A Guide to 55+ Active Living Communities in Virginia

Immerse Yourself in History and the Great Outdoors in Virginia

Early European colonists had the right idea when they chose to settle in modern-day Virginia, home of one of the first English settlements in America. The state is still an outstanding place to retire, especially for seniors who appreciate natural beauty, historic sites, and engaging outdoor activities.

Like nearby Washington, D.C., Virginia is filled with history! The state is an appealing location for downsizing empty nesters to retire that are interested in learning about America’s wartime history and its early colonial period . There are war reenactments and living museums alongside historic sites, monuments, memorabilia, and art galleries.

As a coastal state, Virginia offers residents access to beaches, as well as waterfront properties around the state’s lakes and rivers. The terrain varies from mountainous areas to acres of flat farmland, though you’ll also find pinelands and forests.

Virginia’s weather is equally diverse, with warm summers and colder winters. The state experiences all four seasons throughout the year.

Virginia’s national parks and natural lands are a big draw for active seniors, especially for those who enjoy hiking. If you’re looking for adventurous outdoor activities, try wildlife and landscape photography, canoeing, fishing, camping, biking, or walking pet-friendly trails.

The Regions of Virginia

From mountains and lakes to farmlands and cities, Virginia offers retirees incredible variety. Each region has something unique and appealing for its residents.

Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia is home to many upscale neighborhoods, complete with shopping malls filled with luxury brands and fine dining. It’s also known for high-class entertainment like golf courses, horse races, dressage shows, and polo matches.

Popular neighborhoods in Northern Virginia for 55+ retirees include Stafford, Locust Grove, Fredericksburg, Haymarket, Sterling, Woodbridge, and Ashburn.

Piedmont

Where Northern Virginia is more urban, Piedmont is significantly more rural, with many areas of woodlands, river valleys, farmland, and pinelands perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Towns like Ruckersville, Palmyra, and Keswick have communities located amidst nature with stunning scenic views.

Shenandoah Valley

In the northwestern regions of Virginia, you’ll find the Shenandoah Valley. Towns like Lake Frederick offer a perfect balance of natural majesty in Shenandoah National Park and opportunities for seniors to learn about local history.

Much of the area is less than two hours from Washington, D.C. and features wineries, horseback riding, nature tours, canoeing, and more.

Southwest Virginia

Cities in Virginia’s Southwest region like Roanoke have a more rugged and mountainous vibe, perfect for 55+ nature lovers that still want to be close to a city. The area offers a feel described as a “creative landscape,” featuring outdoor activities, arts and crafts, music, and even agritourism.

Southwest Virginia is often regarded as the birthplace of country music, and the area’s artisan spirit runs deep.

Southside

Southside in Virginia is best known for its farmland, as it was previously the site of many tobacco plantations. Today, it’s more of a college area with history and a quaint charm.

Suburbs like Danville offer 55+ active adults entertainment options such as live music, theater, art, and more!

Richmond/Central Virginia

History lovers adore Richmond/Central Virginia, which was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, and as a result has a vast array of memorabilia and historic sites.

Neighborhoods including New Kent and Chesterfield have history and art museums alongside natural beauty and tasty brunch spots!

Tidewater/Hampton Roads

Virginia’s Tidewater/Hampton Roads area lies along the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. The area has incredible seafood restaurants and is home to a few military bases.

Locations like Williamsburg and Gloucester are popular with seniors that love American history, and there’s a thriving agricultural industry here as well.

How to Spend Your Time During Retirement in Virginia

If you’re looking to stay active as you age, Virginia is the place to be, with plenty of on-property and off-property things to do to stay fit and healthy!

Virginia is beloved for its natural vistas and is a paradise for outdoorsy retirees looking to stay active. Hike through parks teeming with animals and plantlife, or enjoy a stroll around a local grassy square with easy access to shops and restaurants.

Virginia is a major historical destination, with close ties to the founding of America as well as both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Learn about the history of Old Dominion, and experience the ways in which the past still affects the present.

Explore Activities On 55+ Community Properties

Virginia’s 55+ active adult communities offer their residents a wealth of things to do without having to go far from their homes. Right on the premises, you’ll find an assortment of ways to spend your time, whether you’re looking to socialize with your neighbors or get active at the clubhouse or on-site gym.

Stay Healthy with Indoor and Outdoor Fitness

Virginia’s natural beauty and well-appointed communities offer an abundance of ways to stay active both inside and outside. Make use of exercise equipment and fitness rooms for yoga or try sports like tennis and pickleball. Some communities even have indoor and outdoor pools.

Outdoor on-property fitness options for seniors in Virginia include community walking trails, outdoor sports courts and fitness classes.

Live a Low-Maintenance Retirement

Many 55+ active adult communities include lawn care, and snow removal during the winter months. While the state experiences average rainfall and some snow in the winter, master planned communities designed with seniors in mind require less time doing chores and allow for more time to be retired!

Visit with Neighbors at the Community Clubhouse

Community centers offer active seniors fun and games without having to leave the property!

Clubhouses often have an assortment of board games and TVs, and host hobbyist groups like sewing and book clubs. Others have recreational equipment, tennis courts, pickleball courts and more, so you can stay active alongside your fellow like-minded community residents.

Nearby Activities and Fun Things to Do

Virginia is a perfect match for seniors looking to experience life to the fullest by staying active as they age!

The state offers retirees off-property parks showcasing Virginia’s natural beauty, museums filled with stories about its past and casinos where you can win big!

Go Hiking

Virginia has many sunny days that are excellent for hiking. Fall colors usually peak in mid-October offering active retirees visiting one of Virginia’s many parks and nature preserves a picture perfect experience.

Virginia is also an exceptional location for viewing local wildlife or birdwatching, so be sure to bring a camera and binoculars! Notable hiking spots with scenic views include Shenandoah National Park, Old Rag Mountain, and the Appalachian Trail.

Immerse Yourself in History

Virginia, often called ‘the birthplace of the nation’ is the site of one of the earliest colonial settlements from European explorers. The state has a storied history filled with Native American tribes, military conflicts, developments, and more. Seniors can learn about this history at museums throughout the state and other historic points of interest.

Visit the modern-day location of Jamestown, watch a civil war reenactment, and step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg.

Visit Virginia’s Beaches

Spend the summer during your retirement relaxing along the Atlantic Ocean coast, or swim in the calm, temperate waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

Whether you head to Virginia Beach or one of the many other coastal areas, picturesque shores are plentiful! 55+ active adults don’t have to own oceanfront property to sunbathe, walk along the shore or play beach volleyball.

There’s Lots to Love About Virginia

Virginia is a popular state to retire for 55+ seniors looking for ways to stay active, healthy, and to make the most of retirement!

The state is a hub of history and early American culture, with many historic sites that harken back to the founding of the country. Its close proximity to Washington, D.C. makes it easy to visit landmarks, memorials, and museums, whether you’re planning a vacation or just a day trip.

Virginia also has many areas that feel rural but are still close to city centers. Empty nesters looking to downsize and live simply can enjoy the benefits of privacy and low-cost housing while still enjoying easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Virginia may be for lovers, but it’s also a fantastic choice for retirees!

55+ Communities to Choose From in Virginia

No matter what kind of new home you’re seeking for retirement, you’re sure to find something fitting your preferences and budget in Virginia!

The state has housing options for seniors ranging from budget-friendly rural communities to high-end luxury residences with ready access to modern urban amenities.

Check out Virginia’s 55+ communities designed with active adults in mind, or explore all ages community options.

Golf Course Communities

Virginia’s large fields of flat, undeveloped land and regular rainfall make it an ideal state for golf courses. It’s no surprise then that golf course communities, perfect for retirees, have popped up all around the state!

These communities typically cater to 55+ empty nesters, some being age restricted communities, while others simply attracting a senior aged crowd. The best golf course communities offer putting greens, driving ranges and top-tier amenities like onsite dining.

Manufactured Homes Communities

If you’re looking for an affordable home that has amenities suitable for active 55+ residents, check out Virginia’s manufactured homes communities.

These residences, also known as mobile home communities, offer a kind of freedom you won’t find with other types of housing. Costing less than traditional home options and often located in age-restricted communities, manufactured homes can be found in Virginia’s most scenic woodlands locations.

Luxury Apartment Rentals

Seeking a place to retire that feels a little more upscale? Consider a luxury apartment rental with top-quality amenities, spacious accommodations, and unparalleled service for tenants.

Many luxury rentals for seniors in Virginia have community areas complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and some even host daily workout classes. Apartments often come with covered parking, luxury pools, elevators to upper floor units, an array of floor plans and private balconies or patios.

Condominium Communities

Virginia’s condominium (condo) communities offer seniors a sense of community as well as access to shared recreation equipment and on-site pools, while still allowing residents to own their individual unit.

They’re a great choice for 55+ retirees who want the benefits of home ownership with less hassle, thanks to HOAs that cover yard work and exterior maintenance services.

Many of Virginia’s premier condo communities are also waterfront communities along the ocean, bay, or lakeside.

Expenses and Costs of Living

Virginia’s cost of living for retirees is about average overall with highly affordable options available in the states’ more rural areas. Virginia offers a variety of active adult communities, rentals, and other living arrangements suitable to just about any budget.

As a retiree, it’s important to note that Social Security benefits aren’t taxed in Virginia, and pension payouts are tax-deductible up to $12,000, so the tax burden is very low for seniors.

All considered, Virginia can be a very financially-friendly state for retirement. More expensive areas are rare, and the cost is typically balanced out by better access to attractions such as fine dining and high-end shopping districts alongside beautiful nature preserves and parks.

Virginia Health Services

Seniors can find high-quality healthcare facilities in Virginia, whether you’re in need of a general practitioner, a specialist, emergency care, or chronic condition management. The state has acclaimed health centers like Bon Secours and VCU Health.

Additionally, healthcare costs are on the cheaper end compared to what you’ll find in some other states, though those in need of financial assistance can still make use of Medicare, Medicaid, and programs like the Virginia Health Care Foundation.

virginia Communities

Top Showcase Community

Trilogy® at Lake Frederick by Shea Homes

In addition to in person tours, prospective residents can now tour at Trilogy at Lake Frederick virtually if they're not able to travel to tour it physically. This community now also offers Virtual Livestream Events. These events include cooking classes, wine and spirits demos, fitness and wellne......

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES ► COMMUNITY VIDEO

55+

No. of Homes : 950

From : Mid $400s

Single Family Homes

New Homes

Top Showcase Community

Embrey Mill by Newland Communities

Embrey Mill, a new-home community just off I-95 in North Stafford, has more builders, more amenities, and more home styles, so you can relax and spend more time with friends, family, and neighbors. The parks, trails, caf, and more, all make Embrey Mill the place where Home is Built-In. Embrey......

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES ► COMMUNITY VIDEO ► VIEW WEBSITE

All Age Community

From : High $400s

Single Family Homes

New Homes

Glenmore

560 Drumin road Keswick VA 22947 Phone: 540-287-9352 ext

Nestled in the heart of Keswick, just minutes east of Charlottesville, VA, with easy access to both Rt.. 250 and I-64, Glenmore is one of Albemarle County’s most prestigious private communities. Offering resort-style living in a beautiful and bucolic setting, Glenmore boasts some of Central Virgin...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult Gated MasterPlanned

From : 924,900

No. of Homes : 20

Read More
Pendleton Ranch Homes

7282 Parchment Circle Ruther Glen VA 22546 Phone: 804-506-4157

Ranch homes selling fast in Caroline County!. Pendleton is the perfect place to call home all while being surrounded by a gorgeous, resort-style community. Plus take advantage of Caroline County’s low property taxes, meaning more money in your pocket every month! We have what you’re looking for ...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 333,990

No. of Homes : 3
Sq ft : 1153 To 1559

Read More
Kenbrook at Harpers Mill 55 Plus

15518 Blooming Road Chesterfield VA 23832 Phone: 804-779-1120

Kenbrook at Harpers Mill Newest Section Now Open - Schedule an appointment today! Welcome home to Kenbrook at Harpers Mill, Harpers Mill’s only exclusive active adult community for the 55 and better.. You’ll be within minutes of everything you need along Route 360 and easy access to 288. From t...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted

From : 399,990

No. of Homes : 4
Sq ft : 1410 To 2626

Read More
K Hovnanians Four Seasons at Virginia Crossing

14001 Madrona Lane Woodbridge VA 22193 Phone: 888-779-1459

Welcome to K.. Hovnanian s® Four Seasons at Virginia Crossing, a new active adult 55+ community in Prince William County, VA offering beautiful villas and condominium homes. With spacious home designs and access to countless amenities, come enjoy the best that active living has to offer. Offered By...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted

From : 549,206

No. of Homes : 6
Sq ft : 2138 To 2266

Read More
K Hovnanians Four Seasons at Virginia Crossing

14003 Madrona Lane Woodbridge VA 22193 Phone: 888-779-1459

Welcome to K.. Hovnanian s® Four Seasons at Virginia Crossing, a new active adult 55+ community in Prince William County, VA offering beautiful villas and condominium homes. With spacious home designs and access to countless amenities, come enjoy the best that active living has to offer. Offered By...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted CondoOnly

From : 379,830

No. of Homes : 25
Sq ft : 1515 To 1884

Read More
Groves at New Kent Ranch

7587 Southamptonshire Way New Kent VA 23124 Phone: 804-789-4082

Welcome to The Groves at New Kent!. Our newest community offering brand new, one-level homes in beautiful, New Kent County! Our new 55+ community will give you all the luxury of space, convenience, flexibility, and ease. All homes will include 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garages, and no yard...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 319,990

No. of Homes : 4
Sq ft : 1338 To 1696

Read More
Groves at New Kent Estates

8190 West Danube Loop New Kent VA 23124 Phone: 804-258-4155

Welcome to the newest section in the Groves at New Kent master-planned community!. These new homes feature first-floor owner’s suites, elevated features and million-dollar amenities, from the upper $300s! Now Selling - Click here to schedule your visit! If you’ve been dreaming of effortless l...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted

From : 369,990

No. of Homes : 4
Sq ft : 1601 To 2626

Read More
Regency at Belmont

19867 Stewart Gap Terr Ashburn VA 20147 Phone: 855-298-0316

Conveniently located in Ashburn, Virginia, Regency at Belmont is Toll Brothers only active adult (55+) luxury townhome community.. Regency at Belmont includes access to the resort-style amenities at Belmont Country Club including outdoor pool, expansive clubhouse, dining area, fitness center, tenni...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted

From : 785,995

No. of Homes : 5
Sq ft : 2953 To 2977

Read More
Twin Lake Villas 55

3561 Twin Lake Boulevard Locust Grove VA 22508 Phone: 540-377-0777

Brand new attached villas have arrived to Locust Grove!. Ready for the next stage in life? Want to right-size without compromising finishes or storage space? Welcome to Twin Lake Villas, the most affordable main-level living attached villas with the lifestyle you re craving and NO condo fees! Click ...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted

From : 332,990

No. of Homes : 2
Sq ft : 1369 To 1567

Read More
Regency North 55 Active Adult

12404 General Mahone Drive Fredericksburg VA 22407 Phone: 571-378-3950

Welcome to Regency North - an active adult community in Fredericksburg, VA!. Here, you can own a low-maintenance, single-family ranch home that fits your stage in life, in an amenity-filled community with a location near everything the area has to offer. We are now open by appointment only, schedul...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 366,990

No. of Homes : 5
Sq ft : 1188 To 1723

Read More
The Flats at Montebello by Del Webb

21943 Hawksbill High Circle Sterling VA 20164 Phone: 703-740-5207

The Flats at Montebello features new elevator condos for sale in a gated Del Webb community, located adjacent to Claude Moore Park in Loudoun County.. These low-maintenance condos include covered parking. Move-ins start Late Fall. Enjoy onsite resort-style amenities including a 14,000 sq. ft. Clubho...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 449,990

No. of Homes : 11
Sq ft : 1435 To 1940

Read More
Yorktown Collection Active Adult

7015 Statesman Williamsburg VA 23188 Phone: 757-542-9981

The Yorktown Collection offers new single-family homes for sale at Colonial Heritage, a masterplan community in historic Williamsburg, VA.. Perfect for 55+ active adults who prefer main-level living, this community offers three different floor plan designs, both with and without a basement. Resident...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted Gated

From : 520,990

No. of Homes : 19
Sq ft : 2165 To 2418

Read More
Village Oaks

105 Virginia Avenue Palmyra VA 22963 Phone: 434-207-4434

Welcome to Village Oaks!. Village Oaks offers brand new, one-level homes in Fluvanna County, just across the street from Lake Monticello and only 20 minutes from Charlottesville, Village Oaks is minutes from medical centers, vineyards, and golf courses with easy access to I-64. Here, you can live...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 334,990

No. of Homes : 3
Sq ft : 2729 To 3456

Read More
K Hovnanians Four Seasons at Charlottesville

197 Mistland Trail Ruckersville VA 22968 Phone: 888-807-0594

Welcome to K.. Hovnanian s® Four Seasons at Charlottesville, an active adult 55+ community in Ruckersville, Greene County, VA. Offering beautiful single-family new homes for sale with spacious home designs and access to countless amenities. Come and enjoy the best that this active 55+ community has...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted

From : 349,990

No. of Homes : 12
Sq ft : 1689 To 2857

Read More
Carters Mill

16101 Calla Lily Lane Haymarket VA 20169 Phone: 540-253-4294

Carter’s Mill is a new Del Webb, resort-style community featuring low-maintenance single-family & villa homes in Haymarket, VA for those 55 & over.. The 14,000 sq. ft. clubhouse includes an indoor & outdoor pool, fitness & yoga rooms, & more active lifestyle amenities. Live close to shopping, rest...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 529,990

No. of Homes : 14
Sq ft : 1336 To 2530

Read More
Montebello by Del Webb

21943 Hawksbill High Circle Sterling VA 20164 Phone: 703-650-5590

New low-maintenance homes for sale at the gated active adult community of Montebello by Del Webb in Loudoun Co., located adjacent to Claude Moore Park & across from Cascades Overlook Town Center.. Montebello includes single-family homes & villas with 1st floor owner’s suites & outdoor living space...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 634,990

No. of Homes : 9
Sq ft : 1373 To 2495

Read More
Main Street Landing

6887 Healy Avenue Gloucester VA 23061 Phone: 804-410-1786

Welcome to Main Street Landing!. Live better in your new, one-story, no yard maintenance home from the mid $300s! Less than 1-mile to Gloucester Village on Main Street & minutes to the York River! Finally the community and home where you truly can check off every box on your “Must Have” list! W...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 334,990

No. of Homes : 5
Sq ft : 1338 To 1696

Read More
Jamestown Collection Active Adult

7015 Statesman Williamsburg VA 23188 Phone: 757-542-9981

The Jamestown Collection offers new single-family homes for sale at Colonial Heritage, a masterplan in historic Williamsburg, VA.. Perfect for 55+ active adults who prefer main-level living, the collection offers three different floorplan designs with covered patios. Residents enjoy a multitude of a...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted Gated

From : 477,990

No. of Homes : 21
Sq ft : 1837 To 2199

Read More
Newtown Landing

4783 Valley Pike Stephens City VA 22655 Phone: 571-378-3950

Newtown Landing is an affordable, low maintenance neighborhood located close to shopping, dining and everyday essentials in Stephens City and Winchester.. Each home includes striking exteriors with partial stone on the outside and well thought out designs on the inside. You can own your forever ho...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult

From : 399,990

No. of Homes : 2
Sq ft : 1365 To 1365

Read More
Williamsburg Collection Active Adult

7015 Statesman Williamsburg VA 23188 Phone: 757-542-9981

The Williamsburg Collection offers new single-family homes for sale at Colonial Heritage, a masterplan in historic Williamsburg, VA.. Perfect for 55+ active adults who prefer single-level living, this collection offers two different floor plan designs with covered patios, ideal for Williamsburg s mi...

► REQUEST MORE INFO ► VIEW AVAILABLE HOMES

Adult AgeRestricted Gated

From : 402,990

No. of Homes : 18
Sq ft : 2126 To 2126

Read More