10 Reasons You Might Not Want to Move to The Villages

We are big fans of The Villages. We post videos on a regular basis that show just how great our hometown is. We see viewers every day and many tell us, "You're the reason we are here!" That makes us feel great. Sometimes though we wonder if our videos have ever led someone to uproot, move here, and then find themselves miserable. In this video, Jerry and Linda point out some things that might be a rude awakening for folks thinking about making the move. Remember, we love it here and are simply pointing out some possible negatives for people to consider before moving here.
Please ring that bell, like, and subscribe! We'll let you know every time we post a video! Jerry and Linda bring you information that they hope will enhance your retirement. Their channel is more than just The Villages. It features episodes designed to inspire retirees to make the most of their golden years. Bicycling, kayaking, hiking, golfing, music, travel and other things of interest are featured.
“See you when you get here!”
Mailing address:
Villages Newcomers
P.O.Box 888
Fruitland Park, FL 34731
Our email: [e-mail]
The information in our videos is never guaranteed as accurate, but as our opinion. Please do your own research when it comes to important matters. We intend it as entertainment only.

[@ljclauson]

I just recently found you two and I think why I love to watch is because you two seem to have that magic together and your such a joy to listen to and also learn from. It's rare how a couple, who may be married as long as you two, seem to enjoy each other-worth watching and being grateful for you both!

[@brockreynolds870]

I know that personally, I could never live in the Villages for several reasons. 1: Climate. I can't handle a climate that is either hot all the time (Arizona) or humid all the time (Florida) southern Indiana where you came from, I think is a great climate. 10 inches of snow a year on average is not massive, I want all 4 seasons, but to live far enough south that you get a little of everything, and not too much of anything. I actually think Nashville would probably be my IDEAL. 2: HOA. I couldn't imagine having someone tell me what color to paint my house, where to put my garbabge cans, where to park my car, etc. 3: Close proximity of neighbors. You can choose your friends but you can't choose your neighbors. I assocaite with people I choose to associate with, I don't want to feel obligated to be social with someone just because we happened to buy a house next to them. I might HATE them, and if that happens, you're stuck living 100 feet away from someone you can't stand. My 40 acre farm is nice buffer zone. 4: Alligators scare them living HELL out of me.

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

All good reasons. Totally understand. 🙂🙂

[@judithcicalese842]

GREAT video you too!!! Always such good info!!!

[@nebdawg]

Thanks for trying to keep it real and giving some possible negatives to the Villages. I love watching your videos and seeing you two interact with each other. Keep up the good work. Have you thought about doing a video on a community service project? Stay safe and stay cool.

[@triciaallen3200]

Great information thanks & have a great weekend :)

[@2dogbull]

Thank you for your time and kindness in offering the information, Jerry and Linda. Craig

[@maggielukasevich7267]

I wish there was a “love” button because like doesn’t cover it-you two are so cute! Thank you for your candid approach to the downsides of the Villages. We know we’re still moving down as soon as we can (hopefully next year)!!!

[@frankoley6826]

Thanks for another great video. I had a few of the concerns you mentioned prior to my lifestyle visit. You are 100% correct, you got to come down and see it for yourself. There is nothing on your list that would be a show stopper for me. Any place you live can be the best or worst depending on your attitude and what you make of it. Choose to be happy people, no one gets out of here alive!

[@jon19100]

As always you did a great job thanks for the info

[@shirleyharold1698]

You guys are fun! Love this vlog…love you guys❤️

[@bethbean5987]

As long as you both are happy, that's what important. As always, thanks for sharing your point of view!

[@nhlinda9683]

We spent 15 years in Florida and we are out ! We enjoy watching your show while having our morning coffee. Everything you say about living in Florida is 100 percent true. Everyone should listen to you before moving there. Love Gizmo ! He reminds me of my childhood dog !

[@bornfreel]

This was fun to watch. I appreciate the golf cart runs you vlog as well. It really gives a feeling for the area. Thanks

[@rcassave]

Yep ! Jerry & Linda your the reason we moved here ❤ thank you. We love it here. We’re here about a year and seven months, hope to see you guys one of these days in the village’s.

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Thanks Ralph! We are glad you love it as much as we do!

[@marystone3246]

Thank you for this very important message....ANY ONE should appreciate... Being honest is not wrong... I enjoy your shows, but I really enjoyed this program today... Thank you for doing this.

[@Dawngeee]

Loved the video. You had me laughing out loud & I didn’t even know what cha y’all were laughing about 😂. The video pointed out some good things to consider & absolutely people should take advantage of the Lifestyle visit. thx!

[@markfinneran7843]

I really enjoyed this video, thank you 😊

[@johntamulonis4626]

Every Monday I watch your show and you make the world right again, love the reset. These Thursday videos are great too.

[@donnam1257]

My friends moved down to Fenney and love it there. They bought their house new in 2018 for $346,00 and could sell it now for between $750-$800! I would never be comfortable there because the houses are too close together, it´s too hot and it feels like The Villages is taking over, like urban sprawl.

[@bonniedouglass7582]

Very honest conversation not only if living in The Villages but living in Florida in general. Good job!

[@terrybrockway5376]

We spent 16 years in Arizona and Florida retired. Loved Florida. Health and Family has us back in Iowa. Was very hard to leave our beautiful home and friends in Florida. You just know when it's time. Look forward to your videos every week. Thank-you 🙂👍🇺🇲

[@gwenlarson234]

Gizmo, you sweetie!!!!

[@ritashustitzky2934]

Well even if I wanted to live there, you convinced me that I am not the right person for the villages. I'm not very out going and too many people around me would make me crazy. I'm happy for you because found the right place.

[@dianamelendez5464]

Thx so much! You gave a real honest list to think about before moving. I did buy a house in the villages and you mentioned a few issues that I feel are challenging

[@rogojo9853]

Great video! Loved the humor and your honesty. ✨🌼.

[@mariedoucet2371]

LOVE your vlogs! Cannot wait to return to the Villages!

[@MsLorie-ef6fo]

It's obvious that you two are the perfect couple and enjoy each other immensely and that shows on every video you post. I always look forward to each new video because it gives me the chance to share your experiences in Florida. The heat would kill me along with the bugs, reptiles and certain people. When you both started laughing uncontrollably, it got contagious and cracked me up too. Your positive attitude, respectful manners, quirky jokes and intelligent comments keeps me coming back for more. Love the background too !!!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Ms. Lori, you are always so kind. Thank you. ❤❤

[@jillshaw9306]

I can't stand humidity but its good to know someone's honest opinion.

[@janetomdebenedetto837]

This video was a big help to us in making up our mind. Thank you.

[@djbvida]

Thanks for your fun spirit. I’m not moving but I watch to enjoy your great shows. Love the laughter. Gizmo can you share your thoughts from the canine point of view on the villages life?

[@debbywylie3918]

I just love how much fun you two have! My husband and I are thinking of moving to Florida and I'll be coming January to check things out. You two have given us so many reasons to consider this move and we thank you. Maybe I'll even see you there!

[@royellis4692]

Love your videos! All of them. Thanks for all your hard work keeping us informed😊 We will be there in April for a Lifestyle visit...all the way from Gig Harbor!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

See you when you get here!😁😁

[@piafassold9444]

I just love your channel and I am so glad you love it here and you have adjusted so well. We are going on our 2 years next Dec. In the Space Coast of FL and we are embracing it full hearted. You made me lough so hard at your (inside) joke. Lol. Take care and love Gizmo.

[@bernieburawski1446]

Great videos. I just came across these videos on KZbin by my algorithm search. I live in Tamarac near Fort Fort Lauderdale and live in a 55 plus deed restricted community. I bought my house here thinking it would be a laid back community and originally it was with many retirees, but South Florida is becoming too overpopulated and the local commissioners are in cahoots with the developers making every inch down here either a strip mall, condo or other large building with no regard for the residents and quality of life. I will eventually be selling my home because of this situation. Also, the road rage is another reason but I think that is because there are just too many people living in such a small area. 60 years ago, Miami used to be nothing but orange groves. Thanks and I enjoy learning and watching!

[@nancyparker2199]

Places like the villages are too cookie cutter for me. Too many rules and regulations. Too close to the neighbors and nosey ones at that. I wouldn't want to lose my individuality to reside in a place like that.

[@ms1212100]

I Love the wholesomeness of your channel!! Love it from CT

[@floweringplumb4678]

Good show and informative for those who are not sure about a move to Florida and The Villages.

[@markphillipson768]

Another great MBM, there’s no reason not to do your homework before making the decision to move to TV. We also watch Skip, he shows the positives but also that TV has the same issues as other Communities. Almost at 40,000 Subs keep it going. Have a great week.

[@cucar8363]

Aww you guys are adorable! So cute! you guys really enjoy doing this, I am laughing so hard now!

[@gailprimus5232]

Great show, thanks

[@berniekirk1397]

You guys are definitely cheerleaders for the Villages. Nice to see someone who is happy with a major decision they made. I appreciate your ability and willingness to also discuss some of the counter points. More people need to be able to see both sides of an issue and be a bit less polarized in their viewpoints. I think the deed restrictions, and small lot sizes will keep me from ever moving there.However, I would enjoy having neighbors who keep their property in a neat condition. I am the only person in my neighborhood who picks up leaves, so eventually I seem to inherit everyone else's . Nice Job.

[@CocoFirenze]

New here and I am absolutely addicted to your channel! You two are terrific! Watching your channel motivates me to do something about my dream of 'migrating' to FL from CT. Your talk about deed restrictions crack me up - gosh I'd love a good 10 page deed restriction where I live right now! 🤣 thanks for all you give here xx

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Thank you, Cheryl! So nice!

[@bonniecartner7544]

Love your blog! Just moved to the area (I call it Villages adjacent, not quit 55 yet) and love the Squares and the people! In a few years I'll be living in the Villages and enjoying the golf and recreation. Our family is from Loo-a-vul lol, so I loved the pics you posted as well.

[@matt51402]

I have been in Florida my entire life, there will be things that we dislike no matter where live. But through the hurricanes, heat etc, I can still go out and enjoy things unlike blizzards, and shoveling snow.

[@Coretok]

Great video. Thank you.

[@laurarahz12]

great video! Love it when you guys started laughing...wonder what was said... hee hee... bless you guys!!

[@ourvlife1]

Great video!! You gave the ten perfect reasons why we snowbird between our beautiful acre in Vermont to the warmth of winter in Florida.

[@crispykritta]

I slipped on black ice last New Years and got a concussion, too! Can’t wait to be able to retire to winter warmth. Great show today, guys! Made me lol 😝 ⛳️🌴☀️

[@brianevans8529]

Whenever I hear "black ice" I cringe. I was in an accident in *April* 2018 where my vehicle slid on black ice. Fractured my pelvis, dislocated my hip, several operations, months of rehab. So being someplace where there's no black ice sounds really good to me.

[@diana7043]

Another great show, thank you.🇺🇸💕

[@marlenerochin3404]

Loved this video, thank you🇺🇸🌴🤩‼️

[@carolapostolos8929]

The Jerry and Linda snow globe was adorable!!

[@IamSnowbird]

I am a snowbird for so many of the reasons you stated. I'm in Naples and love it when I'm here.

[@btaylor9661]

Your number of watchers is amazing. I saw one of your posts got a million views. Wow, I can say I knew you personally before you were retirement stars. You guys are amazing!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Ha! Thanks, friend. 🙂

[@rosemapes6675]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ChynnaBlue1]

This is a great and informative video. You really framed this well: we love it, but there are things that may not be right for other people. I moved from the pacific NW to central Texas and it was a shock for so many of the reasons you mentioned. There are things I really miss, like cool mornings and evenings, hills, redwoods and douglas fir trees, and so much more. But that doesn't mean I don't love the things I've found here, like the HEB grocery stores, the Texas Book Festival, and the tropical plants that don't grow in the PNW. Y'all are excellent ambassadors for The Villages and calling out negative things as well as the positive is an important aspect that I appreciate.

[@lauralampe1664]

Thank you for pointing out some of the downsides to living in The Villages. As a previous poster said, The Villages is not for everyone. 55+ communities are not for everyone who is 55 and better. Wherever someone chooses to spend their golden years, be it Florida, the Midwest, New England, the Pacific Northwest, or be an expat in Portugal like one of my former coworkers has chosen to do, the important thing is that one is happy and content with their choice.

[@jamesrucker995]

very informative... thanks

[@Paula19482]

OK, I just watched your latest video, I LOVE IT, seems like we're old friends. Sorry to say we're not moving to The Villages, we live in Oklahoma where our Kids are. However, you both brighten my day, I smile all the way thru the video. Your latest is fantastic. I hate snow, Fall isn't what it's cut out to be and mountains are pretty but one can live without them. ha ha ha. You make my day brighter. Question... do you and Linda have any hobbies, other than having a blast driving your Golf Cars, Golf, Shopping, enjoying the wonderful weather, beach if you want to. Keep up the great videos.

[@ruthmarini8453]

I got a good case of the giggles right along with you. Lots of good points made. See you Monday.

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂

[@LGLRTV]

My husband and I always enjoy your videos! With thanks to the both of you, we are being acquainted with The Villages from far away. We decided to take a Lifestyle Tour. :)

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

That is awesome! See you when you get here!

[@PBG345]

Excellent points. Good job.

[@stevestark8785]

I have owned a house in The Villages since 2002. The one major item that was not covered in the video is that the traffic is getting unbearable both summer and winter. The Villages is not designed to handle the increase in vehicles from the increased number of residents.

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Traffic can be bad anywhere... Atlanta, DC, NYC, Boston, LA, etc

[@blueclover9918]

@@JERRYANDLINDA it's supposed to be special

[@pauld315]

@@JERRYANDLINDA The Villages is in the middle of a rural area, not an urban area. You can't compare major urban areas to this area. Traffic is unbearable especially in the winter when all the "tourists" (short term renters) invade. This year we will see the true traffic increase due to all the new building. If you bought after February 2020, you have never experienced it due to Covid.

[@TheUtube53]

You have so many people moving to Florida that the roads aren’t equipped to handle the much higher volumes of traffic. Orlando, for example, is unbearable. The pan handle is also getting crowded at rush hour. 320,000 people moved to Florida in 2022. It’s to be expected until more roads are built.

[@doloresnash287]

We didn't move to the Villages but we did move to Panama City Beach 3 years ago from Kansas and love it here!! i enjoy your videos!!!

[@MACHSS7]

We did a Lifestyle Visit in 2009. We loved the Villages and still do. But in the end, we built our "perfect" home in Windermere near Winter Garden for a couple of the reasons you mentioned. Our two sons and significant others live in the Orlando area. And now with a couple of new grandchildren, we made the correct decision for us.

[@barbaraebner5889]

That is a stumbling block for us, our Grandsons. We are very close but they too are growing up and their activities are a big part of our lives. However; we see them doing more with friends etc. It's a hard decision.

[@MACHSS7]

@@barbaraebner5889 When my boys were younger, I used to say that one only borrows their children for a short time. They get friends, develop independence, go to college/jobs, get married, and start their own families. If we were 10 years younger, I would not rule out moving to the Villages when the grandchildren eventually drift away as they will. But at our age, we believe we made our final decision when we built our current home. At least, we're in Florida and cold winters are a thing of the past! And luckily our sons were remote employees long before Covid and chose to live here too.

[@belindatayvinsky4271]

Just turned 56 and I luv your blogs! You’re a great team together ! Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🍁

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Awww... thanks, Belinda! 😁😁

[@nancykanson9443]

Awesome show…had me laughing…you guys are the best!

[@milantoombs6696]

Grew up in FL, many years ago, would like to return soon and love your description of TV!

[@cheezehdglen9468]

29 years in Scottsdale Arizona, our blood is thin. Retired and just bought a new home in The Villages (online!!). Time for a new adventure. We kept a small condo in Wisconsin to escape, if needed. We close next Monday. Coming with a tv, folding chairs and coffee maker. Let the adventure begin! Glen and Lucie

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Congratulations! See you when you get here!!

[@rhuephus]

talking about minimalist ...

[@dougmccune4966]

Lucie and Glen, my wife and I moved here from Tucson in August and we love it. The heat is a bit different here and takes a little getting use to, but we are really enjoying our new home.

[@cheezehdglen9468]

@@dougmccune4966 Doug, I hope we are able to meet sometime. We have a lot of questions. Glen

[@paulzmuda3085]

I'm very curious, why leave AZ for FL to retire? We are currently reviewing both states as a possible landing spot when I retire.

[@daviddansereau1793]

I have watched many of your videos because my mom lives in Lady Lake of TV. This one by far was so much fun to see, and very true...

[@davidhayes2928]

That was a really good video. Probably the first one people should see if considering the Villages or any where in the South. We appreciate your insight advice.

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Thanks, David!

[@sparklej1142]

I'm one of those who will probably never move to the villages--too much fun with grandkids--can't let them down. And church friends mean the world to us.... however I look forward to your vlogs each week. As retired teachers you remind me every day how to get old without being old. Ur such fun....nothing backwards about that. Blessings.

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Thanks Sparkle! We figure that someday we will wake up and we might actually be old, so we're having fun while we can. 😁😁

[@debrabrown5688]

I love your honesty. It gives much clarity to us northerners.

[@myin13]

Did y’all have a couple of drinks with dinner 😝😝?? Don’t think I’ve ever seen the two of you crack up like that!! Love it! Another 👍!!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

😆😆🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😆😆

[@yankeetwim5061]

Sounds like a lot of retirement fun… I speak to ppl in the great white north who tell me they are moving to TV and love watching your - you tube channel! 👍

[@sarahgupton2552]

I’m an introvert. The Villages is not for me… but that doesn’t mean it’s not for others, especially the highly sociable.

[@ja6368]

Very good points👍

[@christinemowbray6116]

You guys are an invaluable well of knowledge and done with such good nature and humor! I live in upstate NY and am considering moving there within the next two years .. what about a show talking about The Lofts apartments.. somethingI am considering . Thanks for the laughs and info 😂

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Try this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/povalX6smqmGjJI

[@huntsmanpixie2951]

You guys are great!

[@pattiw6713]

I’m dying laughing… beginning was hilarious… Great video!!!

[@pattiw6713]

10 reasons or not… Still moving to TV… love it!

[@cynthiaamitrano8915]

I would love the restrictions because I have neighbors who don’t keep their yards up, don’t trim their shrubs, hide their crap behind their garages so the neighbors have to look at it. The list goes on. I’m an irritating neighbor because I suggest they clean up their yard etc., and not always in the most diplomatic way. I do put those cutesy yard decorations out, but they are small and few in number. I wanted to move to Florida, specifically The Villages, because I’m tired of freezing during our 8 months of cold and freezing temperatures. Shoveling snow is difficult for me now.

[@CheckThisOut77]

I appreciate the honest appraisal of the Villages.

[@pattyk8594]

I love watching you two laugh together! :o)

[@davidwarner3975]

Good sense of humor.. we did Lifestyle preview, besides my sister lives here and I fell in love with the lifestyle. Took my wife a little more time but she loves it now

[@jediweebz]

You seem like a nice couple. Cool videos and funny!

[@LarsPop-Tartus]

Thanks great points though people who are not active may like it down here. If they like being alone no one is going to force you to go out and socialize so the same as if they did not move. There are quiet parks benches to sit on and there are pools that are relatively uncrowded and quiet. My wife is such a person 62 years old and is quite happy.

[@maryriggs6557]

Greetings from Louisville, enjoy your video's. Looking forward to a move to Florida maybe next year. Who know's maybe the Villages!

[@MKopczynski]

It is so true that the main thing I miss are my doctors and dentist. As time goes on I’m certain I will find those as well. My neighbors are very friendly as the people who go to the pool!

[@1185Elizabeth]

You guys make me smile 😊 Than you. Have you visited Winter Park? We had a lovely day there a number of years ago and plan to visit in December again. Stay well and don’t ever change you are absolutely fabulous 💫

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Awww... Elizabeth, you are so nice. 😁😁

[@Brian-nb6fb]

I sold new houses for a summer in a covenant protected community and was amazed as to how many people wanted to challenge the rules BEFORE they even bought a place! Manicured lawns, drive ways free of 'project' trucks and RVs parked in storage lots may not appeal to some people but it sounds like heaven to me!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Preach!

[@michaelciccone2194]

HOAs. just take your monthly dues....waste of money.

[@andyw6996]

@@michaelciccone2194 No HOA in the Villages.

[@NavyWife]

Thank you for sharing another enjoyable video for us. I have lived in Florida all of life except for the 20 years that my husband was in the military. I can relate to what you say about the heat. I honestly believe that it is much hotter now in Florida than in my younger years. I know that it sounds crazy, but we are making plans to move to Maine next year. I survived living in Montana and Massachusetts so hopefully we will survive Maine. I was very sad when you reported on your negative emails that you received from viewers. Don't let those Siour Grapes keep you both from doing what you obviously enjoy. What happened to Gizmos part of the video today? He needs some camera facetime or else he will not be able to afford his doggie treats.♥️

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

He gets his face time on Monday… not on Thursday's. He is too expensive to hire for both days.

[@nancyoppegard6665]

Thanks for the great show. Very informative, yet FUNNY !!!

[@rebeccamartin4267]

What place is perfect? Heat is top of list for me. But cold and shoveling snow is one my wanna ove here. So gotta make choices. You guys are so 👍 Keep on sharing ❤

[@donnagross4638]

Love how you show both sides of the Villages.

[@johngregreid1]

Loved this show. You said something that applies to us. You mentioned, if your grandchildren lived near your previous home you would still be there. We are. Very fortunate that 2 of our grandchildren are a 5 minute walk away & the other 2 are 15 minute drive. We see the close-by family every weekday & go to their hockey & figure skating often. I couldn’t imagine being away from them for any extended period. Your information is so valuable to those that could make that mistake of moving.

[@TheRoom2Breathe]

I heard I'd better not go!! Things that make you go hmmm. Glad yall love it enough to have said it 1000 times. Some of the things mentioned aren't so bad. I 💘General Tso's too.

[@harryp1665]

Very honest, thank you.

[@edwardmorehouse1424]

You two are a hoot. Keep it up.

[@debbiebrown2937]

We've been here now three months! Hey we're the Newcomers!! What you say is certainly true, but like you we love it here!!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Congrats, and WELCOME! 😁😁

[@rickstratton4924]

I love your all’s comments the good and bad. You all have a blessed day now.

[@beckypetersen2680]

I know this is now a year old, but this is a very good vlog! Thanks!

[@JERRYANDLINDA]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@richardc488]

Thank you guys

[@stevenwilburn235]

Thank you guys for sharing. Very good info. You guys are the best!!!