Discover the Nation’s Best Green Communities
For many adults approaching retirement age, environmental sustainability is a huge concern. Reducing your carbon footprint has never been more accessible, popular or cozier than taking up residence in a Green Retirement Community.
Sustainable Housing For You
Energy-efficient lighting and power sources are standards when shopping for a Green Community in which to retire. A large majority of housing options run their electricity exclusively with solar, wind, or hydroelectric power. Since these specific neighborhoods are designed to have minimal environmental impact, geothermal power is commonly the source for the heating and cooling of the many community buildings.
Green Communities Offer Efficient Living Space
Many retirees looking to relocate are already in the market for a downsized living space, which is what many Green Communities encourage. With smaller individual homes and larger communal resources, these neighborhoods make it effortless to stay green after retirement. Some even offer and encourage co-housing of residents who would otherwise be living alone. This increases safety and close relationships amongst residents while simultaneously reducing the individual’s environmental impact.
Environmental Awareness for your Retirement Community
You will probably not find a vast manicured golf course within your Green Community. Recently established retirement centers have all but eliminated this amenity in an effort to remove herbicides and synthetic fertilizers from their grounds maintenance routine as well as to reduce water usage. In lieu of an expansive lawn, most Green Communities have a community garden within close walking distance that fosters a greater sense of community and environmental accountability.
Transportation Within Green Communities
A major factor that makes a community “green” is its walkability. These retirement neighborhoods have attempted to essentially eradicate the presence of automobiles within the community by having central locations for the common areas. In these centered features is where residents can find group transportation options and all their recycling resources.
Research and Explore the Best Green Communities
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Click to explore the following green communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
The Retreat at Ocean Isle Beach
The Retreat at Ocean Isle Beach is a special community just 1 mile away from the beautiful sand and waves of Ocean Isle Beach. Residents at The Retreat are positioned uniquely within walking distance to the local grocery store, incredible restaurants and quaint shops that make Ocean Isle Beach so desirable. The colorful homes and lush landscape pay homage to the bold and bright colors you’ll find lining the oceanfront streets just across the causeway.
With a sparkling crystal blue lap pool and an outdoor cabana that features a built in gas grill, large gathering area, and a big screen outdoor television, you’ll find neighbors at The Retreat taking full advantage of their outdoor spaces on any given summer day. Palm tree lined streets, shuffleboard courts and sidewalks throughout the community combined with the mild climate lend itself to daily walks, bicycle rides, and outdoor activities year round. As one of the area’s premier new home communities, The Retreat is known for offering the best value at the very best price.
Find Out More About The Retreat at Ocean Isle Beach – A North Carolina Retirement Community
If you would like to learn more about this mix of relaxation, fun and slow pace of life retirement community in North Carolina, offering world class amenities, you can request more information and compare this community with many others to find your ideal lifestyle. All you have to do is request more information here.
The Villas at Sunset Ridge
These paired villas offer an open floor plan in a smaller footprint creating a perfect setting for homeowners looking to make the most of their space when they right-size in Sunset Beach. As part of the popular Sunset Ridge community, residents here will benefit from ample amenities including a pool, clubhouse, fitness center and paved paths making it easy to enjoy the beautiful coastal weather. Sunset Ridge is located just a few miles away from the Sunset Beach barrier island and Intracoastal Waterway as well as many public golf courses.
The Peninsula on the Indian River Bay
The Peninsula on the Indian River Bay creates a lifestyle full of the activities you’ve been searching for. Come live, dine, relax and play in this one-of-a-kind resort community in Coastal Delaware that combines best-in-class amenities that fit your lifestyle with beautifully designed new homes from the $300s to $3M+
The Peninsula has something for everyone! Our private gated resort community features an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature designed golf course, racquet club with tennis and pickle ball, a full service spa, state-of-the-art athletic club, indoor and outdoor pools that include a poolside grill, a signature wave pool, and sand beach. We also have three points of water access to the surrounding bay: the nature and exploration center with a kayak launch, our bay beach, and our floating dock and fishing pier. You’ll live every day like you’re vacationing in a five-star resort at The Peninsula.
Single-family, single -family detached villas and townhomes are available.
Check out what our residents are saying.. http://schellbrothers.com/the-peninsula
The Isles of Collier Preserve
Nestled within a pristine natural setting just minutes from Downtown Naples, Florida’s preeminent new home builder is creating a colorful update of classic coastal living. Inspired by the timeless architecture and traditions of Old Naples, elegant new Minto homes overlook miles of scenic kayak and hiking trails. With over half of the 2,400-acres dedicated to lakes, nature preserves and natural habitat, combined with outdoor-inspired amenities, The Isles of Collier Preserve is an extraordinary new active adult gated community where the magic of Old Naples and unspoiled nature still coexist.
Enjoy all aspects of an active lifestyle influenced by wellness at The Isles Club, featuring resort-style amenities such as a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and a yoga lawn. After a scenic day exploring this beautiful community, sip on cocktails and savor coastal Florida flavors with family and neighbors at the resident-exclusive Overlook Bar & Grill, overlooking the Cypress Waterway.
The Isles is a master-planned community boasting 1,600 unique coastal themed new construction residences for sale, including maintenance-included cottages, villas and single-family homes from the $500s to over $1.5 million, many with stunning water and nature views.
River Bluffs
A unique waterfront community with new homes from the $400s – $1.5M+ and available lots starting at $90k.
Located just 10 minutes north of Downtown Wilmington, NC (by boat or car) sits River Bluffs, a gated community that overlooks the Northeast Cape Fear River. River Bluffs offers a wide variety of home plans, including affordable cottage-style homes for a growing family, single-level homes with retirement-smart features, low-maintenance townhomes, and even fully-custom homes built by the area’s most prestigious builders. River Bluffs boasts a variety of luxurious amenities such as a a 2,700 foot river walk with covered gazebos, 188 slip marina, miles of walking trails and parks, a beach-entry pool, high-end fitness center, tennis and pickle ball courts, a community General Store, over 30+ resident clubs including kayaking, boating, and much more.
Enhance Your Quality of Life by Moving to River Bluffs:
• No city tax and no traffic!
• Low county & state taxes. North Carolina residents enjoy some of the lowest cost of living expenses on the Eastern seaboard!
• Enjoy low HOA dues which include yard maintenance, trash service, recycling, and access to all community amenities.
• 4.75% flat income tax and 0% estate or inheritance tax.
Oakland Park
Oakland Park is everything Florida living should be. With picturesque scenery and close proximity to Winter Garden, it is the perfect balance of modern conveniences and old Florida charm. Our preservation of the natural surroundings and the area’s history, character, and craftsmanship create a stunning sanctuary that you’ll want to call home.
Located just off the West Orange Trail and minutes from downtown Winter Garden, Oakland Park is Florida the way it should be – a blending of water, majestic trees, and a classic, small-town feel. It’s hard to imagine that a place so quaint is just minutes from Winter Garden and the excitement of Orlando. You truly can have the best of many worlds here at Oakland Park.
No matter where you are in Oakland Park, you are not far from a park, pool, or trail. Oakland Park amenities beckon families and friends to gather and enjoy the great outdoors, take in the vast shoreline or relax in the afternoon breeze. For those seeking shelter, the Oakland Park Clubhouse can be thought of as an extension of their own living room, a quiet nook for reading, or a festive setting for family and friends.
Oakland Park homes are inspired by historic styles and old-Florida charm and built by highly regarded regional builders. Design features such as outward-facing interiors and rear-facing garages provide a pedestrian-friendly feel, while large front porches encourage interaction between neighbors and create an organic feeling as if the community developed over several decades. And if you desire something different, our available homesites and options allow you the variety to satisfy your own personal tastes and practical needs.
Black Creek Chattanooga
At Black Creek, we’re building a community that embraces all that’s been forgotten about what defines a life well-lived.It’s a special place where generations, connection and nature become one. Imagine access to 1000s of acres of protected land that’s just footsteps from your door while living just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, America’s “Best City Ever” where shopping, dining, entertainment as well as top hospitals are quickly within reach.
The Black Creek experience starts with Black Creek Club-a private club including restaurant, bar, swimming pools, fitness center, and tennis. Here, you can gather together and make life long connections. Our 18hole golf course is the only course in TN ranked in Golfweek’s Top 100 residential courses. If nature is your passion, take advantage of miles of nature trails through the surrounding mountains and paved pathways through the community, plus ponds for fishing. Just outside of Black Creek is Raccoon Mtn, perfect for biking, hiking and easy access to boat ramps on the TN River. We offer Home sites that complement the natural flow of the terrain and floor plans that are as diverse as the residents who live here. Experience Black Creek!
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. |
Port Ludlow
For retirees, active adults, and remote workers, Port Ludlow is an inviting resort-style community on the shores of Puget Sound in the state of Washington.
Westharbor Homes is building new Port Ludlow residences to the highest environmental standards with energy-saving appliances. In the Ludlow Cove Cottages and Olympic Terrace II neighborhoods, you’ll find a delightful variety of floor plans, including beachfront single-family homes, waterfront condominiums, and spacious villas with fairway views.
The amenities and activities at Port Ludlow start with play on the community’s 18-hole golf course, a scenic layout along the water and through the maritime forest. The 300-slip marina offers complete boating services and launches for kayaks and paddleboards. In addition, there are two community clubhouses with fitness centers, swimming pools, and tennis/pickleball courts. You can also enjoy 30+ miles of walking trails, more than 100 community social clubs, and genuine farm-to-table dining with fresh seafood always on the menu at the Fireside Restaurant.
The nearby towns of Chimacum and Port Townsend feature cafes, bakeries, artisan shops, and grocery markets, plus convenient health care services that include specialty practices. And just a 30-minute ferry ride away is the dynamic city of Seattle, home to some of the nation’s leading hi-tech companies, a thriving cultural arts scene, and major professional sports teams.
When you request more information below, you’ll be on your way to discovering the waterfront lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest at Port Ludlow.
Check out our 360 degree view of Port Ludow by clicking here!
Lakewood Ranch
Live the Florida lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of—with 20+ villages, each featuring distinctive homes, amenities, and features, Lakewood Ranch is designed to support every aspect of your life. New homes include townhomes, condos, attached villas, single-family homes and estates, with prices from the $300s to over $1 million.
We set out to build a community that is more than just the homes it’s made up of. Here you’ll find all the shopping, dining, entertainment, education, healthcare, nature, and recreational options you could want to make the most out of every day. And the best part is that it’s all already here. You don’t have to envision it—you can simply start living it.
Our 40% open space plan and mixed-use component work together to provide each village on The Ranch with easy access to parks, trails, and recreational opportunities like three town centers, a sports campus featuring pickleball, Sarasota Polo Club and The Farmers’ Market.
Just beyond our backyard you can enjoy Sarasota's white sand beaches and arts scene, Tampa’s sports teams, and quick access to four airports.
ideal-LIVING has named Lakewood Ranch Best Health and Fitness Community and Best Golf Community. Lakewood Ranch has also earned the spot as the #1 best-selling community in the U.S. for all ages for five years running.
Come explore Florida’s favorite place to call home. LakewoodRanch.com
What to expect at The Ranch:
• More than 20 villages (2 are 55+)
• 3 town centers & 8 neighborhood shopping plazas with Publix Grocery stores
• 150 miles of multi-surface trails
• 10,000+ acres of lakes, parks, and preserves
• 60+ clubs and groups
• Over 200 shops and eateries
• 9 community parks
• 162 holes of golf
• 32 courts for racquet sports
• A-rated schools & higher education campuses
• Sarasota Polo Club
• Farmers’ market
• Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
• 22 fields at Premier Sports Campus
Ready to discover it? Great. Request more information below to receive discovery tour packages
and specials. You won’t know until you go!
Babcock Ranch
All towns aren’t created equal. In fact, most towns aren’t created at all. They just happen. The decade of careful planning that preceded the first turn of a shovel at Babcock Ranch is just one of the countless ways Babcock Ranch sets itself apart. With a seamless melding of modern technology and timeless hometown charm – all nestled within expansive natural spaces – America’s first solar-powered town provides a whole new way of life.
Mirum Elounda Villas – Greece
Mirum Elounda Villas is an exclusive seafront complex of Mediterranean-style ultra-luxury villas set in a stunning boutique development facing the historical Spinalonga Island.
The villas feature open terraces, panoramic windows, landscaped gardens, and private heated swimming pools. Each villa is designed to take maximum advantage of panoramic sea views. The generously proportioned villas (5-6 bedrooms) sit on large plots of at least 4,000 sq m. All come with generous indoor-outdoor spaces that have a contemporary feel and inviting private pools. Each villa also has a gourmet kitchen, but you can request private chef dinners. Furthermore, the complex has direct access to a private beach and jetty.
Sample the Mediterranean lifestyle by renting one of Mirum Elonda Villas. With a seafront location, exclusive access to amenities and service from 5* Hotel, these rental villas provide you with the luxury vacation of a lifetime.
Eastman Community Association
Eastman Community Association – Four Seasons Paradise
The Eastman Community Association in Grantham, NH is an ideal active-adult and retirement destination. It’s also the perfect place to raise a family. Eastman is a sustainable, intergenerational community in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region of New Hampshire.
Ultimately, Eastman is a nature-lover’s haven. Tucked away in the pristine woodlands of New Hampshire’s Upper Connecticut River Valley, the Eastman Community Association encourages an active and connected lifestyle. Residents move to the rhythm of four distinct seasons. And, outdoor adventure is a central theme.
Just Add Amenities
Eastman is centrally located, but just remote enough. It’s conveniently two hours north of Boston and three hours from Hartford. And, Lake Sunapee, New London, and Lebanon are just minutes away. As a result, residents have ample access to urban amenities. Cultural venues, medical facilities, as well as educational opportunities are all within reach.
New Hampshire’s Grantham Mountain offers a picturesque backdrop to Eastman’s 345-acre lake, and ample hiking trails. So, be sure to pack your boots!
Looking for more? Try 37 miles of cross country trails starting at the Eastman Cross Country Center. In summer, head to one of six beaches, kayak and canoe launches, or to the pool and fitness center year round. Eastman also boasts an 18-hole golf course, har-tru tennis courts and an award-winning restaurant as well.
Condos are available from $125,000 to $270,000. Eastman’s single-family homes range from $130,000 to $1.5 million. (Prices are subject to change.)
The Bluffs on the Cape Fear
Gated Riverfront Living, Boundless Joy in Nature
The Bluffs on the Cape Fear is a vibrant, master-planned community perched on a pristine stretch of the Cape Fear River. Just 15 minutes from the classic waterfront hometown of historic Wilmington, NC, The Bluffs is a private, coastal haven for the families who call it home.
The unique vision of The Bluffs is realized every day: natural woodlands and the unspoiled riverfront landscape are preserved and celebrated. Classically-styled coastal homes exist in harmony with lush woodlands, and the riverfront.
Our visionary developers created The Bluffs with access and abundance in mind. Accordingly, residents here enjoy a close-knit, active lifestyle with total access to the riverfront and an impressive collection of amenities. We invite you to experience the joy of our authentic riverfront community, The Bluffs on the Cape Fear, with our 3 day-2 night Discovery Package.
Amenity List:
– 50-Slip Marina with Scenic Boardwalk
– 2-Acre Riverfront Park with Boat & Kayak Launch
– Lakefront Clubhouse with Resort-Style Salt Water Pool
– Private Beach Club on Oak Island – with Full Ocean Access
– Winding Walking & Biking Trails
– Golf Cart Friendly Community
– Tennis & Pickleball Courts
– Fully-Stocked Lake
– Community Boat & RV Storage
– And soon, a New State-of-the-Art Fitness & Wellness Center
Heritage Shores
The homes at Heritage Shores have been designed to maximize your lifestyle by incorporating the latest technologies that provide ease of maintenance and energy efficiency. There’s something for every taste and budget at Heritage Shores, with flexible main-level living home designs featuring two-car garages and available second levels, lofts and outdoor spaces. With a wealth of available upgrades, there are virtually endless possibilities for personalizing your new home. Plus, Heritage Shores also offers rental opportunities on some of its most popular floorplans, with flexible one- to five-year leases and all amenities included.
Additional amenities include: Full-Time Activities Director, 18 – Hole Arthur Hills Championship Golf Course, State-Of-The-Art Fitness Center, Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools, Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Ball, Fresh Air Exercise Circuit, Health & Wellness Center, 28,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse, Kayak Launch, On-Site Restaurants, Sugar Beet Market, Woodshop, Aerobics and Dance Studio, Arts and Creative Studio, Billiards and Card Room, Pro Shop, Dog Park, Performance Lawn, Outdoor Chess and Checkers Tables, Shuffleboard, and Many Classes & Clubs.
Call 302.956.6129 for more information or to schedule a visit to our Discovery Center.
Montejo Plaza – Mexico
Montejo Plaza is a unique luxury community for retirees and active adults who want to enjoy the year-round sunny weather and everyday hospitality of life on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
The garden-style condominium homes and penthouses at Montejo Plaza are available in a choice of four spacious floor plans. The two- and three-bedroom models offer wide balconies with sweeping views and access to the rooftop garden terrace with a pool and lounge. Additional amenities include a complete fitness center and courts for tennis and pickleball.
Montejo Plaza is the area’s only residential community that features its own private beach club, a relaxing oasis on the oceanfront that’s just a 15-minute drive away. The nearby city of Merida is the capitol of the Yucatan state and is considered one of the safest places in Mexico. There you’ll find shopping centers, restaurants, theaters, museums, and top-rated medical facilities, while the surrounding countryside is a nature-lover’s paradise with hiking trails through the lush rainforest.
Request more information below to find out what you need to know about Montejo Plaza on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
On Top of the World Communities
Renowned for beautiful homes and unrivaled active and social amenities, On Top of the World in Ocala, FL, is truly a leader in creating quality lifestyles.
A world of opportunities to relax and enjoy life-while staying active with both body and mind-is waiting for you at On Top of the World.
Repeatedly named one of the best places in the country to live by Where to Retire magazine, this 13,000 acre master-planned community appeals to active adults looking for a fabulous lifestyle and well-designed, beautifully appointed homes. Surrounded by central Florida’s celebrated horse country and crystal clear springs, On Top of the World is close to everything, yet far from the ordinary.
Here’s a taste of what you’ll find at On Top of the World:
• Concrete-block, energy-efficient home designs
• Several different communities and neighborhoods available featuring single family, maintenance-free and luxury estate homes, many with golf or preserve homesites
• Three, par-72 golf courses with PGA and LPGA professionals on staff
• Over 250,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities
• Community Town Square with indoor entertainment venue, fitness center and lifelong learning programming at Master the Possibilities Education Center.
• And much more!
Plan your visit
You can research and learn about all sorts of mountain communities below—but don’t let the choices overwhelm you. After you’ve selected some areas you’re interested in, plan your visit as the next step! It’ll help you narrow down your search to breathe the mountain air, see the views, and get a feel for the peaceful mountain lifestyle.