fun in the playground, while family members will appreciate the lap and resort-style pools and the patio and cabanas beside the pools.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Water Crest on Lake Conroe

The nearest medical facility to the community is the HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe (9.6 miles).

9. Heritage Grand in Cinco Ranch

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $300K 1,425 – 2,858 sq. ft. 650 Single-family and duplex

Heritage Grand is one of the most popular 55+ communities in Katy TX. It’s located west of Houston, in Katy’s master-planned community Cinco Ranch.

The community consists of 552 single-family and 98 duplex homes, ranging from 1,425 to 2,858 square feet. Homes for sale in Heritage Grand at Cinco Ranch range from $215K up to $470K.

Area of Town

Southwest Houston

Heritage Grand in Cinco Ranch Amenities

Residents of Heritage Grand have access to a 14,000 square-foot grand clubhouse with a ballroom that hosts events. It also has pool tables, a library, a heated pool, and a fitness center that hosts regular exercise classes.

There is a staff of five full-time assistants who oversee community activities such as weekly coffee socials, pot lucks, craft shows, fashion shows, line dancing, and monthly breakfasts. The 18-hole championship golf course at Cinco Ranch is also open to residents of Heritage Grand.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Heritage Grand in Cinco Ranch

For medical services, residents can go to the Grand Medical Clinic (1.2 miles) in Cinco Ranch.

10. Bellavita at Green Tee

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $300K 1,500 – 2,400 sq. ft. 675 Single-family

Bellavita at Green Tee is another one of the 55 plus communities in Pearland TX. The neighborhood features an 11-acre lake and walking trails and has easy access to Beltway 8 and Interstate 45.

The construction of Bellavita homes began in 2001 and was completed in 2012. Homes for sale at Bellavita at Green Tee range from $207K – $294K, with a median price of $300K.

Area of Town

Southeast Houston

Bellavita at Green Tee Amenities

At the center of the community is the 14,000 square-foot clubhouse featuring a state-of-the-art fitness center, a computer room, a ballroom with a stage, and a room for playing shuffleboard, table tennis, and billiards. Regular activities in Bellavita include line dancing, yoga, Bible study, game day, canasta, and poker.

Residents can also play golf at the Green Tee Country Club, which also features two tennis courts and an outdoor pool.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Bellavita at Green Tee

Residents of Bellavita can go to Memorial Hermann Healthcare (2.3 miles) for their medical needs.

11. Windsor Hills

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $330K 1,733 – 2,738 sq. ft. 443 Single-family

Windsor Hills is a 55 and over community located in The Woodlands. It’s a great place for those who want to live an active lifestyle during their retirement years since it’s just a 30-mile drive to the Sam Houston National Forest and Huntsville State Park. The W.G. Jones State Forest is also just nearby.

Built from 1999 to 2000 by Lennar Homes, the community offers 443 single-family homes with a median home value of $330K. Homes here range in size from 1,733 to 2,738 square feet.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

Windsor Hills Amenities

Club Windsor is the community clubhouse for Windsor Hills residents that features an outdoor resort-style pool and a spa area. It also boasts of a fitness center, a billiards lounge, an arts and crafts room, a library and a computer room, and a multi-use room with a catering kitchen.

Windsor Hills also has a variety of social clubs (garden, French, and bridge) and other social activities (movie nights, ping pong nights, parties and other social events) that residents can look forward to regularly.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Windsor Hills

For medical services, residents can go to CHI St. Luke’s Health-The Woodlands Hospital (1.4 miles) and the Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center (4.0 miles).

12. Bonterra at Woodforest

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $360K 1,606 – 3,063 sq. ft. 700 Single-family

Nestled 5 miles north of The Woodlands, Bonterra is a 55+ resort-style community in the master-planned community of Woodforest, one of the best golf communities in Houston.

Construction began in 2014 and continues today, and Bonterra is expected to have 700 single-family homes by Taylor Morrison and Darling Homes when completed. Homes for sale in Bonterra at Woodforest range from $255,000 to $505,000.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

Bonterra at Woodforest Amenities

Residents of Bonterra at Woodforest can enjoy community amenities such as a lagoon-style pool, hike and bike trails, and a clubhouse where a lifestyle director plans activities and events for members.

Residents also have access to amenities in Woodforest, including a 27-hole championship golf course, tennis and basketball courts, several parks, and 90 acres of retail and commercial establishments.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Bonterra at Woodforest

Medical services nearby include CHI St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital (16.4 miles) and RediClinic North Woodlands (9.2 miles).

13. Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $370K 1,344 – 2,878 sq. ft. 700 Single-family

Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch is a gated, resort-style community located in Fulshear. Its location provides easy access to Interstate 10, George Bush Intercontinental Airport and to a variety of dining and entertainment options. It is considered as one of the best retirement communities for singles in Houston because of its welcoming atmosphere and wide range of activities that make it easy to spark new relationships.

Homes for sale in Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch range from 1,344 to 2,878 square feet and are priced from $200K to $400K.

Area of Town

Southwest Houston

Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch Amenities

At the center of Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch is The Bonterra Clubhouse, which features a resort-style pool, a spa, a fire pit, an event lawn, a card and billiards room, and bocce and pickleball courts.

The Weston Lakes Country Club that has an 18-hole, par-72 course is also located nearby.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch

Medical facilities nearby include Memorial Hermann Urgent Care Fulshear (2.6 miles), Memorial Hermann Medical Group Firethorne (4.9 miles), and Grand Medical Clinic (7.6 miles).

14. Del Webb The Woodlands

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $430K 1,263 – 2,796 sq. ft. 262 Single-family

Del Webb The Woodlands is one of the many Del Webb communities in Texas and is one of the best 55+ retirement communities located at 230 Connemara Drive, The Woodlands.

The construction of homes in Del Webb The Woodlands began in 2016 and was finished in 2017. It is one of those retirement community homes from $400000 in Houston Texas since homes for sale here range from $280K to $510.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

Del Webb The Woodlands Amenities

Residents of Del Webb The Woodlands can enjoy the 14,000 square-foot clubhouse that features a state-of-the-art fitness center and an indoor pool. They can also take advantage of the scenic trails nearby, or play a game of tennis and bocce ball inside the community.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Del Webb The Woodlands

For medical services, residents can go to CHI St. Luke’s Health-The Woodlands Hospital (6.4 miles) or to Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center (7.8 miles).

15. Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands

Median Home Price Size of Homes Number of Homes Types of Homes $200K – >$1M 1,300 – 1,500 sq. ft. 3,000 TBA

Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands will be the newest master-planned community in Houston, set to debut in Willis in 2020. According to developer Caldwell Companies, Chambers Creek will feature more than 3,000 homes on 1,200 acres northwest of the intersection of I-45 and FM 1097. This will make it the largest 55+ community in the Greater Houston area.

Homes for sale in Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands will range from the $200K to more than $1M.

Area of Town

Northwest Houston

Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands Amenities

This upcoming community will have a clubhouse, a wellness and fitness center, a golf course, and hike and bike trails.

Nearest Medical Facilities to Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands

Chambers Creek Ranch is being built near Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center (20.8 miles).

What Are Over 55 Living Communities?

There are several 55 communities in Houston Texas that offer fantastic amenities and are located near world-class medical centers. To help you out, we've done the research and ranked only the best 55+ communities in this easy-to-follow guide so you can easily see which is the best active retirement community for you.

Over 55 living communities are residential communities that cater to adults 55 and over who do not want or require services provided in traditional senior living communities.

The question “What are over 55 living communities?” can also be rephrased to “What are active adult communities?” since these communities can also sometimes be referred to as active adult communities, or age-qualified communities, or even retirement communities.

How Do 55 and Over Communities Work?

55 and over communities are often gated, and their facilities are usually geared towards the needs of those aged 55 and above. This means that their amenities are set up to promote a healthy lifestyle for people who are of retirement age or are nearing retirement age.

Typically, these types of communities are close to fitness, recreational and gathering centers, as well as groceries, restaurants and shopping establishments.

And while they don’t offer assistance with daily living activities such as personal care, medication, and meals, 55+ communities offer independent living and relatively maintenance-free housing.

An additional monthly fee usually covers maintenance of shared spaces and home exteriors, including landscaping, yard maintenance, gutter cleaning, and snow removal.

There are two types of active retirement communities:

Age-restricted – As the name suggests, these communities are restricted to people aged 55 and above. Age-targeted – These communities are also targeted towards people aged 55 and above but unlike age-restricted communities, age-targeted communities don’t explicitly disallow anybody aged below 55 to reside there.

Active retirement communities are also popular among empty nesters who prefer living in a neighborhood that doesn’t have a lot of children.

If you are an older adult and would like to maintain independence and privacy, you might want to consider residing in an active adult community.

What to Look For in Over 55 Living Communities

Knowing what to look for in over 55 retirement communities is of the utmost importance. This is where you'll be spending your Golden Years so you must learn how to evaluate an over 55 retirement community. Get the advice of the best Houston realtor and remove the guesswork when shopping for the best 55+ community to live in.

These are the things that you should look for when shopping around for a 55+ living community:

Location Cost House/Lot size Amenities Number of homesites Proximity to medical care

1. Location

One of the things that make a property desirable is its location.

The type of surroundings (for example, lakeside like The Heritage at Towne Lake or wooded like Amberwood at Fall Creek) can be a dealbreaker for many people, and as such, should be an important consideration for anyone looking to buy a house in one of the 55+ communities in Texas.

Some people prefer active retirement communities that are close to nature. Others, however, are more comfortable living near retail, dining, and entertainment establishments. If that’s the case, then it’s in their best interest to check out a 55+ community that’s located near the city center.

Also, proximity to family members and relatives is another factor that you should consider before buying a house in a 55 and over community.

2. Cost

When buying a home, one of the primary factors that you should consider is your budget. Can you afford the properties being offered in 55+ communities?

Property tax is also another important consideration. Most 55+ communities are located in high-end areas, and therefore, are more likely to have higher property tax rates.

Aside from the cost of property tax and insurance, there is also usually a required buy-in fee to get into the community.

There are also maintenance fees and homeowners association fees that you should factor in when choosing a 55+ community to buy a home in. This is due to the added costs of maintaining shared space and amenities.

The scope of what the dues cover varies per community, but usually includes lawn service, cable, and security measures such as alarm systems.

3. House/Lot Size

A common misconception with the 55+ crowd is that they want to downsize, but in reality, only around a quarter of people aged 55 and above are open to that idea. Most will usually want something that’s similar to their old or current homes.

This is why the size of the house should matter a lot for anyone looking to move into an active retirement community. When deciding on the size of the house and/or lot, you can probably ask yourself some of these questions:

Will your family need a couple of spare rooms whenever they visit?

Would you need a bigger kitchen in case cooking and/or baking is an important part of your retirement?

Will a woodworking area be a nice addition to the house?

For someone with a green thumb, is a pocket garden preferred or do you like a home with a large yard instead?

Are you still working and if yes, would you need office space in your new home?

Consider the type of lifestyle you’d want to maintain and the amount of space you will need. Downsizing is still advisable for those who want to reduce living costs, but we highly recommend doing the math before making the change.

4. Recreational Amenities

The types of amenities and activities that are available in a retirement community can greatly affect your quality of life. Walking trails and community gardens tend to be a staple, and many offer resort-style amenities such as pools, spas, and clubhouses.

Those who enjoy golf will benefit from living in golfing communities like CountryPlace or Heritage Grand in Cinco Ranch. Courts for tennis, pickleball, and other sports are also available in some areas.

Those who would rather stay indoors might prefer a library or arts and crafts rooms, which are common among neighborhoods for 55 and over.

Active adult communities these days aim to provide a wide variety of amenities that encourage maintaining and healthy lifestyle — it’s all a matter of choosing which ones you’ll enjoy most.

5. Number of Homesites

Do you want to be part of a small community or a large one? If you prefer a more intimate atmosphere, smaller communities like Water Crest on Lake Conroe with only 31 single-family homes and Amberwood at Fall Creek with 58 single-story homes would probably be best for you.

If you prefer to socialize, on the other hand, Del Webb Sweetgrass with 1,500 homes might be a good choice.

Larger communities like that tend to have more amenities spread across a large space to accommodate a bigger number of residents, which means that you’ll have a lot of chances to interact with more people.

6. Proximity to Medical Care

Since active adult communities don’t offer health care like typical retirement homes do, it is important to consider the proximity of medical facilities to a community.

Most of these neighborhoods are commonly situated near medical facilities and hospitals, so there’s usually no need to worry. Also, when you live in Houston, there’s peace of mind in knowing that world-class care is within reach anytime at the Texas Medical Center.

Tips for Living in an Active Retirement Community

Making the move to an active retirement community is a huge life decision, but it doesn't have to be difficult. As long as you're prepared and you know what to expect, then your transition to an active adult community will be a breeze.

Moving to an active retirement community can be hard for some people for a couple of reasons: it can be costly, plus they’ll be leaving their old friends and family behind and moving out of a place they’ve called home for years.

But it doesn’t have to be hard. With these tips, transitioning to an active retirement community can be easy, and may even be fun.

1. Be financially prepared

As mentioned above, there are many costs associated with moving to an active adult community. There’s the cost of the property itself, and then there are property taxes, insurance, buy-in fee, maintenance fees, HOA fees, etc.

Researching about these costs beforehand — and saving up for them — can make your transition into an active adult community easier.

2. Decorate your new home

Moving into your new home in a 55+ community will definitely make you miss your family and friends, but decorating can help make it easier for you.

Take out family heirlooms or sentimental pieces and display them around your new house — it can be a family photo, a wedding portrait, or a favorite piece of artwork. Anything that has emotional value for you is fair game and can help make your new place feel more like home.

3. Let go of non-essentials

That being said, consider getting rid of things you don’t need or possessions that don’t hold any sentimental value for you. It will make your new home look and feel less cluttered, and it will also save you from having to organize regularly (unless organizing is something you like doing).

Another advantage of throwing or storing away non-essential objects is it will give you the space for newer, better furniture or decor that can help make your new home feel more like you.

4. Ask your loved ones to visit or call you regularly

Living in a 55+ community doesn’t mean that you’ll be cut off from your old friends and family forever. Constant communication is key.

Ask your family to call or visit you constantly, or invite your old friends over and introduce them to the other residents in the community. That way, it will feel like you’ve never really left home at all.

5. Make new friends

Get to know the other residents of the community! Go out with them for brunch or join a community activity with them.

You and your neighbors are all in this together, and making new connections will surely make your stay in an active adult community something you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.

6. Try out the amenities

The amenities and services are just some of the reasons why you picked a particular active adult community, so why don’t you take advantage of them?

Join a fitness class, check out the library, go golfing — all those amenities are there for your enjoyment, so go ahead and enjoy them.

Pros and Cons of Active Adult Communities

With all the available information out there about the advantages and disadvantages of 55 plus communities in Houston, it can be confusing when making a decision on whether you should buy a property in an active retirement community. Get the advice of the best 55+ active community Houston realtor to guide your home buying experience and avoid making a costly mistake.

Before deciding to invest in a property, it is important to be fully aware of the pros and cons of living in a 55+ community. Here are some general advantages and disadvantages of choosing to buy a home in an active adult community:

What are the Benefits of a 55+ Community?

1. Low-maintenance Living

Residents of an active adult community can enjoy the benefits of homeownership without the high amount of effort that’s usually associated with owning a home.

To keep the community low-maintenance for its residents, 55+ communities have monthly association fees that already cover the maintenance of home exteriors such as landscaping, yard maintenance, gutter cleaning, and snow removal.

Homes in these communities are designed for single-floor living (with a few exceptions, but the master bedroom is always on the first floor) and may be equipped with features that make daily activities easier for those who are experiencing difficulties that are associated with aging.

2. Security

The best retirement communities for active adults offer residents a safe living environment by providing security provisions.

Gated communities in particular, such as Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch, limit the traffic passing through the community.

3. Amenities

Active adult communities often provide resort-style amenities such as pools, clubhouses, and golf courses.

They also offer planned activities and fitness programs to encourage residents to enjoy an active lifestyle, as well as to provide opportunities to socialize.

4. Location

Many 55 and older communities are purposely situated in areas with easy access to dining, retail, and entertainment centers. Medical facilities are also just a few miles away.

However, they are often still far enough from other residential areas with a younger demographic so the residents of 55+ communities can enjoy peace and quiet.

What are the Disadvantages of Living in a 55 Plus Community?

1. Age Requirements

Due to age requirements usually put in place in active adult communities, younger family members won’t be able to take advantage of this real estate investment.

If it’s an age-restricted community, then anyone below 55 cannot use the property without at least one resident being 55 years of age. Children are typically not allowed to become full-time residents.

Age-targeted communities are more lenient, but it’s best to call ahead and make sure what their age-specific guidelines are before going ahead and buying a property there.

2. Lack of Age Diversity

While adults below 55 and children may be allowed to visit for a limited time, some residents might not enjoy living in a community that doesn’t have a lot of diversity when it comes to age.

3. Absence of Medical Care Within the Community

Unlike assisted living communities, independent living communities do not include medical services or other additional care services for its residents.

A resident that requires medical services at any point during their residency are expected to find their own support.

Fortunately, most of the top active adult communities in Houston have built their neighborhoods in close proximity to the best medical facilities in the city.

Is an Active Adult Community Right for You?

Over 55 living communities are becoming more and more popular for an increasing number of Baby Boomers who are set to retire, and it’s not hard to see why.

Homes in 55+ communities are easier to maintain, and they have the advantage of being closer to amenities and services that are tailored to the boomer crowd.

If you like living a low-maintenance lifestyle, then an active adult community may be right for you. Since maintenance and security are just some of the perks offered by 55+ communities, you can rest easy knowing that your yard and entire surroundings are safe and are being maintained regularly — all without you breaking a sweat.

And because there are people who take care of the maintenance and security for you, you’ll be able to have more time on your hands to do the things you love.

You can travel the world or visit your old friends and relatives from out of state without worrying about your home. It’s all about having flexibility and having a lock-and-leave lifestyle in your retirement years.

If you like leading an active lifestyle, then you’ll be glad to know that golf courses and fitness centers are also popular amenities in 55+ communities so you can stay fit and active as you go towards your 60s and beyond.

Also, if you like living in a close-knit neighborhood full of people your age, then an active adult community is definitely the perfect place for you. As you age, your interests change, and it can be comforting to be with people who share the same interests as you.

It’s also not surprising that people within the same age range have similar experiences, and it’s easier to get along with people who understand the references you make, or why you do the things you do.

And let’s face it: children and teenagers can be too loud and boisterous sometimes. Living in an active retirement community is your chance to relax, enjoy your retirement years, and be with people who prefer the same noise levels as you.

On the other hand, if you are concerned about all the costs associated with 55+ communities, then an over 55 living community might not be right for you.

Also, if you have medical needs that require immediate or constant attention, then active adult communities might not be the perfect fit for you as well, even though they are typically located near medical centers.

If that’s the case, then you might consider checking out an assisted living community instead.

Bottom line is, living in a 55+ community is a wonderful experience if you like living a low-maintenance, secure lifestyle with lots of exciting amenities that you can enjoy with people your own age.

If, however, you’re concerned about costs or you have medical concerns that need immediate and regular support, then an over 55 living community might not be right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are a lot of questions in people's minds around 55 plus neighborhoods and so we try to break down the answers for you here. If you have more questions about the best 55 communities or about retiring in Houston in general, don't hesitate to contact us so we can help answer them.

Who can live in a 55 and over community?

The simple answer is that people who are aged 55 or older can live in a 55 and over community.

However, it’s not always as simple as that. Some age-restricted communities set 55 years old as the minimum age for residents, but they can also allow younger spouses/partners and children as long as they are at least 40 years old and 18 years old, respectively.

Some, however, set the minimum age for other people in the household at 49 years old. It really depends on the rules and regulations of the specific 55 and over community.

Now it’s important to note that the Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of dwellings based on familial status. However, the Housing for Older Persons Act exempts “housing for older persons” from the Act’s prohibition of discrimination against families with children in two categories:

All units are occupied by persons 62 years of age or older; or

At least 80% of occupied units in the community house at least one person aged 55 or older

Do you have to be 55 to buy in a 55 community?

No, you don’t have to be 55 to buy in a 55 community.

You can be younger than 55 and still be able to buy a home in a 55 community as long as one of the people living in the house is aged 55 or older.

Can I rent in a 55 community?

Yes, you can rent in a 55 community as long as you fulfill the age requirements of the community you’re renting a home in. Check the bylaws of the specific 55 community you’re planning to rent in to see if you fulfill their requirements.

What are hidden costs of 55 and over communities?

The hidden costs of 55 and over communities are costs related to property upkeep, landscaping, security and safety, and community management.

The more amenities there are in the community, or the most exclusive the community is, the more costs there are for living in it.

What are the restrictions in a 55+ community?

The restrictions in a 55+ community vary per community, but they usually apply to the age of residents and family members who are living in the community, the duration of extended visits, and the use of amenities and community services.

Many people ask how strict are 55 and over communities. The good news is, some are not that strict.

In terms of age, many communities actually allow family members who are younger than 55 as long as one of the residents is 55 or older. However, bear in mind as well that some communities restrict the minimum age of family members to 18 years old.

in terms of the duration of extended visits, come communities only allow family members to stay for one month (sometimes longer) to make sure that they won’t be a long-term disturbance to other residents within the community.

And in terms of usage of amenities and services, the restrictions vary per community. Some restrict homeowners from making extreme changes to the exterior facade of their homes if those changes have not been approved by the HOA. Some prohibit loud parties that extend well into the night. It all really depends on the community which particular restrictions they want to enforce.

Is senior housing a good investment?

Yes, senior housing is a good investment for several reasons — especially in Houston, Texas.

First, the senior housing market in Houston is thriving as Baby Boomers are retiring en masse and developers are creating more master-planned communities to keep up with the demand. As an example, the opening weekend for Bonterra at Woodforest alone saw 1,800 people showing up, which didn’t use to happen before.

Second, if you’re planning to buy a home in one of the best over 55 communities in Texas for purposes of renting it out, you’ll find that seniors are stable tenants. Unlike students or young couples, seniors are unlikely to move out and change houses for a long time.

Third, the senior housing market is, for all intents and purposes, resistant to recession. Seniors will always need the services and amenities provided for in active adult housing no matter the state of the economy.

Who builds the best over 55 communities in Houston?

The following developers build the best over 55 communities in Houston:

Del Webb (Del Webb Sweetgrass, Del Webb Woodlands, The Village at Tuscan Lakes)

D.R. Horton (Wellspring at Tamarron, Water Crest on Lake Conroe)

Village Builders, K. Hovnanian and Lennar Homes (Heritage Grand in Cinco Ranch, Bellavita at Green Tee, Windsor Lakes The Woodlands, Windsor Hills)

Taylor Morrison and Darling Homes (Bonterra at Woodforest, Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch)

David Weekley Homes (Heritage at Towne Lake)

Caldwell Communities (Chambers Creek Ranch in The Woodlands)

Dunhill Homes (Amberwood at Fall Creek)

U.S. Homes (CountryPlace)

Why is Houston great for senior living?

Houston is especially great for senior living because of the low cost of living, affordable housing, and world-class healthcare.

Houston also doesn’t have a state income tax, which makes it an attractive place to retire in. The warm climate is another major factor why many seniors are choosing to retire in the best active retirement communities in Houston.

Why is there a demand for active adult communities in Houston?

There’s a demand for active adult communities in Houston because of the increasing number of Baby Boomers who are retiring and want to downsize.

With their buying power and their desire for a lock-and-leave lifestyle, boomers are fuelling the active adult real estate market in Houston.