The Foundation of the 55+ Community
Before diving into the specifics of younger residency, it's crucial to understand the foundation of The Villages. As an age-restricted community, it operates under the federal Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA). This law exempts communities from familial status discrimination if they meet specific criteria, namely that at least 80% of occupied units must have at least one resident aged 55 or older. The Villages was specifically designed for an active retirement lifestyle, and its amenities and social calendar reflect this focus, from extensive golf courses to nightly entertainment.
How the 80/20 Rule Creates Opportunities for Younger Residents
Under HOPA's 80/20 rule, up to 20% of the households in an age-restricted community like The Villages can be occupied by residents under 55 years old. This flexibility allows for a variety of scenarios where younger individuals can live within the community's limits. For instance, a person under 55 can live with their partner or spouse who meets the 55+ age requirement. Adult children aged 19 and older can also be part of a household, provided one resident meets the age restriction.
Younger Individuals Residing in The Villages
While the vast majority of residents are 55 or older, there are a few distinct groups of younger people who can legally and practically live in The Villages:
- Spouses and Partners: If one member of a couple is 55 or older, their younger spouse or partner can reside with them, regardless of their own age. This allows for a smooth transition for couples with a significant age gap.
- Adult Children: Adult children over the age of 19 are permitted to live with their parents, as long as one parent is 55 or older. This is common in cases where adult children are acting as caregivers or have returned home for other reasons. The Villages does specify that no full-time resident can be younger than 19.
- Employees and Staff: A significant number of younger people work within The Villages to serve the community's population. This includes a wide array of roles in retail, healthcare, hospitality, and management, creating a bustling local economy. Many of these employees live in surrounding communities but work within the development, while some may find housing inside the gates, depending on the rules.
The Growth of Nearby Family Communities
Due to the strict age restrictions within The Villages proper, many families with young children have settled in the neighboring communities. This has contributed to the growth of towns like Wildwood and Oxford, which are just outside the official limits. These areas provide the family-friendly environment that is restricted inside the 55+ development while still offering proximity to the jobs and amenities of The Villages. It is common for residents of these nearby towns to work inside the larger community and commute by golf cart or car.
| Feature | The Villages (Age-Restricted) | Surrounding Communities (e.g., Wildwood, Oxford) |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Age | Predominantly 55+, with limited exceptions | All ages, including families and children |
| Full-Time Resident Min. Age | 19 years old | None (family-friendly) |
| Children's Visitation | Allowed for a maximum of 30 consecutive days | Unrestricted |
| Workforce Access | Primary source of jobs, with workers commuting from nearby areas | A popular residential option for those who work inside The Villages |
| Lifestyle Focus | Active adult living, golf, clubs, and social events | Traditional residential life, family activities, and schools |
Visiting Grandchildren and Intergenerational Activities
While full-time residency for those under 19 is prohibited, The Villages is very welcoming to visiting grandchildren and offers numerous intergenerational activities. The community even has a dedicated program called "Camp Villages" with year-round events for visiting kids and their grandparents. These activities include playing golf, going to the town squares, and engaging in various sports and workshops. This creates a unique environment where families can visit and enjoy the amenities together, bridging the generational gap without altering the community's fundamental identity.
Conclusion: A Niche Community with Room for Variation
So, do younger people live in The Villages? The answer is yes, but in a very specific and limited capacity dictated by federal housing laws and community regulations. The vast majority of the community remains dedicated to its 55+ demographic, with a lively social scene tailored to active retirees. However, the presence of younger spouses, adult children, and a large employee base ensures a measure of age diversity. For families with children who wish to be near The Villages, the thriving, family-friendly towns just outside its gates offer a practical solution, allowing for both an active retirement and a traditional family life to coexist in the same metropolitan area.
Inside the Bubble offers additional insights for families visiting The Villages.
