Most of the other 55+ communities offer "more home for the money" but, to me, TV is still an affordable place. When we lived in Atlanta, we vacationed in Florida many times and when we decided we'd retire here, we explored quite a few places. This is all in my opinion, and I don't mean to disparage any place, but it's my impression. For example-
Solavita - very nice community, a bit sketchy outside when you go to grocery, banks, etc.
High Vista - (near DIsney) , same as Solavita
Highway 27 - Royal Highlands, Leesburg of Legacy, Arlington Ridge, etc. All solid communities (you don't own the land in Royal Highlands) but reasonably far from service and Highway 27 is not ever a fun drive.
Lakewood Ranch - my very good friend lives there and he moved FROM The VIllages, but he was born out that way. He gave me a list of the pro and con and it seems pretty nice. My 2nd choice after TV. The various builders each build into a different neighborhoo (ie: Village) and the conglomeration makes up Lakewood Ranch - and each"villlage" can be quite different. Lots of shopping and services, but sometimes a bit further away.
Ocala/On Top of the World, Del Webb - again, nice community, but driving on Highway 200 in Ocala is a real grind. While touring Del Webb (pricey amenity fees), I asked the realtor "who is your biggest competitor" and he said "No question, The Villages, people either love it or hate it". We visited The VIllages next and loved it. We visited staying at a hotel, the took a lifestyle visit, and then bought a home. It's the right place or us.
Hadn't visited Margaritaville, that wasn't here when we were buying. We like to visit the beach, but don't want to live there.
Before buying here, I would advise staying/renting and learning your way around, it's a big community. Again, this is just me, but the "new area" south of highway 44 seems like a great setup for the community, but the services are lacking and will be for a couple/few years. I'm off highway 466A for 12 years now, and with Trailwinds, they're just now really catching up to the population size (Colony was so jam-packed, couldn't find a parking spot).
The Villages has so many activities and all the services are designed for 55+ and accessible. The entertainment is top notch, there are always art shows, craft shows, car shows, etc. The rec centers have exercise classes, pools, clubs. It's just a full menu that's safe, clean, affordable and beautiful - like living in a resort.
Best wishes.
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