Equestrian Retirement Communities – A Paradise For Horse Lovers

For retirees who love horses, equestrian retirement communities offer a tranquil escape from the bustle of daily life. These curated neighborhoods provide full-care facilities for the horse lover to pursue their passion in a secluded setting with breathtaking rural scenery. The communities are located throughout the country and include state-of-the-art arenas, dressage rings, and cross-country courses.

Aside from the equestrian amenities, these communities also offer other perks to attract retirees. For example, many of the communities feature outdoor trails that are regularly maintained by a crew to ensure safety for residents and horses alike. Additionally, some communities are built with a central clubhouse where residents can enjoy games of shuffleboard or other social activities.

Despite the popularity of these communities, not everyone who lives in them rides or owns a horse. In fact, some estimates claim that only about 35% of retirees living in an equestrian community own a horse or ride. Nevertheless, the sense of camaraderie that comes from spending time with fellow horse lovers draws many people to these areas.

The communities are typically surrounded by lush greenery and miles of scenic riding trails. Some of them are even designated as conservation areas to protect the beautiful scenery from further development. Additionally, the horses are kept within walking distance of the houses, which provides owners with easy access to them and allows them to perform any necessary maintenance.

However, it’s important to note that horse ownership comes with time commitment and financial responsibilities. Prospective residents should assess their availability to meet these requirements before moving into an equestrian community. It’s also a good idea to review the community’s covenant conditions and restrictions with an attorney who specializes in real estate law.

The cost of retiring to an equestrian community varies widely, depending on the location and the services offered. For instance, Murray said she was able to purchase her one-acre home in a California equestrian community for $350,000 and pays homeowners association fees of $130 per month, which includes the use of the property’s trails and arenas.

The communities also allow retirees to visit their own horses if they wish, even after they’re retired from competitions. These visits give owners a chance to maintain a bond with their horses, even if they’re no longer able to provide day-to-day care for them. This also gives the horses a sense of companionship and promotes their mental stimulation. Moreover, a community like this also provides the horses with the opportunity to form relationships with other retired horses and engage in natural herd behaviors. This is crucial for their health and well-being as they age. By doing so, the horses are able to experience a sense of belonging and fulfillment in their final years. As a result, they live a happier, healthier lifestyle.