Retirement Communities for Singles

What Are Singles Retirement Communities?

A singles’ retirement community is a place for unmarried, divorced, or widowed folks to live near others who are also single. These niche communities can be found primarily within bigger communities of retired people.

About 22.1 million adults 55 and older live alone (and about 6.1 million of them are childless).2 Many struggle with challenges at home, like a house not being updated to accommodate an aging adult, or feelings of loneliness and isolation. In the company of other singles in a community, they can flourish.

Communities will vary greatly because older adults have various needs and budgets. But you’ll find high concentrations of singles in 55+ communities and active living communities where many older adults live independently. Retirement centers that offer pools, walking paths, and outdoor pickleball courts are especially appealing to singles who are ready to enjoy themselves and take advantage of being outside on sunny days.

Singles seek out the company of fellow singles for various reasons. Some realize the value of nurturing new relationships (platonic or romantic) and want to feel a sense of community. When isolation and loneliness threaten seniors’ mental health, it’s a good idea to connect with others.

Reasons to Choose a Singles’ Retirement Community

So, after retiring recently, maybe you tackled a repair and planned a trip. But you don’t feel productive. You miss joking around with work colleagues, having a schedule. Frankly, you’re getting kind of down.

Retirement communities that cater to singles have built-in programs, events, and social activities that encourage residents to engage with one another, keep their minds sharp, and pursue their interests. Residents can also visit local restaurants, go to the movies, or spend time visiting nearby places off campus.

Most retirement communities provide a wide range of on-site amenities, which are great for those who want to remain active and healthy. These amenities may include:

• Fitness centers
• Group exercise classes
• Activity rooms
• Beauty and hair salons
• Independent kitchens and/or restaurants
• Swimming pools

Single older adults, or solo agers, can gain many benefits by moving into a senior living community. Besides all of the offerings above, here are the main reasons to consider a singles’ retirement community:3

• Maintenance-free living: A team of people takes care of maintenance, snow removal, landscaping, cooking, housekeeping, and transportation.
• Abundant opportunities to socialize: Participate in clubs, gardening, arts and crafts, and preplanned activities with your peers.
• Myriad wellness benefits

Where Are Communities With Lots of Single Retirees?

Thousands of senior living centers can be found throughout the country. Thanks to Baby Boomers, the population of seniors 65 and older is expected to increase 47 percent from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050.4 This is prompting developers in the industry to invest in even more senior housing.

To find those communities with a heavy concentration of singles, zero in on the most populous retirement communities. Yes. Begin with the biggies.

How Do I Choose a Senior Single Community That’s Right for Me?

Consider your priorities. Various styles of residences are available in communities, such as single-family homes, apartments, or condos. Consider what’s important to you, like how much work you want to do on a property in terms of upkeep and how you want to spend your time. That’s a key factor when determining the community that’s right for you.

Other factors to consider? Remember the reality of living in a new region. For example, although you get to watch a sunset by the beach every other day, are you OK being far from your kids and grandkids? How often will you see them?

Perhaps you’ve decided warm weather and a relaxed lifestyle is a must for your golden years. Will you miss seeing the leaves change color and the passing of seasons? Are the doctors and hospitals nearby able to treat your chronic conditions? Choose a community for singles based on your particular values as well as the property’s location, offerings, and reputation.

In searching for a community of friendly singles that will be a great fit for you, here are some targeted questions to ask when you visit a senior living community:

• Do residents share meals in a communal dining room?
• What is the ratio of single residents to married residents?
• About how many singles are residents here, by the way?
• Are there separate planned activities and events for singles?
• How often do these singles events occur?
• What kind of housing is available for singles?

How Much Do Singles’ Retirement Communities Cost?

Several factors impact the cost of a retirement community in general, including the type of accommodations, location, and level of care provided (if it’s provided). Extra costs to consider in some communities may include HOA fees if you purchase a condo, for instance.

Communities that are located in larger cities tend to cost more than those in smaller or more rural locations. Additionally, communities that offer upscale amenities and facilities may cost more. To give you an idea, the median cost for independent living facilities in the U.S. is currently $3,065 per month. This varies by state, with Mississippi facilities costing much less at about $1,282 per month.

How Can I Pay for These Retirement Communities?

People typically pay for retirement communities out of pocket, whether they’re buying or renting. Some seniors may sell an existing home to pay for a new one or turn to a third party for help if they cannot afford to pay with their current income.

Singles who choose to live in a senior retirement community with assisted living services or full medical services may be able to find some financial assistance and resources. Long-term care insurance may offer some coverage for services. Veterans who are eligible for a pension may be able to apply monthly payments toward the costs of retirement communities for singles. State Medicaid programs may also provide some coverage if you receive what is considered medically-required care in your chosen retirement community.

As with anything else related to insurance and financial coverage, check your current plans and state agencies for more information.