Enjoy the best of desert living with access to world-renowned golf courses, fitness studios, and other recreational facilities. This guide to Palm Springs 55 plus communities will help you determine which residential development best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
55 PLUS COMMUNITIES IN THE PALM SPRINGS AREA
Nestled in the western edge of the Coachella Valley, the Palm Springs area holds many surprises for buyers in search of exquisitely crafted homes, well-maintained golf courses, and resort-style amenities. With a population of more than 44,000 and 354 days of sunshine on average, there are many reasons to explore its communities.
Palm Springs as a Sought-After Retirement Destination
Best known for glamorous parties and music festivals, Palm Springs has a more laid-back side that makes it an ideal retirement destination. More than a celebrity playground, the Palm Springs area is a desert oasis with fantastic weather, breathtaking scenery, and a relaxed but vibrant lifestyle that appeals to homebuyers of all backgrounds.
Palm Springs 55 plus communities are coveted for their unbeatable location, amenities, and lock-and-leave lifestyle. While many of these gated communities reflect the Coachella Valley's casual elegance and bohemian chic vibe, buyers will also find close-knit groups and down-to-earth individuals who enjoy everything that the California Desert has to offer. The slower pace of life invites homebuyers to unwind and step out of the daily grind.
While the Palm Springs area provides a peaceful retreat, it is also conveniently located near major urban areas like Los Angeles and San Diego for those who want a quick change of scenery. Residents enjoy the scenic and tranquil environment of the desert while still having access to big-city amenities. Located more than a hundred miles from the City of Angels, Palm Springs and its 55 plus communities offer respite from bustling city life.
The Importance of 55 Plus Communities
Palm Springs 55 plus communities have been specially designed to accommodate the needs and preferences of older adults. These communities provide maintenance-free living options and a host of social events and activities throughout the year.
In many instances, community management attends to daily tasks such as exterior repairs, exterior home maintenance, lawn care, cleaning, and landscaping. Some may even offer laundry, meals, and home cleaning services. This gives residents the time and energy to focus on traveling, getting enough exercise, doing volunteer work, or meeting new people without having to worry about property upkeep.
Living in a 55 plus community also makes it easier to downsize to a more manageable home without sacrificing personal space, privacy, and design and aesthetics. Buyers can potentially reduce maintenance costs and utility bills while enjoying a better quality of life in a clean and secure environment.
In addition, 55 plus communities typically have amenities and facilities to cater to the needs and interests of older adults. "Living in style" takes on a whole new meaning with state-of-the-art fitness centers, glistening pools, designer golf courses, lighted tennis courts, and special events. Some communities may also have on-site services, such as dining, entertainment, fitness, and healthcare for residents' convenience.
Having easy access to amenities makes it easier to stay physically active and mentally stimulated. Residents may enjoy a better sense of well-being and social engagement. It can also make retirement less lonely for those who live away from friends and family.
Lastly, living in a 55 plus community can create a sense of belonging and provide companionship. It gives residents with shared interests and similar life experiences the opportunity to meet and form new friendships. Having a support system can help residents combat feelings of isolation.
The Benefits of Living in Palm Springs 55 Plus Communities
The Palm Springs area is a popular retirement destination for many reasons, including:
Climate – It's hard to get grumpy when it's warm and sunny most of the time. One of the biggest draws of living in the Palm Springs area is the perfect climate, which allows residents to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding. It's also perfect for vacationers and snowbirds who want to escape the harsh winters in other parts of the United States and Canada.
Natural scenery – The Coachella Valley has a natural beauty that invites exploration. Its trails meander through a rugged landscape while the dark canopy of the night sky is perfect for stargazing. Surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains, the natural environment of the Palm Springs area is filled with palm trees, cacti, rocks, and boulders. Mountain views and spectacular sunsets give it a serene atmosphere and a sense of connectedness to the land.
Recreational activities – Residents will never run out of things to do in the Palm Springs area, where there are ample opportunities for leisure and recreation. From hiking or biking in the nearby mountains to relaxing at the spa or savoring a sumptuous meal at the local restaurant, there are many ways to spend the day.
Social events – Palm Springs 55 plus communities often have a social scene to encourage residents to meet like-minded individuals. There is a wide range of clubs, organizations, and events geared towards different sports, hobbies, and interests. Many communities also host seasonal celebrations, fundraisers, and other events to bring people together.
Healthcare facilities – Residents have access to quality healthcare at several clinics, hospitals, and medical centers in the Palm Springs area. These include the Desert Regional Medical Center, JFK Memorial Hospital, Indio Community Health Center, and Vibra Rehabilitation Hospital, just to name a few.
Established neighborhoods and communities – Palm Springs and the surrounding cities are home to secure and reputable residential developments. While known for affluent enclaves and private country clubs, buyers will find a diverse range of gated communities in the area, each with its own flavor and identity.
RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES IN PALM SPRINGS
Sun City Palm Desert, Palm Desert
With almost 5,000 homes, this gated community offers lavish desert living in an exclusive setting. Money named it one of “The 8 Best Places to Retire in America” in 2019 for its resort-style amenities, housing, quality of life, and other major factors. Opened in 1992, the community spans over 1,600 acres with towering palms and gorgeously landscaped grounds.
Nestled in the Coachella Valley, Sun City Palm Desert has three clubhouses and two championship golf courses designed by professional golfer Billy Casper. The Mountain Vista Golf Club is a local gem with exceptional facilities and fun events.
Real estate options include single-level homes that are available for sale or lease. Buyers can choose from over 50 floor plans, some offering up to 3,300 square feet of living space. Some homes are located along the golf course and can be upgraded to your tastes.
Sun City Shadow Hills, Indio
Sun City Shadow Hills is a gated community that offers a host of amenities and housing options to accommodate a wide range of preferences. Construction began in 2003 and took place over three phases until 2016. The community is now fully built out with 3,450 energy-efficient homes. Buyers may still have access to resale homes, some of which have been upgraded by previous owners.
The community primarily offers one-level single-family homes with almost 30 floor plans to choose from. Some of the larger properties in the community offer up to 3,000 sq. ft. of living space. Sun City Shadow Hills also offers private or golf course lots with views of the golf course and the surrounding mountains and desert.
When it comes to recreation, the Shadow Hills Golf Club features two impeccably maintained golf courses as well as a practice facility for group and one-on-one lessons. The Montecito and Santa Rosa clubhouses have additional amenities, such as fitness studios, training areas, swimming pools, and tennis, bocce, and pickleball courts. There are two dog parks and a pet-friendly trail for those who plan to move with their pets.
For socials, the Shadows Restaurant offers breakfast, dinner, and happy hour drinks. The community also offers a variety of events and social clubs for residents who are interested in golf, hiking, wine tasting, art, literature, photography, and more.
Del Webb, Rancho Mirage*
Nestled in the Southern California Desert, Del Webb Rancho Mirage is surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains to the north, San Jacinto Mountains to the west, and Santa Rosa Mountains to the south. This premier community offers quality homes and world-class amenities in the Southern California Desert. There are three home collections – Classic, Encore, and Retreat – with varying floor plans and designs. Some of the larger homes in the community offer up to 2,726 sq. ft. of living space.
Trilogy at the Polo Club, Indio
This prestigious community offers an array of move-in ready homes with up to 2,367 sq. ft. of living space. Buyers can choose from single-level detached homes and duplexes with SheaConnect™ smart home features. The community is within driving distance of shopping and dining at La Quinta, Palm Desert, and other California Desert Cities.
The Polo Club is the crowning jewel of the community. This private club spans more than 25,000 sq. ft. and features a fitness center, resort-style pool, on-site dining, events spaces, and tennis, bocce, and pickleball courts. Residents also have access to a community garden and 19 parks throughout the community. Trails and green spaces offer numerous opportunities for walking, hiking, running, and biking.
Trilogy at La Quinta
Located just off 60th Avenue on Trilogy Parkway, this community offers 1,239 homes and a host of amenities at the base of the Coral Mountains. Built in 2003 by esteemed builder Shea Homes, these properties range in size from approximately 1,400 to 2,800 sq. ft. Buyers can choose from numerous floor plans depending on their needs and preferences. All homes are single-family, single-story properties located either on or off the golf course. Many homes in the community have private pools.
Trilogy at La Quinta features an 18-hole golf designed by Gary Panks. With gently rolling greens, water features, and tough sand bunkers, the golf course is ideal for players of all skill levels. There is also a short game area, putting green, driving range, and well-stocked pro shop.
In addition to golf facilities, the community has four lighted hard surface tennis courts and a clubhouse spanning 21,000 sq. ft. with a movie theatre, cafe, restaurants, fitness center, walking track, and indoor and outdoor resort pool. The Coral Spa at Trilogy offers a variety of massage and skincare services.
Four Seasons at Terra Lago, Indio
Four Seasons at Terra Lago is a gated community by leading builder K. Hovnanian. It offers an exclusive selection of 661 single-family homes available and nine different home designs. Some of the homes in the community have spacious backyards, private dens, and stunning desert views. Residents enjoy maintenance-free living in a secure and peaceful environment.
Amenities include The Lodge, a 22,000 sq. ft. recreation center with a gym, ballroom, spa, library, and bistro. Residents also have access to a swimming pool and tennis court. A full-time lifestyle director organizes an array of activities, including billiards, yoga sessions, Zumba classes, and more.
Four Seasons, Palm Springs
Four Seasons encompasses over 6.5 acres just off the I-10 freeway and roughly five miles north of downtown Palm Springs. With 477 homes and seven floor plans to pick from, this sought-after community appeals to buyers in search of a small and close-knit neighborhood. The homes in the community have 2 to 3 bedrooms and range in size from roughly 1,899 to 2,825 sq. ft.
Community highlights include a clubhouse with a fitness center, pool, salon, cafe, library, and conference room. There are also several clubs and groups for residents who are interested in sports, yoga, card games, and arts and crafts.
Renata at Domani, Palm Desert
This gated community offers the ultimate desert lifestyle with an array of single-level homes and amenities in a private setting. Located in North Palm Desert, Renata at Domani is within proximity to the I-10 and about 15 miles from Palm Springs Airport.
The properties in the community were built by Pulte Homes. Buyers can choose from three floor plans – Brownstone, Silver Creek, and Bellwod – offering 2-3 bedrooms and up to 1,865 sq. ft. of living space. Some homes are move-in ready with spacious kitchens and covered patios for entertaining.
Shared amenities which include a 5,000 sq. ft. clubhouse for gatherings and events. The community also has a fitness center, pool, spa, meeting rooms, and bocce and pickleball courts.
Heritage Palms, Indio
This master-planned community offers a leisurely lifestyle with scenic views and extensive recreational facilities. Highlights include the Arthur Hills-designed championship golf course, short game practice area, putting greens, and driving range. The community also features tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts.
The 32,000 sq. ft. clubhouse complex features a ballroom, library, game rooms, arts and crafts rooms, and bar and grill. The outdoor pool and jacuzzi offer spectacular views of the 18th green and the Santa Rosa Mountains. The adjacent buildings are home to a fitness center, dance rehearsal room, and meeting rooms.
Construction began in 1996 and was completed in 2006. Today, there are 1,004 residential properties in the community. These include one-story, single-family homes and duplexes that are available in a wide range of floor plans with 10-12 ft. ceilings, two-car garages, and up to 2,504 sq. f.t of living space. Some homes are located along the golf course while others are situated on the south side and along the perimeter of the community.
Heritage Palms spans over 379 acres south of I-10 at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Fred Waring Drive. The community is within proximity of the Palm Springs Airport and El Paseo Shopping District.
Villa Portofino, Palm Desert
Nestled in the Coachella Valley, this gated community offers a fine selection of luxury villas and single-family homes with 1-3 bedrooms and up to 2,300 sq. ft. of living space. Established in 2005, the community has over 460 homes and two models – Cortona I and II – which are available for resale. Some properties offer sweeping views of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains.
Spanning over 50 acres, the community has Italian-inspired design with elaborate ironwork, columns, arches, waterways, and paved stone streets. Residents gather at the 30,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, which features a fitness room, yoga studio, game room, movie theater, sports bar, and dining areas. The Bistro at Villa Portofino has a chef-inspired menu with seasonal dishes, fresh salads, wine, and cocktails.
FIND YOUR RETIREMENT COMMUNITY IN PALM SPRINGS
Explore Palm Springs 55 plus communities with the Brady Sandahl Real Estate Group. Call them at 760-656-679, send them an email, or fill out their contact form for access to listings and community information. With years of experience, their highly-skilled professionals specialize in luxury real estate, vacation homes, golf course properties, and gated communities. Contact them today to schedule a private consultation.
