If you’re thinking about trading snow shovels for golf clubs and sunshine, you’re not alone. Every single month, dozens of folks from around the country moving to The Villages Florida — and as someone who specializes in relocations, I’ve helped plenty of them. In this article we’re going to walk through what it really looks like to relocate to The Villages: where people are coming from, what you should think about (taxes, homestead, lifestyle), how to handle selling your old home and buying a new one, and what it’s like navigating real estate (especially the difference between MLS realtors and VLS/new‑construction reps). We’ll even highlight a basic “moving checklist” and shed light on the many community clubs by state — so you can get a feel for what your network might look like once you arrive.

Why So Many People Are Moving to The Villages Florida

Over the last several years, The Villages has consistently ranked as the top relocated‑to city in the U.S.

It’s not just retirees. While many are drawn by the 55+ lifestyle, the population growth has been fueled by a combination of factors — affordability (compared to high‑cost northern or coastal locales), active‑adult amenities, and a strong sense of community.

A quick glance at geography shows strong representation from states like New York, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois, among others.

Top 10 States Sending New Residents to The Villages

While exact rankings shift over time, the following ten states regularly show up among the most common places people move from when relocating to The Villages:

• New York
• Ohio
• Michigan
• Pennsylvania
• Illinois
• Florida (from elsewhere in FL)
• Texas
• North Carolina
• Georgia
• Tennessee

You’ll see mentions of many of these states throughout the rest of this article — because they reflect the background of real people who landed here before you.

What to Think About Before Moving to The Villages Florida

Taxes, Homestead & Retirement

One of the big reasons people are moving to The Villages Florida — is the tax environment. No state income tax, favorable rules for retirees, and homestead options can make a real difference especially if you’re downsizing or living on a fixed income.

That said, figuring out your homestead exemption (if you qualify) and understanding property taxes in Sumter/Marion/Lake counties are important initial steps. I always encourage new clients to run the numbers: compare their current state’s taxes, cost of living, property taxes, and healthcare access.

Cost & Lifestyle Considerations

Relocating isn’t cheap. Between moving costs, selling your old home, and buying a new one — maybe even in a new‑construction community — you may encounter expenses for movers, inspections, closing costs, and new furnishings.

On the flip side: The Villages offers tremendous value. From modest homes to high‑end residences, there’s flexibility in price point. And once you’re here, the lifestyle — golf, social clubs, community centers — gives a quality of life many say is worth every penny.

A Simple Checklist for Relocation

Here’s a basic roadmap I often use with clients when they plan a move:

1. Evaluate when to sell your current home — ideally after solidifying what you want in The Villages.
2. Get pre‑approved for financing (if needed).
3. Visit The Villages — spend a few days, try out a golf course or club, get the feel for the lifestyle.
4. Choose representation — decide whether you’ll work with an MLS‑based realtor or a VLS/new‑construction agent (more on that below).
5. List your old home — declutter, stage, price it appropriately for your market.
6. Search for your new home — consider resale vs. new construction, community amenities, proximity to clubs/activities.
7. Handle paperwork — inspections, disclosures, financing, closing.
8. Schedule the move — coordinate movers, update your address, sign up for utilities, and don’t forget homestead exemption paperwork.
9. Join local clubs/communities — a big part of life in The Villages is the social network.
10. Celebrate your new lifestyle — you’ve earned it.

MLS Realtor vs. VLS / New‑Construction — What’s the Difference?

If you’re buying resale, you’ll likely work with an MLS-based realtor who shops across all listings. That’s great if you want flexibility and access to a broad pool of homes.

On the other hand, many of the newer neighborhoods in The Villages are sold by the developer — and those agents are often employed or contracted by The Villages Company. That means you might get less “shopping-around,” but you could get incentives or promotions on new builds.

Things I make sure clients know:

• A builder rep works for the builder first — your interests are represented by you, so it’s worth having independent counsel (some people hire a buyer’s agent).
• New-construction can involve waiting (for completion), change orders, and sometimes higher cost per finished square foot.
• Resale can offer more negotiating power and quicker occupancy, but may require updates or renovations.

Because I’ve helped clients from many states navigate both paths, I know how to steer them toward what works best for their financial situation and lifestyle goals.

Amenity Fees, Bonds, and Ad Valorem Taxes in The Villages Florida

Once you dive into the nuts and bolts of ownership here in The Villages, it’s important to understand a few financial pieces that come along with your home: Amenity Fees, Bond Payments, and Ad Valorem Taxes.

• Amenity Fee: This is a monthly fee (around $199 as of this writing) that gives you access to the incredible network of recreation centers, pools, golf, and lifestyle offerings across The Villages. Think of it as your all-access pass to enjoy the community to its fullest.
• The Bond: This is one of the biggest surprises for many newcomers. The bond helps cover the initial infrastructure (roads, utilities, etc.) of the neighborhood. It is essentially a 30-year municipal loan attached to the property, and it’s paid off gradually over time through your annual property tax bill. Here’s where it gets important: if you’re looking at homes in the northern parts of The Villages, the bond may already be paid off (especially if the home is older). In contrast, homes in the southern expansion areas often still carry a significant bond balance, sometimes $20,000 and more.
• Ad Valorem Taxes: These are your standard property taxes based on the assessed value of your home. The total annual tax bill you see will typically include ad valorem taxes and your bond payment (if still applicable), plus any special assessments. So when comparing homes, especially resale vs. new construction, it’s vital to ask not just the purchase price, but what the ongoing yearly costs will look like.

Understanding this financial layer helps you avoid surprises and budget accurately. I always help clients run a full comparison to see the big picture.

Joining the Community — Clubs & State‑Based Social Groups

One of the most vibrant things about moving to The Villages Florida is how people recreate — and a big part of that are the clubs. What’s especially neat: many clubs are organized around states or regions of origin. When you arrive from, say, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or New York, you might find a ready-made social circle waiting for you.

That sense of familiar community — with people who share your background — makes the transition smoother. It also reinforces why folks from those top 10 states often feel right at home here.

Golf, pickleball, softball, cards, dancing, volunteer groups, hobby clubs — it’s all part of what makes life here more than just “retirement.” It’s a second life that feels active, social, and fulfilling.

My Expertise — How I Help People Make This Move

As someone experienced in relocation, I’ve guided clients from across the country (from cold winters in New York to the Midwest, and beyond) through every step: from deciding when to list their home, to navigating inspections and closings, to choosing resale vs. new construction — and ultimately to landing smoothly in a community that fits their lifestyle.

If what you need is a trusted partner to help with “Selling in State X and buying in The Villages, Florida,” I’ve got you covered. From paperwork to personal touches (like helping you connect with regional clubs so you meet neighbors from home), I treat every move as a full-service transition.

Final Thoughts — Could This Be Your New Home?

If you’re coming from New York, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee — or any of the many other states whose residents I’ve helped relocate — there’s a real chance The Villages could be your ideal fit. The blend of affordability, active‑adult amenities, community clubs, and low-stress relocation makes it a top contender for anyone looking to trade hustle for relaxation.

If you like what you see, let’s connect — I’d be happy to help you map out your move. Semper Paratus: always prepared — for new neighbors, new homes, and a new lifestyle.