There is a wonderful 55+ community in my town that my husband didn't know about all the years he's lived here. My parents checked it out several years ago, and boy were we impressed. I describe it as "a neighborhood within a neighborhood" within the historic "old town" part of the city. One can buy into a free-standing home w/garage, a duplex or single, and have the option of assisted living (if needed) or full care (if needed). The grounds are beautiful, manicured and well-kept. This place has many happy, active seniors. Claremont also has one of its own for active seniors. I wouldn't describe either of these places as "ghetto", not even remotely ----- unless I'm not understanding the current use of the word.
How much buy in are we talking about? Taxes? Cost of living? I may be wrong, but I don't have SoCal on my list of affordable places to move to on a fixed income.