Imagine living in a community that offers an abundance of fresh food from an organic farm, lovely homes with wrap-around porches to encourage socializing, few cars and loads of easily accessible forest trails for walking and hiking. Wellness communities—planned homes and neighborhoods designed to support physical and emotional well-being—are being touted as one of the next big things in real estate. Not every wellness community looks the same or appeals to the same type of homeowner, but they all tend to share a commitment to better health, spending time in nature, and environmental sustainability. Where and how we live—including air quality, access to healthy foods, social connections, and so on—plays a big part in our health risks and outcomes. Whether you choose a beach condo or a city apartment, living in a wellness community may support a longer, healthier life.
