The Villages, Florida
America's largest active retirement community with unmatched amenities
The Villages, FL: Quick Facts (Updated August 2026)
What is the median home price in The Villages?
The median home price in The Villages is $350,000 as of August 2026. Options range from cozy villas and patio homes starting at $200,000 to custom estate homes on golf courses over $800,000.
How far is The Villages from the beach?
About 90 minutes from both Gulf and Atlantic coasts. The Villages is a Central Florida inland retirement community, best suited for those who prioritize golf, recreation, and social amenities over beach proximity.
What are property taxes in The Villages?
The average property tax rate in The Villages is ~1.1%. The Villages spans Sumter, Lake, and Marion Counties. Homesteaded rates are approximately 1.0% to 1.3%. No state income tax means retirement income goes further.
Is The Villages a good place to live?
The Villages is a large active adult retirement community city in Sumter / Lake / Marion County with over 135,000 residents residents, the largest active adult retirement community in the world with over 50 golf courses, hundreds of pickleball courts, three town squares with nightly entertainment, and over 3,000 social clubs. It is a lifestyle destination designed for active retirement, where residents often say they are "too busy to retire."
What is the cost of living in The Villages?
The cost of living in The Villages is below the Florida average, with affordable home prices and a maintenance-free lifestyle that includes most amenities.
Data sources: Local county property appraiser records, Florida Realtors market data, U.S. Census Bureau estimates, and FEMA flood map data. Figures are approximate and subject to change.
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 those 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.
Want to listen? Here's the summary:
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 those looking for an active, social, and amenity-rich lifestyle, The Villages is a phenomenon unlike anything else in Florida. The median home price is around $350,000, with a range from $200,000 to $800,000-plus. Property tax rates average approximately 1.1%, well below Bergen County's 2.3% average. The community features over 50 golf courses, 100+ recreation centers, and thousands of social clubs and activities. The three town squares (Lake Sumter, Spanish Springs, and Brownwood) offer nightly entertainment, dining, and shopping. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 75 minutes east. Homeowners insurance is lower than coastal Florida, typically $1,500 to $3,500 annually. The Villages is best for those seeking an active, social lifestyle with world-class amenities, and golf and pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels.
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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
Those seeking an active, social lifestyle with world-class amenities, Golf and pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels, Those who want built-in community and activities every day, NJ relocators 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.
Florida homeowners enjoy no state income tax and property taxes roughly half of Bergen County's rates.
This is educational information only. Consult a licensed CPA or tax attorney for advice specific to your situation.
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.
Insurance rates and availability vary by carrier, location, and property type. Consult your carrier or a licensed Florida insurance agent for current rates and coverage options.
Renting in The Villages
Florida's premier 55+ community with resort-style amenities and a vibrant lifestyle.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $1,900/mo.
What You Get for That Rent
The Villages is Florida's premier 55+ community, offering resort-style amenities and a vibrant social calendar. The rental market includes villas, townhomes, and apartment-style rentals. The community features golf courses, recreation centers, shopping districts, and a town square with live entertainment nightly.
Florida Renter Protections: What You Need to Know
Security Deposits
Florida does not cap security deposits. Landlords can charge any amount, though one to two months' rent is standard. Landlords must hold deposits in a separate non-interest-bearing account or post a surety bond. After move-out, they have 15 days to return the deposit with no deductions, or 30 days to send written notice of any claimed damages.
Lease Terms and Notice
Florida is a default-eviction state. Landlords can terminate a month-to-month tenancy with 15 days' written notice. For nonpayment of rent, landlords can issue a 3-day notice to pay or vacate. There is no statewide just-cause eviction requirement, though local ordinances may add protections.
HOA Rental Restrictions
Many Florida communities are governed by HOAs that restrict rentals. Common restrictions include minimum lease terms of 6 to 12 months, caps on the percentage of units that can be rented, and tenant approval requirements. Always verify HOA rules before signing a lease, as these restrictions can limit your options.
Source: Florida Statutes Chapter 83, Landlord and Tenant
Where Retirement Feels Like Vacation
The Villages is built around the idea that retirement should be the best chapter of your life. Renters here enjoy access to the same world-class amenities as homeowners: over 50 golf courses, hundreds of pickleball courts, three town squares with nightly live entertainment, and more than 3,000 social clubs. From water aerobics and woodworking to cycling and bridge clubs, there is something for every interest. The lifestyle is active, social, and designed to keep residents engaged and connected year-round.
Golf is the centerpiece of recreation here, with executive courses designed for quick rounds and championship courses for serious players. The network of golf cart paths is the primary transportation system, making it easy to get to the town squares, recreation centers, and even grocery shopping without a car. The three town squares (Lake Sumter Landing, Spanish Springs, and Brownwood) each offer a unique architectural theme and host free concerts and dancing every single night.
For NJ transplants, The Villages offers a maintenance-free lifestyle that eliminates the hassles of homeownership. Lawn care, exterior maintenance, and access to recreation centers are typically included in the HOA fees. The social calendar is packed with events, from holiday celebrations and themed parties to fitness classes and hobby groups. Living here means being part of a community where neighbors become friends and every day offers something new to do.
Scott Selleck has helped clients explore The Villages and understand the rental market here. If you are considering a move to Central Florida's premier retirement community, he can walk you through the options and what to expect as a renter.
Getting Around The Villages
The Villages Shuttle
Route: Throughout The Villages community and town squares
Time: Frequent daytime service to all key destinations
Cost: Free for residents
Best for: Day-to-day errands, social activities, and town square access
Golf Cart
Route: 100+ miles of dedicated golf cart paths throughout the community
Range: Covers the entire community including shopping and dining
Cost: Purchase $5K-$15K; minimal operating cost
Best for: Primary transportation within The Villages
Driving
Route: Florida's Turnpike and I-75 nearby
Time: 60 min to Orlando, 90 min to Tampa, 90 min to either coast
Parking: Ample parking at all town squares and recreation centers
Best for: Regional trips, airport access, and out-of-town errands
What It Actually Costs to Rent in The Villages
Monthly Rent
Average $1,900/mo for a typical 1-2 bedroom rental
Security Deposit
No state cap. Standard is 1-2 months' rent
Utilities
Electric $100-$180/mo, water $30-$60/mo, internet $50-$80/mo
Renters Insurance
Commonly required by landlords. $15-$30/mo
HOA Fees
Often included in rent; covers lawn care and amenities
Pet Costs
Monthly pet rent $25-$75. Breed restrictions may apply
All figures are estimates based on current market data. Actual costs vary by rental type, location, and lease terms.
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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