Are 55+ Communities All the Same? Premier vs. Standard Active Adult Living Perks

Decoding the 55+ Community Landscape: What is Active Adult Living?

Not all 55+ communities are the same!

To be considered a 55+ community per the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), at least 80% of the community has to be occupied by a household consisting of a person 55 or older. The community can designate a higher percentage, but not a lower one. For example, Del Webb Chateau Elan amended its governing documents to say at least 90% of the households must have at least one resident who is 55 or older.

As for the rest of the occupants in the home with the 55+ resident, the individual community can designate the ages; most state occupants must be at least 19 years old. The exception to the age rules is if the resident is the guardian of a disabled person regardless of age—that person is exempt from the age requirements by Federal Law.

The Lifestyle: What Defines Active Adult Living?

While the age requirements are the common factors among designated 55+ communities, there are vast differences otherwise. Most people, when considering a 55+ Active Adult community, are primarily looking for a lifestyle—that is to say, an active social life with like-minded or at least aged peers.

Most 55+ communities offer ranch-style homes with the primary bedroom and bath, kitchen, and living areas on one floor, even if the home includes a loft or basement. Additionally, most Active Adult Living communities include lawn care in the Homeowners Association (HOA) dues, simplifying maintenance for residents.

Premier 55+ Communities vs. Standard Active Adult Living

The biggest differences between communities are the ones I refer to as “Premier” communities, or those that have extensive amenities. These “Premier” communities elevate the concept of Active Adult Living with comprehensive offerings, including:

• Indoor Amenities: Clubhouses, fitness centers, community kitchens, and craft rooms.
• Outdoor Amenities: Concert venues, bocce courts, tennis courts, and pickleball courts.
• Pools: Indoor and outdoor pools, and often hot tubs.

These high-end communities also employ full-time activities directors to keep the social life vibrant. Not surprisingly, homes in “Premier” 55+ communities often cost about 15%–20% more than in a standard Active Adult Living community without the extensive perks.

Finding the Right 55+ Community for Your Budget

Before you decide on an Active Adult Living community, envision the lifestyle that’s right for you. Depending on your budget, you may need to “right size” to a smaller home to get the amenities and social life you want. The key is balancing the cost of the home with the value of the desired 55+ community lifestyle.