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Guide to Best Places to Retire in Florida
Best Places to Live & Retire in Florida
Our free Digital Retirement Guide and Ideal-Living Magazine offer an abundance of information on which states, towns and cities are the best for retirees, vacationers and second-home buyers. This includes retirement communities in Central Florida, as well as the panhandle and Southern Florida.
In Florida, we have many communities for which you can get all the information you need. You can compare locations within Florida as well as vacation and retirement communities all across the U.S. Our Ideal-Living Digital Magazine includes numerous articles such as the top travel destinations, tips on selling your home, and how to make the most of your retirement. Our Guide allows you to compare cities and communities on variables such as climate, population, home values, cost of living and the proximity of schools, hospitals and airports.
Besides its natural beauty and incredible coastline, Florida is one of the most tax friendly states for retirees and seniors. The tax benefits of living in Florida include:
- No state income tax
- No tax on social security benefits
- Permanent residents qualify for Homestead Exemption
- Seniors may qualify for additional property tax exemptions
Idyllic Communities in Ideal Locations
Prospective residents should choose a community that best fits their lifestyle. Some neighborhoods are only a short walk or ride away from bustling city centers. Others are closer to quieter, small-town shops.
We can help you find your ideal location to live and retire in the beautiful state of Florida. Our resources put all the information at your fingertips to make the best decision for you, including putting you in contact with representatives from the top retirement and resort communities in Florida, this includes FL Del Webb communities and Minto communities.
Sample Communities to Discover
Amelia National Golf and Country Club
A Place to Call Home. Amelia National Golf & Country Club, a new home community in Fernandina Beach, FL, provides residents with some of the most sought after amenities. Manned, gated security, 18 holes of immaculate golf from master designer, Tom Fazio, practice facilities, brand new lighted tennis courts, fitness center with spa, and a charming French provincial county club featuring a resort-style pool are just a few of the amenities we offer.
- Manned, Gated Security
- Private Tom Fazio Golf Course
- Low Initiation Fee
- Practice Facilities & Pro Shop
- On Staff Golf Pro
- Use Your Own Golf Cart
- Brand New Lighted Tennis Facility
- On Staff Tennis Pro
- Clubhouse with Full Bar and Dining
- Community Pool with Hot Tub
- State-of-the-Art Fitness Center & Spa
- Homes with Golf & Preserve Views
Location, Location, Location
Amelia National’s close proximity to Amelia Island, the Jacksonville International Airport and the beach make it a highly desirable location for those looking for new homes in Fernandina Beach. Some of the finest restaurants, shopping and attractions are just a short drive from your front door. If you are feeling a little more adventurous, the heart of Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Georgia are easily accessible because of Amelia National’s convenient location just a few miles from interstate 95.
Homes that Meet Your Exact Needs
Luxury homes of grace, beauty and magnificent golf course views. ICI Homes has earned its reputation as Florida’s Custom Home Builder by offering in-house architectural services so you can design your new custom home from scratch or from a favorite plan you’ve found. Or if you’d prefer, you can select from our extensive portfolio of award-winning floors plans, all of which can be totally customized to suit.
Because ICI Homes has built thousands of homes, from affordable villas to breathtaking mansions, ICI Homes benefits from a volume purchasing advantage that ensures your home is built with the best quality materials at the greatest value for your money. Building a brand-new, one-of-a-kind home easy and surprisingly affordable, with home/lot packages starting from the $300’s.
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Wylder
Welcome to K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Wylder, a new active adult 55+ community in Port St. Lucie, Florida offering 9 unique ranch-style home designs and 1 villa design. Enjoy an all-inclusive, resort-at-home lifestyle with access to countless amenities and activities. Each home is offered in one of our new interior design Looks: Loft, Farmhouse, Classic or Elements for on-trend style in your new home.
Residents can take advantage of the community’s clubhouse, which features a state-of-the-art fitness center, game room, a catering kitchen and a bustling calendar of classes, clubs, and activities. All of these mere steps from your front door.
Located in sunny Port St. Lucie, Florida, residents can also enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Take a dip in the tropical beach-entry pool or enjoy the poolside cabana. Get a great session of exercise on one of the pickleball courts. Plus, there are always social events and outings so you can get to know your neighbors and enjoy the fun together. Experience the best of active adult 55+ living together with South Florida’s natural beauty.
The Shores at Brightwater
The Shores at Brightwater – 55+ Active Adult Living in North Fort Myers, FL
Discover a vibrant new way to enjoy Florida living at The Shores at Brightwater, a premier 55+ active adult community by D.R. Horton in North Fort Myers. Designed for those who want an exciting, low-maintenance lifestyle, The Shores at Brightwater combines beautiful new construction homes with resort-style amenities, social activities, and a private community atmosphere.
At the heart of the community is a stunning lagoon, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the Florida sunshine. Residents can take advantage of the community’s private amenities, designed exclusively for homeowners of The Shores at Brightwater, offering opportunities for recreation, fitness, relaxation, and socializing—all close to home.
Choose from thoughtfully designed single-story homes featuring open-concept living spaces, modern kitchens, spacious bedrooms, and highly desirable finishes throughout. Many homes are designed with entertaining and everyday comfort in mind, making it easy to enjoy everything from quiet mornings at home to gatherings with friends and family.
Life at The Shores at Brightwater is about more than just a beautiful home. It’s about having a built-in lifestyle and a community where there is always something to do. Spend the day by the lagoon, stay active with resort-style amenities, meet friends for a social event, or simply enjoy the laid-back Florida lifestyle.
Located in North Fort Myers, The Shores at Brightwater puts residents within convenient reach of Southwest Florida’s beaches, dining, shopping, entertainment, golf, and outdoor recreation. Enjoy easy access to Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and the Gulf Coast while coming home to a community designed specifically for 55+, active adults.
If you’re searching for new homes in a 55+ active adult community in North Fort Myers, The Shores at Brightwater offers the perfect blend of new construction, private resort-style amenities, a beautiful lagoon, and an active Florida lifestyle.
Come discover The Shores at Brightwater and find your place in this exciting new 55+ community by D.R. Horton.
Get Started
Finding and choosing the right active adult community can be a daunting task. This is where ideal-LIVING can help. Sign up below to receive our complimentary relocation package, which offers tips on how to find a community that suits your needs. In this guide, you’ll discover the top communities in Florida, as well as what you can do to get started. Sign up for this free package to take the first step in your exciting journey.
Free Package includes:
- ideal-LIVING Relocation Guide
The ultimate guide to find your ideal destination, life and home. This annual guide contains more than 15 state maps, a location-based cost of living and climate comparison chart and discovery travel packages.
- ideal-LIVING Magazine
Quarterly print magazine features the best places to retire and/or purchase your ideal second home.
- ideal-LIVING E-Newsletter
Receive our digital newsletter, two to three times a month, highlighting communities around the country and abroad.
- Tickets to ideal-LIVING Live Events
The ideal-LIVING Resort & Retirement Show has helped retirees and second-home buyers find their ideal community and home for more than 30 years.
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