A Forbes.com contributor recently spotlighted Florida residents’ affinity for master-planned communities, an observation that’s spot on.

The article, “Master-Planned Communities Are Thriving and Growing in Florida,” contains researched statistics and summaries that we at ICI Homes know well. We’ve built new custom Florida homes all over the state for more than 45 years by developing our own master-planned communities and serving as a preferred builder in others.

This residential real estate market is thriving across the United States, not only in Florida, but there are some factors that make master-planned communities particularly desirable for new, current and future Sunshine State residents.

Key Takeaways

Florida’s booming population, no state income tax, and temperate climate make it a top destination for homebuyers, especially in master-planned communities.
Today’s buyers seek resort-style amenities, curated events, and walkable, gated neighborhoods that fit an on-demand lifestyle.
Master-planned communities appeal to all generations with shared social spaces, fitness trails, and opportunities for community engagement.
Developers like ICI Homes strategically build near top healthcare, shopping, dining, and recreation hubs, maximizing convenience and value.

We’ll unpack some of those below.

Florida’s population growth

Per U.S. Census Bureau stats, Florida’s population grew more than 14 percent in a decade (2010-2020). Truthfully, Florida always has lured residents for many reasons. Wonderful weather, affordable places to live, and an amazing array of things to do and enjoy are only a few.

Florida also doesn’t have state income tax. It does have a temperate year-round climate and a relatable cost of living compared to many metro areas and higher-cost U.S. states. According to U-Haul, whose researchers track these things, Florida was the No. 2 moving destination in 2023.

On-demand world = on-demand living

As the master-planned-community movement evolves, it has responded to the at-your-fingertips lifestyle of today’s world. Not only do we want the latest in residential construction and technology, we want our favorite activities at our fingertips too.

This means resident amenities such as resort-style swimming pools, dog parks, green spaces, sports courts, residents clubs for gathering and events, and plentiful walking trails and paths.

Gated entrances and curated resident activities by full-time lifestyle directors also are important.

Appeal across age groups

Millennial buyers and Baby Boomers (and every generation in-between) may be separated by decades, but many seek the same amenities and perks offered via master-planned communities.

Fitness trails are used by runners, cyclists, skateboarders, dog-walkers and other folks across generations. All ages also can enjoy a Halloween trunk-or-treat at their community’s clubhouse.

Social is crucial

Medical professionals across many disciplines stress the mental, emotional and physical benefits of regular social interaction. Not surprisingly, the social aspects of living in a master-planned community are particularly easy to tap into and enjoy.

Dog parents can plan meetups at a community’s dog park. Swimming lessons attract both parents and their offspring. Mature folks can find fellow enthusiasts through their community’s dining, event and travel activities.

Thanks to de rigueur sidewalks in today’s communities, many new Floridians can meet their neighbors simply by strolling to the mailboxes.

Wise siting sells

Another factor for Florida’s thriving master-planned-community scene involves where those communities are sited.

Convenient access to quality healthcare, shopping, dining, arts and culture, and outdoor recreation matter a lot. Developers like ICI Homes consider proximity to those existing and future opportunities — a win-win for you!

Ready for your new custom Florida home? Talk to ICI Homes here.