NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, known for his towering presence and larger-than-life personality, has set his sights on an unexpected destination for retirement.
Rather than settling in one of his many luxurious properties, Shaq’s dream is to retire in The Villages—Florida’s 55+ community where homes of any size cost just $199/month—offering 3,000 social clubs, 14 country clubs, 17 pools, and 100,000 golf carts.
The former Miami Heat star and current sports analyst revealed this plan on “The Big Podcast,” expressing his fascination with the community’s unconventional reputation.
A Dream Rooted in Curiosity
When asked about his dream retirement scenario, Shaq shared that he has long thought about spending his final years at The Villages.
He noted that he has “seven summers” left until he turns 60 and wants to make the most of them.
He added that he doesn’t want his children—Shareef, Amirah, Shaqir, Me’arah, Myles, or Taahirah—to take care of him in old age.
Instead, he joked that when the time comes, someone should just drop him off in Ocala, Florida, where The Villages is located.
His reasoning isn’t just about relaxation or affordability—it’s also about uncovering the truth behind the community’s many rumors.
The Villages: America’s Most Talked-About Retirement Community
The Villages began as a modest trailer park in the 1970s but has since evolved into a 57-square-mile oasis for retirees.
It was recently named the fastest-growing metro in the U.S., with a 4.7% population increase between 2022 and 2023.
Residents enjoy access to thousands of clubs and activities, from water ballet and cheerleading to precision golf cart driving.
With 14 country clubs and 17 pools, it offers a lifestyle that rivals resort living.
Access to all of these amenities—regardless of the size of one’s home—costs just $199 a month.
There are currently over 800 homes for sale in The Villages, with prices ranging up to $2.4 million for premium properties.
Many of the most expensive homes sit on golf courses, preserves, or lakes, giving residents picturesque views and prestige.
Scandal, Swingers, and STD Rumors
What truly makes The Villages famous—or infamous—are the persistent rumors about its scandalous social scene.
Reports have claimed high rates of sexually transmitted diseases, prompting one physician to remark she had seen more cases there than during her time in Miami.
The community was dubbed the “STD Capital of America,” though there’s little hard data to support that claim.
Legends about “loofah signaling” and upside-down pineapples supposedly used to communicate swinger preferences have only added fuel to the fire.
These stories were popularized in part by comedian Tora Himan, an Orlando-area drag queen who performed cabaret at The Villages.
Despite skepticism over the accuracy of these tales, their viral appeal has cemented The Villages’ reputation in pop culture.
For Shaq, the allure is in the mystery as much as the amenities.
Beyond the Basketball Court
O’Neal officially retired from basketball in 2011 but has remained active in media, business, and philanthropy.
He currently co-hosts “The Big Podcast” with Adam Lefkoe and contributes to “Inside the NBA” as a prominent analyst.
Even with his vast wealth and homes in several states, O’Neal seems drawn to the community feel and wild energy of The Villages.
He wants to live life to the fullest—even in his later years—and believes this is the place to do it.
The Final Chapter
Shaquille O’Neal’s dream to retire in The Villages—Florida’s 55+ community where homes of any size cost just $199/month—offering 3,000 social clubs, 14 country clubs, 17 pools, and 100,000 golf carts—reveals a man who values both independence and adventure.
It also shows his willingness to laugh at the wild tales while wondering if they might just be true.
Whether he’s investigating rumors or cruising in one of those 100,000 golf carts, one thing is certain: The Villages might be the only place bold enough to keep up with the Big Diesel.