Lancaster County 55+ Communities | Active Adult Home Ownership Guide
Lancaster County offers 26 active adult 55+ communities across 31-329 home developments, with 52 homes currently for sale at average prices of $442,525. These age-restricted neighborhoods emphasize home ownership, active lifestyles, and community amenities-but without on-site healthcare services or the entrance fee structures of CCRCs. For active retirees not yet requiring care services who prefer single-family living and ownership flexibility, 55+ communities offer compelling alternatives.
Philadelphia-area retirees are discovering that Lancaster County’s 55+ communities provide the active, social lifestyle they desire at significantly lower costs than Main Line real estate. LiteMovers specializes in moving families to Lancaster County 55+ communities from Chester County, Montgomery County, and the broader Philadelphia area. Whether you’re purchasing a new construction home or buying on the resale market, our team handles your move with expertise in home relocation and estate downsizing.
Ready to move to a Lancaster County 55+ community?
55+ Communities vs. CCRCs: Which is Right for You?
The choice between a 55+ community and a CCRC depends on your current health, desired lifestyle, and preferences for medical support and flexibility.
Choose a 55+ Community if:
You’re active and healthy with no current need for care services. You prefer owning your home rather than renting. You value flexibility and the ability to stay indefinitely without escalating care commitments. You want to maximize equity and view your home as an investment. You prefer a neighborhood atmosphere over a campus environment. You enjoy flexibility to modify your home and lifestyle as desired.
Choose a CCRC if:
You want security knowing escalating care is available on campus as needs change. You prefer predictable monthly fees and dislike surprise maintenance or property tax increases. You value extensive amenities and social programming. You want peace of mind that you’ll never need to relocate. You’re comfortable with campus living over neighborhood independence.
Premier 55+ Communities
Traditions of America at Lititz ⭐ Top Choice
Traditions of America at Lititz stands as Lancaster County’s premier 55+ community. Built by two-time National 55+ Builder of the Year and headquartered in Radnor, PA-many Philadelphia-area buyers already know the brand’s reputation for quality. Located at 1076 Constitution Drive and 1729 Independence Way in Lititz, this 329-home community on 60+ acres offers walking-distance access to downtown Lititz, repeatedly named “America’s Coolest Small Town.”
Housing Options: Single-family homes and garden/attached homes with 2-4 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms, ranging 1,564-3,246 square feet. Designer model homes available.
Amenities: Award-winning clubhouse with fitness center, heated outdoor pool and spa, sports bar and lounge, billiards room, tennis and pickleball courts, walking trails to downtown, full-time Lifestyle Director coordinating activities and social programming.
Pricing: Average home price approximately $556,513, ranging from high $200,000s to $1.3 million+. HOA fee: $295/month (covers lawn care, snow removal, trash, clubhouse, pool).
Appeal for Philadelphia Relocators: Familiar builder brand headquartered in Radnor. Walking distance to downtown Lititz provides the small-town charm Main Line residents enjoy. Near Amtrak station (20 minutes away) for easy Philadelphia access.
Four Seasons at Elm Tree ⭐ Amtrak Access
Four Seasons at Elm Tree in Mount Joy, just off Route 283, is an established resale-only community fully built with 252 single-family homes. The location advantage: just five minutes from Amtrak station providing 1.5-hour service to Philadelphia-perfect for retirees maintaining family or cultural connections to the city.
Housing Options: Single-family homes only, 1,290-3,976 square feet, 2-4 bedrooms. Open layouts, gas fireplaces, attached two-car garages. Established neighborhood with character and mature landscaping.
Amenities: $2 million clubhouse with heated outdoor pool and spa, exercise and game rooms, library, tennis/bocce/pickleball courts, walking paths, full recreational programming.
Pricing: Current resales approximately $395,000+ (example: 3BR/3BA 1,909 sq ft at $395,000). HOA: $277/month.
Appeal for Philadelphia Relocators: Established community with proven track record and mature landscaping. Excellent Amtrak access for those commuting to Philadelphia. Just 15 minutes to Lancaster General Hospital. Developed by K. Hovnanian and Traditions of America (2006-2014) ensures quality construction.
Home Towne Square 55+ Living
Home Towne Square 55+ Living in Ephrata stands out for its distinctive Arts & Crafts architectural style creating a classic village-style neighborhood unique to Lancaster County. Located at 350 Hackman Road, this community is in its final phase with only a few homes remaining-now selling final phase, nearly sold out.
Housing Options: One and two-story homes with 18 floor plans, 2-3 bedrooms, 1,727-2,077 square feet, welcoming front porches. Residents own their land (no land lease)-a key advantage for equity building.
Amenities: 7,100 sq ft clubhouse, indoor and outdoor pools, exercise room, walking and biking trails, resident-coordinated social activities.
Pricing: Starting at $448,900. Residents own their land (significant advantage).
Appeal for Philadelphia Relocators: Unique architectural character provides distinctive lifestyle. Near Pennsylvania Dutch Country attractions. Easy highway access to Philadelphia, Baltimore, New Jersey. Final phase availability means limited time to purchase.
Wynfield at Millersville ⭐ University Partnership
Wynfield at Millersville offers a unique partnership with Millersville University. Located at 102 Village Drive in Millersville, Phase 1 includes 31 attached duplex homes (new construction 2023+) by Garman Builders.
Unique Offering: Residents can enroll in the Millersville University Affiliate Resident Program providing access to university fitness center, indoor track, pool, racquetball courts, discounted admission to cultural and sporting events, adult learning and course auditing, and library access. Intellectually curious retirees will appreciate this lifelong learning opportunity.
Housing Options: Attached duplex homes in one and two-story models; 3 floor plans from 1,452-2,487 square feet; 2-3 bedrooms; attached two-car garage; optional finished basement. Universal design features (wider doorways, step-free entryways) built in.
Pricing: Base prices $367,900-$424,990. New construction advantage means modern finishes and energy efficiency.
Appeal for Philadelphia Relocators: University partnership appeals to intellectually curious retirees. 20 minutes to downtown Lancaster. Accessibility features built in from new construction. Phase 1 development means newer homes with modern amenities.
Established 55+ Communities
Additional Options: Beyond premier communities, Lancaster County includes established 55+ neighborhoods like Klein Mills (Elizabethtown-construction started 2025), Brookshire (Manheim-resale, $300K-$400K range), Heritage Strasburg (near famous Strasburg Rail Road), Clearview Gardens North (Ephrata area), and Village Grande at Millers Run (Lancaster-resale homes in $500K range).
55+ Market Conditions and Timing
Current Inventory and Pricing
Lancaster County’s 55+ market remains competitive. 26 active 55+ communities have 52 homes currently for sale at average prices of $442,525. Sizes range from small 31-home enclaves to Traditions of America’s 329-home community. Homes sell quickly-average 6-17 days on market in Lancaster County overall-and 41% sell above asking price, indicating strong demand.
New Construction vs. Resale
New construction communities like Wynfield at Millersville and Home Towne Square’s final phase offer modern finishes and efficiency but fill quickly. Established communities like Traditions of America and Four Seasons at Elm Tree provide mature neighborhoods with character, though selection may be more limited. Resale markets in established communities offer negotiation opportunity.
Pricing Advantage Over Main Line
Lancaster County 55+ homes at average $442,525 represent substantial savings compared to Chester County or Main Line properties. Retirees selling Chester County homes for $550,000 can purchase comparable Lancaster properties for $360,000-$400,000, preserving $150,000-$190,000+ in equity. Combined with Pennsylvania’s tax-free retirement income and lower property taxes, the financial advantage is compelling.
Moving to a Lancaster County 55+ Community
Downsizing Considerations
Even though 55+ homes can range from 1,500-3,000+ square feet, downsizing from 4,000+ square foot Main Line estates remains common. LiteMovers helps you thoughtfully downsize, sort treasured items, and organize your move into appropriately sized space. Many retirees are surprised at how little they actually need-and how much lighter they feel with less to maintain.
Single-Day or Two-Day Moves
Moves from Chester County to Lancaster County (45-60 minutes away) typically complete in a single day. Larger estates may require two days. Professional packing services ensure careful handling of valuables while you focus on the transition.
Storage for Seasonal Items and Overflow
LiteMovers’ secure warehouse storage is ideal for seasonal items, overflow from downsizing, or treasures you want to keep while deciding their ultimate fate. No pressure to make permanent decisions during move-in rush.
Why Philadelphia-Area Retirees Choose 55+ Communities
Home Ownership Advantage: You own your home rather than renting. Your equity is protected and continues building. Unlike CCRC entrance fees, purchase prices follow traditional real estate appreciation.
Flexibility and Independence: No entrance fees, no care contracts, no care level escalation. You remain in your home indefinitely if you choose, maintaining independence and control.
Neighborhood Lifestyle: 55+ communities feel like neighborhoods, not campuses. Walking distances to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions (especially Traditions of America at Lititz and Four Seasons near Amtrak).
Cost Savings: Average prices around $442,525 versus Chester County averages above $550,000. HOA fees ($277-$295/month) are significantly lower than CCRC monthly service charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I need care services in a 55+ community?
Unlike CCRCs, 55+ communities don’t provide on-site care. You’d arrange home health services or move to a CCRC. Choose 55+ if you’re currently healthy with no anticipated care needs in the next 10+ years.
Are HOA fees mandatory in 55+ communities?
Yes. HOA fees ($277-$295/month typically) cover lawn care, snow removal, trash, clubhouse, and amenities. These are non-optional expenses of ownership in age-restricted communities.
What’s the difference between Traditions of America and Four Seasons?
Traditions is newer with newer homes ($556K avg) near downtown Lititz. Four Seasons is established resale with mature landscaping ($395K avg) and excellent Amtrak access. Both excellent for different preferences.
Is new construction or resale better in 55+ communities?
New construction offers modern finishes and warranty; resale offers value, negotiation opportunity, and mature landscaping. Choose based on priorities for newness versus value.
Can I rent my 55+ home if I move?
Policies vary by community. Check CC&Rs for rental restrictions. Some allow rentals; others restrict them. Important if you anticipate changing circumstances.
Start Your 55+ Community Journey Today
Lancaster County’s 26 active adult 55+ communities offer the perfect blend of active lifestyle, home ownership, and cost savings for retirees seeking independence without entering a CCRC continuum. From Traditions of America’s small-town charm to Four Seasons’ Amtrak access to Wynfield’s university partnership, you’ll find a community matching your vision of active retirement.
Let LiteMovers handle your relocation while you focus on this exciting new chapter. Contact us at (610) 755-5535 for a free moving estimate. We’ll help coordinate your downsizing, packing, and move to your chosen 55+ community.
Ready for Your 55+ Community Move?
Call for your free estimate.
PA PUC A-8916211 | USDOT 2173383 | Serving Greater Philadelphia Since 2007
Explore Specific Communities: Traditions of America at Lititz | Four Seasons at Elm Tree | Home Towne Square 55+ | Wynfield at Millersville
Other Senior Living Options: Lancaster County Senior Living Guide | CCRC Communities | Independent Living | Assisted Living
