You’ve found your dream home in The Villages®. The golf carts, the town squares, the concerts, the clubs—it all fits your lifestyle. But then comes the big question: Can I even live here if I’m under 55?
The short answer? Sometimes yes—but let’s unpack the details.
The 80/20 Rule: What It Means in The Villages®
The Villages® operates under the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), a federal law that allows age-restricted communities to legally limit residency to older adults—usually 55 and up. But the rule isn’t absolute.
HOPA allows a 55+ community to remain compliant as long as 80% of its occupied homes have at least one resident age 55 or older. The remaining 20% can be younger—if the community allows it.
The Villages® has historically followed this 80/20 guideline, which means a limited number of buyers under 55 may be allowed to live here. However, approval is not required. If you’re under 55 and considering a home in The Villages®, you won’t go through an application process—but it’s still wise to confirm the current ratio of age-qualified residents and understand the rules around children.
Other 55+ communities may enforce stricter residency reviews, occupancy applications, or board approvals. The Villages®, however, is more streamlined and market-driven.
Kids in The Villages®: Can Children Live Here?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions I get. Here’s the clear answer:
Children under the age of 19 are not allowed to live full-time in The Villages®.
They can, however, visit—and that’s where the flexibility comes in. Each grandchild (or child under 19) is allowed to visit for up to 30 days per calendar year.
That means your grandkids are welcome to come visit, enjoy the pools, participate in Camp Villages®, and experience the fun—but they can’t live here year-round.
What’s the Average Age in The Villages®?
According to TheVillagesCommercialProperty.com, the average age in The Villages® is 62 for men and 60 for women. This aligns with what you see throughout the community—residents enjoying an active, energetic lifestyle during their early retirement years or even just before retirement.
It also means that being under 55 doesn’t automatically make you an outlier—but you will likely be younger than most of your neighbors.
What If You Want to Raise a Family Near The Villages®?
If you’re looking for a similar style of home and neighborhood but need a more flexible family living situation, you’re in luck. The developers of The Villages® have built several non-age-restricted neighborhoods in the surrounding area that offer the same high standards and proximity to everything The Villages® has to offer.
These include:
- Oxford Oaks
- Bison Valley
- Spring Arbor
- Oak Meadows
These communities allow families, have no age restrictions, and still give you access to the convenience of nearby shopping, entertainment, and medical facilities.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy in The Villages® If You’re Under 55?
If you’re considering buying a home in The Villages® and you’re under 55, you’re not alone—and it may still be possible. The 80/20 rule creates a window of opportunity for younger buyers to join this vibrant community, especially if you’re close to the age threshold and don’t have young children living with you.
While The Villages® does not require formal approval for under-55 buyers, it’s important to work with a real estate professional who understands how HOPA applies, what trends are affecting buyer eligibility, and how to identify homes that suit your goals.
I’ve sold over 1,000 homes in The Villages® and know the ins and outs of age restrictions, lifestyle options, and nearby alternatives.
Have questions? Ready to start your home search?
Search ChrisDayHomes.com or contact me directly—I’m here to help.