10 Most Walkable Cities in the South - Embrace the Charm of Walkable Towns
Authored by Emily Colin, our insightful list of the top 10 walkable southern towns takes you through the allure of pedestrian-friendly communities.
What Does 'Walkable' Truly Mean?
What does it mean for a town or city to be 'walkable?' Clearly, pedestrians need to be able to walk from one place to the next-there needs to be sidewalks and crosswalks, stoplights and signs. But walkability is about much more than infrastructure. It's about creating a sense of community-the idea that there is someplace worth walking to, and people that you'd like to see when you get there. In a truly walkable town or city, you can satisfy a wide variety of needs within 15 minutes on foot. You can buy food, take in a play or a show, shop, and enjoy a green space such as a public park or trail. And while you're doing all of this, you can connect with others who share your interests, even if it's as simple as waving or saying 'hello.'
From Millennials to retirees, we're experiencing a tremendous uptick in the number of folks who place a high value on living in walkable communities. In part, this is because of the many health benefits that walking has to offer; in part, it's because of the expense and inconvenience inherent in traveling by car. Beyond these tangible benefits, though, walkable communities have a sense of vibrancy, life, and charisma that is tremendously appealing. Traveling on foot, you notice things you might not have otherwise-an architectural detail here, a hidden alleyway, a used bookstore or a cozy coffee shop there. You take your time, appreciating what's around you rather than rushing from one activity to the next, living in the moment.
Top 10 Walkable Towns
Explore our top 10 walkable Southern towns and cities. Each with its unique personality, these cities promise an immersive, walkable experience that you'll cherish. Take your time, soak in the surroundings, and live in the moment. Let's set off on a walk to remember.
Charleston, SC
Travel + Leisure magazine just named Charleston the top city to visit in the world-and why not? Between its Southern charm, meticulously-preserved historic homes, beautiful harbor, thriving arts community, and burgeoning foodie scene, Charleston is a place that honors its past while embracing the future.
The walkable downtown is a pedestrian's paradise, from shopping on King Street-home to the Design, Fashion and Antique Districts-to strolling along Museum Mile. Architectural enthusiasts will find much to appreciate on The Battery and East Bay Street, Rainbow Row, and the French Quarter. Relax at scenic Waterfront Park, with its iconic pineapple fountain, stroll through historic City Market, and then grab a bite at one of the many restaurants-you really can't go wrong. Slightly North of Broad, FIG, and Husk are some of the best, and Kaminsky's desserts are to die for. Cap off the night with a show at Dock Street Theatre.
Asheville, NC
If healthy living, arts and culture, locally sourced food, and a little bit of quirkiness set your heart a-flutter, Asheville is the place for you. Located in western North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville's nod to a history museum is their Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile, 30-station scavenger hunt that gives visitors a glimpse into the city's past.
Be sure to browse Malaprop's Bookstore, or, if you prefer a glass of fine wine with your second hand paperbacks, check out Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar. Culture buffs will appreciate Asheville Community Theatre, the Asheville Art Museum, and Colburn Earth Science Museum. A short drive away, you'll find all the adventure you could ask for-zip lining, white water rafting, hiking, mountain climbing, and more. Shop at the Grove Arcade, or eat your heart out at the Over Easy Cafe, Bouchon, Farm Burger Asheville, or the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. These attractions and more make Asheville one of the region’s most walkable cities.
Wilmington, NC
Wilmington was voted Best American Riverfront in USA TODAY's 10 Best Readers' Choice Contest and small wonder. Front Street, downtown's main thoroughfare, is jam-packed with restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and entertainment venues. Within a few blocks you'll find historic Thalian Hall, a beautifully-renovated venue that hosts musicals, plays, and films year-round; City Stage, an assortment of comedy clubs and music venues; and the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College, home to touring Broadway shows.
History buffs will find plenty to satisfy, from the Bellamy Mansion and Burgwin-Wright House to the restored homes and cottages that line the shaded streets. Start your day with breakfast at the Dixie Grill, eat light with tapas at Circa 1922, stroll along the riverwalk, and wind down at Le Catalan French Café and Wine Bar, where you can savor chocolate mousse and a bottle of wine while watching ships pass down the Cape Fear River.
St. Augustine, FL
Ponce de Leon made St. Augustine famous, and it claims the distinction of "the oldest city in the U.S." Located on northeast Florida's First Coast, St. Augustine has a thriving historic district, complete with cobblestone streets, bed and breakfasts, pubs, eateries, and plenty of places to shop. In About.com's AboutTravel named it Florida's most walkable city.
Bustling St. George Street, located in the center of the historic district, is for pedestrians only-no cars allowed. In search of something more low-key? Try historic Saint Aviles Street. Downtown hosts the Castillo de San Marcos, a walk-in park and fortress that's stood since 1672. Occupying two acres in the heart of the historic district, The Colonial Quarter brings days gone by to life. Other attractions include Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the Limelight Theatre, and the delectable food at The Floridian and the Spanish Bakery and Café.
Greenville, SC
There's a reason that National Geographic named Greenville as one of its top 20 "Must See" places and it's probably the same reason that the New York Times called it "a national model for a pedestrian-friendly city center." Just an hour's drive from Asheville, NC, Greenville's walkable downtown area is an alluring blend of public art, delectable food-don't miss The Trappe Door and the Tupelo Honey Café-unique shops, and green space.
Just a few short blocks from Main Street, you'll find Falls Park, home to a waterfall that's nearly 40 feet tall, the pedestrian-only Liberty Bridge, and the Reedy River. Along the river runs Swamp Rabbit Trail, an old railroad bed transformed into a 21-mile greenway for pedestrians and cyclists. Downtown is also home to the Greenville County Museum of Art, Greenville Little Theatre, the Carolina Ballet Theatre, and the Peace Center for the Performing Arts.
Savannah, GA
With the country's largest Historic Landmark District, Savannah has earned its badge as a pedestrian-friendly city. It's organized around 22 squares, where passersby can sit a spell in the shade of giant, moss-hung oaks-but when you're ready to get up, there's no shortage of things to do. Home to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), downtown has over 18 historic house museums that are open to the public, including Flannery O'Connor's childhood home.
River Street, which meanders along the Savannah River, features former cotton warehouses that house a plethora of places to eat, shop, and browse. You'll find boutiques, galleries, the treasure-filled Paris Market and Brocante, and The Lucas Theatre on Broughton Street-as well as Leopold's Ice Cream, known for its marble soda fountain. Don't-miss eateries include Ms. Wilkes' Dining Room and The Olde Pink House, both Zagat-rated as Savannah's Best Southern Restaurants.
Fernandina Beach, FL
Located on Amelia Island, a barrier island off northeast Florida's Atlantic Coast, Fernandina Beach's National Register Historic District spans over 50 blocks and boasts over 400 buildings. It's home to The Florida House Inn-the oldest hotel in the state of Florida-as well as the Palace Saloon, the state's oldest continually operating drinking establishment.
The main drag, Centre Street, features two pocket parks where you can take in the sounds of local musicians after you've gotten your fill of browsing the historic district's many antique shops, boutiques, and galleries. Storytelling aficionados will get a kick out of the Amelia Island Museum of History, the first spoken history museum in the state of Florida. Dining hot spots include the Crab Trap, David's Restaurant and Lounge, The Happy Tomato Courtyard Café and BBQ, and Le Clos, a 1906 cottage where you can savor French cuisine by candlelight.
Sarasota, FL
TopRetirements.com rated Sarasota the country's ultimate city for retirees, booting Asheville out of the top spot for the first time since 2007. John Ringling of Ringling Bros' fame played a key role in developing the city, and his family mansion, Cà d'Zan, still stands today. The heart of downtown Sarasota is Five Points, where Main Street, Pineapple Avenue, and Central Avenue come together.
Nearby Palm Avenue is home to a variety of art galleries and antique stores, and there's great shopping to be had on Main Street, 1st Street, and Palm. Get your fill of drama and song at The Florida Studio Theatre and the Sarasota Opera House. Just a short drive away, you'll find The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. Sample Peruvian food at Selva, taste fresh-caught seafood at Owen's Fish Camp, or go local at MADE restaurant, winner of several "best of" awards.
Athens, GA
Athens is widely known for its incredible music scene-it was the birthplace of the band REM, hosts several annual festivals, and offers a self-guided, 28-stop music walking tour. But this is not all it has to offer.
Forbes highlighted Athens in its "Best Places to Retire", and Money Magazine has also recognized it as a "Best Place to Retire." With its restaurants, shops, boutiques, and galleries, downtown Athens is very pedestrian-friendly. Culture buffs will flock to the Georgia Theatre, located in the heart of downtown, and Morton Theatre, a performance arts space that began its life as one of America's first African-American-built, owned, and operated vaudeville theaters. Don't miss The Tree that Owns Itself, an oak that can lay legal claim to the ground on which it stands. Foodies surrender to temptation at Creature Comforts Brewing Company, Big City Bread Café, Last Resort Grill, Clocked, and Weaver D's.
Beaufort, SC
Charming Beaufort, SC, pronounced 'Bu-fort', is home to a thriving historic downtown district and a beautiful waterfront. Southern Living named Beaufort a "small town we love," Coastal Living Magazine ranked it as #1 among America's Happiest Seaside Towns. It's not hard to see why-Beaufort embodies the relaxed spirit, coastal vibe, and Southern hospitality that defines the Lowcountry.
Wander along the downtown waterfront, shop for antiques at Lagniappe Lowcountry, browse at McIntosh Book Shop, or find the perfect piece of art at Salt Gallery. In the mood for adventure? Take a walking history tour, rent a kayak, or check out the dolphins and the salt marsh with one of Captain Dick's River Tours. Once you're back on land, grab a bite at Magnolia Bakery Café, Panini's on the Waterfront, Q on the Bay, or Saltus River Grill, a contemporary seafood restaurant with a stunning view of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Explore the Most Walkable Cities in the US
We invite you to explore these enticing walkable cities, perfect for a vibrant, health-focused retirement lifestyle. Choose from the communities below and receive detailed information to aid your next big decision. It’s time to make your dream of ideal living a reality.
Click to explore the following hiking and walking communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Woodside
Enhanced by the region’s lucrative cost of living, mild climate, stunning natural beauty, and charming
Southern hospitality, Woodside’s 3,000-acre community is ideally located in one of the Southeast’s best-kept secrets, Aiken, SC.
Meticulously designed from concept to creation for discerning active-active adults, downsizing retirees, and anyone else with a taste for the finer things in life, Woodside’s location in one of Southern Living Magazine’s “South’s Best Small Towns” offers residents walkable access to the best of both worlds. On top of Woodside’s 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, over 21 miles of hiking and nature trails, 7 landscaped parks and green spaces – including a Certified Butterfly Park – Woodside residents enjoy 10-minute access to downtown Aiken’s Gilded-Age avenues filled with exceptional local restaurants, designer boutiques, art galleries, and more.
Whether you envision yourself perfecting your swing on our Nicklaus Design course, dozing by the pool,
or creating new memories with friends you’ve yet to meet, life at Woodside is designed to deliver you a
home that extends far beyond your property line!
Compass Pointe
Located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, only 10 minutes from Wilmington, Compass Pointe is a gated, private community that offers an unmatched resort lifestyle. Every day feels like a vacation where you can relax by our award-winning pool, float along the lazy river, join one of 100+ community clubs, or get some exercise at our fitness center, indoor pool, or golf club. Come see for yourself why Compass Pointe was honored with the 2020 Best Health & Fitness Community and America’s Best Places to Live 2021.
Amenities:
- Private, Gated Entrance
- The Grand Lanai
- Resort Oasis Pool
- Compass Pointe Golf Club
- Clubhouse (under construcion) & Pro Shop
- The Pointe Wellness Center & Spa
- Indoor Pool
- Lazy River
- Tennis & Pickleball Courts
- Recreation Lawn
- Putting Greens
- Latitudes Restaurant and Bar
- Dog Park
- Cardinal Lake with Canoe & Kayak Launch
- Outdoor Amphitheater
- Sidewalks Throughout for Walking and Biking
- Golf Cart Paths Throughout
Future Amenities:
- Club Member Pool & Bar
- Club Member Fitness Center
- Club Member Golf Simulator
South Harbor Towns
Welcome to South Harbor Towns by Ryan Homes – Our newest 55+ community in the Isle of Wight, from the low $300s. We are now scheduling private model tours; visit our website to schedule yours today! Join the VIP list to schedule yours today!
Ideal for the active adult lifestyle, South Harbor Towns is loaded with amenities. Here's just a handful of amenities that are coming to the community:
- Clubhouse with Indoor & Outdoor Entertaining Areas & Fireplace
- Resort-style Heated Lap Pool with Waterfall & Fire Features
- Water Aerobics & Water Volleyball Areas
- Outdoor Hot Tub & Resort-like Cabanas
- Miles of Nature Trails & Sidewalks
- Two Lighted Pickleball Courts, Bocce Ball, Putting Green & Shuffleboard
- Grandkid's Playground & Dog Park
- Year-Round Activities & Events
- Golf Cart Friendly with Reserved Golf Cart Parking at the Clubhouse
The homes will feature first-floor owner's suites, chef-inspired kitchens, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2-car garages, optional covered porches, and flex space options. Plus, one of the best features…it's a maintenance-provided community, meaning we'll handle all the lawn maintenance, landscaping, and upkeep so you don't have to!
This community is located near the historic town of Smithfield, with local shopping, restaurants, military bases, and more! We can’t wait to share more with you! Our team is here to help make this big step an easy one. Visit our website to schedule a private model tour and learn more.
Legacy Homes by Bill Clark
Legacy Homes by Bill Clark is the crown jewel in a long line of North Carolina home building history. As one of the Nation’s “Top 100 Builders” for over a decade, the Legacy Homes division is a trusted partner in the Wilmington, NC region that spans four counties, and is a featured builder in many of the South’s premier planned communities, such as Brunswick Forest, Bluffs on the Cape Fear, Compass Pointe, River Bluffs, Riverlights, St. James, Summerhouse, with more to come. The Legacy Homes’ mission is to walk alongside each client as the dream of their new home becomes a reality… Best known for thoughtful floor plans, maximized living spaces, attention to detail, and custom trim work, any Legacy Home is destined to be a showstopper.
The goal at Legacy Homes is to make the homebuilding process as seamless for each client as possible. Whether choosing from one of the professionally designed available model homes or building from the ground up, a Legacy team member will be with you each step of the way. As a semi-custom builder, you will have the opportunity to create the dream home that fits perfectly with your lifestyle.
Riverlights
Nestled along the Cape Fear River in the coastal town of Wilmington, NC, Riverlights is a vibrant, master-planned community full of small-town charm. The perfect location makes all the difference – along the Cape Fear River and just five miles from historic Wilmington, rated the most charming beach town on the East Coast with award-winning restaurants and shops. When you live in Riverlights, your days radiate with the positive energy that happens when you live on the water in the Carolina sunshine.
There are plenty of opportunities to walk, run, or ride bikes along miles of trails, kayak in the 38-acre freshwater lake, or roam free in any one of the community’s many parks. Whether enjoying a riverfront walk along the boardwalk and dock, gathering with neighbors for an oyster roast, or watching the sunset on the waterfront, exploration happens here daily. Our Lakehouse clubhouse includes a zero-entry pool with lap lanes, a fitness center, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, including a firepit overlooking the lake. Coming soon in 2026, our brand-new Riverhouse clubhouse will feature another pool and fitness center, plus gathering spaces with a scenic backdrop.
Riverlights has home options suited to any stage of life – from new families to active adults easing into retirement – from nine quality homebuilders. The coastal North Carolina community offers 10+ beautifully decorated model homes open daily for walk-ins allowing home shoppers to get a feel for the lifestyle that awaits in Riverlights.
Lakewood Ranch
Live the Florida lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of—with 30+ 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 48% 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 multi-generational best-selling master-planned community since 2018.
Come explore Florida’s favorite place to call home. LakewoodRanch.com
What to expect at The Ranch:
• 30+ 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
• 13 community parks
• 192 holes of golf
• 32 courts for racquet sports
• A-rated schools & higher education campuses
• Sarasota Polo Club
• Farmers’ Market voted #1 in Florida
• Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
• 22 fields at Premier Sports Campus
• Sights and Sounds Performing and Fine Arts Series
Ready to discover it? Great. Request more information below to receive discovery tour packages
and specials. You won’t know until you go!
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 a variety of flexible main-level living single-family home designs and virtually endless personalization possibilities.
Additional amenities include: Full-Time Lifestyle 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, 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) 219-4177 for more information or to schedule a tour.
Heritage Shores Stay & Play Discovery Package:
Ready to experience Heritage Shores like a resident, book a 2-Day / 1-Night Stay & Play Discovery Package for just $375 and experience this vibrant community first-hand!
Learn More About the Heritage Shores Stay & Play Discovery Package
*Pricing and incentives are subject to change without notice and are available for a limited time only on choice new, full price contracts that close by or before March 31,2025, with the use of builder’s preferred lender and title company and cannot be combined with any other offers or incentives.
Waterways
One of the best places to live in Georgia.
Nestled amid ancient moss-draped oak hammocks, winding freshwater lagoons and the salt marshes of coastal Georgia’s low country, Waterways is a private gated community with distinctive homes and modern amenities, just 30 minutes south of historic Savannah in Richmond Hill, Georgia. This surprising low country community offers luxury homes surrounded by a protected natural landscape.
Each Waterways neighborhood is designed with its own unique character and charm. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of interconnected neighborhoods, convenient access to community amenities, and homesites with lagoon, park, and wooded views. Homesites start in the 90s, townhomes from the 300’s and homes from the 400’s.
This is ideal living.
Just outside of Savannah, on the Georgia coast, there’s a master planned community that’s rooted in nature and built with modern amenities. Here, water’s influence is the center of the lifestyle, and health and wellness are valued along with days of adventure and exploration.Here, your family can escape from the noise of the world in a place where spontaneous get-togethers, outdoor activities, and the influence of water create a new rhythm of life.
The Waterways Marina Is Now Open….
Located along Redbird Waterway, the Marina features direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway, the Great Ogeechee River, and the Atlantic Ocean. Featuring dry slip storage, a ship store, and fueling and launching facilities, Waterways residents will have all they need for endless adventure. The center of our waterfront lifestyle is found at the Marina Village, with stunning views of golden marshes, dry slip storage spaces, along with fresh water boat slips for residents. Green spaces and events lawns will complement a curated collection of quaint retail shops and casual dining. Accessible from every corner of the community via Harbor View Drive, a road with spectacular views of glistening waters, Marina Village is sure to become the heartbeat of Waterways. Choosing the perfect place for your next adventure is about so much more than finding a home. Get a feel for the Waterways lifestyle with a Discover Waterways Visit, an immersive three day, two-night getaway. Schedule Your Visit Today!
The Uplands 55+ Active Adult Community in Suncadia
Announcing a new way to live at Suncadia: The Uplands 55+. Exclusive to residents 55 and older, this new, private gated neighborhood will nestle high on a forested ridge overlooking the Cle Elum River valley. Creating the tight-knit feel of a private retreat — but with access to Suncadia’s resort amenities too.
The Uplands 55+ will be an intimate neighborhood of only 60 homes gathered around a private clubhouse, trails and a three-acre woodland meadow.
The community clubhouse will include indoor and outdoor gathering spaces including a pool, pickleball court and more. A large, protected meadow will provide another connection point for social events, nature walks and impromptu gatherings.
Tellico Village
Tellico Village is Eastern Tennessee’s premier active-adult community for retirees and remote workers of any age who want to enjoy the region’s finest collection of resort-style amenities.
Set on 4,800 acres around Tellico Lake in the Great Smoky Mountain foothills, Tellico Village is an outdoor recreation paradise. Three lakeside golf courses host a year-round schedule of league events, plus pro and amateur championships. The Tellico Village Yacht Club, one of three community marinas, offers complete boating services and lakefront dining. Fitness facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis/pickleball courts, and 50+ miles of local hiking trails give residents a choice of healthy activities every day of the week. The 200+ Tellico Village social clubs and volunteer organizations make it easy for neighbors to become friends. At the same time, the on-site Summit Medical Center offers convenient primary care and physical-therapy services.
More than 2,300 buildable lots and waterfront homesites are available at Tellico Village. An impressive roster of 15 local builders offers a fantastic variety of floor plans with customizable options to create the new home of your dreams. There are also a number of existing homes on the market at any given time, plus rentals available for a week to a year while you check out all of the choices.
Located just 31 miles from Knoxville, Tellico Village residents are just a short drive away from the region’s finest night-life venues, cultural events, shopping centers, and top-rated health care facilities.
Request more information below, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying the good life at Tellico Village.
Fawn Lake
Fawn Lake – Best Places to Live in Virginia
There are places to live in Virginia, and then there are the best places to live in Virginia. Fawn Lake is the latter. An idyllic lakeside living development nine miles west of historic Fredericksburg, VA, Fawn Lake spans 2,350 acres of lush, rolling hills. It features an Audubon Certified wildlife Sanctuary. And, Fawn Lake’s deepwater marina is available to all residents.
Best Lake Living Community in Virginia
In addition to the laid-back, nature-based lake lifestyle, Fawn Lake provides the security offered in a gated community. An Arnold Palmer designed golf course and a private country club are also perks. Fawn Lake is 288 acres deep with over seven miles of shoreline that runs alongside much of the course. Fawn Lake’s lush canopy of trees complement the distinctive homes and home sites within the gates. Lakefront retreats, golf cottages and wooded estate home sites alike add architectural diversity. There’s a uniqueness here that is unparalleled in surrounding Virgina communities. Fawn Lake’s proximity to culture and excitement found in large cities and small towns also adds substantial value.
More to Love at Fawn Lake
Boating, water-skiing, and fishing are among favorite pastimes in this ideal Virginia community. And, nature-lovers have found a piece of heaven here with more than ten miles of hiking and walking trails. Residents have been known to take a midsummer dip after a long hike at the lake beach. The community pool is also a great choice. Clubs, leagues and groups are abundant at Fawn Lake. So, if you’re the social type, you’re in luck. Additionally, schools, top area hospitals and shopping are all easily accessible. A fitness club is on site, and tennis, boating, kayaking, sailing, and a community clubhouse are available to all residents. Fawn Lake offers a wide variety of custom builders to suit your needs. Home prices range from the high $600s to $4 million.
It’s not hard to find the best fit at Fawn Lake.
Keowee Key
Looking for the perfect lifestyle community for retirement or to raise your family? Keowee Key has more of what you love. Golf, tennis, fitness center, swimming, boating and pickleball are just a few of the amenities this active, gated, lakeside community offers.
Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Salem, SC, and surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Keowee, Keowee Key is a 1,600-acre community carved out of a forest of hardwood and pines. You’ll find a wide variety of home styles and price points available in a natural setting with mild seasons and an abundance of local adventure.
All homes in Keowee Key are custom-built, including lakefront, mountain or golf-course views. For a maintenance-free lifestyle, you’ll find ample condominiums, town homes and cottages. Choose a lakefront home with private dock or use one of 5 community docks with 324 boat slips, pontoon and kayak rentals, and a supply store.
The challenging 18-hole, par 72 George Cobb Golf Course, features four tee boxes to match all skill levels. A clubhouse with award-winning chef, lakeside leisure trail, three swimming pools, and a dog park, contribute to Keowee Key’s country club lifestyle.
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.
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.
PGA Village Verano
PGA Village Verano is a gated, new home community in Port St. Lucie, FL. This neighborhood features nineteen unique floorplans ranging from 2- to 4-Bedrooms and a wide range of personalization options.
PGA Village Verano’s clubhouse, Club Talavera, is the centerpiece of the community. Residents enjoy access to resort-style amenities that include South Florida’s largest, private Pickleball Center featuring 27 courts. The Talavera Fitness Center includes an indoor pool with lap lanes & apa; locker rooms with saunas; cardio studio; full strength training & cardio center; tennis, bocce and basketball courts; and a resort-style outdoor pool with cabanas and sundeck. As the only master-planned, new home community affiliated with the PGA Golf Club, our residents enjoy golf cart access and special privileges to our award-winning neighbor. The Talavera Social Club is the perfect place to gather, and features billiards & card rooms, lounge, library, demonstration kitchen, arts & crafts studio and ballroom with catering kitchen. A full-time Lifestyle Director keeps the social calendar full of activities and events.
Verano’s new SmartFIT Training Center also offers PGA Village Verano residents a cutting-edge, easy-to-use circuit training system as part of Kolter’s exclusive partnership with global fitness leader EGYM.
Lucero Golf & Country Club – Panama
Lucero is a luxury retirement and residential community located in the beautiful highlands along Panama’s Pacific coast. If you’re seeking a more natural lifestyle in a tropical setting with premier amenities, Lucero could be your destination of choice.
The private Lucero Golf & Country Club features the region’s only championship golf course, a spectacular layout by designer Michael Poellot with ocean and mountain views from the bent grass fairways and greens. Additional Lucero clubhouse amenities include fine dining at the Seasons Restaurant, an outdoor deck with lounge surrounding the infinity pool, and a tennis center with clay courts.
Lucero homesites with sweeping views range from half an acre up to 2.4 acres in size. Single-family homes, duplex villas and spacious condominiums are also available. If you want to explore the Lucero lifestyle first, new riverside and fairway villas, as well as unique luxury treehouses, are now offered as rentals with upscale conveniences like high-speed Internet connections.
Best of all for those who want a greener lifestyle, the entire Lucero community has been designed to the highest environmental standards. Minimal tree removal, rainwater collection for irrigation and rooftop solar panels are all part of Lucero’s natural plan. The surrounding countryside is home to traditional farms that produce fruits, vegetables and the area’s signature coffee beans, while the adjacent Amistad National Park is a 500,000-acre protected tropical wilderness with hot springs and world-class hiking trails.
Request more information below and you’ll be taking your first steps on an adventure of a lifetime at Lucero.
Cresswind Charlotte
Encompassing 370 woodland acres, Cresswind Charlotte is a 55+ community in Charlotte, North Carolina. This active adult community is situated away from the congestion of the city but within a 25-minute drive of Uptown Charlotte.
New homes at Cresswind Charlotte are specifically designed for active adults with design with flexible floorplans and hundreds of design and structural personalization options available. Miles of walking trails meander throughout the community, and the 17,000-square-foot clubhouse features a fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis, pickleball and bocce courts. A full-time Lifestyle Director organizes a full event calendar including fitness programs and clubs for every hobby.
Homebuyers can choose from a collection of 7 floorplans, ranging from 2- up to 4- Bedrooms and designed for optimal flexibility to create a home Built Around You. Kolter Homes offers a minimum of 25 structural options per plan so you can have the ability to add bedrooms, expand garages, second floor bonus rooms and more. Plus, choose from hundreds of design personalization opportunities.
Charlotte is home to NASCAR, Carowinds Amusement Park and U.S. National Whitewater Center. The Nantahala National Forest, Pisgah National Forest and ski resorts at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain are close enough for day trips and weekend getaways. Nine designer-decorated model homes open daily.
KOLTERHOMES created the Go Guide to Active Adult Living and Homebuying to help put buyers in control of the homebuying experience. After gathering suggestions from homebuyers, and with guidance from industry experts, KOLTERHOMES developed this comprehensive online guide with the best active adult locations, insider tips, insights, and driving tours. View the FREE guide at www.cresswind.com
Bay Creek
Located along the sparkling waters of the Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a community where coastal living is defined by a deep appreciation of family, nature, and authentic shore experiences. Set upon 1,720 lush acres along the Chesapeake Bay, our community is a natural wonderland, enhanced with exceptional amenities and rich experiences. Distinctly designed homes and neighborhoods are set among hundreds of acres of lush nature preserves, waterways, and interconnected trails—the welcoming backdrop for your family’s next great adventure.
Bay Creek is the first golf resort in the country to feature Signature courses from two of the top names in golf: Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. Both of these award-winning courses enhance the natural beauty of the land, employing acres of dunes, mature trees, and well-protected greens to create a challenging course for all skill levels. And with holes on the Chesapeake Bay and along Old Plantation Creek, it’s no wonder The Wall Street Journal ranks them among the “Top 100 Residential Golf Courses in the United States.”
This is coastal living at its most satisfying. A lifetime of memories will begin the moment you make this place home. ‘Home’ at Bay Creek is both varied and distinct. Ten exceptional neighborhoods each with unique character, offer homesites of varying views and sizes, elegant single-family homes, colorful cottages, townhomes, and large, scenic estates. So no matter what your perfect fit is, it’s easy to find yourself completely at home at Bay Creek. The best way to discover this incredible lifestyle, the charm of Cape Charles, and the magic of living on Virginia’s Cape is to experience it for yourself. Contact us to schedule your own Personal Real Estate Discovery Visit with a three-day, two-night getaway to Bay Creek.
Aquamar Vilamoura – Portugal
Living and enjoying life in the Southern Region of Portugal – Algarve is a delightful experience that combines the best of both worlds: a relaxed, sun-kissed lifestyle and a vibrant, culturally rich environment. Here’s a description of what it’s like for people who call the Algarve their home:
Nestled along the southern coast of Portugal, the Algarve is a haven for those seeking a life of tranquility and beauty. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of palm trees and the scent of saltwater in the air. The region’s Mediterranean climate ensures that sunny days are the norm, allowing you to embrace outdoor living throughout the year.
Your days in the Algarve are filled with endless possibilities. You can start by savoring a leisurely breakfast at a seaside café, where the freshly baked pastries are as warm as the smiles from the friendly locals. As the day unfolds, you might choose to explore the stunning coastline, where golden beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a serene backdrop for swimming, surfing, or simply basking in the sun.
For those with a penchant for culture, the Algarve offers a treasure trove of historic towns, each with its own unique charm. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings, discover ancient castles perched on hilltops, and immerse yourself in the rhythm of traditional Portuguese festivals and fado music that resonates with the soul.
Food lovers will find themselves in culinary paradise, with fresh seafood served at quaint beachside shacks and Michelin-starred restaurants alike. The Algarve’s cuisine is a tantalizing blend of flavors, where grilled sardines, succulent octopus, and aromatic cataplana dishes take center stage. And don’t forget to pair your meals with a glass of locally produced wine or a refreshing sip of medronho, the region’s famous firewater.
The Algarve isn’t just about leisure; it’s also about well-being. Spend your afternoons exploring nature reserves, hiking along rugged cliffs, or teeing off on world-class golf courses. The Ria Formosa Natural Park, with its intricate lagoons and birdlife, provides a peaceful escape for those who appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Fairfield Glade & Fairfield North
Fairfield Glade is perched high atop the Cumberland Plateau, and offers serene mountain beauty as it sits on the highest point between the Rocky and Smoky Mountains. One of the favorite features of this area is the moderate year round temperatures. The pleasant summer days and the cool summer nights can be attributed to the Cumberland Plateau’s 2,000-foot-elevation, allowing for more comfortable temperatures and much lower humidity than most areas of the south.
What to do with all the fabulous weather and beautiful scenery? Golfing, boating, fishing, hiking, walking, swimming, tennis/pickleball-the list of fun activities available is simply endless! Plus, an outdoor amphitheater and biergarten just opened to host live music, movies, food and community events – it’s a great gathering place for neighbors to come together.
The community offers multiple subdivisions with a wide range of home sizes, price ranges, and views that include mountain, lake, golf and protected woodlands. Another attribute is the incredible cost of living in Fairfield Glade – no state income tax on wages, very reasonable home prices, and extremely low property taxes and club dues.
Fairfield Glade is just 6 miles from the city limits of Crossville, a small town, but bustling with activities. Crossville’s central location on Interstate 40 has made it a hub for many outlying areas and has given rise to a booming retail environment, offering shopping, dining and entertainment choices. The community is also located right off I-40, less than an hour from Knoxville, and an hour and a half from either Nashville or Chattanooga.
Testimonial
“The biggest deciding factor for choosing Fairfield Glade was the people, both in the Glade and in the town. When we came to visit the first time, we had no appointment and no agenda – we just popped in and wandered around. Folks stopped us everywhere we went – Food City, the Wellness Center, Villa Pizza – and just chatted. No one was in a hurry, everyone was interested in our story, everyone had some tidbit to share. The same thing happened on our second visit, and then on every visit we made once construction started. We felt like we had become part of the community before we were actually part of the community.” Michelle and James Bayless
Fairfield Glade has 11 lakes and two marinas.
Retire Tennessee Program Communities
Whether you’re ready for full-time retirement or want to relocate to a better place, Tennessee is a state that deserves your attention.
Consider these facts before deciding on another location: Tennessee collects no state tax on income or other retirement-plan benefits and no sales tax on prescription drugs. Property taxes in Tennessee are very reasonable, especially with available exemptions for retirees and age 65+ residents, resulting in the second-lowest overall state and local tax burden per capita in the nation. And Tennessee offers the eighth-lowest cost of living in the U.S.—more than 10% below the national average.
The Retire Tennessee program is a state government initiative designed to spread the word about all of the great reasons for retiring or relocating to the Volunteer State. From the Great Smoky Mountains in the east to the banks of the Mississippi River in the west, a total of 19 urban and rural counties in the program highlight the unique natural attractions and cultural amenities that each has to offer.
Tennessee has more than 60 state and national parks with some of America’s finest freshwater fishing lakes and hiking destinations that range from the 210-mile Cumberland Trail to Chattanooga’s 16-mile Riverwalk. The delightful four-season climate means that you can enjoy a round of golf or a kayak excursion any week of the year. And the world-famous Tennessee music scene includes Beale Street blues in Memphis, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and bluegrass festivals in charming mountain towns like Kingsport and Cookeville.
Request more information below and let the Retire Tennessee program introduce you to the next great adventure in your life.
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Kent Island
K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Kent Island is a resort-style active adult 55+ community offering waterfront, Chesapeake Bay living with new single-family homes and luxury elevator condominiums. After decades of anticipation, this community is finally open—and homes are selling fast.
Ten versatile single-family home designs offer from 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,693 square feet and a 2-car garage to 4 beds, 3.5 baths, 3,601 square feet and a 3-car garage, so you can find your perfect fit, whether you’re looking to downsize or keep plenty of space for family and friends to visit. Each of our single- family homes are finished in one of our designer-curated interior Looks, so your home is cohesive, stylish and fits your taste: Loft, Farmhouse, Classic or Elements. Three luxury condo designs offer elegance, spaciousness and a low-maintenance lifestyle with up to 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,602 square feet and a 1-car garage.
Set along the banks of Maryland’s Chester River and Macum Creek, K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Kent Island offers stunning views and a wealth of outdoor recreation, including a canoe and kayak launch, a 450-foot in-community pier overlooking the Chester River and an in-community trail system, connected to the popular Cross Island Trail. From the game room and grand ballroom to the fitness center, yoga studio and sports courts to the resort-inspired indoor and outdoor pools, fire pit and waterside bar, you’ll find endless opportunities to socialize, exercise and relax at the 24,000 square foot Chester House clubhouse.
There’s even more shopping, dining and recreation to explore in nearby Washington DC, Baltimore and Annapolis—all just a short drive (or sail) away. Or, boat over to Maryland’s Eastern Shore to explore picturesque towns like Saint Michaels. With proximity to Route 50, excursions and commutes are a breeze!
Echelon – Arkansas
What Makes Echelon Unique?
Echelon stands apart as a community where thoughtful design meets purposeful living. It’s not simply the architecture, the location, or the lifestyle—it’s how all of these elements are woven together to create something that feels distinct and elevated. Echelon redefines what it means to “come home.”
1. Location That Fuels Lifestyle
Echelon is strategically located in Bentonville, Arkansas—one of the most exciting growth areas in the country. Positioned near the acclaimed Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, the community offers instant access to some of the region’s best biking and walking trails. This isn’t just about proximity to nature; it’s about integrating adventure into everyday life. Whether you’re a weekend cyclist or someone who enjoys peaceful morning walks, Echelon makes the outdoors part of your rhythm.
Beyond recreation, Echelon places you at the heart of Bentonville’s thriving innovation economy and cultural momentum. From the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art to a flourishing food and entrepreneurship scene, the location offers an unmatched blend of creative energy and long-term investment value.
2. Design-Forward Living
Architecture at Echelon isn’t about trend—it’s about intention. Homes here are designed to feel personal, sophisticated, and timeless. Clean lines, natural materials, and curated finishes create a quiet elegance that elevates daily living. Each home is based on plans that maintain community cohesion while giving homeowners room to customize and create a space that feels truly their own.
Unlike typical subdivisions, the streetscapes at Echelon are curated to feel both cohesive and calming. Thoughtful landscaping, balanced setbacks, and uniform design principles create an environment that feels considered and complete.
3. A Community That Prioritizes Connection and Calm
Echelon is designed to foster natural social interaction without compromising privacy. Welcoming front porches, walkable streets, and shared green spaces encourage moments of connection—impromptu chats, shared sunsets, neighborhood gatherings. Yet, every home is also a sanctuary, with layouts and private yards that offer serenity when you need it.
This duality—connection and calm—is what makes the lifestyle at Echelon truly special. It’s a place where neighbors become friends, and solitude is always within reach.
4. Effortless, Low-Maintenance Living
For many, Echelon offers a lock-and-leave lifestyle without sacrificing beauty or comfort. Whether you’re a full-time resident or someone seeking a secondary retreat, homes here are designed for ease. The architecture and landscaping are low-maintenance by design, supporting a lifestyle filled with freedom and flexibility.
This ease doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. On the contrary, every material, fixture, and finish is selected for its durability and aesthetic integrity—creating spaces that feel luxurious, live comfortably, and age beautifully.
5. A Future-Ready Investment
Bentonville is on a dynamic upward trajectory, and Echelon is poised to rise with it. The city’s expansion as a hub for innovation, culture, and the arts makes homeownership here more than just a lifestyle decision—it’s a strategic investment. As the region grows, Echelon stands out as a community that values legacy, quality, and vision.
Albemarle Plantation
Albemarle Plantation
On North Carolina’s Inner Banks
In the private, gated sound front community of Albemarle Plantation, the waterfront lifestyle abounds. Set on the pristine waters of North Carolina’s sparkling Inner Banks, Albemarle Plantation is the perfect blend of nature, big water, resort amenities, and beautiful homes.
The community is known for its vast waters, 166-slip Private Marina, acclaimed golf, and nature-centric lifestyle. Walking and biking trails ribbon past nature sanctuaries and waterways. Raised boardwalks wind along, perfect for a stroll to the marina. On the waterfront, Marina Park with its great views and manicured lawn is the ideal gathering place for friends and is home to many a community event. The grand, waterfront Clubhouse offers indoor and outdoor dining with incredible water and fairway views. Near the marina, Dockside Café offers outdoor dining and is home to the Albemarle Wine Shop.
Residents also enjoy daily amenities like a fully outfitted fitness center, resort-style Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, bocce courts, gathering and activity spaces and even community garden plots. Winding through the community is the award-winning Dan Maples-designed golf course. Widely acclaimed, it offers world-class play for golfers of all levels and provides breathtaking views. Here, you can enjoy every amenity you would expect from a private waterfront community—plus, all amenities are complete and owned debt free by the Property Owner’s Association.
With a focus on nature’s beauty, Albemarle Plantation is a scenic and welcoming place to build the home of your dreams, too. With a large selection of home plans and a trusted group of preferred builders, creating your retreat at Albemarle can be easy and exciting. Living here offers a perfect balance: residents are wonderfully tucked away from the hustle and bustle of metro areas yet have easy access to Tidewater Virginia and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. At Albemarle, you can savor the small-town waterfront charm of Edenton and Hertford, and quickly access big city luxuries with Virginia Beach and Norfolk only about an hour north.
Whether setting out by boat to explore the Sound and nearby small towns, kayaking, going fishing with friends on the protected waters of the Sound or in the Intracoastal Waterway, jet skiing, sailboat racing, or just watching the sun go down over the water…living at Albemarle Plantation is a soul-stirring experience.
Homes from the $400,000.
Homesites from $30,000
Mirabella
Mirabella: New Homes for Sale in Paso Robles, CA
Welcome to Mirabella, a master-planned community of new homes in Paso Robles, CA. Choose from six luxurious floorplans of up to 2,481 sq. ft., 4 beds, 2.5 baths, and 2-car garages. Select plans feature an Extra Suite+ for added space.
We offer Looks, a simple way to create a beautiful interior. Choose from four options – Elements, Loft, Farmhouse, or Classic – for unique palettes throughout your home.
Amenities include a walking trail, pool, and pickleball court. Commute easily with: US-101, SR-1, SR-46, SR-99, and Paso Robles Municipal Airport. Discover a new-construction home at Mirabella.
Retire Arkansas
Arkansas is home to diverse cities and communities, each with something unique to discover – from metropolitan areas to rural settings and adventure sports to relaxing retreats.
Nicknamed the Natural State, Arkansas’s dense forests, winding rivers, and dramatic mountain landscapes provide endless exploration opportunities. Kayak on the Buffalo National River, dig for jewels in Crater of Diamonds State Park, or take in the sweeping views at Hawksbill Crag or Whitaker Point.
Tucked in the state’s northwest corner, Fayetteville and Bentonville are home to several annual food, film, and music festivals, plenty of museums, and diverse culinary offerings. Historic sites abound in the state capital of Little Rock, the largest city in the state. Live music is a way of life in Arkansas and can be heard in both Little Rock and the Lower Delta region, especially in Helena-West Helena.
It’s clear to see why Arkansas is an attractive option for those looking to relocate or retire. In addition to its rich culture and picturesque surroundings, Arkansas has the third-lowest cost of living in the United States, but the seventh-highest quality of life. State income tax is 60% lower than the national average, and property taxes are around 0.60%. Additionally, military retirement pay is exempt from state income tax.
Although it’s not always easy figuring out how to move to another state, we can help.
Request your free Arkansas Relocation Guide. This handy guide contains a wealth of information for people considering relocating to or retiring in Arkansas. No matter where you choose to visit or relocate, you’ll find friendly and helpful people everywhere you go.
The Foothills at Arroyo Norte
Our community, Arroyo Norte, in New River, Arizona is located right near I-17 and offers gorgeous mountain views and easy access to nearby outdoor activities, shops, and restaurants. Some of these local attractions include Destination Balloon Rides, Desert Hills Trailhead, and Dove Valley Ranch Golf Club. Enjoy regulated temperatures in our energy-efficient homes with the use of our spray foam insulation and energy-saving features. With our Energy Guarantee program, you’ll receive a guaranteed usage amount based on the amount of energy used to heat and cool your home. Plus, receive a 100% reimbursement if you pay above the Guaranteed Amount. Don’t forget to check out our options to upgrade your home such as:
- RV Garages
- Pool Houses
- Casitas
- Pet Showers
- Multi-Generational Suites
- and more!
This community is at closeout—your final opportunity to build your dream home!







































