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Exploring AARP’s Livability Index: FL’s Top “Mid-Size” Communities of 2026

AARP

Published October 07, 2026

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Floridians of all ages deserve to thrive in their communities. This is why AARP developed the AARP Livability Index™ platform, an online tool that helps you understand your community’s assets and challenges, thus encouraging change that will enhance your quality of life.

Through research and data from 50 independent sources and AARP’s Domains of Livability, the Livability Index tool compares and ranks communities across the nation to highlight how well a community serves its current population. The goal? To encourage change – to create a truly livable community that will serve your needs regardless of age or ability.

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According to the AARP AARP Livability Index™ platform, a “mid-size” community has a population of 25,000 to 99,999 residents. Take a look at Florida’s top performing “mid-size” communities (cities, counties, towns, etc.) that prioritize meeting the current and future needs of all residents:

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            "description": "Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation",
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1. Sarasota
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation

2. Key West
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation

3. Venice
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation

4. Casselberry
Community Challenge Grant Winner (2021)
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, Opportunity, and Transportation

5. Miami Beach
AARP Age-Friendly Network Member
Community Challenge Grant Winner (2021)
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation

6. Altamonte Springs
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, Opportunity, and Transportation

7. Dunedin
AARP Age-Friendly Network Member
Community Challenge Grant Winner (2022)
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation

8. Winter Springs
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, Opportunity, and Transportation

9. Sebastian
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation

10. DeLand
Above Average Ratings In: Civic and Social Engagement, Environment, Health, Housing, Neighborhood, and Transportation