Calico Ridge vs Sun City Anthem: Choosing Between Age-Restricted and Traditional

Two Henderson communities. Both appeal to 55+ buyers. But one is age-restricted with resort amenities, the other is traditional with family flexibility. Here's how to decide.

Quick Comparison

The Age Restriction Question

This is the fundamental divide. Sun City Anthem requires at least one resident to be 55+. Calico Ridge has no restrictions.

Sun City's restriction means: All neighbors are 55+. No children living in the community. Quieter environment. Limited resale market (only 55+ buyers).

Calico Ridge's openness means: Mixed-age neighbors. Grandchildren can stay indefinitely. Adult children can move in if needed. Any buyer can purchase when you sell.

The Amenity Divide

Sun City Anthem delivers a resort lifestyle. If you want built-in social activities, organized clubs, and extensive fitness/recreation options, it's purpose-built for that.

Calico Ridge provides a home and yard. Social life is self-directed.

The Cost Comparison

HOA difference: approximately $2,200 to $3,400 more annually in Sun City Anthem.

Over 15 years: $33,000 to $51,000 additional in Sun City Anthem.

That money funds amenities you may or may not use. Active retirees who swim, golf, and participate in clubs get value. Homebodies subsidize facilities they ignore.

Lot Size and Privacy

Calico Ridge delivers quarter to third-acre lots. Sun City Anthem optimizes for low maintenance with smaller, more compact lots.

If you want space between neighbors, room for extensive landscaping, or a large private pool, Calico Ridge wins. If you want minimal yard work and prefer community amenities over private space, Sun City Anthem fits better.

Family Considerations

Who Should Choose Which

Choose Calico Ridge if you: Want family flexibility (grandkids, adult children). Prefer large lots and privacy. Want minimal HOA costs. Don't need organized activities. Value resale flexibility.

Choose Sun City Anthem if you: Want built-in social life and activities. Prefer all-55+ neighbors. Value resort amenities. Don't mind higher HOA costs. Want low-maintenance lots.

The Lifestyle Question

Honestly ask yourself: Will you use the amenities? Some retirees thrive on Sun City's social calendar. Others pay $300/month for a gym they visit twice.

If you're naturally social and want activities handed to you, Sun City Anthem delivers. If you prefer creating your own lifestyle, Calico Ridge saves money while providing flexibility.

The Bottom Line

Both communities serve retirees well but with fundamentally different philosophies. Sun City Anthem offers resort-style 55+ living with extensive amenities and age-restricted neighbors. Calico Ridge offers traditional homeownership with low costs and family flexibility. Neither is objectively better. They serve different priorities.

Torn between the two? Let's tour both and compare. Ready to explore options? Get your current home's value to understand your buying power.