by Robert Borges on March 21, 2024

Home to some of America’s most beautiful cities, Northern California really has it all. With a stunning coastline, incomparable National Parks, world-renowned landmarks, tasty vineyards, and urban meccas, it’s no surprise that a lot of retirees see the region as the perfect place to settle down. 

If adventure and relaxation in the top half of The Golden State appeals to your lifestyle, here’s a shortlist of the best 55+ communities in Northern California. 

Heritage El Dorado Hills- El Dorado Hills, CA

Heritage El Dorado Hills 55+ community in CA

EL Dorado Hills  is rich in history, cultural activities, and recreational offerings. In it sits this Northern California 55+ community near Sacramento with resort-style amenities and low-maintenance homes designed to make life easier. Nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, residents enjoy a sprawling amenity complex with a fitness center, swimming pool, spa, locker rooms, an outdoor firepit, and courts for tennis, pickleball, and bocce.

Summit at Liberty- Rio Vista, CA

Summit at Liberty 55 Plus community in California

A gated community in the East Bay with resort-style amenities and new homes in the scenic Sacramento River Delta, this is considered by many to be among the top Northern California 55+ communities. Anchored by the social and recreational hub, Club Liberty, 4.5 acres of amenities include a clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, community garden, and bocce ball courts. Other gathering spots include the Ranch House and Events Barn giving residents plenty of options to stay active and social with friends and neighbors. 

Trilogy® at The Polo Club- Indio, CA

Trilogy at the Polo Club 55-plus CA community

Trilogy® at The Polo Club offers an active lifestyle resort near Palm Springs, California, catering to all ages and 55+ residents alike. Set in a highly desirable area with easy access to nearby cities, the community provides endless entertainment options, from shopping at top brands to golfing at iconic courses like PGA West. The Polo Club serves as the social hub, featuring dining, fitness, pools, and a full schedule of events (separate membership required). Homes range from 1,294 to 2,549 sq.ft., boasting modern designs and indoor/outdoor living spaces unique to Trilogy.

Nevina- a Trilogy® Boutique Community- Paso Robles, CA

Nevina Trilogy Boutique 55+ Community in California

Nevina™, a Trilogy® Boutique Community™, is a new 55+ community nestled in Paso Robles, CA's Viñedo master plan. Conveniently located near San Luis Obispo and amidst wine country, it offers easy access to attractions and California's Central Coast beaches. Shea Homes' latest Boutique Community provides an intimate setting with tailored amenities for active adult living, including wellness programs, pickleball, dining, and social events. With approximately 413 new homesites and a proposed Club, residents can enjoy Trilogy's Freedom Collection with spacious single-story homes featuring open layouts and outdoor living spaces for entertaining.

K. Hovnanian's® Four Seasons at Homestead- Dixon, CA

Four Seasons at Homestead 55+ California Community

K. Hovnanian's® Four Seasons at Homestead is a new 55+ community in Dixon, CA, offering a dynamic lifestyle amidst perfect year-round weather and small town charm. Located near Sacramento and Napa, residents enjoy access to a clubhouse with various amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and pickleball courts. The gated community offers affordable single-family homes with spacious floorplans for low-maintenance living.