Are you considering spending your golden years in the beautiful state of Arizona but unsure where to start looking for your perfect 55-plus community? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of options, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re going to unveil the top five 55-plus communities in the valley, so you can make an informed decision and start your exciting journey to retirement.
Encore at Eastmark: The Hidden Gem
Starting our list at number five is Encore at Eastmark, located within the highly sought-after Eastmark community in East Mesa. Developed by Taylor Morrison, a nationally renowned builder, Encore at Eastmark offers a tranquil setting with nearly 1,000 homes. The community boasts a mature and thriving atmosphere, making it a desirable choice for many retirees.
Resort-Style Living: Encore provides residents with an array of amenities, including a well-equipped clubhouse, a resort-style heated pool, a hot tub, tennis courts, bocce ball courts, and pickleball courts. The Encore Club features a movement studio, fitness center, billiards room, library, and a multi-purpose room. You can even enjoy a delightful meal at the on-site café and, for a limited time, indulge in alcoholic beverages before 2 p.m.
While Encore offers excellent amenities, its location might require a short drive for shopping, dining, and entertainment, but future retail development in nearby Cadence holds the promise of more convenience.
Taylor Morrison Ovation at Meridian: Serene & Affordable
At number four, we have Taylor Morrison’s Ovation at Meridian. Like Encore, Ovation offers the perks of a 55-plus community with the bonus of being closer to Downtown Queen Creek for retail and grocery shopping. With slightly more affordable pricing, Ovation is an appealing choice for retirees.
Resort Living: Ovation boasts a 13,500-square-foot clubhouse, providing various spaces for socializing, fitness, and entertainment. Here, you’ll find an exercise room, yoga studio, craft room, banquet hall, billiards room, and a central gathering spot. The outdoor amenities include pools, an event lawn, patios, and a shade pavilion with a barbeque area.
Encanterra: Living the Dream
In third place, we have Encanterra, a community developed by Shea Homes in San Tan Valley. While the location is a bit remote, Encanterra shines with the stunning setting at the base of the San Tan Mountains.
Resort Paradise: Residents at Encanterra can enjoy numerous amenities, including an impressive 60,000-square-foot clubhouse. The clubhouse features indoor and outdoor pools, fitness areas, a banquet hall, and even a playground for visiting grandchildren. Encanterra also offers an award-winning restaurant with an indoor/outdoor bar, pickleball courts, and scenic golf opportunities. The community’s views and event offerings truly set it apart.
Vistancia in Peoria, AZ: Hillside Haven
Taking the second spot is Vistancia in Peoria, a Shea Trilogy neighborhood. While Vistancia may be a bit further from the city, it offers spectacular hillside views and more opportunities for hiking.
Natural Beauty: When you enter Vistancia, you’ll be captivated by the rolling hills, the beauty of the desert, and the White Tank Mountains in the background. This community provides a range of amenities, including a fabulous Kiva Club with pools, fitness centers, and various dining options. You can also participate in travel groups and enjoy social gatherings to the fullest.
Victory at Verrado: Majestic Living
Securing the top spot on our list is Victory at Verrado in Buckeye, Arizona, which has been serving residents since 2014. Nestled at the base of the White Tank Mountains, Victory offers breathtaking views and a vibrant lifestyle.
Exceptional Lifestyle: Victory at Verrado combines award-winning amenities with an unmatched environment. This community has two clubhouse locations, with the larger one featuring beautiful pools, a bar, a fitness center, and numerous spots to relax. The second clubhouse, Metta Club, offers even more opportunities for fun and connection, including pickleball courts and a putting green.
Unique to Victory is the 3-acre vineyard, hosting various wine-centric events, adding a distinct flavor to your retirement life.
