Booming Retirement Haven: Florida Town Sees 256% Surge in 65+ Population

POLICY WIRE — Wildwood, Florida — A small town in Florida has emerged as a major destination for retirees, experiencing a remarkable 256% increase in its 65-plus population over the past five years....

Editorial Desk

September 2, 2026 2 Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Wildwood, Florida — A small town in Florida has emerged as a major destination for retirees, experiencing a remarkable 256% increase in its 65-plus population over the past five years.

Wildwood, situated about 52 miles from Orlando and 77 miles from Tampa, tops the list of fastest-growing retirement communities, according to a recent report by MoneyLion, a fintech mobile banking company.

The city’s retiree population has grown by 16% in the last year alone, contributing to nearly half of its total population of 19,436 being aged 65 or older, as per the U.S. Census Bureau.

Located just south of The Villages, the world’s largest retirement community, Wildwood offers numerous attractions for seniors, including a historic downtown undergoing a 30-year redevelopment, golf courses, lakes for fishing and boating, parks, and horseback riding.

Jason McHugh, Wildwood’s city manager, highlighted the impact of its proximity to The Villages, stating that it has spurred growth among retirees and enabled significant renovation projects. The influx of retirees has attracted private developers, providing new homes and apartments. Without this growth, we would not have the resources to enhance our downtown and improve Wildwood, McHugh noted.

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Home prices in Wildwood average $296,915, significantly lower than The Villages, according to Zillow. Despite the cost of living being 7% above the national average, Florida’s elimination of Social Security and individual home taxes helps offset some expenses.

Following Wildwood, Bluffton, South Carolina, and Goodyear, Arizona, are the second and third fastest-growing retirement communities, with significant increases in their senior populations over the past five years.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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