Retirement marks a new chapter in life, and choosing the best place for you to settle down is an immensely important decision. If you’ve considered to retire in Florida, you wouldn’t be the only one! The sunshine state boasts a warm, pleasant climate with mild winters, making it a popular retirement option to enjoy numerous outdoor recreational activities for an active lifestyle.
Florida’s tax-friendly policies – including no state income tax – also make it attractive to retirees. Florida’s well-developed healthcare system, access to world-class medical facilities, and various leisure activities, such as theme parks and cultural attractions, further contribute to its popularity as a top retirement destination.
Retirement Communities in Florida
Not every region of Florida is equal. There are certain counties that are better for retirees than others. Coastal regions of Florida tend to have a higher cost of living due to high-demand. However, nestled within the heart of Florida, Sumter County emerges as a hidden gem for retirees looking for a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle. According to niche.com, Sumter County is ranked #7 for Best Counties for Retirees in America out of 2,753.
Within Sumter County, our Lakeshore community is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire in Florida. With its picturesque landscapes, friendly community, and plethora of amenities, what’s not to love?
Best Place in Florida to Retire on a Budget
Retirees making the most of their savings will appreciate Sumter County’s reasonable cost of living. Compared to other parts of Florida, the area boasts affordable housing options such as Lakeshore. In our Sumter County cottage home community, homeowners save in several ways by leasing the land instead of owning it:
- The upfront cost of purchasing the land is eliminated, reducing the initial financial burden.
- Property taxes are often lower for homeowners who lease the land, as they are only responsible for the property’s value, not the land’s value.
- Maintenance costs for the land – such as landscaping and infrastructure repairs – are our responsibility. This relieves residents of related expenses and labor. Overall, leasing the land can lead to significant cost savings and make homeownership more affordable.
There is also an absence of state income tax and relatively lower property taxes in Florida. Providing significant financial relief in this way frees up funds to be used for leisure, travel, or pursuing hobbies.
Weather in the Sunshine State
Florida’s mild winters and year-round sunshine is a huge motivator to retire in Florida, and this ideal weather is perfectly demonstrated in Sumter County. The pleasant climate offers retirees the opportunity to stay active and enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year. At Lakeshore, residents enjoy an array of outdoor amenities without going far. Whether it’s playing a game of pickleball, enjoying the views of Lake Andrew, or participating in community events, the climate will ensure that residents embrace an active lifestyle in the community.
Best Place to Retire in Florida Without Hurricanes
…Well, let’s be honest – there is no place in Florida that doesn’t experience hurricanes! However, central Florida offers certain advantages for those looking to retire in Florida compared to the coast, primarily due to the reduced exposure to direct hurricane hits.
While coastal areas can be alluring with their beautiful beaches and oceanfront views, they also come with a higher risk of hurricanes and tropical storms. Here are some reasons why Central Florida is a better option for retirees seeking to minimize the impact of hurricanes:
- Milder Weather Impact. Central Florida experiences the effects of hurricanes in the form of heavy rain, gusty winds, and isolated tornadoes. The impact is generally milder compared to coastal areas where hurricanes make landfall, resulting in less severe property damage and a shorter recovery time.
- Reduced Hurricane Frequency. Central Florida experiences fewer direct hurricane hits compared to the coastal regions due to being inland. While not entirely immune to hurricanes, the likelihood of being directly affected by a major storm in central Florida is lower. This reduced frequency can provide retirees with greater peace of mind and a sense of security during the hurricane season.
- Less Vulnerability to Storm Surges. Storm surges are one of the most destructive aspects of hurricanes. This is especially true in coastal areas. Central Florida’s inland location makes it less vulnerable to the devastating impact of storm surges that cause extensive flooding and property damage.
- Lower Insurance Costs. Coastal areas are considered high-risk zones for insurance companies due to the increased likelihood of hurricane damage. As a result, homeowners’ insurance and property insurance premiums in coastal regions can be significantly higher than in Central Florida. By choosing to retire in Central Florida, retirees may enjoy more affordable insurance rates, helping them stretch their retirement budget further.
State-of-the-Art Healthcare in Sumter County
Sumter County boasts a well-developed healthcare system that caters to the needs of its residents. This is essential for retirees. The region offers a wide range of medical facilities, hospitals, specialized clinics, and healthcare services, ensuring access to quality healthcare for its growing population.
- Hospitals – UF Health The Villages® Hospital is a state-of-the-art medical facility that serves Sumter County. This hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by experienced healthcare professionals, providing comprehensive healthcare services to residents.
- Specialized Care – Sumter County’s healthcare system provides access to specialized care across various medical fields: cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, geriatrics, and more. Residents have access to skilled specialists and advanced treatment options for complex medical conditions.
- Healthcare Partnerships -Sumter County’s healthcare institutions often collaborate with academic institutions and research centers to enhance medical knowledge and offer cutting-edge treatments to patients. This collaboration ensures that residents have access to the latest medical technologies and treatment options.
A Friendly and Rewarding Retirement at Lakeshore
Although Lakeshore by Simple Life isn’t classified as a strictly 55+ community, we are home to many retirees. Our community is attractive for all of the benefits outlined above, but the unique living experience at Lakeshore is unbeatable.
Retirees often seek a low-maintenance lifestyle, and Lakeshore delivers on this aspect. The community offers low-maintenance living, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their retirement without the burden of extensive home upkeep. For instance, residents living at Lakeshore will never need to care for their own yard due to on-site professional landscapers.
Lakeshore provides an array of resort-style amenities. These include an extraordinary clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center & yoga studio, and walking trails. By encouraging an active and engaging lifestyle, Lakeshore promotes wellness and social interaction among residents. This active and friendly atmosphere encourages retirees to form meaningful friendships and appreciate a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation that some retirees may experience.
It’s no question that the right lifestyle is what draws people to retire in Florida. Finding the best housing options are equally as important. Homes in Lakeshore are designed with the needs of retirees in mind. Cottages in our Sumter County community feature single-level floor plans, wide doorways, open living areas, and other accessibility features that promote convenience and ease of mobility.
Don’t let Lakeshore’s gorgeous lakeside location fool you! Our community is strategically located near essential amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions. This gives retirees convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, and more.
With our focus on resort-style amenities, community engagement, and thoughtful home design, Lakeshore is hands down one of the best places to retire in Florida. If you’d like to tour the community for yourself, our on-site team is happy to help!
