Tag: Places to retire in Florida

7 Best Mobile Home Parks in Florida for Water Lovers

Posted on September 10, 2024 by - Buying Mobile Homes, Mobile Homes

Happy senior couple relaxes while fishing together by the lake in summer

You don’t have to be a millionaire to live near Florida’s beautiful lakes, rivers, and beaches. Many of Bedrock Communities’ mobile homes for sale in Florida (Or for rent) sit near the water, at prices that suit a limited budget.

From peaceful lakeside retreats to lively coastal hubs, Bedrock offers FL mobile home communities that cater to different tastes and needs. Each community is thoughtfully designed with amenities like clubhouses, pools, shuffleboard courts, and picnic areas to make your daily life more fun.

Bedrock’s communities are ideally located near must-have services, cultural attractions, and recreational spots. For instance, Bedrock Crescent Lake in Riverview sits near nature trails and Tampa Bay shopping, while Bedrock Aspen Terrace offers coastal living close to Daytona’s famous beaches. No matter where you choose, Bedrock promises a serene and fulfilling living experience.

Here are the best places to find. mobile homes for sale in Florida:

1. Crescent Lake: Active, Waterfront Senior Living

Crescent Lake

Set in picturesque Riverview, FL, Crescent Lake offers a charming 55+ living experience. Riverview, known for its scenic views along the Alafia River, combines historic charm with modern convenience. Residents enjoy access to urban amenities in Tampa Bay and natural escapes like Bell Creek Nature Preserve.

Crescent Lake is packed with amenities to support an active lifestyle. Enjoy gatherings at the clubhouse, play billiards, or engage in friendly shuffleboard matches. The community also features picnic areas, a boat ramp, and a dog park. It also offers onsite laundry facilities. Overall, this pet-friendly mobile home park offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

2. Aspen Terrace: Coastal Bliss

If a coastal lifestyle near Daytona Beach appeals to you, Aspen Terrace could be your perfect match. With its lush palm trees and proximity to the Intracoastal Waterway, this 55+ community offers a serene coastal retreat. Residents can enjoy fishing, sailing, and nearby shopping centers and attractions like Daytona International Speedway.

Aspen Terrace is designed for social engagement with its array of amenities. The community features a designated dog park and creative social activities that encourage interaction. The beach and shopping areas nearby add to the convenience and enjoyment of daily life.

3. Cypress Harbor: Lakeside Living

mobile house Florida

In Winter Haven, known for its interconnected lakes, Cypress Harbor offers a tranquil lakeside retirement. Direct access to Lake Dexter makes this community ideal for water lovers. Enjoy activities like shuffleboard, lakeside gatherings, and fishing from the pier.

Cypress Harbor’s amenities support an active and relaxed lifestyle. Residents can participate in clubhouse activities, use the picnic area, and enjoy evenings by the lakeside fire pit. Onsite laundry facilities ensure convenience, and the community’s serene setting promotes relaxation.

4. Dogwood: A Quiet Retreat

In Ocala, FL, Dogwood offers a peaceful retirement setting with easy access to central Florida’s attractions. Known for its scenic beauty and historic charm, Ocala provides a perfect backdrop for this community.

Dogwood features more than 130 lots with amenities designed to support an active lifestyle. Enjoy the clubhouse, pool, shuffleboard courts, and picnic areas. The community also provides boat and RV storage for added convenience.

5. Emerald Lake: Country Living

Emerald Lake: Mobile homes in Florida

Located in Davenport, FL, Emerald Lake offers a serene country lifestyle with the advantage of being close to Orlando’s attractions, including Walt Disney World. Residents enjoy a quiet environment while having easy access to entertainment and dining.

Emerald Lake features a central lake, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, picnic areas, and a playground for visiting grandchildren. The community is also pet-friendly, with designated areas for residents’ furry friends.

6. Eldorado Estates: Beachy Vibes

Set in the lively locale of New Smyrna Beach, Bedrock’s Eldorado Estates offers an unmatched living experience on Florida’s renowned east coast. This all-age manufactured housing community is ideally situated, allowing residents to take full advantage of the stunning beaches and state parks nearby.

Also, Daytona Beach, famed for its International Speedway and annual events, is just a short 30-minute drive away, providing endless opportunities for fun and excitement.

Residents of Eldorado Estates will find themselves immersed in a world of modern amenities designed to boost their lifestyle.

The community boasts a sparkling swimming pool perfect for relaxation and leisure, a clubhouse for social gatherings, and a basketball court for sports enthusiasts. These amenities create an environment where families can thrive and engage in activities that build lifelong friendships and community bonds.

7. Lake Bonny: Vibrant Living

Set in the heart of Lakeland, Florida, the Lake Bonny community offers an inviting environment for residents of all ages. The community is situated in a city famous for its picturesque lakes and rich history, providing easy access to local attractions like Munn Park Historic District and Florida Southern College’s iconic Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. With a variety of amenities and activities, Lake Bonny makes sure there’s always something fun to do.

Residents can engage in a plethora of social activities, imbibing a sense of camaraderie and neighborly spirit. Whether you’re inclined toward a friendly game of billiards, a round of shuffleboard, or the serene surroundings, Lake Bonny has you covered.

The community also prides itself on being pet-friendly, recognizing the joy and companionship that pets bring to their owners. A designated dog park is available, allowing your furry friends to thrive alongside you.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Waterside Mobile Home in Florida

Asian senior couple in living room at home.Wife browsing online on smartphone showing something to her husband while husband is also using a tablet.

Looking for the perfect waterfront mobile home in Florida? With mobile home inventories growing steadily, you have many options to look into. To narrow them down, here are some fun and helpful tips to make sure you find the ideal spot for your sunny getaway:

  • Location, location, location! Make sure your new home has easy access to all the fun stuff—boating, fishing, swimming, or just chilling by the water. Don’t forget to check if grocery stores and hospitals are close by, too!
  • Awesome amenities: Keep an eye out for communities with extras like pools, marinas, or even a clubhouse where you can meet your new neighbors.
    Flood zones, oh no! Florida is gorgeous, but sometimes the weather isn’t. Make sure your future home is safe from flood risks, and check that flood insurance has you covered just in case.
  • Friendly rules: Some communities have rules, so make sure you’re good with them—especially if you love pets or plan to spruce up your new place.
  • Pet paradise: Got furry friends? Check that your potential new neighborhood welcomes them and that there are nearby pet-friendly parks or beaches where they can run around.
  • Inspect, inspect, inspect: Give your mobile home a good look to make sure it is in good shape. Water damage, mold, or saltwater wear can make waterside living more of a burden than a pleasure

Financing and Application Procedure

When it comes to financing, Bedrock understands that everyone’s financial situation is unique. We offer flexible options for various income sources, including W-2 employees, self-employed individuals, and retirees. The application process is transparent, requiring recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements, making it straightforward to navigate.

Prospective residents of mobile home communities are required to complete a residency application, ensuring all occupants 18 or older fill out their own forms. Supporting documents such as recent pay stubs or tax returns, depending on employment status, are needed to verify income. An application fee of $50 per applicant is also required. Once the completed application and all necessary documentation are submitted, applicants can typically expect a decision within 72 hours, pending background checks and income verification.

Find Your Perfect Mobile Home Community in Florida With Us!

Each Bedrock Community offers a unique blend of amenities and settings, from the historic charm of Crescent Lake to the coastal allure of Aspen Terrace. Whether you seek a lakeside retreat, a tranquil environment, or proximity to Orlando’s excitement, Bedrock has something for everyone.

Get to know your options and find the best mobile homes for sale in Florida to complement your lifestyle. For more information or to start your application, contact us today.

All You Need to Know About Retiring in Lakeland, Florida

Posted on May 24, 2022 by - Florida Living

Lakeland, florida skyline

Situated along the I-4 corridor between Orlando and Tampa, Lakeland, FL, boasts a central and convenient location not found in many other small cities in the state. Aptly named for the 38 lakes in and around it, Lakeland also boasts natural beauty and recreational opportunities that are unique even in a state with as much coastline and natural areas as Florida. Home to more than 100,000 individuals, and almost 24,000 older adults, Lakeland also has a reputation as an affordable, peaceful, convenient, and highly desirable retirement location.

What to Expect

Lakeland Florida lakeArea

Lakeland is a small city of about 100,000 in Polk County, Florida. It sits about 45 minutes from Tampa and less than an hour from Orlando. This city has no direct ocean access, but it DOES have abundant water access, thanks to 38 lakes that give it both its name and an enviable array of stunning natural beauty and gorgeous wildlife. This outdoorsy culture alongside easy access to all of the amenities of big city life, make Lakeland one of the most sought-after retirement locations in the state. A large retirement population also means that if you choose to live your work-free years here, you have many opportunities to forge rewarding relationships with others like you.

Weather

Lakeland enjoys the sunny, warm weather year-round that Florida is famous for. With an average temperature of 83 degrees and 240 days of sunshine every year, you won’t be shoveling snow or navigating icy roads. You should prepare for hot and humid summers, where average temperatures can get up into the 90s, but with air conditioning in almost every building, and warm winters in the future, you can also enjoy the change from bitter northern cold snaps.

Safety

Retirement should include a sense of safety every day and life in a location known for peacefulness and a low crime rate. Lakeland delivers both. The city’s crime rate is lower than the national average, and its violent crime rate is slightly lower than Florida’s average. The outer edges of the city tend to be the safest. Check out our Colonial Village and Laky Bonny communities for retirement housing options located in some of Lakeland’s safer neighborhoods.

Practical Living

Lakeland lakeAirport

Because of Lakeland’s proximity to Orlando and to Tampa, retirees have access to both Orlando International Airport and Tampa International Airport. A short drive of less than an hour will give you access to any part of the country, and allow loved ones to fly in from anywhere to enjoy your company surrounded by perfect Florida living.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Lakeland is to drive, but you can also grab public transportation via Citrus Connection, the county’s public transit system. With services for the disabled, wheelchair-friendly buses, and even bike-friendly buses so you can store your bike as you ride, this public transit system provides easy transportation throughout the county for anyone, all for reasonable prices. That makes it simple to get to major shopping, healthcare, or entertainment locations even if you do not own a car.

Shopping

Lakeland may be near all the shopping you could desire in the big cities, but you can find some pretty unique and enjoyable shopping experiences right in town, as well. Try, for example, Lakeland Square Mall, where you can shop name brands like American Eagle or H&M. Make sure to check out the upscale Lakeside Village, too, where boutiques, tasty dining, salons, spas, and a wide range of retail stores sit amidst abundant greenery and a soothing atmosphere.

Doctors/hospitals

You can also access high-quality healthcare in Lakeland. The city is home to Lakeland Regional Health Hospital, as well as a plethora of other healthcare providers. In Lakeland, you can find any of the following options:

  • Urgent care
  • Primary care
  • Senior care
  • Internal medicine
  • Dentists

Some of these providers, such as St. Luke’s Regional Healthcare Clinic in Lakeland provide a range of services in one location and focus on convenient services such as same-day appointments.

Banks

Finances are often a concern in retirement, but managing them is simple when you live in Lakeland. The city is home to multiple financial institutions, from credit unions to more traditional banks. Make deposits and withdrawals; open and close accounts, manage your credit, take out loans, and more, all without leaving your retirement hometown.

Mail

One of life’s tasks is handling the mail. Complete all of your postal errands right in Lakeland, where a post office, UPS stores, and Fedex drop offs are all a short drive from your home. Purchase shipping materials; drop off packages, pick up your mail, and stay in touch with your loved ones easily without traveling out of town. If you choose the right retirement community, such as one of our Lakeland-area communities, you may be able to complete some of your postal errands right within the community.

Things to Do

Lakeland, Fl, downtownBeaches

Lakeland does not have direct access to the beach itself, but it does sit less than two hours from beaches on both the east and west coast of the state. Choose beaches near Orlando or Tampa for beautiful white sand, stunning water, and the opportunity to enjoy your favorite water activities, from fishing to swimming, boating to sunbathing.

Minor League Baseball

The Detroit Tigers maintain a Minor League team in Lakeland, called the Lakeland Flying Tigers. Grab tickets and sit down at the Joker Marchant Stadium to enjoy a game (or two, or three). The best part? There is rarely as much traffic, or expense, associated with enjoying a Minor League team as a Major League one, which can make it very simple to enjoy a little baseball in your hometown whenever you desire.

Lakes.

Lakeland’s name comes from the 38 lakes that dot the city and surrounding area. These beautiful watery areas are home to many lakeside parks and preserves for recreation and relaxation. The best part? You can find trails that suit any ability level, from paved walking trails to more challenging hikes so you can enjoy nature at your pace during your retirement.

One of the area’s must-see natural areas are the Se7en Wetlands. The wetlands’ trails provide a place to walk while you enjoy abundant wildlife or even go on a scavenger hunt in search of many of the wetlands’ beautiful plants and animals.

Each lake and natural area has is own rules about the recreation you pursue, but you can find a place to do all of the following:

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Picnicking
  • Biking
  • And more

Polk Theatre

The Polk Theatre building itself, constructed in the late 1920s, pays homage to Italian architecture and serves as a cultural icon with a rich history. Inside, you can discover even more to admire, through its numerous films, popular Performing Arts Series, performances of the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, ballet performances, and more.

Whether you visit for the films and performing arts it has to offer, choose to tour the beautifully restored building, or take advantage of the theatre’s virtual cinema program, the Polk Theatre will almost certainly be a cornerstone in your enjoyment of your Lakeland retirement.

Polk Museum of Art

As one of the top 10 art museums in Florida, the Polk Museum of Art is a must-see attraction in Lakeland. Located at South Florida College, this museum will feed your desire for arts and culture with permanent collections that span everything from European art to decorative American arts and Asian art. The best part? This museum is FREE so it will fit right in with any retirement budget and allow you to enjoy as much art as you desire during your Florida retirement.

Frank Lloyd Wright

The world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture exists at Florida Southern College’s historic district in Lakeland. Named a National Historic Landmark, these buildings display the architect’s distinctive style and are available for you to tour. Don’t forget to stop y the college’s collection of photographs, furniture, and drawing from Frank Lloyd Wright as well. It is often supplemented by traveling exhibits and there is frequently something new to admire and explore here.

Circle B Bar Reserve

The Circle B Bar Reserve is a former ranch turned protected wetland. Best known for its jaw-dropping array of wildlife and birds, it provides you with an unmatched opportunity to soak up the most beautiful nature the Lakeland area has to offer, and provides incredible bird watching opportunities. Don’t forget to stop by the Polk County Nature Discovery Center to learn more about the ranch and wildlife it protects.

Find a Home

Bedrock Communities Living

With a median home price of $335,000, Lakeland’s booming housing market may feel a little out of reach for the average retiree. The good news is that Lakeland is still one of the best places to retire because attainable manufactured homes are available in any of our three Lakeland communities: Colonial Village, Lake Bonny, and Citrus Center.

Features

Each of these communities provides features that make your retirement easier and more funEnjoy the following features:

  • Lakeside location (Lake Bonny)
  • A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

In addition, our Lakeland communities provide many amenities designed to make community life convenient and rewarding. Discover the following amenities:

  • Clubhouse
  • Library (Colonial Village, Lake Bonny)
  • Laundry
  • Shuffleboard Courts
  • Billiards
  • Fishing Pier (Lake Bonny)
  • Picnic tables and grills (Citrus Center)
  • Social activities
  • Dog park (Lake Bonny)
  • And more

Choose our Lakeland communities if you want attainable, beautiful Florida living for seniors. Our friendly communities in one of Florida’s most desirable locations are designed to create a retirement you will love. Contact us today to learn more!

Riviera Beach: One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida

Posted on April 26, 2022 by - Florida Living

Riviera Beach skyline

Riviera Beach, Florida, is a small city along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Defined by its proximity to the water, small size, and retirement-friendly cost of living, this city is perfect for retirees who want to enjoy the Florida beaches in their work-free years without fighting the Florida crowds. Founded in 1922 and originally named Oak Lawn, the city was eventually renamed Riviera after the French Riviera. This grand name reflects the city’s pride in its natural surroundings and its desire to provide a relaxed and enjoyable life to every resident.

What to expect of Riviera Beach, Florida

Aerial view of Riviera Beach coastlineArea

Riviera’s population of 37,604 resides within Palm Beach County and less than 15 minutes from West Palm Beach. Riviera Beach is also minutes from many other smaller cities across the eastern coast of Florida, such as Lake Park and Juno Beach. While small, the city is growing steadily, and is now 15.46 percent larger than it was 10 years ago. With several retirement communities located within the city limits, including Bedrock’s Ocean Tide community, the city provides the services and comfortable living that retirees expect and deserve from their work-free years.

Weather

Riviera Beach enjoys a tropical rainforest climate that is defined primarily by warm, dry winters and hot, wet summers. Expect daily thunderstorms in the summer months, and a scarcity of frost. Riviera Beach does not get snow, and you will not have to shovel, bundle up, or drive in winter weather. With 232 days of sunshine, the city enjoys much more sunlight than the national average and has lots of warm, lazy days to enhance your retirement experience.

Safety

The only aspect of Riviera Beach that may make retirees question whether it is one of the best places to retire in Florida is its crime rate. The city as a whole has a crime rate that is greater than 94 percent of U.S. cities. The city has a crime rate of 11.4 per 1,000 residents for violent crimes and 31.3 per every 1,000 residents for property crimes. However, the eastern part of the city, close to Singer Island is generally considered safe, and this is where our Ocean Tide community resides. As a result, retirees can still enjoy a peaceful and secure retirement near one of Florida’s most beautiful areas.

Practical Living around Riviera Beach

Riviera Beach map overlayAirport

Riviera Beach does not have an airport within the city limits, but Palm Beach International Airport is less than 20 minutes away. All major airlines fly into and out of this airport, making it simple to pick up friends and family or fly in and out of Riviera Beach yourself.

Getting Around

In general, the most convenient way to get around Riviera Beach is by car. The West Palm Beach area has a walkability score of just 40 percent, so while there may be a few walkable areas, most shops, dining, and entertainment will require a vehicle.

However, you can also access a variety of public transit options through the Palm Tran system. You can find a passenger bus system that will take you to specific points throughout the West Palm Beach area, including Riviera Beach. In addition, if you cannot drive yourself, you can use Palm Tran Connection, a para-transit system that provides door-to-door service for essential activities such as healthcare and employment, and shopping. You will need to reserve these trips in advance, but they can provide a convenient way to get around if you are unable to transport yourself via a car.

Other means of transportation? While not as convenient, you can also get around the city and the area in the following ways:

  • Tri-Rail train in West Palm Beach
  • Walking
  • Biking
  • Go Glades

The diversity of transportation options in the area make it simple to get where you need to go, regardless of whether you have a car or not.

Shopping

Riviera Beach is home to a multitude of shops and stores where you can get everything from beachwear (An essential for a beachside retirement) to groceries stores (e.g. Public) to medication (e.g. Walgreens). If you want even more options, consider stopping by West Palm Beach for big-city stores and unique niche shops.

Doctors/hospitals

Riviera Beach is also home to a wide array of healthcare facilities. These include these highly-rated locations:

  • Integrated Healthcare Systems
  • Kindred Hospital the Palm Beaches
  • Northeast Health Center (Riviera Beach)

Discover urgent care, primary care, home care, ICUs, specialized care (e.g. Transplant care, lung care, etc.), and more, all within Riviera Beach. The abundance of healthcare options right outside your door should put your mind at ease and help you to embrace Riviera Beach Florida living for seniors.

Banks

Banks abound in Riviera Beach, and in the surrounding area. You will mostly find major names in finance in Riviera, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and TD Bank. As a result, you can save, obtain loans, withdraw cash, write checks, and otherwise keep your retirement funding in order without needing to leave the city.

Mail

Conducting all of your postal business can be accomplished locally if you choose to retire in Riviera Beach. The city has its own post office, Fed Ex locations, and UPS center. If you live in a retirement community like Ocean Tide, you may also be able to complete some basic postal tasks within your community.

Things to Do in Riviera Beach

Riviera Beach, Florida coastlineBeaches

Thanks to its location on the ocean, Riviera Beach provides access to many of the most beautiful and sought-after beaches in Palm Beach County. The closest is Riviera Municipal Beach, which sits within the city limits. However, you can also drive just a few minutes to reach any of these other waterfront locations where swimming, sunbathing, and even boating are possible:

  • Boynton Beach
  • Palm Beach
  • Juno Beach (Which is dog friendly)
  • Jupiter Beach Park (Which has an off-leash area for your dog)
  • Ocean Reef Park

Beach Parks

Alongside a number of the beaches in the Riviera Beach area are stunning nature parks where you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including the following:

  • Saltwater fishing
  • Walking
  • Camping
  • Sunbathing
  • Playgrounds
  • Picnicking
  • Educational activities
  • And more

Ready to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty alongside some of your favorite beach activities? Check out these parks near your Riviera Beach home:

  • Peanut Island Park
  • Ocean Reef Park
  • John D. MacArthur Beach State Park and Nature Center

Golf

Florida is known for its endless array of golf courses anywhere you live, and Riviera Beach is no exception. Discover no fewer than 10 golf courses close to or within the city. One of the best is Lone Pines Golf Course, an executive course (Shorter than a typical golf course) that provides a fun, relaxing way to play golf in a beautiful location.

Scuba Diving

Riviera Beach and the surrounding area is considered one of the state’s best places for scuba diving. The area is full of beautiful reefs and exciting wrecks to explore, and plenty of opportunities to grab scuba diving lessons so you can take up a new and exciting hobby, or continue a hobby you already love.

Find a Home in Riviera Beach, Fl

Ocean Tide community for seniors in Riviera BeachBedrock Communities Living

With a median home price of $549,500, Riviera Beach housing is fairly expensive. The god news is that at our Ocean Tide community, you can accent beautiful, quality homes for a fraction of that cost. That makes Florida living attainable on a budget, even in one of the best places to retire in Florida.

Features

Our Ocean Tide community provides features that create an active and rewarding retirement for community members:

  • Beachfront community
  • Minutes from Singer Island and Palm Beach Shores
  • Minutes from South Florida’s most popular beaches, lakes, and parks
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

In addition, our Ocean tide community offers a wide array of amenities to enhance life within the community:

  • Clubhouse
  • Extensive social activities
  • Shuffleboard courts
  • Billiards
  • Laundry
  • Petanque courts

Consider our Ocean Tide community for beautiful, safe, and beachside living in Riviera Beach. You deserve a retirement that fulfills all your expectations, and our community can give it to you. Contact us today to learn more!

Floral City: One of the Best Places to Retire in Florida

Posted on March 25, 2022 by - Florida Living

iStock Romantic Couple Having Love And Hug On The Beach

Stately and historic, Floral City has earned both its nickname “Old Florida,” and its reputation as a peaceful place to retire in Florida. While once larger than Miami (Thanks to the presence of phosphate mining), Floral City is now a small town of just over 5,000 residents. Here, rural living and a neighborly atmosphere go hand-in-hand with history and natural beauty. This is a small town that takes pride in its history and its offerings, and it is a place where you can enjoy a quiet and fulfilling retirement surrounded by the best that Florida has to offer.

What to Expect

Trees covering roadArea

Floral City is technically a census-designated place (CDP) located 70 miles north of Tampa and an hour west of Orlando in Citrus County. The nearest city, Inverness, which also serves as the county seat, is not much bigger than Floral City, and the area is known more for its gorgeous state park and untouched natural areas than for its big-city amenities. The area is also known as a retirement-friendly haven, where 55 percent of residents are above the age of 45 and the cost of living is 18 percent lower than the state average. With a proud history, endless outdoor activities, and a close knit, neighborly feel, Floral City is a beautiful location to enjoy the best Florida living for seniors.

Weather

Floral City’s climate is both rainier than the national average and sunnier than the national average. With 52 inches of rain per year, and 247 sunny days, the city enjoys a warm, humid climate that nurtures an abundance of vegetation. Average summer highs are 92 degrees, while the winter lows rarely get below 45 degrees. That makes for a warm, but very livable locale, ideal for retirees who are tired of shoveling snow, driving on ice, or dealing with the cold.

Safety

Floral City meets the national safety averages comfortably, with a safety rating that is the same as 50 percent of all other similarly-sized cities in the nation. The western part of the area is the safest, but there is no neighborhood or areas within Floral City or its environs that is truly dangerous, which makes this small city exceptionally safe for retirees looking for a quiet and secure environment to enjoy their work-free years.

Practical Living

Two People Walking DogAirport

Floral City’s rural location means you will need to travel just over an hour to the nearest major airport: Tampa International Airport. Located about 70 miles away, highways like I589, I75, and I275 provide a fairly efficient pathway to the airport. Just make sure you budget time and parking money to get there and back. There are also a number of paid airport shuttle services you can take for more convenient access to the airport.

Getting Around

Floral City is best navigated with a car, due to its rural location and the fact that attractions, shopping, dining, and services are generally spread out, or only available 10 miles away in Inverness. Public transportation is sparse. However, you can also hire a ride through the multiple services available in the county.

Shopping

Floral City has a few shops within its town limits, such as the Red Brick Place consignment store and chain stores such as Publix, Dollar General, and Sam’s Club. However, you can access even more options in nearby Inverness, where a trip of just a few minutes gives you access to antique stores, outlet stores, craft stores, and more.

Doctors/hospitals

There are no hospitals within the limits of Floral City, but Citrus Memorial in Inverness is just a short drive away and accepts Medicare. For more day-to-day healthcare concerns, Access Healthcare Physicians, LLC, provides access to general physicians right in Floral City.

Banks

Despite its rural location, Floral City has a diverse array of banking options available right in town, including ATMs, banks, and financial consultants. As a result, Floral City makes it easy to manage every aspect of your retirement finances without ever leaving town.

Mail

Taking care of your mail is also simple in Floral City, thanks to the presence of a United States Post Office within town. In addition, the city houses a UPS store and a Fedex location. Purchasing supplies, buying stamps, and mailing packages is all very convenient within the downtown area of this small city.

Things to Do

Floral pathwayBeaches

One of the greatest advantages of Florida living for seniors is that you are never far from the beach. Floral City sits about 1 hour 45 minutes from famous Clearwater Beach. That puts swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, and more within reach and makes the beach a fun and accessible day trip.

Withlacoochee State Forest

Floral City sits just 10 minutes from the third largest state forest in Florida: Withlacoochee State Forest. This sprawling natural preserve is bisected by the Withlacoochee River, which wanders through 13 mile of the forest. Here you can walk the many trails, soak in the stunning wildlife and natural beauty, and enjoy birding and horseback riding in this most beautiful Florida gem.

Tsala Apopka Lake

Even closer to Floral City is beautiful Tsala Apopka Lake, which is actually a chain of lakes that form the Cove of Withlacoochee River. With an open water surface area of more than 19,000 acres, this beautiful natural area is ideal for any number of water-based activities. Here you can enjoy fishing off more than 20 miles of shoreline, swim, and boat. Our tranquil Singing Forest community sits just 2 miles from the lake’s shore for easy access to all of its beauty and recreational activities.

Biking

Floral City is also a wonderful place to ride bikes. Several trails run through or near the city, including the well-known Withlacoochee State Trail. Enjoy the weather, nature, birds, and other bike enthusiasts on these trails, which are ideally located for easy access from Floral City.

Find a Home

Singing Forest mobile home communityBedrock Communities Living

With a median home price of $230,000, Floral City is neither the most expensive nor the most affordable place to live in Florida. However, regardless of your retirement finances, Floral City is one of the best places to retire in Florida because our Singing Forest community offers quality manufactured homes for a fraction of the cost of housing in the area. That makes Florida living attainable on any budget.

Features

Our Singing Forest community provides features that make it easy to enjoy Florida retirement. Enjoy the following features:

  • Beautiful, mature trees
  • Abundant birds
  • Pond and lighted fountain
  • A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

In addition, our Singing Forest community has many amenities that make it easy to enjoy life within the community. Discover the appeal of amenities such as the following:

  • Gazebo and grilling area
  • Social activities
  • Clubhouse
  • Shuffleboard courts
  • Billiards
  • And more

An active and rewarding retirement is within reach when you choose sunny Florida living at Singing Forest. Beautiful, affordable homes, a strong community, a beautiful area, and many activities make this one of the best places to retire in Florida. Contact us today to learn more!

Best Places To Retire in Florida: Davenport

Posted on February 24, 2022 by - Florida Living

Davenport bird eye view

A small city in the much larger Lakeland-Winter Haven area, Davenport is one of the best places to retire in Florida because of its attraction-rich, out–of-the-way location. Nestled within Central Florida’s natural beauty, it sits within driving distance of some of the country’s most desirable locations (e.g. Walt Disney World) and is one of the most convenient, and fastest-growing, areas within the I-4. If you want to enjoy the best of Florida living during your golden years, Davenport is the place to choose.

What to Expect

Davenport areaArea

Davenport is a small city of about 9,000 that is located about an hour’s drive from Orlando and Tampa and just 30 minutes from famous Kissimmee. While tiny in comparison to these bigger cities, Davenport uses its small size to its advantage. This is a place where you can enjoy the best of small town living without giving up access to the amenities available in these larger cities. If you are willing to drive for just a few minutes, you can enjoy a close-knit community AND indulge in everything that makes retirement worthwhile, from fine dining to upscale shopping, hot air balloon flights to golf. Davenport is beautiful Florida living at its best.

Weather

Davenport enjoys glorious weather all year round. Nearby Winter Haven earned its name because of its near-perfect weather, and Davenport shares that same warmth and sunshine. January, the coldest month of the year, enjoys highs around 70, while the area’s lows rarely get below the mid-40s. Even summers are bearable, with temperatures in the low 90s and humidity rarely getting above 80 percent. Retirement here will be devoid of snow, cold, and dangerous winter driving.

Safety

Settle into Davenport in the confidence that this small city enjoys the same sense of safety and security that you would expect from any other small town. The city earns a B- safety rating from CrimeGrade, while the vast majority of its neighborhoods get an A or A+ rating for their low crime rates. Just avoid the southeastern and westernmost neighborhoods in the city for the safest locations for your retirement. Instead, settle into our Emerald Lake community and feel extra secure: We are located in one of the city’s safest areas.

Practical Living

Davenport livingAirport

Davenport does not have an airport of its own, thanks to its small size. However, getting in and out of the city to enjoy far flung visits and vacation is still convenient, thanks to the Orlando (MC) International Airport, Tampa International Airport (TPA), and Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB). And, while driving your own car to and from the airport is likely to be the most economical approach, you can also hire a car, grab a taxi, or take the 407 bus to Kissimmee and then grab a taxi to the Orlando Airport. Florida living for seniors is always better when you can easily get in and out of your community to enjoy all of the adventures your retirement holds.

Getting Around

Davenport is a small city, but is not particularly walkable. As such, this city is best traversed by car. Typically, traffic is manageable, although you can expect to encounter some busyness in the winter months when tourists pass through on their way to the amusement parks nearby.

You can also enjoy transportation in Davenport, since the city has a bus station operated by Florida Shuttle Transportation. This company provides shared and private transportation to 40 locations throughout Florida, making travel even further afar easier without a car.

Shopping

Davenport may not be walkable, but it has organized many of its shopping plazas to be very pedestrian-friendly. This feature will come in handy if you enjoy shopping, since you will have dozens of stores from which to choose.

Live minutes from essentials, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, home improvement stores, and clothing stores. Or, enjoy proximity to no fewer than 3 malls within Davenport and along I-4. In addition, Davenport’s proximity to Tampa and Orlando put all of the shopping you could desire within an hour’s drive or less.

Doctors/Hospitals

You can, of course, find first-class healthcare in Orlando and Tampa, which should put your mind at ease, no matter what health concerns you have as you go into retirement. However, Davenport also offers comprehensive healthcare right in town, primarily in the form of AdventHealth Heart of Florida. This Christian-based medical center offers a variety of healthcare options and providers, including the following:

  • Weight care
  • Emergency care
  • Cancer care
  • Heart care
  • Diabetes care
  • Home health care
  • And more

In addition to AdventHealth Heart of Florida, you can also access a variety of smaller doctors and healthcare practices for routine care and a more personal feel.

Banks

Banking is also convenient in Davenport. The city is home to a wide variety of financial institutions, including big names such as Wells Fargo and SunTrust. However, if you prefer to bank more locally, you can also access smaller institutions, such as MidFlorida Credit Union. These institutions make it easy to manage all of your finances without leaving the Davenport area.

Mail

You can also stay in Davenport to run all of your post office errands. From mailing letters to buying stamps to mailing packages, you can conveniently complete all of your tasks in one location just minutes from your home. In some communities, such as our Emerald Lake community, you can even do some of your postal errands without leaving your neighborhood.

Things to Do

Beaches

Davenport is a true Florida retreat with a beach less than a mile from town. Playalinda Beach is a highly rated beach with a boardwalk that you can enjoy every day if you wish, thanks to its proximity to almost every location in Davenport.

If you want to enjoy the most famous Florida beaches, you will need to travel a little bit. Most of the biggest and best-known beaches, such as Clearwater Beach and Daytona Beach, are all about an hour and a half away, still close enough for a day trip or weekend getaway. It is time to retire to a place that has the best Florida living for seniors, including all the swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing you could desire.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Retirement should be all about adventure and exploration, which Davenport provides in the form of hot air balloon rides out of nearby Orlando. These rides last several hours and take you over the entire Orlando and Davenport areas, ending with a champagne toast for an unforgettable and elegant experience. Booking flights is easy, and the rides, while exhilarating, are also very safe.

True Blue Winery

Nestled in historic Davenport is the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon of wine tasting and eating: True Blue Winery. Their homemade wines are award-winning and feature a blueberry wine crafted from the winery’s own bushes.

In addition to incredible wine, you can also expect to find pick-your-own blueberries beginning at the end of March, dinner show entertainment, and a mouth-watering bistro. If you choose to retire to one of the best places for Florida living, you may find yourself a regular at this Davenport staple.

Golf

If 18 holes is your idea of the perfect retirement activity, then you are in luck. Davenport is home to multiple golf clubs. Enjoy carefully manicured courses, beautiful scenery, endless amenities, and a luxury golfing experience.

Dining

There is plenty of delicious dining to be done in Davenport. Indulge in Italian, grab pizza, enjoy sweet treats and desserts, and choose from an array of food types, from Chinese to American. Davenport offers access to chain restaurants, such as Cracker Barrel, as well as delicious local places, such as Sh-Booms Ice Cream and Sweets. Florida living for seniors includes enough food options to keep your taste buds dancing for years to come.

Find a Home

Bedrock Communities Living

Davenport’s median home price sits at $359K, which is outside the budget of many retirees. The good news, however, is that our Emerald Lake community is designed for retirement affordability, with manufactured homes well below the area’s median home price. The best in Florida living fits into your budget!

Features

Our Emerald Lake community is designed to create a relaxing, and rewarding, retirement experience. That is why we offer all of the following features:

  • A peaceful community on Lake Emerald
  • A short drive to shopping, dining, and attractions
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • Pet-friendly policies
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

Our Emerald Lake community also boasts many amenities right within our community. Enjoy a peaceful, and enjoyable, retirement surrounded by friendly neighbors and beautiful nature. Find all of the following at Emerald Lake:

  • Extensive social activities
  • Clubhouse with activities
  • Pool
  • Recreational facilities

The best Florida living for seniors is right here at Emerald Lake in Davenport. A quiet community, exciting amenities, and all the activities you can think of allow you to craft retirement on your terms. Contact us today to learn more!

Best Places to Retire in Florida: Seminole

Posted on December 8, 2021 by - Florida Living

Seminole birdeye view

“The Natural Oasis of Florida” is a peaceful, beautiful, and well-located city that is perfect for retirees looking to enjoy Florida living. Incorporated in 1970, Seminole has grown quickly, offering access to classic Florida attractions, such as beaches and sunshine, without the inconveniences that often go along with bigger cities. If you want one of the best places to retire in Florida, you can hardly go wrong with Seminole. Its friendly, welcoming people, quieter lifestyle, and stunning surroundings make it an ideal place for a work-free life.

What to expect

Bird-eye view of Seminole, FL

Area

Seminole is a small city of 18,852 in Pinellas County, Florida. Located just 30 minutes from St. Petersburg and Clearwater, and just 45 minutes from Tampa, this oceanside city puts every Florida amenity within reach. Its multiple retirement communities, including Bedrock’s Porpoise community, create an environment that makes Florida living for seniors easy and fun. The city’s residents have an average age of 52, which makes it a great place to forge new friendships with other retirees, and its low cost of living and beautiful location make it both affordable and desirable for retirees from all walks of life.

Weather

While Seminole receives more rain per year than the national average, the city is known more for the glorious Florida weather that attracts retirees in droves. With an average summer temperature of 91 and a comfortable winter low of 51 degrees, this city experiences none of the winter cold and snow that can dampen your retirement living elsewhere. Add in 241 days of sunshine a year, and you have a cheery city where the weather allows for year-round adventures.

Safety

Seminole is one of the best places to retire in Florida, in part because of its high level of safety. Ranking safer than 53 percent of the cities in Florida, Seminole experiences a crime rate that is 15 percent lower than the national average and 35 percent lower than the national average when it comes to violent crime. While the northern part of the city has the lowest crime rates, nearly every neighborhood has a reputation for safety and security.

Practical Living

Porpoise ParkAirport

Seminole sits less than 30 minutes from St. Pete – Clearwater International Airport, and 40 minutes from Tampa International Airport. These major airports have flights from all major airline carriers, which makes it simple to find convenient flights in and out of your retirement home.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Seminole is by car, but the city has a higher-than-average walkability score that does mean you can take a stroll around certain areas of the city. If you cannot or do not want to use a car, you can also take advantage of the PTSA public transit system, which services all of Pinellas County. This system can help you get to the most important areas of the city, allowing you to reach major shopping, entertainment, or healthcare locations without using a car.

Shopping

Seminole may be a small city, but it does have a number of shopping options, including a small mall and the store-rich Seminole Towne Center. You can grab essentials, such as medication and groceries, within the city limits, and explore everything from home furnishings to hair salons right within your community. With major cities just a short drive away, you can also find any item you desire in a convenient and fun location.

Doctors/hospitals

While there are no hospitals in Seminole itself, you can access any of the hospitals and medical centers in nearby Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. In addition, Seminole is home to a number of medical centers and doctor offices. Find any of the following healthcare options near your Seminole home:

  • Urgent care
  • Primary care
  • Senior care
  • Internal medicine
  • Dentists

When you choose Seminole to retire, you enjoy Florida living for seniors that includes access to reliable and diverse healthcare, right outside your door.

Banks

Managing your retirement finances is easy in Seminole, due to the presence of numerous financial institutions. Choose from credit unions, major institutions such as Wells Fargo and Chase Bank, and more local options such as Suncoast Credit Union. These banks can help you obtain loans, withdraw cash, write checks, build up savings, and complete all of your financial transactions without leaving Seminole.

Mail

Conducting all of your postal errands is also simple in Seminole. The city houses post offices, UPS stores, and FedEx locations where you can purchase shipping materials, drop off packages, pick up mail, and more. If you live in a retirement community such as Porpoise, you can also do some of your postal errands without ever leaving the community.

Things to Do

Fishing boat in Seminole lakeBeaches

One of the greatest attractions in Seminole is its location by the ocean. The beach is just a few minutes away, often only 5-10 minutes, depending upon where you live in the city. These beaches have beautiful white sand, great views, and much smaller crowds than the larger beaches, such as the one in Clearwater. However, if you want to enjoy fishing, sunbathing, coating, and more by a bigger beach, Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and more are just a short drive away.

Pinewood Cultural Park

Enjoy the Seminole area’s beautiful natural attractions in one location at Pinewood Cultural Park. Located in Largo less than 10 minutes from Seminole, the park has multiple attractions including the following:

  • Parks that offer shelters, boats, and more
  • Environmental education
  • Heritage Village-A 21-acre, 28-building historic estate
  • Florida Botanical Gardens

These attractions promise endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation practically outside your front door when you choose to live in Seminole and in Bedrock’s Porpoise community.

Nature Parks

Pinewood Cultural Park may be the best-known park in the area, but there are other nature parks in and around Seminole for you to enjoy. Try the 350-acre Walsingham Park with its many trails and Lake Seminole Park, with its opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming. The Sunken Gardens provide a century’s worth of botanical beauty.

And of course, each of these parks provide the opportunity to see bountiful wildlife and incredible natural beauty.

Arts and Culture

Seminole may be a small city, but it provides access to multiple arts and cultural attractions. Visit the following to feed your desire for a rich and well-rounded retirement:

  • Dali Museum featuring Salvador Dali’s surreal work
  • Mahaffey Theater with its variety of shows, from drama to comedy
  • Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg

If you want even more to do, the big cities near Seminole, such as Clearwater and St. Petersburg, offer an endless array of activities for families, individuals, retirees, and more. Satisfy any hobby or pursuit with just a short drive for a rich and rewarding retirement.

Find a Home

Seminole boardwalkBedrock Communities Living

With a median home price of $339,000, Seminole housing is a little bit pricey. Before you decide that Seminole is not one of the best places to retire in Florida because of its home price, however, embrace the lower cost of housing in our Porpoise retirement home community. Our beautiful, quality mobile homes make Florida living attainable regardless of your retirement budget.

Features

Our Porpoise community provides features that make your retirement the rewarding experience you deserve after a lifetime of work. Enjoy the following features:

  • Lakeside location
  • A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

In addition, our Porpoise community has many amenities available to make life within the community as satisfying as the attractions available in the wider Seminole area. Move here and find the following amenities:

  • Homes with a deck
  • Social activities
  • And more

If you want some of the best Florida living for seniors, you need to consider Bedrock’s’ Porpoise community. The beauty, affordability, and friendliness of this area, and of our community, is meant to make your retirement wonderful. Contact us today to learn more!

Best Places to Retire in Florida: Winter Haven

Posted on December 2, 2021 by - Florida Living

Winter Haven bird eye view

The dozens of retirement communities dotting its landscape are proof that Winter Haven is one of the best places to retire in Florida. Its central location between two major Florida cities, incredible natural beauty, the 50 lakes that give it the nickname Chain of Lakes City, and endless dining, shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities make this small city a true haven, not just for snowbirds but also for retirees looking for the best Florida living for seniors.

What to Expect

Winter Haven Downtown

Area

Winter Haven is a small city of about 45,000 that is located almost exactly 50 miles from both Orlando and Tampa. Its central location makes it perfect for retirees, because it offers peaceful lakeside living within reach of big-city appeal. Add in a low-cost of living and some world-renowned attractions, and there is a reason this city has grown more than 30 percent over the last 10 years.

Weather

Winter Haven originally earned its name because of its pleasant year-round climate that does make it a true retreat from the harsher winters of more northern states. If you can handle a little bit of mugginess in the middle of the year, you can enjoy balmy temperatures that make living in this city, and state, a truly enjoyable experience.

The city enjoys an average January high of 73 degrees, but summers do not get much hotter than the rest of the state, with average highs topping out in the low 90s. Add in an impressive 242 days of sunshine and no snow, and Winter Haven truly lives up to its name. Retire here, and you can say goodbye to winter driving, snow shoveling, and bitter cold days.

Safety

During retirement, you want to fewinel secure so you can enjoy all of the amenities and recreation available in your chosen city. Winter Haven, despite having a slightly higher crime rate than average, still only experiences a crime rate of 4.16 crimes per 1,000 residents. The city also experiences a lower crime rate than average in areas such as motor vehicle theft and burglary.

Life in Winter Haven is particularly safe in the eastern and southwestern parts of the city, which is where Bedrock Communities’ Cypress Harbor 55+ community is located. Here, you can live in security and confidence for a truly peaceful retirement.

Practical Living

City skylineAirport

Winter Haven has a general aviation airport, which may be of interest if you wish to do your own flying during your retirement. If you are looking for air transportation in and out of Winter Haven, however, you have multiple options available in the major cities surrounding the city.

The closest major airport to the city is Orlando International Airport (MC), which is less than 40 miles and about an hour’s drive from Winter Haven. Other airports a little further away include Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB).

Depending upon your time and budget, you can make your way to these airports by car, bus, or even shuttle. That makes getting into and out of your retirement retreat, and welcoming guests into your home, simple and relatively fast.

Getting Around

Because Winter Haven possesses a suburban atmosphere, you should plan to bring your own vehicle to help you get around. However, there are some areas of the city that are intentionally walkable.

In particular, the newly revitalized downtown area is designed to be pedestrian-friendly and give you easy access to its numerous restaurants and shops. In addition, some communities, such as our Cypress Harbor community, allow you to walk safely and conveniently to visit neighbors and access amenities.

Winter Haven also possesses its own bus transit system, called Winter Haven Area Transit, which operates 9 buses. An additional 4 buses operate from the Polk County Citrus Connection transit system, so you can get to important areas of the city without needing to take a car.

Shopping

The many stores in Winter Haven cluster primarily in the downtown area, where you can find numerous specialty and gift shops, such as antique shops, a Lego store, and vintage stores. In addition, you can do all of your major grocery and retail shopping right in the city, where box stores such as Walmart are also plentiful.

Doctors/hospitals

The nearby big cities of Orlando and Tampa make access to big-name hospitals and cutting-edge healthcare a matter of a short drive out of Winter Haven. However, Winter Haven itself also offer numerous healthcare options, including the following:

  • Home health care
  • Women and children healthcare
  • AdventHealth Centra
  • Rehabilitation center
  • Nursing homes
  • Surgery facilities
  • And more

The abundance of medical care options in Winter Haven make it easy and convenient to get good healthcare, regardless of your specific medical needs.

Banks

Completing your banking errands is convenient in Winter Haven, thanks to the presence of numerous financial institutions. From credit unions to banks, lenders, and regional institutions, your preferred bank is probably nearby. That makes doing everything from withdrawing cash to getting a loan easy to do locally so you can successfully manage your retirement finances.

Mail

All of your postal needs can also be fulfilled in Winter Haven. The city has a post office, as well as several UPS stores and FedEx locations. If you choose to live in a retirement community, such as Cypress Harbor, you can also complete some of your post office transactions right within your community.

Things to Do

Beaches

Winter Haven could hardly call itself a Florida city if it did not have access to beaches. The city’s renowned chain of 50 lakes makes numerous beaches a reality right within the city limits. Try any of the following:

  • Winter Haven Park
  • Max Beach
  • Lake Shipp Park
  • Lake Roy Beach
  • Lakefront Beach

In addition, you can access some of Florida’s most beautiful and famous ocean beaches, such as Clearwater Beach, within a drive of about an hour and a half. That makes sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, and more an integral part of a truly enjoyable Florida retirement.

LEGOLAND

While Legos may not be a central part of your retirement, it is one of the most famous attractions in Winter Haven. Built on the site of the former renowned Cypress Gardens, LEGOLAND provides endless entertainment for kids from 2-12. That means that your retirement home could become a destination for grandkids who want to explore the wonders of Lego with you.

Vintage Explorations

Vintage and antiques are abundant in Winter Haven, so if antiquing is your thing, you may want to enjoy Florida living for seniors right here. The city is part of Florida’s Antique Loop, where numerous antique shops provide endless opportunities to explore, learn about, and purchase parts of the past.

In addition, Winter Haven is home to the world’s largest collection of vintage aircraft. Housed at The Fantasy of Flight in the Central Florida Air Museum, this collection actively restores these aircraft and is always willing to give you a tour.

Outdoor Fun

The great outdoors are right at your fingertips when you live in Winter Haven. The height of places to retire in Florida, this city provides 13 miles of biking trails, numerous parks, and of course, endless lakeside activities to enjoy within the city limits.

Arts and Culture

If you prefer shows and art, you can still enjoy Winter Haven. The area is home to many theatres, shows, and art displays. Fulfill your arts and culture cravings at any of the following locations:

  • Gram Parson’s Derry Down
  • Theatre Winter Haven – One of the nation’s best community theatres.
  • Ritz Theatre

Water Activities

Winter Haven makes the most of its many lakes. Here you can kayak, canoe, swim, fish, and more in any of the area’s beautiful lakes. In addition, Winter Haven puts on some pretty amazing water-based fun, including the following:

  • Pontoon boat cruises
  • Waterski team performances
  • Paddleboard tours
  • And more

Find a Home

Cypress Harbor in Winter HavenBedrock Communities Living

Winter Haven’s median home price of about $241,000, the area might not be the friendliest to retirement budgets. The good news, however, is that Bedrock Communities’ Cypress Harbor offers attainable and quality mobile home options for far less than the average home price in the city. That means you can enjoy the best in Florida living while staying within your budget.

Features

Our Cypress Harbor community is built with your retirement needs in mind. The goal is to give you a home that matches your lifestyle and your taste. Join our community, and discover all of the following features:

  • A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • Pet-friendly policies
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

Our Cypress Harbor community also boasts many amenities right within our community. These amenities give you the chance to relax, have fun, and connect with your neighbors in a relaxed environment. Find all of the following in Cypress Harbor:

  • Shuffleboard court
  • Clubhouse
  • Lake access
  • Fire pit

If you are looking for great Florida living for seniors, look no further than Winter Haven. Our beautiful community and great homes make the perfect location to enjoy everything Winter Haven has to offer you. Contact us today to learn more!

Best places to retire in Florida: Ocala

Posted on November 23, 2021 by - Florida Living

Retiree couple walking alongside beach

The city of Ocala was founded in 1849, but its history goes all the way back to the Native American village of Ocala, which existed on the same site and contributed to the rich history that permeates today’s modern city. Also known today as the official Horse Capital of the World, a beautiful countryside and an incredible equestrian industry exist alongside a bustling urban center.

As a destination of retirees and the growing center of Marion County, Ocala offers you an array of entertainment, dining, shopping, and relaxation options within a city that overflows with history and beauty. If you are considering a move to this exciting city, here is everything you need to know to enjoy the retirement you desire.

What to expect

Area

Fisherman standing waiting in front of beach

Ocala is a medium-sized city of about 63,000 that serves as the county seat of Marion County. Centrally located less than 2 hours from Orlando, Jacksonville, and Daytona Beach, Ocala is a highly desirable retirement location for those looking for a quieter place to live that offers easy access to the amenities of larger cities. In 2020, U.S. News and World Report named the city the 6th best place to retire in the entire country, thanks to its low-cost housing and high-quality healthcare.

Weather

Ocala enjoys the beautiful Florida weather that draws 150,000 seniors to the state every single year. This means hot summers with average highs in the 90s and winters where the temperature rarely, if ever, dips below the 40s. While the city receives somewhat more rain than the U.S. average (53 inches per year instead of 38), it also enjoys 233 days of sunshine a year and so little snow that even snow flurries occur only once every few years. Warmth, sunshine, and little snow make for a retirement that is relaxing all year round.

Safety

Ocala is exceptionally safe, not just compared to other Florida cities but also compared to cities throughout the nation. In fact, according to the U.S. News and World Report, Ocala is the 4th-safest place to live in the entire United States, thanks to its low murder and property crime rates. While some neighborhoods in the city are safer than others, retirees can relocate here with the confidence that they will enjoy a safe environment that can make their retirement years feel secure.

Practical Living

Airport

Ocala has its own airport, the Ocala International Airport, but this location does not provide passenger flights to or from the city. Instead, residents use one of 3 airports within a 2-hour radius: Jacksonville International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and Tampa International Airport. All three of these airports provide numerous options from all of the major airlines for getting into and out of the area. To get to the airport, you can use a bus, a shuttle (The Shuttleliner to Orlando International Airport), or your own transportation, all of which are relatively affordable options for making your flight on time.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Ocala is by car. Thanks to the smaller population of Ocala compared to the larger surrounding urban areas, and thanks to the dominant equestrian industry which cuts down on commuters, traffic tends to be very manageable around the area. That means you can enjoy stress-free driving throughout the majority of the day.

If you need assistance getting around Ocala, however, Ocala-operated SunTran offers 7 public transit routes throughout Ocala and from Ocala to nearby Silver Springs. SunTran offers affordable cash fares, discounts for seniors, those with disabilities, and veterans, and low-cost monthly passes to make getting to specific areas of Ocala easier, even if you do not want to drive.

Shopping

If you love to shop, then Ocala is one of the best places to retire in Florida. The city is home to a number of shopping centers and malls, including Paddock Mall, known for its variety of shops and clean atmosphere, the more upscale Shady Oaks Shopping Center, and Ocala Spring Shopping Center. These areas offer everything from department stores to specialty shops, food courts to restaurants, to meet all of your shopping needs. In addition, Ocala is home to numerous grocery stores, clothing stores, and bargain stores where you can complete all of your errands and shop within a budget of any size.

Doctors/hospitals

Quality healthcare is one of the reasons Ocala earned a high ranking for livability from the U.S. News & World Report in 2020. One of the drivers of this quality medical care is AdventHealth Ocala, which holds a B ranking from a national patient safety ranking report. Also part of the backbone of Ocala healthcare is Ocala Health, a system that includes both Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital. They provide freestanding ERs, a comprehensive stroke center, a Level II Trauma Center, and award-winning services across areas such as orthopedics cardiology, neurology, and more. That makes Ocala a place to retire in confidence that all of your healthcare needs will be met, regardless of their complexity.

Banks

Ocala is home to many banks and financial institutions. You can choose from among regional organizations, such as MIDFLORIDA Credit Union and big names such as Wells Fargo and BB&T. You can use these places to conduct all of your financial business and manage your retirement resources without having to travel to larger urban areas.

Mail

Multiple UPS stores, FedEx shipping sites, and post offices make Ocala a place where you can accomplish all of your postal errands conveniently and quickly. If you choose a retirement community such as Bedrock’s Dogwood Acres, you may even be able to do some of your mailing right within the community.

Things to Do

Nature Parks

Ocala Florida river cruise

Despite its urban center, Ocala is also a mecca of outdoor beauty and activities. For example, you can visit nearby Silver Springs, which is a state park which offers 350 acres of beautiful natural land and water. Boat tours, kayaking, hiking, and even dining opportunities abound in this beautiful and sought-after area. In addition, the area is home to many parks, trails, and more where you can hike, bike, and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Beaches

Great Florida living for seniors has to include beach access, and Ocala does not disappoint. The city sits just an hour and a half from Daytona Beach and 2 hours from the renowned Clearwater Beach. If you want to enjoy a smaller beach closer to home, you can visit the lake beaches at Hampton Beach or Eaton’s Beach. Visiting the local beaches allows you to enjoy all of the swimming, sunbathing, and fishing you desire without dealing with the crowds and traffic that accompany the bigger and more famous beaches.

Equestrian Culture

Ocala is officially nicknamed the Horse Capital of the World for a reason. The area is known for its 400 thoroughbred farms, training centers, and equestrian operations that make it THE location for racehorse training and development. Even if you do not own your own horses, you can satisfy your love of horses within the area with farm tours, horseback riding, and lessons.

In addition, Ocala is known for its equestrian events, primary of which is the Horses In The Sun (H.I.T.S.), a hunter-jumper circuit that puts on horse shows annually between January and March. These horse shows give you the opportunity to enjoy incredible displays of equestrian finesse and performance throughout a large portion of the year.

Museums

Ocala is home to a number of unique museums that go beyond the standard museums available in most major cities. For example, the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, which is focused on generating ideas, innovation, and creativity among visitors. The Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center focuses on educating visitors about the natural area, Native American history, and local animals. If you seek a little more excitement in your museum visits, you can also check out the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and International Drag Racing Hall of Fame.

Find a Home

Bedrock Communities Living

Ocala Florida birdeye view

With a median home price of $209,000, Ocala housing is not exorbitant but could be burdensome for retirement Florida living. If, however, you choose Bedrock Communities’ Dogwood Acres community, you can enjoy beautiful, quality mobile homes for an affordable price far below that of the average home price in the area.

Features

Our Dogwood Acres community is designed to fit your lifestyle and your taste. When you move here, you can enjoy retirement living in Florida that includes all of the following features:

Amenities

In addition, our Dogwood Acres provides numerous amenities intended to make life within the community busier and more rewarding. Move here and find the following amenities:

  • Shuffleboard court
  • Clubhouse with activities
  • Swimming Pool
  • Boat/RV storage

The best Florida living for seniors is right here at Bedrock Communities’ Dogwood Acres community. Take advantage of the safety, history, beauty, and affordability of Ocala here at Bedrock. Contact us today to learn more!

Best Places to Retire in Florida: Zephyrhills

Posted on November 10, 2021 by - Florida Living

Zephyrhills neighborhood

Settled in 1882 as the town of Abbott, Zephyrhills quickly adopted its current name because of the warm zephyr breezes that blow over the area’s many beautiful hills. This city, which is as peaceful and as beautiful as its name implies, has attracted retirees since 1910, when it became home to a retirement community for veterans.

Today, Zephyrhills is still one of the best places to retire in Florida, thanks to an abundance of warmth and sunshine, beautiful scenery, low-cost housing, convenience, amenities, affordable living, and more. If you are considering a move to this beautiful city, here is everything you need to know to help you enjoy the rewarding retirement you deserve.

What to expect

Area

Zephyrhills is a small city of about 17,000 in Pasco County, Florida, just 30 miles north of As a destination for retirees, it is highly desirable because of an abundance of retirement communities and low-cost housing, as well as beautiful weather and lots of convenient amenities within a short walk or drive of the area’s many retirement communities and homes.

Weather

The entire state of Florida is known for beautiful weather that rarely dips below 50 degrees, even in the middle of winter. Zephyrhills is no exception. When you embrace retirement here, you can expect to encounter that same year-round warmth and abundant sunshine. In fact, the city averages 0 inches of snow a year, and an impressive 249 days of sunshine annually.

You should, however, expect to encounter some changes in the seasons. Cloud cover, precipitation, wind, and more all change throughout the year so you can enjoy a rhythmic feel to the weather while still enjoying the warmth of the Florida climate. Add in the gentle, warm breezes that gave Zephyrhills its name, and you have a city that offers a retirement replete with warmth, sunshine, and relaxation.

Safety

Zephyrhills is also a very safe place to live. The city’s violent crime rate is significantly lower than the rate in other, similarly-sized cities, and 2 percent less than the national average. With multiple locations known as stable and secure places to reside, it is easy to find a place to retire where you can feel entirely secure over the long-term.

Practical Living

Airport

Zephyrhills may be a small city, but it has its very own airport, the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport (TPA). Multiple major airlines fly into this publicly owned and operated airport, including the following:

  • Frontier
  • Delta
  • American
  • Southwest
  • United
  • JetBlue

This means that you can fly in and out of your retirement home easily, and inexpensively, without needing to navigate the larger and more distant Tampa Airport.

Getting Around

When you choose one of the best places to retire in Florida, you expect exceptional transportation that makes getting around easy. This is exactly what you will find in Zephyrhills. This city is bisected by major U.S. 301, which travels north to south throughout the state. Zephyrhills is also located within 15 minutes of multiple major roads and interstates so you can easily get to major points of interest in the state, including Tampa and the Gulf Coast.

In addition, Zephyrhills is served by GoPasco, the county’s public transportation company. You can use low-fare trolleys and buses to get around the county. GoPasco also offers specialized services to those who qualify as transportation disadvantaged.

Shopping

Shopping is plentiful in Zephyrhills, no matter where you prefer to shop. Choose from big box stores such as Walmart, thrift stores, local specialty stores, and more. In addition to the wide variety of shops in Zephyrhills itself, you are only a short drive from Tampa and all of the shopping options available there.

Doctors/hospitals

While nearby Tampa offers many healthcare options for both routine and critical care needs, you can also access high-quality doctors within Zephyrhills itself. The city is home to two major hospitals, AdventHealth Zephyrhills and Zephyrhills Hospital, which provide access to an ER, children’s emergency care, cardiac care, ENT services, GI care, and more. Whatever your needs, you can receive personalized and attentive treatment near to home in Zephyrhills.

Banks

Zephyrhills provides convenient access to numerous banks and credit unions. Choose from big names such as Wells Fargo or more local options, such as the First National Bank of Pasco. Use these financial institutions to conduct everyday banking, seek out loans, save, and successfully manage your retirement finances.

Mail

Satisfy all of your postal needs in Zephyrhills with a local post office. In some retirement communities, such as Bedrock Communities, you can even complete some tasks right within the community.

Things to Do

Beaches

Zephyrhills is not one of Florida’s coastal towns, but you can still easily access some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches from here. Tampa, for example, is only about a 30-minute drive away, while the renowned Clearwater Beach is a drive of about an hour away. That means you can enjoy swimming, fishing, sunbathing, boating, and more, without the high real estate prices and heavy traffic that comes with living in a coastal city.

Museums

Zephyrhills is home to two major museums: The Depot Museum and the Museum of Military History. A restoration of the original 1927 Atlantic Coast Line Depot, the Depot Museum now houses multiple exhibits and a model train display to help you understand and appreciate the transportation history of the area.

The Museum of Military History preserves the history of World War II soldiers who trained in Zephyrhills, and includes displays from other conflicts as well. It is located on the old Zephyrhills Army Airfield.

Skydiving

Zephyrhills is considered a premier skydiving destination in the state. If you are feeling a little adventurous, stop by the city’s skydiving center to enjoy excitement, adrenaline, and fun in a location that is ideal for this thrilling activity.

Golfing and Tennis

If you prefer to remain on solid ground, you can enjoy more traditional outdoor activities, such as golfing and tennis, in Zephyrhills. The city is home to multiple tennis courts and golf courses, and some retirement communities may offer easy on-site access to these activities.

Parks

Green space is abundant in Zephyrhills. If you want to take the grandkids out for the day, enjoy a walk, or simply relax surrounded by greenery, consider using one of the city’s many parks.

Find a Home

Bedrock Communities Living

With a median home price of $299,000, Zephyrhills housing can feel a little high. However, housing is even more affordable when you choose Bedrock Communities’ Winters community. This 55+ community mobile homes that offer attainable Florida living at a cost that is less than the area’s median home price.

Features

Our Winters community provides many features designed to provide you with a home that fits your lifestyle and a community that complements your taste. Here are just a few of the features you can expect when you choose Bedrock Communities’ Winters community in Zephyrhills:

  • A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and Tampa.
  • Access to Florida beaches
  • Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
  • Pet-friendly policies
  • An active and friendly 55+ community

Amenities

In addition, our Winters community provides amenities to make your life more comfortable and more convenient. Stay active and connected right within the Winters community with amenities such as the following:

  • Heated pool with ADA accessibility
  • Shuffleboard court
  • Clubhouse
  • Library
  • Pool

A comfortable and rewarding retirement is within reach when you choose Bedrock Communities’ Winters community. Take advantage of everything Zephyrhills has to offer, along with an affordable home and attainable Florida living. Contact us today to learn more!