Peter MokoenaCalifornia, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, offers some of the best retirement living in the country. From coastal havens and wine-country escapes to desert resorts and suburban communities, retirees can find the perfect fit for their lifestyle.
Whether you’re seeking an active, social environment with golf and clubs, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty, California’s retirement communities provide endless choices. Here are 40 of the top communities that combine comfort, activity, and connection.
Top 40 Retirement Communities in California
1. Laguna Woods Village – Laguna Woods
Laguna Woods Village is one of California’s largest and most vibrant retirement communities, offering resort-style living for active adults aged 55 and older. With over 80 clubs, golf courses, swimming pools, and fitness centers, residents enjoy endless opportunities for recreation and social connection. The community also provides on-site medical services, a performing arts center, and free bus transportation. Located in Orange County, it’s close to Southern California beaches, shopping, and entertainment, making it ideal for retirees seeking an active, fulfilling lifestyle.
2. Sun City Lincoln Hills – Lincoln
Sun City Lincoln Hills is a Del Webb master-planned community that emphasizes wellness, recreation, and social activity for adults 55+. Spread across scenic landscapes, it features two 18-hole golf courses, over 40 miles of walking and biking trails, and state-of-the-art fitness centers. Residents enjoy multiple clubhouses, indoor and outdoor pools, and a vibrant social calendar filled with clubs and events. Situated near Sacramento, it combines small-town tranquility with convenient access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, creating an engaging and comfortable retirement lifestyle.
3. The Villages Golf & Country Club – San Jose
The Villages Golf & Country Club is an exclusive 55+ gated community nestled in the foothills of San Jose. Known for its scenic beauty, it offers an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, bocce, and four clubhouses. Residents can also enjoy fine dining, walking trails, and a variety of hobby clubs. Its location provides both the tranquility of nature and proximity to Silicon Valley amenities. Designed for active adults, The Villages offers a rich mix of leisure, community, and convenience.
4. Rossmoor Walnut Creek – Walnut Creek
Rossmoor Walnut Creek is a renowned 55+ community located in the East Bay, surrounded by rolling hills and natural beauty. It offers a wide array of amenities, including three clubhouses, a 27-hole golf course, swimming pools, and extensive walking trails. Cultural enrichment is a priority here, with an on-site theater, art studios, and numerous clubs. Its proximity to San Francisco and Napa Valley enhances the experience, giving residents easy access to world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment alongside community-based living.
5. Trilogy at Glen Ivy – Corona
Trilogy at Glen Ivy is a resort-style 55+ community designed for retirees who value luxury and activity. Set against the backdrop of the Cleveland National Forest, it features a championship golf course, indoor and outdoor pools, and a state-of-the-art wellness center. Residents participate in cooking classes, art workshops, and numerous clubs. The community also emphasizes health, with a spa offering fitness and relaxation services. Located in Riverside County, it balances natural beauty with accessibility to Southern California’s top cultural and entertainment destinations.
6. Leisure World Seal Beach – Seal Beach
Leisure World Seal Beach is a historic 55+ gated community offering both security and a wealth of amenities. Residents enjoy six clubhouses, a nine-hole golf course, swimming pools, and more than 200 clubs catering to diverse hobbies. On-site services include a library, health care center, and shuttle buses, ensuring convenience and comfort. Its location near Los Angeles and Orange County beaches makes it ideal for retirees seeking coastal living while staying connected to vibrant urban experiences.
7. Oakmont Village – Santa Rosa
Oakmont Village is a scenic retirement community located in Sonoma County’s wine country. This 55+ development offers golf courses, fitness centers, swimming pools, and hobby clubs ranging from photography to gardening. The community is surrounded by vineyards and hiking trails, providing residents with natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With easy access to Santa Rosa’s shops, restaurants, and medical services, Oakmont balances tranquility with convenience. It’s a popular choice for retirees who want a slower pace of life enriched with culture and nature.
8. Sun Lakes Country Club – Banning
Sun Lakes Country Club is a well-established 55+ gated community offering resort-style amenities in a welcoming setting. The community features two golf courses, tennis courts, three clubhouses, and multiple swimming pools. Residents can take part in fitness classes, social clubs, and cultural activities. With its picturesque mountain views and proximity to Palm Springs, it offers both serenity and recreation. Its active social environment and affordable housing options make it a highly desirable retirement destination for Southern California seniors.
9. Four Seasons at Hemet – Hemet
Four Seasons at Hemet is a beautiful 55+ community centered around an 18-hole golf course in Riverside County. Residents enjoy access to a clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pools, and walking trails. The community is known for its active social life, offering clubs, classes, and events that bring neighbors together. Its location provides a quiet suburban atmosphere while remaining within driving distance of Palm Springs and San Diego. It’s a perfect choice for retirees seeking affordable, engaging, and low-maintenance living.
10. Del Webb Rancho Mirage – Rancho Mirage
Del Webb Rancho Mirage is a modern 55+ community offering stylish homes and cutting-edge amenities in the heart of the Coachella Valley. Residents enjoy pools, tennis, pickleball, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, as well as clubs ranging from cooking to photography. Its setting offers stunning desert views and proximity to Palm Springs’ cultural attractions. With luxury homes, resort-style living, and a strong focus on wellness and community, Del Webb Rancho Mirage provides an exceptional retirement experience.
21. The Colony – Murrieta
The Colony is a gated 55+ community in Murrieta that offers resort-style living in a peaceful setting. Its centerpiece is a beautifully designed 18-hole golf course, complemented by a clubhouse, fitness center, and pool. Residents enjoy hobby clubs, fitness programs, and social gatherings that create a warm, connected environment. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and medical facilities, The Colony combines security, recreation, and accessibility. It’s a great choice for retirees who want a balance of activity and relaxation.
22. Trilogy at the Polo Club – Indio
Trilogy at the Polo Club is a modern, upscale retirement community offering luxurious amenities and stylish homes. Its resort-like features include pools, a fitness center, a wellness spa, and gourmet dining options. Social life is vibrant, with wine tastings, cooking classes, and community events. Located in Indio near Palm Springs, residents enjoy stunning desert landscapes and access to cultural attractions. Trilogy at the Polo Club is designed for retirees who want comfort, sophistication, and a strong sense of community.
23. Sun City Roseville – Roseville
Sun City Roseville is a Del Webb 55+ community located near Sacramento. It features two golf courses, fitness centers, swimming pools, and a large clubhouse with hobby rooms and social spaces. Residents enjoy an active lifestyle supported by over 50 clubs and a full events calendar. With easy access to shopping, dining, and healthcare, Sun City Roseville offers both convenience and comfort. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it one of Northern California’s most popular retirement destinations for active adults.
24. Trilogy at the Vineyards – Brentwood
Trilogy at the Vineyards is a luxurious 55+ community surrounded by scenic vineyards and rolling hills in Brentwood. Amenities include a wellness spa, fitness center, resort-style pools, and an 18-hole golf course. Residents also enjoy gourmet dining, wine tastings, and art classes. With stunning surroundings and a vibrant social scene, it blends relaxation with activity. Located within the East Bay area, it provides easy access to San Francisco while maintaining a serene, countryside atmosphere ideal for retirement living.
25. Stone Ridge – Valley Springs
Stone Ridge in Valley Springs is a retirement community that appeals to those who appreciate small-town charm and natural beauty. Surrounded by lakes and rolling foothills, it offers outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Community amenities include fitness spaces, social clubs, and opportunities for neighborly connections. Its location provides peace and quiet while keeping residents close to essential services. Stone Ridge is a great fit for retirees seeking affordable homes, a slower pace, and a close-knit lifestyle.
26. Glenbrooke by Del Webb – Elk Grove
Glenbrooke is a boutique-style Del Webb 55+ community in Elk Grove. It emphasizes wellness and social activity, offering a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, and walking trails. Residents engage in clubs, classes, and community events designed to foster connection and enrichment. Its smaller size gives it an intimate, friendly feel compared to larger communities. Located near Sacramento, Glenbrooke provides easy access to city conveniences while maintaining a suburban sense of peace. It’s ideal for retirees who value both activity and community spirit.
27. Trilogy at Verde River – Rio Verde (Arizona Adjacent, but popular with Californians)
Although technically located in Arizona, Trilogy at Verde River is a popular option for Californians seeking luxury desert living. It features a championship golf course, wellness center, fitness facilities, pools, and tennis courts. The community fosters an active lifestyle with cultural events, cooking classes, and social clubs. Its location near Scottsdale provides access to entertainment and shopping while maintaining a serene desert backdrop. Many Californians consider it for retirement due to its resort amenities and affordable luxury homes.
28. Heritage Vineyard Creek – Sacramento
Heritage Vineyard Creek is an inviting 55+ retirement community located in Sacramento. It offers single-story, low-maintenance homes tailored for retirees. The neighborhood emphasizes social connection, with clubs, gatherings, and a relaxed pace of living. While it doesn’t have as many large-scale amenities as some resort-style communities, its charm lies in its simplicity, affordability, and friendly atmosphere. Conveniently located near shopping centers, dining, and healthcare facilities, it’s an appealing option for retirees who want comfort without overwhelming complexity.
29. Trilogy at Lake Frederick – Lakeport
Trilogy at Lake Frederick, nestled near Lakeport, offers an idyllic retirement lifestyle with lakeside living. Residents enjoy water activities, fitness programs, walking trails, and a community clubhouse designed for social interaction. With scenic views of Clear Lake and nearby vineyards, it’s perfect for retirees who love the outdoors. Its emphasis on wellness, leisure, and neighborly connection creates a strong sense of belonging. The community combines natural beauty with modern conveniences, making it a peaceful yet engaging place for retirement.
30. Eskaton Village Carmichael – Carmichael
Eskaton Village Carmichael is a highly regarded retirement community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Its amenities include fitness classes, wellness programs, dining services, and social activities tailored to residents’ needs. Located in Carmichael near Sacramento, it provides access to cultural events, medical centers, and shopping. Eskaton Village emphasizes security and comfort while fostering friendships and community involvement. Its flexible living options make it an ideal choice for retirees seeking peace of mind alongside social engagement.
31. Heritage Park – Sacramento
Heritage Park is a gated 55+ community in Sacramento designed for active adults seeking convenience and recreation. Its amenities include a clubhouse, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and walking trails. Residents enjoy social clubs, organized activities, and cultural outings that keep life engaging. Located near shopping, dining, and healthcare facilities, Heritage Park provides both comfort and accessibility. The community’s friendly atmosphere and manageable size make it a great option for retirees who want a balance of activity and relaxation.
32. Leisure Town – Vacaville
Leisure Town is a welcoming 55+ retirement community located in Vacaville. With its community center, swimming pools, and fitness facilities, it encourages residents to stay active and socially connected. The neighborhood features affordable homes and a relaxed atmosphere, appealing to retirees who value simplicity and comfort. Its location between Sacramento and the Bay Area provides access to shopping, cultural attractions, and medical facilities. Leisure Town is ideal for retirees who prefer a peaceful, small-town environment with urban conveniences nearby.
33. Trilogy at Lake Norman – Lake County
Trilogy at Lake Norman is a vibrant retirement community offering lakeside living with modern amenities. Residents enjoy access to a wellness center, fitness facilities, walking trails, and a community clubhouse designed for social events. Water activities like boating and fishing are highlights, while the surrounding vineyards and natural beauty enhance the lifestyle. With a focus on wellness, recreation, and social engagement, Trilogy at Lake Norman offers retirees a fulfilling balance of outdoor adventure and community connection in a scenic environment.
34. Solera at Kern Canyon – Bakersfield
Solera at Kern Canyon is a Del Webb 55+ community in Bakersfield that combines affordability with a wealth of amenities. Residents enjoy a clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, and hobby rooms, as well as organized clubs and activities. Its location in the San Joaquin Valley provides scenic beauty and access to outdoor recreation. With nearby shopping, dining, and medical facilities, Solera at Kern Canyon offers retirees a practical, enjoyable, and budget-friendly option for active retirement living.
35. The Lakes at El Dorado Hills – El Dorado Hills
The Lakes at El Dorado Hills is a serene retirement community known for its beautiful lakeside setting and resort-style amenities. It offers walking trails, fitness facilities, pools, and a community clubhouse for social events and hobbies. Its location in the Sierra foothills provides stunning views and access to outdoor recreation, while also being near Sacramento’s shopping and cultural attractions. The Lakes is ideal for retirees seeking a peaceful, upscale environment with opportunities for both activity and relaxation.
36. Eskaton Lodge Granite Bay – Granite Bay
Eskaton Lodge Granite Bay offers a mix of independent and assisted living in a scenic suburban setting. Amenities include wellness programs, fitness classes, dining services, and a robust calendar of social activities. Its supportive services provide peace of mind, while its friendly environment fosters strong community bonds. Located near Roseville and Sacramento, residents have easy access to healthcare, shopping, and cultural events. Eskaton Lodge Granite Bay is well-suited for retirees who want comfort, security, and social connection in retirement.
37. Trilogy at Lake San Marcos – San Marcos
Trilogy at Lake San Marcos is a boutique-style 55+ community offering an intimate, resort-like atmosphere. Its amenities include a wellness center, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse for events and social gatherings. Located in North San Diego County, it provides access to beaches, shopping, and cultural attractions. With its focus on health, relaxation, and social life, Trilogy at Lake San Marcos is a great option for retirees seeking coastal living with a friendly, community-oriented environment.
38. Sun City Apple Valley – Apple Valley
Sun City Apple Valley is a Del Webb 55+ community located in the High Desert region of Southern California. It features two clubhouses, a fitness center, pools, and golf courses, offering plenty of recreation opportunities. Residents enjoy clubs, classes, and community events that keep life engaging. Its location provides a quiet desert atmosphere while still being near shopping and medical facilities. Affordable homes and an active lifestyle make Sun City Apple Valley a popular choice for retirees seeking value and vibrancy.
39. Eskaton Village Placerville – Placerville
Eskaton Village Placerville provides independent living, assisted living, and memory care in a scenic foothill setting. Residents enjoy wellness programs, dining services, and social activities designed to encourage connection and enrichment. Its location offers natural beauty alongside proximity to medical facilities, shopping, and cultural events. The supportive environment ensures peace of mind for retirees and their families. Eskaton Village Placerville is ideal for those seeking a secure, caring, and active retirement lifestyle in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
40. Trilogy at Summerlin – Near California Border (Nevada, but popular with Californians)
Though technically located in Nevada, Trilogy at Summerlin is a highly sought-after retirement destination for Californians. It offers resort-style amenities, including a clubhouse, pools, fitness center, and cultural programs. Its location near Las Vegas provides access to world-class entertainment and dining, while the nearby Red Rock Canyon offers outdoor adventure. Many Californians choose Trilogy at Summerlin for its affordability, luxury, and vibrant social scene, making it a strong alternative for retirement living close to California.
Closing
Retirement in California can be as relaxed or as active as you choose, thanks to the state’s wide range of communities designed for older adults. From affordable, close-knit neighborhoods to luxury, resort-style destinations, each offers a unique combination of amenities, location, and lifestyle. Whether your dream retirement involves golfing, wine tasting, coastal walks, or simply enjoying a friendly, supportive environment, California has something for everyone. By exploring these top communities, you can find the perfect place to start your next chapter.