Southwest Florida has become the premier destination for active adults seeking the perfect blend of resort-style amenities, year-round sunshine, and vibrant social communities. From the luxury of Naples to the affordability of Fort Myers, the region offers 55+ communities to match every lifestyle and budget. This comprehensive guide covers the 15 best 55+ communities in Southwest Florida for 2026, with pricing, amenities, and insider insights to help you find your perfect retirement home.
Quick Navigation: Naples Area | Fort Myers | Bonita Springs | Sarasota | Comparison Chart
What Makes Southwest Florida Ideal for 55+ Living?
Before diving into specific communities, here's why SWFL consistently ranks among America's top retirement destinations:
- Climate: 260+ sunny days annually with mild winters averaging 65-75°F
- No state income tax: Florida doesn't tax retirement income, Social Security, or pensions
- World-class healthcare: NCH Healthcare, Lee Health, and Sarasota Memorial systems
- Outdoor lifestyle: Golf, beaches, boating, and nature preserves year-round
- Cultural amenities: Artis-Naples, Barbara B. Mann Hall, Van Wezel, and countless galleries
- Airport access: RSW (Fort Myers) and SRQ (Sarasota) offer direct flights nationwide
Naples Area Communities
1. Isles of Collier Preserve
Isles of Collier Preserve offers luxury within a nature sanctuary
Set within 2,400 acres of natural preserve along the Cypress Waterway, Isles of Collier Preserve by Minto offers an unparalleled combination of luxury living and environmental stewardship. This isn't your typical 55+ community—it's an eco-conscious sanctuary just minutes from downtown Naples.
The community features 1,600 homes connected by 16 miles of kayak and paddleboard trails, plus a private marina with Gulf access. The 35,000-square-foot Overlook Bar & Grill serves as the social hub, complete with resort-style pool, spa, fitness center, and tennis courts.
- Builder: Minto Communities
- Homes: 1,600 single-family and attached villas
- Price range: $500,000 - $1.5M+
- HOA fees: ~$400-600/month
- Amenities: Private marina, 16 miles of waterways, kayak/paddleboard center, fitness center, resort pool, tennis, pickleball, bocce, fire pit, dog park
- Golf: No on-site course (multiple courses nearby)
- Best for: Nature lovers, kayakers, those seeking luxury with eco-consciousness
- Proximity: 5 miles to downtown Naples, 10 miles to beaches
- Website: mintofla.com
2. Fiddler's Creek
One of Naples' most prestigious master-planned communities, Fiddler's Creek spans 3,931 acres and offers 18 distinct neighborhoods ranging from condos to custom estates. While not exclusively 55+, the community attracts a significant active adult population with its world-class amenities.
The Club & Spa at Fiddler's Creek features 54,000 square feet of resort amenities including multiple pools, a full-service spa, and fitness facilities. Golf enthusiasts enjoy two championship courses: The Creek Course and The Golf Club.
- Developer: Gulf Bay Group
- Homes: 6,000+ residences across 18 neighborhoods
- Price range: $300,000 - $3M+ (varies by neighborhood)
- HOA fees: ~$500-1,500/month (varies by neighborhood)
- Amenities: 54,000 sq ft clubhouse, multiple pools, spa, fitness center, tennis, pickleball, 18-hole championship courses (2), marina
- Golf: Two 18-hole courses (The Creek and The Golf Club)
- Best for: Golf enthusiasts, those seeking variety in home styles
- Proximity: 15 minutes to downtown Naples, 20 minutes to Marco Island
- Website: fiddlerscreek.com
3. Del Webb Naples (Ave Maria)
Del Webb Naples features resort-style amenities in Ave Maria
Located in the master-planned town of Ave Maria, Del Webb Naples brings the trusted Del Webb brand to Southwest Florida. The community offers a more affordable entry point to the Naples area while maintaining the exceptional amenities Del Webb is known for.
The 32,000-square-foot Oasis Club serves as the social and fitness hub, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and an events lawn for community gatherings.
- Builder: Del Webb (PulteGroup)
- Homes: 1,500+ planned single-family homes
- Price range: $350,000 - $700,000
- HOA fees: ~$250-350/month
- Amenities: 32,000 sq ft Oasis Club, indoor/outdoor pools, fitness center, tennis, pickleball, bocce, walking trails, events lawn
- Golf: Access to Ave Maria's championship course
- Best for: Value-seekers wanting Del Webb quality near Naples
- Proximity: 30 minutes to downtown Naples, 25 minutes to Fort Myers
- Website: delwebb.com
Fort Myers Communities
4. Pelican Preserve
The largest active adult community in Lee County, Pelican Preserve offers over 20 floor plans across single-family homes, attached villas, and condominiums. The 2,400-acre community features three distinct villages, each with its own character and price point.
The crown jewel is the 70,000-square-foot Pelican Preserve Town Center, featuring dining, retail, medical offices, and the spectacular Club at Pelican Preserve with resort-style amenities.
- Builder: WCI Communities (Lennar)
- Homes: 3,500+ residences
- Price range: $250,000 - $600,000
- HOA fees: ~$300-450/month
- Amenities: 70,000 sq ft Town Center, 27-hole golf course, multiple pools, fitness center, spa, tennis, pickleball, full-service restaurant
- Golf: 27-hole championship course
- Best for: Those seeking a self-contained community with on-site conveniences
- Proximity: 15 minutes to Fort Myers Beach, 10 minutes to RSW Airport
- Website: pelicanpreserve.com
5. Del Webb at Babcock Ranch
Del Webb at Babcock Ranch is America's first solar-powered town
Set within America's first solar-powered town, Del Webb at Babcock Ranch offers sustainable living in a 55+ environment. The entire town runs on solar energy, and the community proved its resilience by emerging unscathed from Hurricane Ian while surrounding areas suffered significant damage.
The community features Del Webb's signature amenities plus access to Babcock Ranch's town-wide offerings including Founder's Square, Table & Tap restaurant, and miles of trails.
- Builder: Del Webb (PulteGroup)
- Homes: 1,000+ planned
- Price range: $300,000 - $650,000
- HOA fees: ~$250-300/month
- Amenities: Community clubhouse, pool, fitness center, pickleball, bocce, plus access to town amenities
- Golf: Courses nearby in Fort Myers
- Best for: Eco-conscious buyers, those prioritizing storm resilience
- Proximity: 20 minutes to Fort Myers, 25 minutes to RSW Airport
- Website: delwebb.com/babcock-ranch
6. Valencia Bonita
Part of the acclaimed GL Homes Valencia portfolio, Valencia Bonita in Bonita Springs delivers resort-style living with an impressive 52,000-square-foot clubhouse. The community is known for its outstanding social programming and maintenance-free lifestyle.
GL Homes' "Everything's Included" approach means homes come standard with premium finishes, while the HOA handles all exterior maintenance including lawn care and painting.
- Builder: GL Homes
- Homes: 1,100+ single-family homes
- Price range: $450,000 - $900,000
- HOA fees: ~$450-550/month (includes lawn, exterior maintenance)
- Amenities: 52,000 sq ft clubhouse, resort pool, spa, fitness center, tennis, pickleball, bocce, bistro restaurant, card rooms, arts studios
- Golf: No on-site course (many nearby)
- Best for: Social butterflies, those wanting maintenance-free living
- Proximity: 10 minutes to Bonita Beach, 20 minutes to Naples
- Website: glhomes.com
7. Shell Point Retirement Community
Unlike typical 55+ communities, Shell Point is a Life Plan Community (CCRC) offering independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care all on one campus. The 700-acre waterfront property on the Caloosahatchee River provides security knowing all levels of care are available.
Independent living residents enjoy resort-style amenities while having access to healthcare services if needed in the future. The community is run by the nonprofit Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation.
- Operator: Shell Point Retirement Community (nonprofit)
- Homes: Independent living apartments, villas, and homes
- Price range: $200,000 - $1M+ (entrance fee) plus monthly fees
- Monthly fees: $2,500 - $5,000+ (includes some services)
- Amenities: 18-hole golf course, waterfront dining, fitness center, pools, marina, on-site healthcare, performing arts center
- Healthcare: Full continuum including assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care
- Best for: Those wanting guaranteed lifetime care, waterfront living
- Proximity: Waterfront on Caloosahatchee River, 10 minutes to downtown Fort Myers
- Website: shellpoint.org
8. The Preserve at Corkscrew
One of Fort Myers' newer 55+ communities, The Preserve at Corkscrew by Pulte Homes offers contemporary designs in a natural setting adjacent to the famous Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. The community emphasizes outdoor living with extensive trails and preserve views.
- Builder: Pulte Homes
- Homes: 700+ single-family homes
- Price range: $350,000 - $550,000
- HOA fees: ~$275-350/month
- Amenities: Clubhouse, pool, fitness center, pickleball, bocce, trails, dog park
- Golf: Nearby courses in Estero
- Best for: Nature lovers, those seeking newer construction at moderate prices
- Proximity: Adjacent to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 15 minutes to Estero
- Website: pulte.com
Bonita Springs Communities
9. Vi at Bentley Village
Vi at Bentley Village offers luxury CCRC living in Naples
One of Southwest Florida's most prestigious Life Plan Communities, Vi at Bentley Village combines luxury independent living with the security of on-site healthcare. The 156-acre campus features lush landscaping, multiple dining venues, and a robust calendar of activities.
Unlike many CCRCs, Vi offers both club membership (monthly rental) and equity ownership options, providing flexibility in how you structure your investment.
- Operator: Vi Living
- Homes: 748 independent living residences (apartments, villas, homes)
- Price range: Club membership or equity ownership available
- Monthly fees: $4,000 - $10,000+ (includes dining, many services)
- Amenities: Multiple restaurants, fitness center, pools, spa, golf, arts center, on-site healthcare
- Healthcare: Assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing on campus
- Best for: Those seeking luxury CCRC with multiple financial options
- Proximity: North Naples, near Pelican Bay
- Website: viliving.com
10. Bonita National Golf & Country Club
An age-qualified community by Lennar, Bonita National offers new construction homes with included golf membership. The community features two 18-hole championship courses plus comprehensive amenities centered around the 18,000-square-foot clubhouse.
- Builder: Lennar
- Homes: 1,700+ single-family and attached homes
- Price range: $350,000 - $700,000
- HOA fees: ~$350-500/month (includes golf)
- Amenities: 18,000 sq ft clubhouse, two 18-hole courses, pool, fitness, tennis, pickleball, restaurant
- Golf: Two championship 18-hole courses (included in HOA)
- Best for: Golfers wanting included membership, Lennar's "Everything's Included" value
- Proximity: 10 minutes to Bonita Beach, 15 minutes to Estero
- Website: lennar.com
Sarasota Area Communities
11. Lakewood Ranch Active Lifestyle Communities
The massive Lakewood Ranch master plan includes several 55+ neighborhoods, with Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch and Cresswind Lakewood Ranch being the most prominent. The 33,000-acre development offers unmatched variety in housing, dining, and activities.
Del Webb's community features the 25,000-square-foot Wisteria Club with pools, fitness, and social spaces, while Cresswind by Kolter offers a distinct design aesthetic and programming.
- Builders: Del Webb, Kolter, others
- Homes: Thousands across multiple 55+ neighborhoods
- Price range: $300,000 - $800,000+
- HOA fees: ~$250-500/month (varies by neighborhood)
- Amenities: Each neighborhood has its own clubhouse plus access to Lakewood Ranch Main Street shops and dining
- Golf: Multiple courses within Lakewood Ranch
- Best for: Those wanting small-town feel with big amenities
- Proximity: 20 minutes to Sarasota, 30 minutes to beaches
- Website: lakewoodranch.com
12. The Isles of Sarasota
The Isles of Sarasota offers waterfront active adult living
A boutique 55+ community by Minto, The Isles of Sarasota provides luxury waterfront living on 285 acres along the Braden River. The intimate scale (under 600 homes) creates a close-knit community while still offering resort-caliber amenities.
- Builder: Minto Communities
- Homes: 575 single-family homes
- Price range: $450,000 - $900,000
- HOA fees: ~$400-500/month
- Amenities: 18,000 sq ft clubhouse, resort pool, fitness, kayak launch, trails, sports courts
- Golf: No on-site course (many nearby)
- Best for: Those seeking intimate community with waterfront access
- Proximity: 15 minutes to downtown Sarasota, 20 minutes to beaches
- Website: mintofla.com
13. Valencia Lakes
GL Homes' Valencia Lakes in Wimauma (between Tampa and Sarasota) offers exceptional value with the brand's signature resort-style amenities. The 60,000-square-foot clubhouse anchors a community known for outstanding social programming and maintenance-free living.
- Builder: GL Homes
- Homes: 2,000+ single-family homes
- Price range: $300,000 - $600,000
- HOA fees: ~$350-450/month (includes lawn maintenance)
- Amenities: 60,000 sq ft clubhouse, pools, fitness, tennis, pickleball, restaurant, arts studios
- Golf: No on-site course
- Best for: Value-seekers wanting GL Homes quality at lower price point
- Proximity: 30 minutes to Sarasota, 40 minutes to Tampa
- Website: glhomes.com
Emerging Communities
14. Brightwater by Del Webb (Fort Myers)
The newest Del Webb community in Southwest Florida, Brightwater is currently under development in Fort Myers. Early buyers can take advantage of pre-construction pricing while securing preferred lot positions.
- Builder: Del Webb (PulteGroup)
- Status: Under development (2025-2026)
- Price range: Starting from high $300,000s
- Details: Check Del Webb website for current availability
15. Valencia Grand (Boynton Beach)
While slightly outside our Southwest Florida focus, GL Homes' Valencia Grand represents the future of 55+ living with innovative amenities and home designs that may soon appear in SWFL communities.
Community Comparison Chart
| Community | Location | Price Range | Golf | CCRC | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isles of Collier Preserve | Naples | $500K-$1.5M+ | No | No | Nature lovers |
| Fiddler's Creek | Naples | $300K-$3M | Yes | No | Golf, variety |
| Del Webb Naples | Ave Maria | $350K-$700K | Yes | No | Value + Del Webb |
| Pelican Preserve | Fort Myers | $250K-$600K | Yes | No | Self-contained |
| Del Webb Babcock Ranch | Punta Gorda | $300K-$650K | No | No | Eco-conscious |
| Valencia Bonita | Bonita Springs | $450K-$900K | No | No | Social, maintenance-free |
| Shell Point | Fort Myers | Varies | Yes | Yes | Lifetime care |
| Vi at Bentley Village | Naples | Varies | Yes | Yes | Luxury CCRC |
| Bonita National | Bonita Springs | $350K-$700K | Yes | No | Included golf |
| Lakewood Ranch | Sarasota | $300K-$800K+ | Yes | No | Town amenities |
| Isles of Sarasota | Sarasota | $450K-$900K | No | No | Intimate waterfront |
| Valencia Lakes | Wimauma | $300K-$600K | No | No | Value |
How to Choose the Right 55+ Community
Consider Your Priorities
Golf: If golf is essential, prioritize communities with on-site courses and bundled memberships (Pelican Preserve, Fiddler's Creek, Bonita National)
Healthcare security: If having lifetime care matters, consider CCRCs like Shell Point or Vi at Bentley Village
Budget: Entry-level communities start in the $250,000s (Pelican Preserve condos), while luxury can exceed $1.5M
Maintenance-free living: GL Homes' Valencia communities include exterior maintenance in HOA fees
Social activities: Look for communities with dedicated lifestyle directors and robust programming
Location: Consider proximity to healthcare, airports, beaches, and family
Questions to Ask
- What's included in HOA fees vs. what's extra?
- What are the guest policies?
- Are there mandatory membership fees beyond HOA?
- What's the age restriction (55+ vs. 80/20 rules)?
- How is the community managed (self-managed vs. management company)?
- What major capital improvements are planned?
Visit Before You Buy
Schedule visits during both peak season (January-March) and summer to experience the community year-round. Most communities offer "Stay and Play" programs where prospective buyers can rent for a few days or weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "55+" mean in Florida communities?
Florida law allows communities to restrict residency to households where at least one person is 55 or older. Most communities require 80% of occupied units to have at least one resident 55+, while the remaining 20% must have residents 45+. Children under 18 typically cannot be permanent residents but may visit.
How much do 55+ communities cost in Southwest Florida?
Prices range from around $250,000 for condos in communities like Pelican Preserve to over $1.5 million for luxury homes in Isles of Collier Preserve or Fiddler's Creek. HOA fees typically run $250-600/month, though CCRCs charge significantly more for included services.
What's the difference between a 55+ community and a CCRC?
Standard 55+ communities sell homes and offer lifestyle amenities but no healthcare services. CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities) like Shell Point and Vi at Bentley Village offer independent living plus guaranteed access to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing on the same campus—usually for an entrance fee plus monthly charges.
Do 55+ communities allow pets?
Most communities allow pets with restrictions on size, breed, and number. Policies vary, so ask before purchasing. Many communities have dog parks and pet-friendly amenities.
Can grandchildren visit 55+ communities?
Yes, grandchildren can visit. However, most communities limit the length of visits (typically 30-90 days per year) and prohibit children from using adult-only amenities like pools during certain hours.
Are 55+ communities a good investment?
Homes in well-established 55+ communities typically hold their value well and can appreciate, especially in desirable locations like Naples and Sarasota. However, the resale market is limited to buyers meeting age requirements. CCRCs have different financial structures and may not build equity the same way.
More Southwest Florida Retirement Guides
Continue your research with these related guides:
- Retiring to Southwest Florida: Complete 2026 Guide — Overview of all SWFL communities
- Retiring to Naples: Complete 2026 Guide — Deep dive into Naples living
- Retiring to Fort Myers: Complete 2026 Guide — Fort Myers area insights
- Retiring to Sarasota: Complete 2026 Guide — Sarasota area guide
- Best Restaurants in Naples — Where to dine in Naples
- Best Restaurants in Bonita Springs — Bonita dining guide
Considering a 55+ community not on our list? Let us know and we'll check it out!
