On the Market: 6 Luxury Retirement Communities Across the Country

Some people can’t wait until they’re able to leave the office for the last time, fantasizing about all the new adventures they’ll have in retirement. Others dread the milestone, wondering how they’ll stay productive and fill their days. These posh, amenity-rich communities in idyllic locales will no doubt hold appeal for those in either camp.

Splendido Tucson at Rancho Vistoso, 13500 North Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, Tucson, Arizona

Splendid Tuscon at Rancho Vistoso
Photo courtesy of Splendido Tuscon

Splendid is an apt word to describe Splendido Tucson, a 55-and-older community offering well-designed homes with jaw-dropping views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Its diversions include: restaurants, lounges, a spa, a pool and fitness center, an 18-hole golf course, a library, a billiard’s room, a wellness center and a movie theater. 

In addition, Splendido is a so-called Life Plan Community, offering access to assisted living, rehabilitation, memory support and nursing. 

“Residents here can make the most of each day because we’re taking care of all the little things, from housekeeping to home maintenance,” says Executive Director James Edwartoski. “Add to that our unique culinary experiences, fitness center, and wellness offerings, and it’s a wonderful place to live!”

The Clare, 55 East Pearson Street, Chicago, Illinois

The Clare
Photo courtesy of The Clare

Who says retirement means retreat? Urbanites especially may enjoy life at The Clare, an independent living community of deluxe one, two and three bedroom hi-rise units located steps away from Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile, where shopping, dining and cultural attractions await. In addition to those perks, the Clare’s monthly fees include complimentary continental breakfast, chef-prepared meals in three on-site restaurants, a concierge and more. 

“When residents come home, they’re treated to gourmet cuisine, enriching programs and stunning views, along with the tremendous benefit of LifeCare, which ensures a continuum of care for the future,” says Lynne Lukas, The Clare’s director of sales and marketing. “The Clare has changed the meaning of retirement for our residents, and we continue to strive to create even better experiences for them.”

Covenant Living at the Shores, 9150 Fortuna Drive, Mercer Island, Washington

Covenant Living at the Shores
Photo courtesy of Covenant Living

Located on 12-acres along Lake Washington, Covenant Living at the Shores offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments in a spectacular setting surrounded by fragrant fir trees. Activities include lakefront barbecues, golf, trips into Seattle, fine cuisine at the Fortuna Lodge and canoeing or kayaking from the private marina. A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Covenant Living at the Shores also offers assisted living, nursing and rehab.

“We’ve got something for everyone here at Covenant Living at the Shores,” says Director of Sales Nancy Woo. “Our apartment homes offer stunning views, and residents enjoy maintenance-free living with exceptional dining and a host of services and activities.”

Rossmore Walnut Creek, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, California

rossmore walnut creek
Photo by Dan Rosenstrauch

Surrounded by picturesque mountains and rolling hills, Rossmore Walnut Creek is almost a city unto itself. In addition to standard fare such as fitness centers and clubhouses, the tony retirement community includes a library, adult education opportunities, a farmers market, a newspaper, a local TV channel and a recreation center offering weekly concerts, variety shows, movies, dances, lectures and daily trips to nearby San Francisco.

“The 1,800-acre community has something for everyone and is conveniently located near downtown Walnut Creek, shopping and two major medical centers,” says Director of Communications Ann Peterson.

Del Webb at Lake Oconee, 1071 Cottonwood Trace, Greensboro, Georgia

Del Webb at Lake Oconee
Photo courtesy of Pulte Group

Enjoy waterfront living at Del Webb at Lake Oconee, the only one of the company’s communities with lake access. Located less than two hours from Atlanta, the gated, golf-cart community features ranch-style homes with open floor plans. There’s a plethora of activities, including an amenity center with indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, tennis and bocce ball courts and a lakeside pavilion. 

“I wasn’t planning on retiring to this area, but we visited and were blown away by the community,” says resident Judie Plumb. “The houses are farther apart than in other Del Webb communities, and the topography is beautiful, with landscaped hills leading to the lake. We never dreamed that we’d be living such a fun retirement lifestyle.”

Sarasota Bay Club, 1301 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

sarasota bay club
Photo courtesy of Sarasota Bay Club

Overlooking the water for which it was named, the Sarasota Bay Club contains a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom condos with a variety of ownership plans. Residents enjoy beautifully landscaped bayside walking paths, a health and wellness center, and a heated swimming pool and spa. Other perks include a library, a greenhouse, a hair salon, a full-service on-site bank, a theater and numerous lounges. Assisted living, nursing, memory care services and rehabilitation are also available. 

“The attention to detail at Sarasota Bay Club is remarkable,” says resident Shirley Fein. “This is the place!”


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Tate Gunnerson is a Chicago-based freelance journalist with an equal appreciation for natural beauty and good design. He is a passionate supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the National Kidney Foundation.

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