Ready to find your perfect home in a 55+ community? Here’s what to look for: a safe, fun place with the right price, great neighbors, and things to do. It should feel easy, peaceful, and full of joy. This is your time to relax and enjoy life, so let’s make sure you choose a place that makes you smile every day.
Pick the Perfect Location
Where your new home is matters a lot. Do you want to live near the beach? Close to family? Near doctors or shopping? A great location makes life easier and more fun.
In Rhode Island, some of the best 55+ communities are in:
South Kingstown – Close to the beach and golf
Tiverton – Quiet and scenic with easy shopping
North Kingstown – Close to stores, restaurants, and the highway
Make sure your new home is close to what’s important to you.
Understand the Cost
Buying a home in a 55+ community in Rhode Island usually costs between $350,000 to $600,000 or more. The more expensive neighborhoods often have more features like pools, fitness centers, clubs, and events.
There are also monthly HOA fees (Homeowners Association). These usually range from $200 to $500 per month, depending on what they include.
HOA fees might cover:
Lawn care and landscaping
Snow removal
Clubhouse and pool access
Trash pickup
Maintenance and repairs
👉 Tip: Always ask what’s included in your monthly fee. It can save you time, money, and stress!
Choose the Right Home Style
Homes in 55+ communities are built with comfort in mind. Most are single-level, easy to walk through, and made for low upkeep. That means fewer stairs, wide doorways, and lots of light.
Look for:
One-floor living
Attached garage
Outdoor space like a patio or porch
New appliances and energy savings
Some homes are detached like a house, and some are part of a condo or townhouse setup. Think about what works best for you.
Think About Maintenance Help
Do you like fixing things or would you rather relax while someone else handles it? Many 55+ communities take care of:
Lawn mowing
Snow shoveling
Roof and siding repairs
Less maintenance means more time for fun, hobbies, travel, and spending time with family. If that sounds good, look for a community that includes it in your HOA fee.
Look for Fun and Amenities
This is a big reason people choose 55+ living—you get to enjoy life more! Many communities offer clubs, events, and fun things to do right at home.
Common amenities include:
Swimming pools (indoor or outdoor)
Fitness centers with classes
Walking trails and gardens
Game rooms or art studios
Clubhouses with social events
Pickleball, tennis, or bocce courts
On-site golf courses
More expensive communities usually offer more activities and newer facilities. If you love being active or trying new things, this could be a great fit!
Get to Know the Rules
Every 55+ community has its own rules. Most require at least one person in the home to be 55 or older. Some don’t allow full-time children or younger family members to live there.
Other common rules to ask about:
Are pets allowed?
Can grandkids visit overnight?
What about outdoor decorations?
Are there quiet hours?
Reading the rules ahead of time will help you avoid surprises and find a place that fits your lifestyle.
Make Sure It Feels Safe
Feeling safe helps you enjoy your home even more. Many communities have things in place to help you feel secure.
Safety features to look for:
Gated entrances or private roads
Well-lit sidewalks and streets
Security patrols or cameras
Emergency buttons or call systems
You can also ask if there’s a neighborhood watch or emergency plan in place. Peace of mind is priceless.
Health Care and Services Nearby
Even if you’re healthy now, it’s smart to live near doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies. You want care close by if you need it.
Communities near:
South County Hospital
Lifespan Medical Locations
Urgent care centers
Also think about grocery stores, dentists, and hair salons. Living near these places makes everyday life easier.
Feel the Community Vibe
This might be the most important part—how does it feel when you walk through? Does it feel peaceful, friendly, busy, or quiet? Every community has its own vibe.
Before you decide, take a tour:
Drive around the neighborhood
Go to an open house or event
Talk to people who live there
Visit at different times of the day
You’ll get a feel for the people and the pace. Some people like lots of social events, others prefer quiet and privacy. There’s no wrong answer—just the right one for you.
Final Thoughts: Make This Move Your Best One Yet
Choosing a 55+ community is a big step—but it can be an exciting and joyful one. Whether you want peace and quiet or new friends and fun activities, there’s a perfect place out there for you.
When looking, remember to check:
✅ The location
✅ Home prices and HOA fees
✅ Home styles and maintenance help
✅ Fun activities and events
✅ Rules, safety, and nearby services
✅ The overall feeling of the community
Take your time, ask lots of questions, and enjoy the journey. You’re not just buying a home—you’re choosing a lifestyle that should make your golden years feel golden.
