As more people reach the milestone of age 55, an increasing number are seeking neighborhoods designed to cater to their lifestyle, preferences and future needs. These neighborhoods in Hoover are growing more popular than ever.
David Bannister, an almost 30-year resident of Hoover and longtime volunteer for Hoover Athletics and Neighborhood Bridges, moved to one of these neighborhoods when it first opened. It is called Abingdon by the River and is nestled in the hills surrounding Bumpus Middle School and Hoover High School.
“The whole idea of a 55 and over community appealed to my wife and me, even though we're both currently 57,” said Bannister. “We're well below the median age, which I think is around 74. But what I really liked about this community and the idea is that as you're preparing to retire, you can buy the last house you'll ever own, and you'll know exactly where you're going to be when you do.”
Photo by Brittany Kenny
Primrose at Everlee
Abingdon was among the first active adult communities in Hoover and was built by Signature Homes. The neighborhood is quiet, surrounded by countless trees and paths that allow the residents to enjoy the natural world.
Another thing Bannister enjoys about the neighborhood is the amenities it has to offer and the community of people he has met. Abingdon by the River is one of the few flat areas in Hoover that spans over a mile and has become the perfect walking area for him and his wife, Kelly. The neighborhood has a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, pickleball and other sports courts, and more. His next-door neighbor started a bike club, which meets daily.
“When you go into a 55 and over community, you kind of meet people that want to travel, want to walk, take their time, want to be involved in extracurricular activities, and have a lot of time to volunteer,” Bannister said.
Other 55+ communities in Hoover include:
- Arise Knox Square
Arise Knox Square, located in Trace Crossings and a walkable distance to The Village at Brock's Gap, is a new neighborhood that offers one and two-bedroom apartments and cottages with many different floor plan layouts for those looking to settle into a quieter life. Here, residents can enjoy resort-style amenities and programming. Their amenities include a fitness center, yoga studio, theatre, spa, pool and more.
- Abingdon at Lake Wilborn
Abingdon at Lake Wilborn finished construction in 2020, a year before Abingdon by the River. They are located within walking distance of each other. Residents can access 73 acres of bike trails, multiple parks, lodges, shops and a clubhouse.
- Primrose at Everlee
Primrose at Everlee is a 55+ community that calls itself a modern, walkable resort town. Built by Signature Homes, the community offers one or two-level homes with easy access to shops, restaurants and entertainment. Amenities include a pool, indoor and outdoor fitness centers, a social lounge, pickleball courts and more.
Bannister said he believes 55+ communities are rising in popularity because they provide a space to connect with people on the same path of life as you. A good number of the residents have grandchildren and are now looking to permanently settle in the home that is right for them both now and in the future.
These communities attract both long-time residents of Hoover and those from other cities far and wide due to their appeal.
“Hoover's got great everything, but you don't have to be from Hoover to thrive in Hoover,” Bannister said.