Looking for 55 and older communities in Southwest Florida? From luxury active adult communities in Naples to affordable retirement communities in Fort Myers, SWFL offers options for every lifestyle and budget. Whether you're researching Del Webb, Cresswind at Lakewood Ranch, or independent communities near the Gulf, this comprehensive guide compares the 15 best 55+ communities in Southwest Florida for 2026 --- with current pricing, amenities, golf access, stay-and-play programs, and insider insights to help you find your perfect active retirement home.
This article contains affiliate links. If you book through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our local content.
Quick Navigation: Naples Area | Fort Myers | Bonita Springs | Sarasota | Comparison Chart | How to Choose
Need city-specific shortlists first? Start here:
- 55 and Over Communities in Naples, Florida
- 55 and Over Communities in Fort Myers, Florida
- 55 and Over Communities in Sarasota, Florida
Quick Answers: 55+ Communities in Fort Myers, Naples, and SWFL
If you're searching for active retirement communities in Southwest Florida, here's the fastest way to compare:
- Best value in Fort Myers: Pelican Preserve and Del Webb at Babcock Ranch
- Most upscale in Naples area: Isles of Collier Preserve and Fiddler's Creek
- Best for long-term care security: Shell Point and Vi at Bentley Village (CCRC model)
- Best balance of price and location: Bonita Springs and Estero communities
Most buyers researching "55+ communities in Fort Myers" are optimizing value and healthcare access, while "55 and over communities in Naples FL" usually prioritizes lifestyle amenities and proximity to beaches, golf, and dining.
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. If you're still deciding whether Southwest Florida is the right fit, our complete guide to retiring in Southwest Florida covers everything from healthcare to lifestyle.
- Climate: 260+ sunny days annually with mild winters averaging 65-75 degrees 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 provide nationally ranked care
- Outdoor lifestyle: Golf, beaches, boating, and nature preserves year-round --- see our guide to the best golf courses in SWFL for course details
- 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
- Affordability range: From budget-friendly Cape Coral to luxury Naples, there's a price point for everyone --- check our SWFL cost of living comparison for city-by-city breakdowns
Naples Area Communities
Naples commands the highest home prices in Southwest Florida, but it also delivers the region's most refined dining, shopping, and cultural scene. The trade-off is worth it for many retirees --- read our guide to retiring in Naples for a full overview of the area.
1. Isles of Collier Preserve
Kayak trails and Gulf-access marina set Isles of Collier Preserve apart from typical 55+ communities
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. Residents regularly organize group kayak outings, sunset cruises from the marina, and nature photography walks through the preserves.
- 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
Book a scouting trip to tour 55+ communities in person
Find Naples Area Hotels →
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. The community also offers a private beach club on Marco Island with shuttle service, giving residents convenient Gulf access without the cost of beachfront living.
- 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, private beach club on Marco Island
- 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)
The 32,000-square-foot Oasis Club anchors the Del Webb Naples lifestyle 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. Ave Maria itself adds small-town charm with its own shops, restaurants, and a water park --- a nice bonus when grandchildren visit. The trade-off is location: Ave Maria is a 30-minute drive from downtown Naples, so you'll want to be comfortable with a quieter, more self-contained lifestyle.
- 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
Best 55+ Communities in Fort Myers
Fort Myers is the most popular area for 55+ communities in Southwest Florida --- and for good reason. Homes cost 20-40% less than comparable properties in Naples, and the Fort Myers area delivers excellent healthcare through Lee Health, easy airport access via RSW, and a revitalized River District downtown with restaurants, galleries, and waterfront parks. For a complete picture of the area, see our guide to retiring in Fort Myers.
The Fort Myers and greater Lee County area offers more 55+ communities than any other part of SWFL, ranging from budget-friendly condos starting around $250,000 to luxury waterfront estates. Whether you prioritize golf, healthcare continuity, solar-powered sustainability, or simply the best value per square foot, Fort Myers has a 55+ community to match.
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 --- making it one of the most accessible 55+ communities in Fort Myers for a range of budgets.
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. Having a full-service restaurant, bank, and doctor's office inside the community means residents can handle daily errands without leaving the gates. The 27-hole championship golf course is one of the best in Lee County and offers bundled memberships for residents.
- 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, on-site medical offices, bank
- 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: pelicanpreservelifestyles.com
Stay nearby while you tour communities and explore the area
Find Fort Myers Hotels →
5. Del Webb at Babcock Ranch
Babcock Ranch runs entirely on solar power and withstood Hurricane Ian with no damage
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 generated by a 870-acre solar field, and the community proved its resilience by emerging unscathed from Hurricane Ian in 2022 while surrounding areas suffered significant damage --- a major selling point for hurricane-conscious retirees.
The community features Del Webb's signature amenities plus access to Babcock Ranch's town-wide offerings including Founder's Square with shops and restaurants, Table & Tap restaurant, a lakefront beach park, and over 50 miles of trails for biking, walking, and nature exploration. All power lines are buried underground, and the town's fiber-optic internet delivers reliable connectivity throughout.
- 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 Babcock Ranch town amenities including shops, restaurants, lakes, and 50+ miles of trails
- Golf: Courses nearby in Fort Myers and Punta Gorda
- 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. 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 as your needs evolve.
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, which means decisions are made with residents' well-being rather than shareholder returns in mind. Shell Point's location on the river is stunning --- residents can watch manatees, dolphins, and spectacular sunsets from their own homes.
The on-campus Larsen Health Center offers everything from outpatient rehabilitation to 24-hour skilled nursing, so couples where one partner needs more care don't have to live apart. The community's performing arts series brings nationally touring acts to its own concert hall.
- 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, church
- 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
7. 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 from many homesites.
The architectural style leans modern, with open floor plans, large lanais, and energy-efficient features that appeal to buyers who want newer construction without the price tag of Naples. The community clubhouse includes a full fitness center, resort-style pool, and outdoor sports courts. Nature is the main draw --- the adjacent Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary features a 2.25-mile boardwalk through one of the largest old-growth bald cypress forests in North America, and residents enjoy preserve views and regular wildlife sightings from their backyards.
- Builder: Pulte Homes
- Homes: 700+ single-family homes
- Price range: $350,000 - $550,000
- HOA fees: ~$275-350/month
- Amenities: Clubhouse, resort-style pool, fitness center, pickleball, bocce, nature trails, dog park, event lawn
- Golf: Nearby courses in Estero and Fort Myers
- Best for: Nature lovers, those seeking newer construction at moderate prices
- Proximity: Adjacent to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 15 minutes to Estero, 20 minutes to Fort Myers
- Website: pulte.com
8. Brightwater by Del Webb (Fort Myers)
The newest Del Webb community in Southwest Florida, Brightwater is currently under development in the Fort Myers area. This is generating significant interest among buyers who want the Del Webb brand at pre-construction pricing. Early buyers can take advantage of introductory prices while securing preferred lot positions and floor plans before the community fills out.
Brightwater will feature Del Webb's signature resort-style amenities including a community clubhouse, pool complex, fitness center, and sports courts. The Fort Myers location provides easy access to RSW Airport, Gulf beaches, and the growing dining and entertainment scene in the River District. As the community is still in development, pricing and amenity details continue to evolve --- contact Del Webb directly for the most current information.
- Builder: Del Webb (PulteGroup)
- Status: Under development (2025-2026)
- Price range: Starting from high $300,000s
- Amenities: Community clubhouse, pool, fitness center, sports courts (details evolving)
- Best for: Buyers wanting new Del Webb construction in Fort Myers at introductory prices
- Website: delwebb.com
Plan Your Southwest Florida Scouting Visit
Compare short-stay options and local tours so you can evaluate neighborhoods in person.
Affiliate link - we may earn a commission
Plan Your Week in Southwest Florida
Use these high-intent guides to plan where to stay, what to do, and what to book next.
Southwest Florida Guide
Start with our full local guide to Southwest Florida neighborhoods, dining, and attractions.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Events
Find festivals, markets, concerts, and local happenings for the week ahead.
Open GuideBest Things to Do in Southwest Florida
High-intent itinerary ideas for visitors and locals.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Restaurant Guide
Find top-rated spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Beach Guide
Find the best beach access points, parking, and sunset spots.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Retirement Guide
Review neighborhoods, lifestyle fit, and retirement costs.
Open GuideKeep Planning in Southwest Florida
Bonita Springs Communities
Bonita Springs sits between Fort Myers and Naples, giving residents access to both areas within a 20-minute drive. It's a sweet spot for retirees who want Naples-adjacent living at more moderate prices. Learn more in our guide to retiring in Bonita Springs.
9. 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 like quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and tile roofs, while the HOA handles all exterior maintenance including lawn care, landscaping, and painting. Residents regularly cite the social calendar as the community's standout feature --- with over 100 clubs and activities ranging from pottery and woodworking to pickleball leagues and wine tasting groups, there's no shortage of ways to stay active and connected.
- 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, woodworking shop
- 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
10. Vi at Bentley Village
Vi at Bentley Village combines luxury independent living with on-campus healthcare in North 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. The dining program is a standout --- residents choose from multiple on-campus restaurants with menus that rival Naples' best, all included in monthly fees. The campus also features a full-service salon, heated pools, and a performing arts center with regular concerts and lectures.
- 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, salon, library
- 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
11. Bonita National Golf & Country Club
An age-qualified community by Lennar, Bonita National offers new construction homes with included golf membership --- a significant value proposition when area golf memberships can run $10,000-$50,000 annually. The community features two 18-hole championship courses plus comprehensive amenities centered around the 18,000-square-foot clubhouse.
The "Everything's Included" pricing model means the listed price covers premium finishes, appliances, and golf membership with no hidden upgrade costs. Homes range from attached coach homes to spacious single-family estates, and the community's location near US-41 provides easy access to both Bonita Beach and the dining and shopping along the Estero corridor. For golfers comparing options, check our guide to the best golf courses in SWFL.
- 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, pro shop
- 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
Book a stay in Bonita Springs to explore communities at your own pace
Find Bonita Springs Hotels →
Sarasota Area Communities
Sarasota draws retirees who prioritize arts, culture, and a slightly more cosmopolitan vibe. The city's downtown is walkable, its beaches consistently rank among America's best, and the cultural scene --- anchored by the Ringling Museum and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall --- rivals much larger cities. Explore more in our guide to retiring in Sarasota.
12. 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 coastal-inspired design aesthetic and its own robust programming. Lakewood Ranch Main Street provides a town-center experience with restaurants, shops, a movie theater, and regular community events --- it functions like a small downtown right in your backyard. The development has been one of the top-selling master-planned communities in the U.S. for several years running.
- 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, farmers markets, and community events
- 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
13. The Isles of Sarasota
The Isles of Sarasota provides intimate waterfront living along the Braden River with kayak access
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.
The riverfront setting means residents enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing right from the community dock, while the 18,000-square-foot clubhouse delivers the social and fitness amenities you'd expect from a much larger development. Minto's build quality and included features are well-regarded, and the location near I-75 makes it easy to reach downtown Sarasota, UTC Mall, and the beaches.
- 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 center, kayak launch, nature trails, sports courts, event space
- 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
14. 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.
With over 2,000 homes, Valencia Lakes has the critical mass to support dozens of clubs, regular social events, and a full-time lifestyle director. The community's restaurant and bar serve as a daily gathering spot, and the arts studios, card rooms, and sports courts ensure there's always something to do. Location-wise, Wimauma puts you roughly equidistant between Sarasota and Tampa, giving you access to both metros for dining, healthcare, sports, and airport options.
- 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, bar, arts studios, card rooms, sports courts
- 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
Stay in Sarasota while you tour Lakewood Ranch, Isles of Sarasota, and Valencia Lakes
Find Sarasota Hotels →
15. Valencia Grand (Boynton Beach)
While slightly outside our Southwest Florida focus, GL Homes' Valencia Grand in Boynton Beach represents the cutting edge of 55+ community design. Its innovative amenities --- including a resort-style water park, outdoor amphitheater, and culinary studio --- signal where the next generation of SWFL communities is headed. If you're comparing communities across all of Florida, Valencia Grand is worth a visit to see what GL Homes can do at scale.
- Builder: GL Homes
- Homes: 2,000+ single-family homes
- Price range: $400,000 - $800,000
- HOA fees: ~$400-500/month
- Amenities: 60,000+ sq ft clubhouse, water park, amphitheater, culinary studio, fitness, sports courts
- Best for: Those comparing GL Homes communities across Florida
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/FM | $300K-$650K | No | No | Eco-conscious |
| Shell Point | Fort Myers | Varies | Yes | Yes | Lifetime care |
| The Preserve at Corkscrew | Fort Myers | $350K-$550K | No | No | Nature, new builds |
| Brightwater by Del Webb | Fort Myers | From high $300Ks | TBD | No | New construction |
| Valencia Bonita | Bonita Springs | $450K-$900K | No | No | Social, maintenance-free |
| 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). Our best golf courses in SWFL guide covers both community and public courses.
Healthcare security: If having lifetime care matters, consider CCRCs like Shell Point or Vi at Bentley Village. Both offer independent living through skilled nursing on a single campus.
Budget: Entry-level communities start in the $250,000s (Pelican Preserve condos), while luxury can exceed $1.5M. Compare monthly expenses across cities in our cost of living comparison. The biggest cost differences between cities come down to property taxes and insurance --- our Naples vs. Fort Myers comparison breaks down the numbers.
Maintenance-free living: GL Homes' Valencia communities include exterior maintenance in HOA fees --- lock the door and travel without worrying about the yard.
Social activities: Look for communities with dedicated lifestyle directors and robust programming. Valencia Bonita and Pelican Preserve both excel here with 100+ organized activities monthly.
Location: Consider proximity to healthcare, airports, beaches, and family. Fort Myers communities offer the best airport access (RSW), while Naples communities put you closest to upscale dining and shopping.
Storm resilience: After Hurricane Ian, communities like Babcock Ranch that demonstrated hurricane resilience are attracting increased interest. Ask about construction standards, flood zones, and community infrastructure.
Questions to Ask When Touring
- What's included in HOA fees vs. what's extra?
- What are the guest policies for family and grandchildren?
- 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?
- What happened during recent hurricanes?
- What's the average time on market for resales?
Stay and Play Programs
Most 55+ communities in Southwest Florida offer "Stay and Play" programs where prospective buyers can rent a furnished home or guest suite for a few days to a few weeks. This is the best way to experience daily life in a community before committing to purchase. Popular stay-and-play options include:
- Del Webb communities (Naples, Babcock Ranch, Lakewood Ranch) --- Typically 3-7 day guest stays with full access to amenities
- Cresswind Lakewood Ranch --- Stay-and-play packages that let you tour homes, attend social events, and experience the lifestyle
- GL Homes Valencia communities --- Guest cottage programs for prospective buyers
- Pelican Preserve --- Short-term stays with community tours and lifestyle previews
Schedule visits during both peak season (January-March) and summer to experience the community year-round. Peak season shows you the social atmosphere at its most vibrant, while summer reveals the quieter pace and heat you'll live with. For things to do while exploring the area, check our guide to things to do in Fort Myers and best boat tours in SWFL.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best 55+ communities in Fort Myers?
Top options include Pelican Preserve for amenities and value, Del Webb at Babcock Ranch for newer energy-efficient homes, and Shell Point for buyers who want continuing care options on one campus.
Are there good 55 and over communities in Naples FL?
Yes. Isles of Collier Preserve, Fiddler's Creek, and Del Webb Naples (Ave Maria) are three of the most searched and most toured options, with Naples-area pricing generally above Fort Myers.
What are active adult communities in Southwest Florida?
Active adult communities in SWFL are age-restricted neighborhoods designed for 55+ residents, typically with amenities like pools, fitness centers, pickleball, golf access, social clubs, and HOA-managed maintenance.
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 in Fort Myers to over $1.5 million for luxury homes in Isles of Collier Preserve or Fiddler's Creek in Naples. HOA fees typically run $250-600/month, though CCRCs charge significantly more for included services. Fort Myers communities generally offer the best value, while Naples commands premium pricing.
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.
Which Southwest Florida city is best for 55+ communities?
It depends on your priorities. Fort Myers offers the most communities and the best value per dollar. Naples delivers the most upscale lifestyle with premium dining and shopping. Sarasota excels in arts, culture, and walkable downtown living. Bonita Springs provides a middle ground between Naples and Fort Myers pricing. Read our Naples vs. Fort Myers retirement comparison and Naples vs. Sarasota comparison for detailed breakdowns.
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. Some communities limit pets to two and may restrict certain large breeds.
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. Some communities are more lenient than others --- ask during your tour.
Are 55+ communities a good investment in Southwest Florida?
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. Southwest Florida's continued population growth and limited land supply support long-term appreciation in quality communities.
What is the best time to visit 55+ communities in SWFL?
January through March is peak season, when communities are most active socially and you'll see the full lifestyle in action. However, this is also the busiest time for sales offices. Visiting in late October or April gives you pleasant weather with smaller crowds. Summer visits (June-September) let you experience the heat and quieter pace.
Plan Your SWFL Community Tour
Find hotels while exploring 55+ communities across SWFL
Browse Fort Myers Hotels → | Browse Naples Hotels →
Discover local experiences and get to know the area before you move
Fort Myers Tours → | Naples Tours →
More Southwest Florida Retirement Guides
Continue your research with these related guides:
- Retiring to Southwest Florida: Complete 2026 Guide --- Overview of all SWFL retirement communities and lifestyle
- Retiring to Naples: Complete 2026 Guide --- Deep dive into Naples living, costs, and neighborhoods
- Retiring to Fort Myers: Complete 2026 Guide --- Fort Myers area insights, healthcare, and lifestyle
- Retiring to Sarasota: Complete 2026 Guide --- Sarasota area culture, beaches, and communities
- Retiring to Bonita Springs Guide --- Bonita Springs area overview
- Naples vs. Fort Myers: Where to Retire --- Side-by-side comparison of SWFL's two most popular cities
- Naples vs. Sarasota Comparison --- Culture, cost, and lifestyle compared
- Cost of Living: SWFL Cities Compared --- City-by-city cost breakdown
- Best Golf Courses in Southwest Florida --- Top courses for community golfers
- Things to Do in Fort Myers --- Explore Fort Myers before you move
- Best Restaurants in Naples --- Where to dine in Naples
Considering a 55+ community not on our list? Let us know and we'll check it out!
