12 Luxury Golf Retirement Communities That Offer Resort-Style Living

Golf retirement communities draw many retirees. The Villages in Florida is a prime example, with 711 holes of golf spread across 14 championship and 42 executive courses—more than any other community in the world.

These communities mix golf with comfortable living. Naples, Florida has over 90 golf courses and leads the U.S. in golf holes per capita. Scottsdale, Arizona has about 200 courses with ideal weather from October through April. Pinehurst, North Carolina, known as the "Home of American Golf," has 40 courses. Most offer amenities beyond golf.

We looked at 12 top golf retirement communities across the country, examining course design and monthly costs. Independent living in Florida averages around $3,067 per month, while Arizona runs closer to $2,738. Here are the communities worth considering.

• Naples, Florida
  • Naples, Florida community overview
  • Golf course features in Naples, Florida
  • Resort-style amenities in Naples, Florida
  • Pricing and housing options in Naples, Florida
    
    Naples offers independent living communities, assisted living facilities, and memory care units. Senior living here costs more than the national average, reflecting the location and services provided. Independent living typically runs $3,
• Scottsdale, Arizona
  • Scottsdale, Arizona community overview
  • Scottsdale has about 200 golf courses at all skill levels. Championship courses designed by prominent architects sit alongside casual options. Many are set in the Sonoran Desert, where the natural landscape creates challenging play with bunkers, water hazards, and rolling greens. Most courses include practice areas, pro shops, and dining.
  • Resort-style amenities in Scottsdale, Arizona
  • Pricing and housing options in Scottsdale, Arizona
    
    Scottsdale attracts seniors seeking a high quality of life, combining desert scenery with city conveniences. The city has independent living communities, assisted living facilities, and memory care centers. Understanding costs matters when making this decision. Scottsdale offers many choices,
• Hilton Head, South Carolina
  • Hilton Head community overview
  • Golf course features in Hilton Head
  • Resort-style amenities in Hilton Head
  • Pricing and housing options in Hilton Head
    
    Hilton Head Island has various senior living options: independent living communities with amenities and assisted living facilities with daily support. Costs depend on care level, housing type, and amenities. Independent living apartments typically range from $
• Pinehurst, North Carolina
  • Pinehurst community overview
  • Golf course features in Pinehurst
  • Resort-style amenities in Pinehurst
  • Pricing and housing options in Pinehurst
• Hot Springs Village, Arkansas
  • Hot Springs Village community overview
  • Golf course features in Hot Springs Village
  • Hot Springs Village offers resort-style senior living with recreational facilities and services tailored to residents. The community has nine championship golf courses, tennis courts, walking trails, and fitness centers. Residents can stay active and socialize. Hot Springs Village is known for its comfort and community feel.
  • Pricing and housing options in Hot Springs Village
• Jupiter, Florida
  • Jupiter community overview
  • Golf course features in Jupiter
  • Resort-style amenities in Jupiter
  • Pricing and housing options in Jupiter
• Bend, Oregon
  • Bend community overview
  • Golf course features in Bend
  • Resort-style amenities in Bend
  • Pricing and housing options in Bend
• St. Simons Island, Georgia
  • St. Simons Island has golf courses for all skill levels. The Sea Island Golf Club, which has hosted PGA Tour events, sits alongside public courses. The island is known for golf, with both private and public courses set into its natural landscape. Live oaks draped in Spanish moss and marsh views dominate the scenery.
  • Senior living communities on St. Simons Island include golf courses, swimming pools, dining options, and wellness programs. Residents enjoy comfortable living supported by the island's natural beauty.
  • Pricing and housing options in St. Simons Island
    St. Simons Island has independent living, assisted living, and memory care options. Costs vary by care type, amenities, and location. Independent living facilities typically range from $2,500 to $4,500 monthly, while assisted living runs $3,500 to $6,000. Memory care, which provides specialized support for cognitive decline, usually starts at $5,000 and can exceed $8,000 per month. These are estimates—contact facilities directly for exact pricing and what's included.
  • Kiawah Island, South Carolina
• Kiawah Island community overview
  • Golf course features in Kiawah Island
  • Resort-style amenities in Kiawah Island
  • Pricing and housing options in Kiawah Island
    
    Kiawah Island has villas, condominiums, single-family homes, and oceanfront estates. Real estate here is expensive, reflecting its exclusivity and amenities. Prices vary based on location, size, and features. Villas and condominiums generally start in the mid-$500,000s, and single
  • Fairfield Glade, Tennessee
• Fairfield Glade community overview
  • Golf course features in Fairfield Glade
  • Resort-style amenities in Fairfield Glade
  • Pricing and housing options in Fairfield Glade
  • The Villages, Florida
• The Villages community overview
  • Golf course features in The Villages
  • Resort-style amenities in The Villages
  • Pricing and housing options in The Villages
  • Lakewood Ranch, Florida
• Lakewood Ranch community overview
  • Golf course features in Lakewood Ranch
  • Resort-style amenities in Lakewood Ranch
  • Pricing and housing options in Lakewood Ranch
  • Comparison table
• Conclusion
• FAQs
• Naples, Florida

Naples is known as the "Golf Capital of the World," with over 70 golf communities offering more than 1,700 golf holes. The tropical climate supports year-round golf with comfortable temperatures and over 300 days of sunshine annually.

Naples community overview

Naples sits on Florida's Southwest Gulf Coast. The city has clean beaches with 40 access points along its 9-mile coastline. Beyond golf, residents have cultural attractions, upscale shopping, and good restaurants nearby. Everglades National Park, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, and wildlife preserves are easily accessible.

Golf course features in Naples, Florida

The area has many courses designed by golf legends. Lely Resort Golf & Country Club has 54 holes designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Lee Trevino, and Gary Player. TPC Treviso Bay offers courses for professional players and weekend golfers alike. Private communities like Gray Oaks Country Club have multiple championship courses. The Golf Club at Fiddlers Creek has ranked in the top 100 residential courses in the U.S. for 15 consecutive years.

Resort-style amenities in Naples, Florida

Naples offers many resort-style amenities for senior living. Communities provide swimming pools, fitness centers, gourmet dining, and social events. Golf courses, spas, and educational workshops are also common.

Communities like Moorings Park Grande Lake feature walking trails, bocce ball courts, putting greens, resort swimming pools, and five-star restaurants. Residents enjoy fitness centers, tennis courts, pickleball facilities, and private beach club access. Grand Living at Naples provides luxury vehicles with chauffeur service for appointments and activities. Most communities have large clubhouses with multiple dining venues, spa services, and full social calendars.

Pricing and housing options in Naples, Florida

Naples offers a variety of senior living options. Understanding costs and housing choices matters for families. Independent living communities provide golf courses, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Assisted living facilities offer personalized care, typically averaging $4,500 monthly. Memory care for those with cognitive decline usually ranges from $5,5

Housing ranges from comfortable condos to luxury estates. At Siena Lakes, one-bedroom units start at $638,000 (80% refundable entrance fee) or $447,000 (declining balance option), with monthly service packages from $4,457. Two-bedroom residences with dens reach $1,176,000. The Villages has various price points with amenities included. Most communities charge initiation fees and separate golf membership fees.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale has about 200 desert golf courses set against mountains and Sonoran Desert scenery. Located in Arizona's "Valley of the Sun," this popular retirement spot offers luxury living and year-round sunshine.

Scottsdale community overview

Scottsdale sits next to the McDowell Mountains with golf communities offering expansive valley views. Many developments are about 3,000 feet high. The area has convenient access to shopping, dining, and healthcare. Communities like Tonto Verde combine quiet desert living with city convenience, about 10 minutes east of Scottsdale proper.

Golf course features in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is a top golf destination with courses for all skill levels. Courses feature desert scenery, maintained fairways, and strategic designs. Golf options range from championship courses by famous architects to public links. Many have clubhouses, professional instruction, and pro shops. The Sonoran Desert backdrop with saguaro cacti and mountain views adds to the experience.

Scottsdale has many highly rated courses, several designed by famous architects. Grayhawk Golf Club offers two 18-hole layouts: the Raptor Course (which hosted a PGA Tour event) and the Talon Course, known for its challenging island green on hole 17. North of Scottsdale, The Boulders Golf Club has two championship courses designed by Jay Morrish, each stretching 6,811 yards. Desert Mountain offers six Jack Nicklaus-designed courses.

Resort-style amenities in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is popular for senior living, with many resort-style amenities. Communities offer swimming pools, fitness centers, gourmet dining, spa services, and social activities.

Beyond golf, these communities provide:

Resort pools, outdoor kitchens, and shaded courtyards

• Full-size golf simulators, fitness centers, and concierge services
• Dining from casual bistros to formal restaurants
• Maravilla Scottsdale is next to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort and TPC Scottsdale Golf Course. Vi at Silverstone has over 20 floor plans with common spaces for socializing and menus created by Executive Chef Jeff Weston.

Pricing and housing options in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale offers many senior housing options, including independent living communities with resort-style amenities and assisted living facilities with full care. Expenses vary based on care level, community services, and location. Independent living might

Housing options vary considerably. Tonto Verde offers townhomes and custom single-family homes. Desert Mountain spans 8,000 acres with residences from 2-bedroom casitas to multi-million dollar estates. Acoya Troon provides senior apartments starting from $4,995 monthly. Whisper Rock Estates features guard-gated luxury homes on 1-5 acre sites. Silverleaf includes high-end properties; a 21,150-square-foot mansion sold for $26.10 million in June 2022, a record home sale price in Arizona.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island, on South Carolina's coast, is a top golf retirement spot with lowcountry scenery and excellent amenities. Golfers will find it appealing, with coastal appeal and good living options for active retirees.

Hilton Head community overview

Hilton Head has several retirement communities, including Sun City Hilton Head, the largest active adult community in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head, inspired by Jimmy Buffett's lifestyle, is for adults 55 and older. It sits on Highway 278, 2.5 miles east of I-95 in Hardeeville, South Carolina, near Hilton Head Island. Hardeeville was ranked among the top "25 Popular Small Towns to Live in the US". The Bayshore on Hilton Head Island also offers island living with amenities.

Golf course features in Hilton Head

Hilton Head has offered golf since 1962, with over 26 championship courses designed by architects like Robert Trent Jones Sr., Pete Dye, and Jack Nicklaus. Golf Digest readers ranked the island the #10 golf destination globally. Long Cove Club appeals to seniors, with courses designed for accessibility and minimal forced carries. Alice Dye specifically designed the ladies' tees at Long Cove Club to eliminate forced carries. The Heritage Golf Collection has 117 holes of championship golf across four clubs.

Resort-style amenities in Hilton Head

Retirement communities in Hilton Head offer many amenities. Sun City Hilton Head has over $150 million in amenities, including multiple swimming pools (indoor and outdoor), clubhouse facilities, and resident-led clubs. Latitude Margaritaville includes a fitness center with spin room, cardio with virtual trainer, and weight room. The Bayshore has a pier and boat dock, a community boat for sunset cruises, waterside swings, fire pit, heated pool, spa, salon, movie theater, and dining.

Pricing and housing options in Hilton Head

In the Hilton Head area, there are 4 large communities (over 1,000 homes each), 4 medium communities (500-1,000 homes), and 2 small communities (under 500 homes). The average 55+ community has 2,224 homes, with the smallest having 62 and the largest 10,100. About 90% of these communities are gated. Homes in Hilton Head Plantation average around $1,032,597, while homes in Hilton Head Lakes average around $504,089. Average listing price for 55+ communities is about $610,629, with homes typically on the market for about 113 days.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Pinehurst, called the "Home of American Golf," offers retirees a complete golf experience. It has ten 18-hole courses, the Thistle Dhu putting course, and The Cradle short course. Pinehurst No. 11, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Cren

Pinehurst community overview

Pinehurst has a significant senior population—58.5% of residents are seniors. The gender distribution is nearly even: 49.4% male and 50.6% female. With 17,992 residents, Pinehurst offers several retirement options, including luxury assisted living. The age breakdown shows 20.1% in their 60s, 19.5% in their 70s, and 9.5% over 80.

Golf course features in Pinehurst

Beyond the Pinehurst Resort courses, the area has diverse golf options. Forest Creek, Pinewild, CCNC, Pinehurst No. 7, and Pinehurst 9 rank among the best in the region. Family memberships at Pinehurst resorts provide access to 9 championship courses for about $500 per month, including the Pinehurst No. 2 U.S. Open Course.

Resort-style amenities in Pinehurst

Luxury communities like Quail Haven Village offer resort-style amenities including:

Access to FirstHealth Fitness Center and Pinewild Country Club

• Garden apartments with emergency call systems and modern conveniences
• Dining packages, beauty salon services, and transportation
• Communities also provide outdoor swimming pools, modern fitness centers, on-site salons, and private suites with large windows. Proximity to medical facilities is a major advantage for seniors needing easy healthcare access.

Pricing and housing options in Pinehurst

Independent living in Pinehurst averages $3,277 per month, lower than North Carolina's state average of $3,647 and the national average of $4,188. Housing costs range from $2,929 monthly for studios to $5,575 for detached cottages. The area has seven small communities with fewer than 500 homes each, ranging from 57 to 240 homes. About 42.9% of 55+ communities are gated, with average home prices around $418,501.

Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

Hot Springs Village, in the Ouachita Mountain foothills, is North America's largest gated community at 26,000 acres. It provides a mountain retreat for golf enthusiasts, an alternative to coastal and desert retirement options. Historic Hot Springs is 20 minutes away, and Little Rock is 45 minutes away.

Hot Springs Village community overview

About 78.6% of the village's residents are older adults. While not exclusively for seniors, the community attracts active retirees seeking a peaceful, engaging place to live. The property has 24-hour security with manned gates and dedicated police, fire, and EMT departments. The community also has a strong social life with over 200 active clubs and organizations, offering many ways for newcomers to build connections.

Golf course features in Hot Springs Village

There are nine championship courses with 171 holes total. All designed by Ault, Clark & Associates, these courses opened over 32 years (1972-2004). Isabella Golf Club was ranked Arkansas' number one course from 2002-2006 by Golf Digest. The private Diamante Country Club once ranked 38th most difficult in the United States by Golf Digest.

Resort-style amenities in Hot Springs Village

Hot Springs Village offers many amenities. Residents enjoy nine golf courses, eleven lakes for fishing and boating, and a fitness center. The village has over 30 miles of walking trails, a performing arts center, and various club activities.

Beyond the courses:

Eleven lakes with two beaches for swimming, boating, and fishing

• Thirteen tennis courts (ten clay) and fourteen pickleball courts
• Coronado Fitness Center with indoor pool, whirlpool spa, and exercise equipment
• Thirty miles of hiking and biking trails through natural settings
• The 650-seat Woodlands Auditorium hosts about 75 cultural events each year.

Pricing and housing options in Hot Springs Village

Housing ranges from affordable townhomes to custom luxury residences, priced from $100,000 to over $1 million. Homes offer golf course, mountain, or lake views depending on preference. Assisted living averages $3,772 monthly, while independent living costs about $3,043 monthly—both below the national average of $4,118. This combination of reasonable costs and extensive amenities makes Hot Springs Village a good value for retirees wanting upscale golf community living.

Jupiter, Florida

Jupiter, Florida attracts retirees seeking upscale golf living on Florida's Atlantic coast. This waterfront area offers luxury communities and world-class golf courses for active adults in retirement.

Jupiter community overview

Jupiter, on The Riverwalk, has scenic waterfront views with wildlife and boat traffic. The town has boutique shops, local restaurants, entertainment, and cultural attractions like plays and art galleries. Clean beaches and nature preserves are good for morning walks. Jupiter is known for its exclusivity; legendary golfers like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus live here.

Golf course features in Jupiter

Jupiter has many golf courses, some designed by golf legends. Trump National Golf Club has a 7,531-yard championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Jupiter Country Club residents play a Greg Norman Signature Course with lake and fairway views. The Dye Preserve rewards good shots without severely penalizing poor ones. The Loxahatchee Club offers a challenging Jack Nicklaus course on 40 acres of greenbelt.

Resort-style amenities in Jupiter

Luxury communities in Jupiter offer exceptional amenities:

Resort swimming pools with outdoor kitchens and fire pits

• Fitness centers with wellness programs
• Gourmet dining from casual bistros to fine restaurants
• Private marinas with boat slips (Admiral's Cove has 72 slips)
• Residents also enjoy putting greens, tennis courts, pickleball facilities, and large clubhouses. Mangrove Bay provides chef-prepared meals and in-room dining service.

Pricing and housing options in Jupiter

Housing ranges from elegant condos to waterfront estates. The median listing price for retirement homes in Jupiter is $785,750. Jupiter Country Club offers luxury single-family homes and townhomes with golf views. Admiral's Cove homes range from mid-six figures to over $20 million. Luxe Senior Living features spacious private suites with separate bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens.

Bend, Oregon

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Bend's high desert setting offers excellent golf framed by the Cascade Mountains. This Central Oregon city appears regularly on "best places to retire" lists.

Bend community overview

Bend, in Central Oregon, offers small-town friendliness, good healthcare, and varied living choices. The city's population reached 94,520 in 2018, with about 20 new residents arriving daily. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities along the Deschutes River, in-city trails, and access to Mount Bachelor. Natural beauty, cultural events, and no state sales tax appeal to active retirees.

Golf course features in Bend

Bend's golf scene offers diverse courses:

Tetherow: Ranked #57 in the USA by Golf Digest, this Scottish links-style course designed by David McLay Kidd features fine fescue and Colonial Bentgrass, a combination found in only a dozen U.S. clubs.

• Juniper Preserve: Home to a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and Tom Fazio Championship Course
• Brasada Canyons: Named among "Oregon's Top 15 Courses" by Golfweek and offers "the best 18 views in the state"
• Several Bend courses offer links-style play with firm, fast conditions requiring less water and fertilizer.

Resort-style amenities in Bend

Luxury communities offer varied amenities. Juniper Preserve has a full-service spa and multiple restaurants. Brasada Ranch includes a spa with Cascade peak views. Touchmark communities provide chef-prepared meals in dining rooms, fitness studios, and salon services. Cascade Village includes a heated seasonal pool, exercise facility, and maintained green spaces.

Pricing and housing options in Bend

Independent living in Bend averages $4,431 monthly, slightly higher than Oregon's state average of $4,297. Housing includes retirement-focused manufactured homes in resort communities and luxury lodge accommodations. At Cascade of Bend, costs range from $2,522 to $6,364 monthly, averaging $4,443. Bend has diverse neighborhoods from lively downtown areas to peaceful mountain settings.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

St. Simons Island, the largest of Georgia's Golden Isles, attracts retirees with beautiful beaches, clean shoreline, and upscale golf communities. The island combines Southern charm with luxury living, making it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a golf-focused retirement.

St. Simons Island community overview

St. Simons Island combines natural beauty with refined culture. Miles of undisturbed beaches are ideal for kite surfing, sailing, and dolphin watching. Historical sites include the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and Fort Frederica National Monument, built by the British in the 1730s. The Village of St. Simons has shops, outdoor cafes, restaurants, live theater, and "Jazz in the Park" concerts.

Golf course features in St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island features several golf courses that showcase natural beauty and thoughtful design. The island provides a varied golf experience, from championship courses for experienced players to more relaxed, scenic options. These courses blend into the island's maritime forests, marshlands, and ocean views.

Golfers have several choices. Sea Palms Resort has an 18-hole course designed by George Cobb, with terrain along island lagoons and salt marshes. King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort offers an 18-hole championship course on the island's quiet north end. Jekyll Island Golf Club and Sapelo Hammock Golf Course are nearby public options.

Resort-style amenities in St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island offers many experiences for seniors wanting both relaxation and activities. The island has pristine beaches, championship golf, boutiques, and good dining alongside cultural attractions and outdoor activities like fishing, biking, and birdwatching.

Luxury communities like Marsh's Edge, a 78-acre property, offer:

Excellent dining and an active social calendar

• Award-winning wellness programs and complete care services
• Moss-draped oaks and borders on the Marshes of Glynn
• Pricing and housing options in St. Simons Island
  
  St. Simons Island offers many housing options for seniors: independent living communities with amenities, assisted living facilities with support, and specialized memory care units. Pricing varies based on care type, community services, and location.

Housing includes spacious cottages and villa apartments. At Magnolia Manor, villa apartments for independent living start from $2,647 monthly, while assisted living begins at $3,335. Sea Palms homes range from approximately $325,000 to $1,250,000. Average assisted living costs $4,419 monthly, higher than Georgia's state average of $3,583 but below the national average of $4,546.

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Island is one of South Carolina's waterfront golf retirement communities, known for its environmental care. It's considered the most sensitively developed barrier island in the country, combining championship golf with coastal living.

Kiawah Island community overview

Kiawah Island has several luxury communities, including Cassique and Ocean Park. The island offers ten miles of pristine shoreline, consistently rated among the world's finest beaches. Residents enjoy water activities in the Atlantic Ocean and saltwater marshes. The maritime forest is home to bottlenose dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles.

Golf course features in Kiawah Island

The island has seven golf courses, each with distinct character:

The Ocean Course, designed by Pete and Alice Dye, features ten oceanfront holes. It has hosted major championships including the 1991 Ryder Cup and the PGA Championships in 2012 and 2021.

• Turtle Point: Jack Nicklaus designed this challenging course with three oceanfront holes, wide fairways, and strategic lagoons.
• Osprey Point: Tom Fazio incorporated water features on fifteen holes
• Cougar Point: Gary Player's original design underwent renovation in 2017
• Golf Digest ranks the Ocean Course 25th among America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses.

Resort-style amenities in Kiawah Island

Qualifying property purchases give access to The Kiawah Island Club's exclusive amenities. Seafields, the island's first luxury independent and assisted living community opening in 2024, offers:

Fitness center designed by Technogym with group exercise classes

• Resort pool and spa services
• Multiple dining venues with healthy options
• Pricing and housing options in Kiawah Island
  
  Kiawah Island has diverse housing options and prices for different preferences and budgets. Homes range from oceanfront estates to villas in maritime forests. Prices vary with market conditions, property type, and location. Smaller villas start in the mid-$500,000s, while larger homes cost millions. Homeowners should also consider HOA fees, property taxes, and club memberships as they add to living costs.

Homes sell after an average of 70 days on the market. The median sale price over 12 months was $1,690,000, a 42% year-over-year increase. Single-family homes have a median price of $2,087,500. Seafields offers luxury homes from 903 square feet to nearly 3,000 square feet.

Fairfield Glade, Tennessee

Fairfield Glade, atop the Cumberland Plateau, is a golf retirement destination in Tennessee. This 12,500-acre community sits 2,000 feet above sea level, the highest point between the Rocky and Smoky Mountains. Residents enjoy a mild climate with four distinct seasons displaying the area's natural wooded beauty.

Fairfield Glade community overview

Fairfield Glade is near Crossville, in an area known as the "Golf Capital of Tennessee." The elevation provides quiet surroundings with lakes, wildlife, and mountain views. The community has many subdivisions and housing options. Retirees can choose homes with lake, mountain, woodland, or golf course views. The community offers 24-hour security, fire, and ambulance services.

Golf course features in Fairfield Glade

Golf enthusiasts have access to five championship courses within the development:

Stonehenge: Ranked #2 in Golfweek Magazine's "Best Courses You Can Play in Tennessee," with bentgrass tees, greens, and fairways

• Druid Hills: The oldest course, with rolling, tree-lined fairways and mountain views
• Heatherhurst offers two 18-hole layouts: the challenging Brae Course and the Crag Course
• Dorchester: Narrow fairways and water hazards on eight holes providing secluded scenic views
• Several courses host prestigious tournaments, including the Tennessee Senior State Open and the Tennessee Golf Association Father-Son Championship.

Resort-style amenities in Fairfield Glade

Fairfield Glade offers many resort-style amenities for different interests. It features golf courses, lakes, walking trails, and fitness centers supporting an active lifestyle. The community also promotes connection and well-being through clubs, social events, and volunteer opportunities.

Beyond golf, residents use eleven spring-fed lakes for boating and fishing, two beaches with marinas, and twelve tennis courts (four indoor). The community has four swimming pools (two indoor), six miles of walking trails, and three on-site restaurants. The Health and Wellness Complex includes an indoor track and modern exercise equipment. The Recreation Center has basketball courts and arts facilities.

Pricing and housing options in Fairfield Glade

Housing ranges widely, from $89,000 to over $1,000,000 depending on neighborhood and property age. New three-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family homes start in the low $200,000s. Townhomes in the Heatherhurst Country Club neighborhood start from the mid-$200,000s. Home sites range from $5,000 to over $150,000. Cumberland County property taxes are remarkably low—less than $1,000 on a $300,000 house—with an annual Community Club Assessment of just $534.

The Villages, Florida

Starting as a modest mobile home park in the 1970s, The Villages became America's largest retirement community with over 150,000 residents across three Central Florida counties. This self-sustaining town covers over 32 square miles and plans to double in size over the next 20 years.

The Villages community overview

The Villages is about an hour north of Orlando, covering over 20,000 acres with more than 60,000 homes and another 60,000 planned. The community has three town squares with a fourth recently announced. Residents gather for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Its infrastructure includes over 100 miles of golf-cart-legal streets and trails connecting the entire community, so residents don't need traditional vehicles.

Golf course features in The Villages

The Villages has 711 holes of golf, the world's largest golf community. The golf program includes:

42 executive courses (9-hole layouts) with free greens fees for residents

• Championship courses designed by PGA legends
• Pitch and putt courses for casual play
• Residents can purchase trail passes for personal golf carts, available daily, semi-annually, or annually.

Resort-style amenities in The Villages

Beyond golf, The Villages offers over 3,000 activities and clubs for a monthly amenity fee of $199. The community has the world's largest recreation department with over 100 outdoor pools, multiple fitness centers, and sports facilities including 229 pickleball courts (the most in the United States). Residents enjoy free nightly entertainment 365 days a year at the town squares, where they also find many restaurants and shops.

Pricing and housing options in The Villages

New homes start in the $200,000s and can exceed $1 million depending on location, floor plan, and features. Monthly costs vary by home type. Total expenses (amenity fees, utilities, taxes, assessments) range from about $964 for smaller villas to $1,495 for premier homes. The community offers housing styles from patio villas to luxury premier homes.

Lakewood Ranch, Florida

Lakewood Ranch is the nation's #1 multi-generational neighborhood and a good option for golf enthusiasts seeking retirement communities with many amenities and housing choices. This master-planned community covers over 31,000 acres between Bradenton and Sarasota on Florida's west coast, offering both age-restricted and family-friendly living.

Lakewood Ranch community overview

Lakewood Ranch includes over a dozen neighborhoods and is one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in the country. It is home to the Brain Health Initiative, a multi-generational research initiative aimed at improving brain health. Residents have quick access to healthcare, with Lakewood Ranch Medical Center located downtown near Main Street.

Golf course features in Lakewood Ranch

Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club is a top choice with 54 holes across three courses designed by Arnold Palmer. As the area's only four-course private golf and country club, it provides excellent golf access. The club includes practice facilities and a Members Golf Academy. Communities like Lakewood National, Esplanade at Azario, and Calusa Country Club offer bundled golf options combining housing with golf privileges.

Resort-style amenities in Lakewood Ranch

Beyond golf, residents enjoy:

Two award-winning clubhouses, two heated pools, and a 24-hour fitness center

• 20 tennis courts, 12 pickleball courts, and multiple swimming pools
• Lifestyle programs like the "Set Yourself F.R.E.E." program at Cresswind
• Del Webb active adult communities offer resort-style living with smart home technology. Cresswind has a lakeside clubhouse with multi-purpose spaces, art studios for ceramics, and resistance pools.

Pricing and housing options in Lakewood Ranch

Housing includes low-maintenance condominiums and single-family homes for different budgets. New construction in Del Webb starts from $349,990 for 2-5 bedroom homes. Cresswind offers nineteen home plans for active adults with open floor plans and energy-efficient designs. The community has two 55+ communities: Lakewood Ranch Del Webb and Cresswind. Lakewood Ranch offers options for various budgets and lifestyles in gated, secure neighborhoods.

Comparison table

Community

Golf features

Notable amenities

Climate and location features

Housing price range

Key community features

Naples, FL

70+ communities, 1,700+ golf holes

Resort pools, beach club access, chauffeur service

300+ days of sunshine, tropical climate

$638K–$1.17M+

40 beach access points, cultural attractions

Scottsdale, AZ

~200 courses

Golf simulators, resort pools, outdoor kitchens

Desert climate, perfect weather Oct–Apr

$4,995/mo–$26M+

Mountain views, 3,000 ft elevation

Hilton Head, SC

26+ championship courses

Multiple swimming pools, extensive clubhouses

Coastal climate, lowcountry landscape

$504K–$1M+

Ranked #10 golf destination globally

Pinehurst, NC

10 courses, including famous No. 2

FirstHealth Fitness Center access, garden apartments with emergency call systems and accessible design

58.5% senior population

$2,929–$5,575/mo

"Home of American Golf"

Hot Springs Village, AR

9 courses, 171 holes

11 lakes, 13 tennis courts, 30 miles of trails

Mountain foothills setting

$100K–$1M+

Largest gated community in North America

Jupiter, FL

Multiple championship courses

Private marinas, resort pools, chef services

Atlantic coastal climate

$785K–$20M+

Home to pro golfers like Tiger Woods

Bend, OR

Multiple courses including top-57 ranked Tetherow

Spas, fitness centers, chef-prepared dining

300+ days of sunshine

$2,522–$6,364/mo

Mountain views, no state sales tax

St. Simons Island, GA

Multiple courses including Sea Palms Resort

Fine dining, wellness programs

Coastal island setting

$325K–$1.25M

Historic landmarks, cultural attractions

Kiawah Island, SC

7 courses, including Ocean Course

Resort pool, spa services

10 miles of shoreline

$1.69M median

Environmental sensitivity focus

Fairfield Glade, TN

5 championship courses

11 lakes, 12 tennis courts, 4 pools

2,000 ft elevation, four seasons

$89K–$1M+

Cumberland Plateau location

The Villages, FL

711 holes (most worldwide), 42 executive courses

100+ pools, 229 pickleball courts

Central FL location

$200K–$1M+

World's largest recreation department

Lakewood Ranch, FL

54 holes across 3 Palmer-designed courses

20 tennis courts, 12 pickleball courts

West coast FL location

From $349K

#1 multi-generational community

Conclusion

Luxury golf retirement communities offer excellent golf, resort amenities, and well-designed living spaces. These 12 communities show that retirement living now extends beyond basic housing to offer full lifestyle experiences.

Weather preferences might guide your choice. Florida destinations like Naples, Jupiter, The Villages, and Lakewood Ranch offer year-round warmth and sunshine. For desert lovers, Scottsdale features mountain views and pleasant winters. Four-season options like Bend, Oregon and Fairfield Glade, Tennessee offer seasonal variety and good amenities.

Community character varies among these destinations. The Villages has 711 golf holes, the most worldwide. Kiawah Island combines environmental sensitivity with championship golf. Some are senior-only communities, while others like Lakewood Ranch have multi-generational neighborhoods.

Budget matters when selecting a community. Housing ranges from $89,000 homes in Fairfield Glade to multi-million dollar estates in Jupiter and Scottsdale. Monthly costs vary based on location, with independent living typically between $3,000 and $4,500 across most featured communities.

Golfers will find excellent options regardless of skill level. Many communities offer multiple courses designed by well-known figures like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Pete Dye. Lakewood Ranch has 54 holes designed by Palmer, and Scottsdale communities feature championship courses considered among America's best.

Beyond golf, these communities offer many lifestyle amenities: pools, fitness centers, dining, and social calendars. These amenities help create active communities. Security and healthcare access provide peace of mind.

To find your ideal golf retirement community, consider location, budget, and amenities. These 12 communities represent top choices for luxury retirement living for golf enthusiasts, each with unique benefits as you plan your retirement.

FAQs

Q1. What are the main advantages of living in a golf retirement community? Golf retirement communities offer resort-style amenities, quality golf courses, and a social atmosphere. Residents have access to multiple courses, fitness centers, dining, and organized activities within a secure environment.

Q2. How do housing costs in golf retirement communities compare to traditional retirement options? Housing costs vary widely, from around $200,000 to over $1 million depending on location and amenities. While often higher than traditional retirement options, these communities offer extensive amenities and services that may offset other expenses.

Q3. Are golf retirement communities exclusively for avid golfers? No. While golf is a main attraction, these communities offer many other amenities including fitness centers, swimming pools, tennis courts, and social clubs for different interests and lifestyles.

Many golf retirement communities provide on-site healthcare or easy access to nearby medical facilities. Some offer a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, allowing residents to age in place as their needs change.

Climate differs significantly among golf retirement communities. Florida and Arizona locations have year-round warmth and sunshine ideal for golf. Others like Oregon and Tennessee have four distinct seasons. These appeal to people who enjoy seasonal changes and still want good golf access.

Climate differs significantly among golf retirement communities. Florida and Arizona locations have year-round warmth and sunshine ideal for golf. Others like Oregon and Tennessee have four distinct seasons. These appeal to people who enjoy seasonal changes and still want good golf access.