813-781-8888Request a showing
Log inLive
LiveNew ConstructionApartmentsSearch Homes
More
Buy a homeSell your homeRelocationNeighborhoodsHome valueTours & replaysBuilder incentivesAbout DorotaInsights
Log in
Request a showingCall 813-781-8888 Dorota Maslowska, Broker Associate · LPT Realty · FL BK3519799 · TX 829789-SA
Buyer guide · 55+

55+ communities in Tampa Bay & Sarasota

In short

Under the federal Fair Housing Act's "housing for older persons" exemption (HUD rule 24 CFR 100.305), a community can be age-restricted if at least 80% of occupied homes have at least one resident aged 55 or older and it publishes and follows policies showing that intent. Each community sets its own rules on younger residents and guests.

Age-restricted communities are a large part of new construction around Tampa Bay and Sarasota — from Sun City Center in south Hillsborough to builder-run active-adult neighborhoods in Pasco, Manatee and Sarasota counties. They work differently from other neighborhoods, so it pays to read the rules before you fall for a floor plan.

Last updated November 6, 2026.

How do 55+ communities work in Florida?

Under the federal Fair Housing Act's "housing for older persons" exemption (HUD rule 24 CFR 100.305), a community can be age-restricted if at least 80% of occupied homes have at least one resident aged 55 or older and it publishes and follows policies showing that intent. Each community sets its own rules on younger residents and guests.

Ask for the community's written age-verification and occupancy policy, guest rules and any rules on residents under 55 before you sign.

Where are the 55+ new-construction communities around Tampa and Sarasota?

Age-restricted new construction is spread across Hillsborough (including Sun City Center), Pasco, Manatee (including parts of Lakewood Ranch) and Sarasota counties. Communities open and sell out, so ask for the current list for the areas you're considering.

Sun City Center guide · Lakewood Ranch guide · Wesley Chapel & Pasco guide · PulteGroup / Del Webb guide

What should I check about fees in a 55+ community?

Many 55+ communities pair an HOA fee — often covering clubhouse, amenities and sometimes lawn care — with a CDD assessment on the tax bill. Ask exactly what the HOA fee covers and whether the CDD includes a debt portion with an end date.

CDD fees explained

Can I sell or rent a home in a 55+ community later?

Yes, but to buyers or tenants who fit the community's age policy and rental rules. Read the leasing restrictions and minimum lease terms in the HOA documents before you buy if renting it out later matters to you.

Can I tour 55+ communities live first?

Yes. Dorota tours model homes and amenity centers on live video, so you can compare communities before you visit.

Questions

Good to know

What makes a community 55+?

Under the federal housing-for-older-persons exemption (HUD rule 24 CFR 100.305), at least 80% of occupied homes must have at least one resident aged 55 or older, and the community must publish and follow age-verification policies.

Do 55+ communities have CDD fees?

Some do. Many newer Florida communities have a CDD assessment billed on the property-tax bill in addition to an HOA fee; ask for both before you sign.

Can I rent out a home in a 55+ community?

It depends on the HOA's leasing rules and the community's age policy. Read the documents before buying if you may rent it later.