Introduction: Why Everyone Is Talking About The Villages® in 2025

The Villages®, Florida continues to be the #1 master-planned retirement community in America, known for its lifestyle, golf-cart culture, endless amenities, and vibrant social life. Whether you’re researching 55+ communities, planning a relocation to Florida, or simply curious about the hype, this comprehensive 2025 guide will walk you through what it’s really like to live in The Villages®.

As a Realtor who has sold 1,000+ homes in The Villages® over the past two decades, I’ve watched this community grow, evolve, and truly become one of the most desirable places for active adults.

🏡 What Is It Like Living in The Villages®, Florida?

Living in The Villages® means resort-style amenities, warm weather year-round, and a lifestyle built around fun, friends, and freedom. Most days feel like vacation—except you actually live here.

Residents enjoy:

• Over 3,600+ clubs and activities

• 50+ golf courses (free executive golf for residents)

• Daily live entertainment at the town squares

• More recreation centers than most cities

• 100+ miles of golf-cart accessible trails

• Shopping, dining, and medical care built right into the community

It’s an all-in-one lifestyle where everything is just a golf-cart ride away.

🌞 Is The Villages® a Good Place to Retire in 2025?

Absolutely. The Villages® offers one of the most active and socially connected lifestyles of any retirement community in the country.

Top Reasons People Retire in The Villages®

• Low taxes & no state income tax

• World-class healthcare nearby

• Nearly perfect weather for outdoor living

• A sense of community and belonging

• Activities for every interest—from golf to pickleball to art clubs

• A safe, well-maintained, highly organized environment

• New homes and resale homes in every price range

Whether you’re 55 or 85, there is no shortage of things to do or people to meet.

💰 Cost of Living in The Villages® (2025)

Cost of living is one of the most frequently searched topics for potential residents. While costs vary by home and location, here are the common expenses:

1. Home Prices

Homes range from:

• Low $200s–$300s for patio villas

• $350s–$600s for designer homes

• $800K–$1.5M+ for premier and golf-front properties

• New construction south of 44 continues to expand options

2. Amenity Fee

Around $199/month (adjusts annually). Covers recreation, executive golf, pools, and most amenities.

3. Property Taxes

Generally lower than many states.

Most buyers pay $3,000–$6,000 annually, depending on home size and bond.

4. Bond & CDD Fees

Common throughout The Villages®.

Ranges from $0–$70,000, paid annually or in full.

5. Utilities

Expect:

• $100–$200 electric

• $50–$70 water

• $60–$120 internet

Bottom Line: The Villages® is extremely affordable compared to many major retirement areas.

🏘️ Best Villages & Neighborhoods to Live In

Every neighborhood in The Villages® has its own charm, character, and community feel.

Popular Areas Include:

• Lake Sumter Landing area – historic charm and central location

• Brownwood Paddock Square area – western theme, vibrant nightlife

• Spanish Springs area – the original Village with classic architecture

• Village of Collier & Hillsborough – near Brownwood

• Village of Fenney, Marsh Bend & Citrus Grove – modern amenities & nature trails

• Village of St. Catherine & Richmond – newer developments with waterfront features

With over 100+ Villages, there is truly a place for every lifestyle.

⛳ Golf in The Villages®

The Villages® is known as the golf capital of the world with more golf holes than any community in America.

You’ll find:

• 50+ golf courses

• 13 championship courses

• More than 40 executive courses

• Free green fees on all executive courses

• Professional-level facilities and pro shops

Whether you’re new to golf or a lifelong player, you’ll never run out of places to play.

🚴 Activities, Clubs & Entertainment

You could live here for 20 years and still not try everything.

Popular activities include:

• Pickleball

• Softball

• Tennis

• Swimming

• Archery

• Dancing

• Arts & crafts

• Card clubs

• Fitness classes

• Travel groups

• Investing clubs

• Veterans groups

• Photography

• Line dancing

• Wine clubs

• Woodworking

And yes… every night there’s live entertainment at all three squares.

🚑 Healthcare in The Villages®

Healthcare is a major reason people move here.

The Villages® is surrounded by:

• UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital

• AdventHealth multiple locations

• VA Clinics

• Orlando-area specialists within a short drive

• Dozens of private practices and urgent care centers

You’re never far from care.

🏡 Buying a Home in The Villages® in 2025

Whether you’re looking for a villa, designer home, golf-front property, or a new construction, The Villages® offers something in every price range.

Important Insight:

Homes move fast here. People often research online for months, then fly in and buy within a day or two.

That’s where having an experienced agent matters.

With 20+ years of experience, 1,000+ closings, and deep local expertise, I help buyers:

• Understand pricing and neighborhoods

• Navigate bonds, CDDs, and amenity fees

• Compare new vs resale

• Make the right long-term choice

🏠 Selling a Home in The Villages®

If you’re selling, the market is competitive—but presentation and strategy matter.

My approach includes:

• Professional photography & drone

• Virtual staging

• Aggressive MLS + online exposure

• Social media marketing

• Weekly market updates

• Open-houses

• A proven pricing strategy that moves homes faster

Homes that are priced correctly, presented well, and marketed professionally always sell first.

📲 Thinking About Moving to The Villages®? I Can Help.

Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to schedule a visit, I’m here to help you navigate the process.

👉 Visit:  https://ChrisDayHomes.com

Search every home for sale, browse open houses, and explore The Villages® lifestyle.

👉 Call/Text Chris Day:

 (352) 988-7777

20+ years experience | 1,000+ closings | Local expert | Broker

👉 Email:  Chris@ChrisDayHomes.com

 

⭐ Final Thoughts: Why The Villages® Is the #1 Place to Retire in 2025

The Villages® offers unmatched amenities, endless recreation, affordable living, Florida sunshine, and a community built around connection and enjoyment. Whether you’re moving from across the country or relocating from another Florida city, The Villages® continues to set the standard for active adult living.