The Villages, Florida

The Villages: Retirement at its Best

The Villages is the largest retirement community in the world, located in Central Florida, 45 miles northwest of Orlando and 20 miles south of Ocala, in the counties of Sumter, Marion and Lake. The Villages has emerged as a premier retirement destination, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, world-class amenities, and a vibrant community. With its meticulously planned neighborhoods, abundant recreational opportunities, and a strong emphasis on active living, this remarkable community provides the perfect setting for an exceptional retirement experience.

History

The Villages started in the 1970s when business partners Harold Schwartz and Al Tarrson started a mobile home park. By the 1980s, Schwartz bought out Tarrson and brought his son H. Gary Morse, acquired more land and developed a retirement community. By the 1990s, under the new name The Villages, the community contained three golf courses, restaurants, the first Winn Dixie supermarket, and nightly events. Today, the Morse family still controls the community, spans 57 square miles, and continues acquiring more land towards the south and southwest.

Recreation

From the charming town squares to the state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, The Villages has thoughtfully designed every aspect to cater to the needs and desires of its residents. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant social scene, a plethora of recreational activities, or simply a peaceful and welcoming environment, The Villages has something to offer for everyone. The Villages has 12 championships plus 38 executive golf courses, over 100 recreation facilities with 89 pools, thousands of weekly activities, three Town Squares and a myriad of restaurants and shops. Future development will bring more neighborhoods, shopping, dining, businesses, recreation and entertainment.

Real Estate

One of the significant advantages of retiring in The Villages is its affordable cost of living. While the community offers a luxurious and amenity-rich lifestyle, the cost of housing and daily living expenses remain relatively reasonable compared to other popular retirement destinations.

The diverse range of housing options, from villas to single-family homes, ensures that residents can find accommodations that suit their budget and preferences. 

Click here to learn more about the future development at The Villages.