Active Adult Communities Near Mount Dora, Leesburg, and Tavares
Lake County, Florida has become one of the most popular places in Central Florida for active adults looking for a quieter lifestyle than Orlando while still staying close to healthcare, shopping, and outdoor recreation.
Many buyers searching for retirement communities in Florida eventually discover Lake County because of its combination of small towns, scenic lakes, and a wide selection of 55+ communities.
Communities throughout Mount Dora, Leesburg, Tavares, and surrounding areas offer amenities like resort-style pools, golf courses, fitness centers, walking trails, and organized social clubs. Some communities focus on golf and large clubhouses, while others offer waterfront homes or smaller neighborhoods with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Below is a guide to several of the most well-known 55+ communities in Lake County.
55+ Communities in Lake County FL
(Comparison Overview)
| Community | City | Homes | Gated | Amenities | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakes of Mount Dora | Mount Dora | ~950 | Yes | Waterfront, clubhouse, trails | View Community |
| Plantation at Leesburg | Leesburg | ~2,800 | Yes | Golf courses, pools, fitness | View Community |
| Arlington Ridge | Leesburg | ~600 | Yes | Golf course, theater, pool | View Community |
| Highland Lakes | Leesburg | ~900 | Yes | Indoor pool, tennis, clubs | View Community |
| Royal Highlands | Leesburg | ~1,500 | Yes | Golf course, clubhouse | View Community |
Why Retirees Choose Lake County
Lake County offers a different lifestyle than many of the larger retirement destinations in Florida.
Instead of large master-planned developments, the area is known for smaller communities surrounded by lakes, rolling hills, and historic downtown districts.
Some of the reasons buyers choose Lake County include:
• close proximity to Orlando and Orlando International Airport
• historic downtown districts in Mount Dora and Tavares
• boating access to the Harris Chain of Lakes
• less traffic than The Villages and metro Orlando
• wide range of home prices in 55+ communities
For many buyers relocating from northern states, Lake County offers the combination of Florida weather and a slower pace of life.
Popular 55+ Communities Near Mount Dora
Lakes of Mount Dora
Lakes of Mount Dora is one of the most well-known active adult communities in the Mount Dora area. The neighborhood features nearly 1,000 homes and is known for its scenic lakes, walking trails, and resort-style clubhouse.
Residents enjoy amenities including a fitness center, pool, pickleball courts, and an active calendar of social events.
Homes in this community typically include single-story floor plans and many properties feature waterfront views.
👉 Explore Lakes of Mount Dora homes for sale
Popular 55+ Communities in Leesburg
Plantation at Leesburg
Plantation at Leesburg is one of the largest 55+ communities in Lake County and offers two golf courses, multiple swimming pools, and a large clubhouse with numerous social clubs.
The community contains several smaller neighborhoods and a wide range of home styles.
👉 Explore Plantation at Leesburg homes for sale
Arlington Ridge
Arlington Ridge is a gated golf community located just south of Leesburg. In addition to its championship golf course, the neighborhood features a theater, fitness center, restaurant, and resort-style pool.
👉 Explore Arlington Ridge homes for sale
Highland Lakes
Highland Lakes is a well-established active adult community known for its extensive amenities including an indoor pool, tennis courts, pickleball, and a large clubhouse.
👉 Explore Highland Lakes homes for sale
What to Consider When Choosing a 55+ Community
Every active adult community is a little different. Buyers relocating to Lake County often compare communities based on several factors:
HOA fees
Monthly fees can vary widely depending on amenities and services.
Amenities
Some communities focus on golf while others emphasize social clubs, walking trails, or waterfront living.
Location
Distance to downtown Mount Dora, Leesburg and Tavares hospitals, or Orlando International Airport can be important for many buyers.
Home style and price range
Some communities offer smaller villas while others feature larger custom homes.
Working with a local agent familiar with each community can help narrow down the options based on lifestyle preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many 55+ communities in Lake County Florida?
Yes. Lake County has dozens of active adult communities, particularly in Leesburg and Mount Dora.
Are 55+ communities near Mount Dora gated?
Many are gated, although not all communities have guard gates.
Are there waterfront homes in Lake County 55+ communities?
Yes. Several communities including Lakes of Mount Dora offer waterfront homes.
How far is Lake County from Orlando?
Most communities are approximately 40–60 minutes from Orlando, depending on traffic.