Goodyear and Sugar Land highlight 55-plus retirement living trend

Several recent rankings of retirement destinations and analyses of demographic trends have highlighted a shift in where and how Americans are choosing to spend their later years, naming rapidly growing 55 plus communities in Goodyear, Arizona; Sugar Land, Texas; Clermont, Florida; and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho as noteworthy options in 2025. The lists point to a demand for lifestyle-oriented developments that combine recreational amenities, health-care access, and tax or cost advantages in a range of climates and settings.

Analysts and developers say the change is driven by demographic expansion and wealth among older Americans. The population aged 65 and older is projected to rise from about 35 million in 2000 to roughly 74 million by 2030, increasing demand for communities that offer active, resort-style living rather than traditional, low-activity retirement settings. New 55 plus developments increasingly include fitness centers, pickleball courts, golf, arts programs and year-round social calendars, as well as on-site services that extend livability as residents age.

Goodyear, a suburb of Phoenix, is identified as one of the fastest-growing retirement spots, with the 55 and over...