The Villages, Florida
America's largest active retirement community with unmatched amenities
The Villages is the largest active adult retirement community in the world, home to over 135,000 residents spread across three counties in Central Florida. For NJ retirees looking for an active, social, and amenity-rich lifestyle, The Villages is a phenomenon unlike anything else in Florida. The community is built around a lifestyle of recreation, social clubs, and entertainment, with over 50 golf courses, hundreds of pickleball courts, three downtown town squares with nightly entertainment, and more than 3,000 social clubs. It's not just a place to live, it's a lifestyle destination where residents often say they're "too busy to retire." The Villages has grown rapidly as NJ and Northeast transplants discover its unique appeal.
Key Numbers for The Villages
Property Taxes
~1.1%
vs. Bergen County ~2.3%
Median Home Price
$350K
$200K to $800K+
State Income Tax
0%
vs. NJ up to 10.75%
Best For
Active retirees seeking a vibrant social lifestyle, Golf and pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels, Those who want built-in community and activities every day, NJ seniors looking for affordable, maintenance-free living, People who want to stay active, engaged, and busy in retirement
Life in The Villages
The Villages is organized into dozens of neighborhoods (called villages), each with its own character, connected by a network of golf cart paths that is more extensive than the road system. Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation within the community, making everything feel close and accessible.
The three town squares (Lake Sumter Landing, Spanish Springs, and Brownwood) are the social hubs. Each square features shopping, dining, and nightly free entertainment — live music, dancing, and events every single night. The squares are designed with different architectural themes: Spanish Springs is Spanish colonial, Lake Sumter Landing is old-Florida fishing village, and Brownwood is Western/ranch style.
Recreation is the centerpiece of life here. Golf is the primary draw, with executive (9-hole) and championship courses available. Pickleball has exploded in popularity with hundreds of courts. There are also tennis, bocce, lawn bowling, swimming, fitness centers, and walking trails. The sheer variety of clubs — from woodworking to cycling to book clubs — means there's a community for every interest.
Property Tax Comparison: Bergen County vs. The Villages
The Villages spans Sumter, Lake, and Marion Counties. Property taxes are significantly lower than Bergen County, with effective rates around 1.0% to 1.3% for homesteaded properties. Florida's lack of state income tax means pension, Social Security, and retirement income go further.
Bergen County, NJ
~2.3%
On a $600,000 home: ~$13,800/year
The Villages, FL
~1.1%
On a $350,000 home: approximately $3,850/year. Bergen County equivalent: ~$8,050/year.
Potential annual savings: ~$6,600+ on a $600,000 home
Schools & Education
The Villages is an age-restricted (55+) community so schools are not typically a consideration for residents. However, the community has excellent healthcare facilities including The Villages Health network and several hospitals nearby.
Getting Back to New Jersey
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 1 hour south. Orlando Sanford International (SFB) is about 1 hour southeast. Both offer flights to NJ airports. Driving to Bergen County is approximately 13-14 hours via I-95.
Insurance Considerations
Homeowners insurance in The Villages is moderate compared to coastal Florida, typically $2,000 to $4,500 annually. The inland location provides protection from direct hurricane strikes. The Villages Homeowners Association handles master insurance for common areas.
Is The Villages Right for You?
This town is an excellent match if you're looking for:
Questions About The Villages?
The Villages is unlike any other retirement community in America. I can help you explore the different villages and find the right home and lifestyle for your retirement.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Villages
What is the age requirement to live in The Villages?
The Villages is an active adult (55+) community. At least one resident in each household must be 55 or older, and no permanent residents under 19 are allowed.
How much does it cost to live in The Villages?
Median home prices are around $350K, with options from villas and patio homes starting at $200K to custom estates over $800K. HOA fees vary by village but typically cover lawn maintenance and amenities.
What amenities does The Villages offer?
Over 50 golf courses, hundreds of pickleball courts, three town squares with nightly entertainment, 3,000+ social clubs, fitness centers, swimming pools, tennis courts, bocce, and more.
Is a golf cart really necessary in The Villages?
Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation within The Villages. The community has more miles of golf cart paths than roads, and most residents use carts for daily errands and social activities.
What healthcare is available in The Villages?
The Villages Health network operates multiple clinics throughout the community. Excellent hospitals are nearby, and the community is designed with healthcare accessibility in mind for aging residents.
How close is The Villages to Orlando?
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 1 hour south. Many residents also use Orlando Sanford (SFB) about 1 hour southeast for additional flight options.
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