Gated communities are highly desirable and provide many benefits to their residents with the security element as the standout attraction. Often called access-controlled or private neighborhoods, these communities use physical barriers such as fences, walls, and gates to exclude non-residents and restrict traffic. Controlled entry points and limited access act as deterrents to reduce crime, vandalism, and unwanted solicitation. This ensures that only people who live in the neighborhood and their invited guests are given permission to enter. As a result, gated communities have a 33% lower risk of being victimized by burglars than non-gated neighborhoods.

Since fewer people enter gated communities, residents benefit from increased privacy and often a greater sense of community. These neighborhoods tend to be quieter and safer for children to play in the yard and on the street, which is a great comfort for parents. Gated communities generally offer more enhanced amenities than non-gated communities such as swimming pools, golf courses, tennis courts, club houses, and playgrounds all restricted to members only. Gated communities are generally maintained by strict guidelines established by very active HOAs. This control helps maintain and increase property values, making these homes a very good investment.

It is not a surprise that the world's wealthiest individuals have always sought out those communities that implement the greatest levels of security and privacy that will shield them from prying eyes. And whereas gated communities were often criticized for their exclusivity, now, the proliferation of gated communities is a great example of Americans growing obsession with safety, and the increased acceptance and desirability of the LIFESTYLES these communities provide.