The Villages is a great place to retire, but as we've said before it is growing so quickly most would agree it lacks that small-town feel that attracted a lot of the first residents.
But if you don't need all of the Rec Centers and golf courses that residents of The Villages enjoy, you can still take advantage of the restaurants, services, and many entertainment options that The Villages offers by living in one of the other towns nearby. In fact, the boundaries of The Villages are pushing further into these nearby small towns.
Here are a few places more small towns to consider near The Villages:
Summerfield
Summerfield is a small town located just north of The Villages, making it a convenient option for retirees who want to be close to the amenities and services offered by The Villages but prefer a quieter and more suburban lifestyle.
One of the notable features of Summerfield is its proximity to Lake Weir, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities. The area is known for its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
One nearby retirement option:
Stonecrest is a 55+ community in Summerfield with about 2,000 homes. Amenities here include an 18-hole golf course, a family-friendly pool, and more. Residents also enjoy easy access to great shopping and dining options nearby, including in The Villages which is just minutes away.
Home sizes range from about 1,700 sq. ft. to more than 2,300 sq. ft. Prices start in the $300k’s.
Leesburg
Leesburg is another popular choice for retirees. It features a historic downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city also boasts several retirement communities and a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
One nearby retirement option:
The Plantation at Leesburg is a gated 55+ community with about 3,000 single-family homes, 24-hour security, and a wide selection of amenities. Residents enjoy three well-equipped clubhouses, three swimming pools, an on-site restaurant, fishing ponds, and more. The community is also has two 18-hole semi-private golf courses and two PGA professional assistants on staff. Home prices start in the $200k's.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a charming town with a vibrant arts scene. It is known for its picturesque downtown area, filled with quaint shops, galleries, and eateries. The town also offers scenic lakes, parks, and numerous festivals throughout the year.
One nearby retirement option:
Lakes of Mount Dora is a gated community not far from The Villages with about 950 single-family homes that combines 178 acres of lakes with New England-style architecture. Amenities here include an 18,000 square foot clubhouse complete with a fitness center and a banquet facility. Then there is the resort-style pool and hot tub outside.
Lakes of Mount Dora offers a few different ranch-style homes that range in size from as small as 1,263 square feet all the way up to something as large as 3,700 square feet. Prices start in the $300k’s.
Fruitland Park
Fruitland Park is a small, residential town known for its serene atmosphere. It's close enough to The Villages to access its amenities easily but maintains its own sense of community. The town has parks, a golf course, and nearby Lake Griffin for outdoor activities.
Wildwood
Situated southwest of The Villages, Wildwood is another small town with a mix of rural and suburban living. It's home to numerous natural areas, making it a good choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities. It's also conveniently close to The Villages for shopping and healthcare services.
These additional towns near The Villages, Florida, offer various options for retirees seeking a range of lifestyles, from quiet and rural to suburban living, while still benefiting from the amenities and services available in The Villages itself.
Thanks for the information! The Villages looks like it has much to offer, but is in danger of urban sprawl! Also, I am not seeing many trees! I’m from central Virginia, and I need to see a few trees every so often! They provide shade, give off much needed oxygen, and eat up our CO2!
I think a smaller community would suit me better in a smaller town. I am living in a modest house on 2 acres in Virginia.
I live in Inverness and it is close to the villages. It has much to offer. Check it out …