Equestrian Communities for Retirement
Equestrian communities for retirees and active adults of all ages offer horse lovers complete facilities for riding, racing, stabling and showing their prized thoroughbreds in a variety of rural settings.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect retirement community in the mountains or closer to the coast, you’ll discover ideal homes for horses and their owners throughout the South. In fact, the farmlands and pastures in the midlands areas of those states are where you’ll find some of the nation’s finest equestrian breeding and training facilities.
On-Site Horse Stables
If you already have a horse or horses of your own, you know the quality and convenience of the community stables are of primary importance. In retirement communities that feature the equestrian lifestyle, those facilities are often located on-site or on an adjoining property. That proximity makes it easy to include horseback riding in your fitness routine on any day of the week. Other retirement communities appealing to horse owners have arrangements with nearby equestrian facilities that are just a short drive down the road. And if you don’t own a horse, most of these fine equestrian communities have several in their stables available for activities like trail riding.
Equestrian Services
The best equestrian-oriented retirement communities feature stable facilities that offer complete horse-care services. These include comfortable barns and stables, daily feeding and grooming, and regular exercise regimes. Most have secure fields or enclosed pastures where horses can run, graze and socialize. Training programs for horses and riders are also available from experienced staff members, as well as on-call veterinary services from professionals who know how to provide both routine and emergency care.
Trail Riding
For many horse owners, trail riding through the countryside on their mounts is a favorite fresh-air activity. Equestrian communities often have a miles-long trail network located on their property or offer convenient access to bridle paths that meander through nearby state parks, national forests and wildlife preserves. So, when the grandkids come to visit, you can take them along for the ride on a naturally fun recreation no theme park can match.
Horse Races and Shows
Retirement communities for horse lovers are frequently located in areas with horse-racing tracks and horse-show arenas. Many of these competitive events are part of annual festivals celebrating the equestrian lifestyle, while other facilities feature a weekly schedule of activities during the spring, summer and fall months. And don’t forget the polo matches and steeplechase events that are often highlights of the local social calendar in the South. In Western states, rodeo events are popular gatherings for horse lovers and other competition spectators.
Equestrian Lifestyle
Finding new like-minded friends who share a love of the lifestyle is among the best reasons for choosing an equestrian community for retirement. Each has a riding club so that residents can enjoy the trails in groups and organize outings to regional equestrian events. Many have social activities that can include dining and dancing, while an increasing number host community-outreach activities that bring people and horses together for equestrian education, therapy and fun.
Research and Explore Equestrian Communities Around The U.S.
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Click to explore the following equestrian communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Woodside
This master-planned, active-adult lifestyle community enjoys Woodside’s prime location in our hometown of Aiken, SC, a Southern Living Magazine’s “South’s Best Small Town.”
On top of Aiken’s preserved natural beauty, low cost of living, and mild year-round climate, this private destination consistently captivates visitors with its downtown streets filled with exceptional local restaurants, charming shops and boutiques, Gilded-Age mansions, nature sanctuaries, plus various artistic and cultural events like Aiken’s Makin’ Craft Show, the Aiken Steeplechase, and the Joye in Aiken Festival.
Woodside itself houses a variety of world-class amenities, including 4 championship golf courses, 2 clubhouses, more than 60 member-led social groups and clubs, 2 resort-style pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, more than 17 miles of hiking and nature trails, 7 landscaped parks and green spaces – including a dedicated Butterfly Park – and much more! Combined with the timeless beauty of our community’s expertly designed neighborhoods, Woodside and Aiken are now one of the region’s best-kept secrets.
Ready to experience Woodside and Aiken for yourself? Request more information below.
Rarity Bay
The undulating vistas of the Smoky Mountains make for an idyllic backdrop to life at Rarity Bay on Tellico Lake. Situated approximately 40 miles southwest of Knoxville, this gated lakefront community offers space to grow and explore the iconic wilderness of the region.
At Rarity Bay on Tellico Lake, you’ll find a variety of real estate options, including homes, rentals, condos, and sites ready for development. The turnkey single-family homes are large, with sweeping views and plenty of space to spread out when guests inevitably come to visit. Pools, courtyards, patios and firepits make the outdoors an extension of your space. For those that make boating an everyday element of life, there are plenty of waterfront lots waiting for your custom-built dream home.
Water skiing, recreational boating, fishing and kayaking are all popular pastimes on Tellico Lake, and Rarity Bay offers over 10 miles of shoreline and a number of community docks for easy access. Golfers will delight in the par-72, 18-hole golf course, designed by DJ DeVictor and Peter Langham. The professionally maintained stables make it easy for equestrians to board their horses and offers lessons for the casual rider looking to take advantage of the 125 miles of riding (and hiking) trails.
Renovated in 2020, the 11,000 square foot Country Club is a social hub with a bistro and full-service bar. Just outside, you’ll find lighted tennis courts, pickleball facilities, and a swimming pool.
Tennessee’s low cost of living, 0.64% effective property tax, and lack of tax on salaries as well as income made on dividends are added bonuses to life in the Volunteer State. The real draw is what’s beyond your front door. So come to Rarity Bay and make the majestic Smoky Mountains and clear waters of Tellico Lake the backdrop for your vacation getaway, second residence or forever home.
Request more information about Rarity Bay.
Anderson Farms
Anderson Farms is an equestrian-friendly, sustainable living community where neighbors enjoy a pastoral lifestyle just minutes from the modern luxuries and charming Southern hospitality of our hometown in Aiken, South Carolina, a Southern Living Magazine’s “South’s Best Small Town.”
Enhanced by Aiken’s mild year-round climate, low cost of living, and stunning natural beauty, Anderson Farms offers homesites between 2-5 acres in addition to a variety of world-class amenities. On top of stunning views of the countryside’s breathtaking private forests and meadows, neighbors enjoy access to a barn-style community center with a communal chicken coop, produce garden, and equestrian riding and workout ring. Convenient to the community is the 110-acre nature sanctuary of Hollow Creek Land Preserve, filled with miles of walking and riding trails and a pond with dock access for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Combined with Aiken’s thriving downtown atmosphere filled with eclectic local eateries, shops, and boutiques, plus an optional membership at The Reserve Club with championship golf courses, a resort-style pool, and more, Anderson Farms offers residents the ideal destination to flourish in a rustic-luxe environment.
Ready to experience Anderson Farms and Aiken, SC for yourself? Request more information below.
Retire NC
North Carolina has always been recognized for its natural diversity and gracious hospitality, which now has made it into an extremely popular retirement destination. Choices abound for a healthy, happy retirement setting, whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy the great outdoors in our mountains or stay busy in a bustling city. The North Carolina Certified Retirement Community designation means a city has completed a comprehensive evaluation process with requirements outlined by the North Carolina General Assembly. These Certified Retirement Communities are recognized for providing the amenities, services and opportunities retirees need to enjoy active and productive lives.
![]() City of ReidsvilleLIVE SIMPLY, THINK BIG isn’t just our tagline, it’s our way of life. We aren’t limited by |
![]() Johnston CountyJohnston County (JoCo) offers you more than you expect in retirement! Discover a blend of history, entertainment, dining, lodging, and outlet shopping, along with a generous helping of true southern hospitality. With a growing culinary and craft beverage scene, as well as revitalized downtowns, you don’t have to travel far from home to find what you are looking for. The unique communities that make up JoCo have one thing in common–a relaxed atmosphere and friendly people. |
![]() Rumbling Bald on Lake LureIf you are looking to build or purchase in an exceptional mountain golf community, it’s time to look closer at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure. You will find a few choice, undeveloped properties within our community at pleasantly affordable prices along with several spectacular homes in a variety of settings. You can come today; enjoy our lake and golf, and choose the opportunity to live in a remarkable community. |
![]() Person CountyNestled in the northern piedmont of North Carolina, a short commute from the Triangle and southern Virgina, Person County is home to rolling hills, farmers markets, lakes, and trails. With two beautiful wineries, live music venues, historic general stores, and Uptown Roxboro, Person County values its history and community while embracing the new. No matter what you choose, life in Person County is homegrown, just for you. |
The Mayan Garden – Belize
The Mayan Garden is an exclusive retirement community for residents age 50+, located in the English-speaking country of Belize, C.A., a perfect tax haven for retired expats. Our exclusive private community can only accept up to 24 residents to join and live within the 20-acre residential jungle garden property. We are immersed in a natural setting with access to many conveniences and amenities, offering our residents a very comfortable, easy-going yet higher quality of life. Our community is designed to offer residents an independent way of life with many benefits to service and assist in every way possible for enrichment, safety, health, convenience, adventure and relaxation. The Mayan Garden is family-owned with a mission is to Offer Affordable Retirement Housing With a Wholesome Enriching Lifestyle.
The community offers its residents an all-inclusive living rental package that includes their rent, utilities, room furnishing, housekeeping, Concierge, Security, Medical Faculty, Chef-prepared Meals, Classes, Weekly Events, Activities and many more on-site services. Our Amenities include an indoor pool, sauna, hot-tub, yoga studio, gym, and pet friendly walking trails.
The Ranches at Belt Creek
The Ranches at Belt Creek preserve and celebrate a uniquely American way of life. Set among the rolling plains and majestic mountains of Montana, the Big Sky Country will satisfy your every desire for adventure and serenity. Imagine encompassing a luxury mountain lodge, the nostalgia of a working ranch, the peacefulness of casting a line down the creek, and the thrill of world-class skiing all in one. If you seek liberation from ordinary life, treasure your family and legacy, and want to be immersed in nature’s beauty, this luxury ranch resort awaits.
Serenity Beach Resort – Bahamas
Serenity Beach Resort is located 30 minutes south of Marsh Harbour, Abaco in the Bahamas. Serenity Beach is a master-planned luxury resort and residential community featuring private residences, luxury boutique hotels, multiple restaurants, and bars across 120 pristine acres. With almost 3,000 ft of beach frontage on a sugar-white sand bay that is 2 miles long. Dining can be enjoyed beachside at the grill or ridge-top in the clubhouse with our executive chef. All of your activities are hosted by the guides and Serenity Beach team to include Bonefishing, Sailing, Island Hopping, Sunset cruises, Deep-Sea Fishing, Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Swimming with Nurse Sharks, Feeding the swimming pigs, and Nature Hikes.
Welcome Home Mississippi
Wide open spaces, lush greenery and sandy white beaches – what better place to retire than in Mississippi? Mississippi also is the most affordable state for retirement, with a cost of living 14% lower than the national average and total retirement spending the lowest in the nation.
With 13 certified retirement communities, each one a vibrant and hospitable area, the options are plentiful, and each one offers a quality of living unmatched anywhere else in the U.S. Whether you dream of living in the same city as the King of Rock ‘n Roll, or enjoy outdoor activities like golfing or festivals, retiring in the Magnolia State is full of options for every lifestyle.
We look forward to welcoming you home!
Hit the Trail
Start your equestrian adventure by visiting the websites of these featured retirement communities to check out their horse facilities and services. Once you’re ready to get out and hit the trail this year, make an in-person visit to see one or more of these great equestrian communities for yourself.