Retirement Communities in Arizona

You’ve worked hard for a majority of your life to get to this point – retirement! First off, congratulations on this new chapter. It’s an exciting time for you to focus on yourself, family, friends, and hobbies. One key component to making the most out of retirement is to live in a community that gives you plenty of opportunities to play, relax and connect with like minded people. That’s why so many retirees from around the world are flocking to retirement communities in Arizona.

Since the first master-planned retirement community was built back in 1960 in Sun City, active adult communities in Arizona have been on the rise. It’s easy to see why so many people are choosing this lifestyle. It’s convenient, safe, and downright fun.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why are so many people retiring in Arizona?

Arizona is an incredibly popular place to retire. The pleasant weather almost all year ‘round is, of course, a driving factor but it’s not the only reason so many people are choosing to invest in an Arizona retirement property. The Grand Canyon State is a safe place to live, boasts some of the best golf courses in the country, and is more tax friendly than other destinations for 45 and over retirement communities.

Of course, Arizona isn’t perfect. You may have to get used to the dry desert heat. In fact, there are a couple months out of the year that reach triple digits. Luckily, air conditioning and pools make these months more bearable. And, best of all, you don’t have to shovel sunshine!

You also have to be a fan of the desert setting. If you’re looking for giant trees or ocean views, you may be disappointed with the towering saguaro cacti and aesthetic man-made lakes. However, if you are a fan of stunning sunsets, citrus trees, summer monsoon storms, and prickly pear everything, you’ll adjust just fine to life in one of the many 55 plus communities in Arizona.

What is it like to live in Arizona?

Life in Arizona is best described as easy-going, friendly, and safe. This is especially true in the over 50 communities in Arizona. These age-restricted communities have removed the burden of worrying about who your neighbors are or how you’re going to stay busy now that you’re not working 9 – 5.

As a whole, Arizona offers plenty of entertainment options all over the Valley. Outdoor enthusiasts, fine arts lovers, sports fans and foodies will all find plenty of things to do in Arizona.

Things to do in Arizona

Because Arizona gets the most sunshine out of all the states, outdoor activities are a main staple of Arizona life. It’s easy to get out on the golf course, pick up a game of bocce ball, or paddle around in the pool.

However, if you also enjoy the fine arts, you’ll appreciate world-class symphony, ballet, opera and theatres. Or spend time checking out the many museums throughout the state. If sports are more your thing, don’t worry. Arizona has several major league sports teams you can cheer on.

Of course, you can’t mention Arizona without thinking of Mexican food. With so many authentic restaurants throughout the state, it’s not a matter of finding good food, but choosing between all the options available. Don’t be fooled into thinking that the culinary scene is lacking in other areas though. Arizona features restaurants from several chefs nominated for the James Beard Awards across all different categories.

Arizona versus other southwestern states

You may be wondering what makes Arizona so different from other Southwestern states? For starters, people in Arizona tend to be more conservative than in the neighboring state of New Mexico. Arizona is also growing faster than lots of other states in the sun belt making it a great place to invest in real estate.

Scottsdale and Phoenix are two of the major cities that drive the state’s economy. These cities are busier and faster-paced than the suburbs, but host a lot of the major entertainment attractions. Many of the best 55 and over communities in Arizona are settled on the outskirts of these traffic centers, with easy access from multiple highways. This allows you to easily visit when you want, but return back to your safe and quiet community.

What are the best retirement communities in Arizona?

With so many different active adult communities in Arizona, it can be hard to pick the perfect one for you. Some of the most popular 55 and over communities in AZ are listed below with highlights on what makes each one unique.

Sun City

Sun City was the first of the planned 55 and older communities in Arizona and, in fact, was the first in the entire country. It was started back in 1960 by the company Del Webb. Now it has over 26,000 homes, multiple golf courses, and plenty of resort style amenities and clubs to help keep you busy. It’s best known for being a fun and affordable place to retire in Arizona.

Sun City West

Sun City West is just 2.5 miles west of the original Sun City community. It boasts a whole host of amenities including multiple clubhouses where you can meet up with friends for a swim, workout, or even practice your woodworking. Golf enthusiasts won’t be bored here either with 7 courses to choose from. This community for those 55 plus in Arizona is a great place to retire while maintaining an active lifestyle.

Sun City Grand

Sun City Grand is a smaller Del Webb community with newer construction than Sun City or Sun City West. It’s also one of the rare 45 plus communities in Phoenix. Many residents here prefer Sun City Grand over other active retirement communities in Arizona because it’s quieter and less congested. Don’t confuse it for somewhere boring though! There are still plenty of amenities (and golf courses!) to keep you entertained.

Sun City Festival

Sun City Festival in Buckeye, AZ is one of the newer Del Webb communities. This is another one of the rare 45+ retirement communities tucked at the base of the White Tank Mountains. These new and pre-owned homes are full of gorgeous upgrades, and the community offers all of the popular amenities that Sun City has become known for.

Westbrook Village

Westbrook Village in Peoria is a smaller option for the 55 & older communities in AZ with just over 3,900 homes. Many residents love the small town atmosphere and tight knit community here. The proximity to the Loop 101 also makes this a highly desirable location, especially for those who like to get out and explore the greater Phoenix area. If you do want to hang out around home, there are multiple clubhouses, pools, restaurants and golf courses right in your backyard!

Trilogy at Vistancia

Trilogy at Vistancia is the perfect destination for buyers looking at resort style active adult communities in AZ. With stunning views, a plethora of palm trees and lush landscaping, you’ll feel like you’re on a permanent vacation here. This community also features two large clubhouses with state of the art fitness centers, multiple pools, restaurants, tennis courts and a full service spa. Golf lovers will appreciate the Trilogy Golf Club – voted by Golf Digest as 5-star award winner. You can also get outside and explore the 3.5 mile Discovery Trail that winds throughout the community. The options for entertainment are endless here.

Victory at Verrado

Victory at Verrado is another one of the resort style over 55 communities in AZ. Golf lovers will appreciate the two courses designed by golf legend Tom Lehman. There’s also a vineyard, spa, clubhouse and multiple trails for outdoor fun. This community features homes from five different builders, so there are plenty of options to fit your distinct design style.

Anthem At Merrill Ranch

Anthem at Merrill Ranch from Del Webb is another one of the new 55 plus communities in Arizona. Located in Florence, the surrounding area is mostly rural with a quaint downtown and historic main street. Those who enjoy sweeping views and plenty of space will appreciate this retirement community. Don’t worry about running out of things to do, however. Between the golf course, clubhouse, and tennis, bocce ball and horseshoe courts, you’ll never have a dull day here.

Leisure World Mesa

Leisure World in Mesa is another one of the active adult communities in Arizona for those 45 and older. It’s convenient location in the East Valley near the Highway 60 and 202 Freeway gives you easy access to the greater Phoenix Metro area. Amenities at this community include two stunning golf courses, a clubhouse full of hobby rooms, a state of the art fitness center and multiple pools to help you stay active and connected with fellow residents.

Sun Lakes

Sun Lakes is a very popular option for active retirement communities in Arizona. This community is comprised of five unique sections. Each section has its own golf course and community center so you never feel overly crowded utilizing the amenities. Sun Lakes is also popular for its accessible location in south Chandler, minutes away from the I-10 and 202 Loop that can take you to Gilbert, San Tan Valley, Mesa and Downtown Phoenix.

Still not sure which community fits your lifestyle?

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Should I invest in real estate in Arizona?

If retiring in Arizona sounds like your dream come true, the next step is to decide whether or not to invest in real estate. Although renting might seem easier, there are several benefits to purchasing a home in one of the many active adult communities in AZ. From tax advantages to lower monthly payments to rental opportunities, those who choose to own their property typically end up ahead financially. Partnering with an experienced real estate agent who knows the lay of the land can help you find the right community and home for you.

Retirement communities in Arizona for sale

The best 55+ communities in Arizona feature all different kinds of single family homes with multiple floor plans to choose from. This allows you to maintain your privacy, while still being part of a larger community. There are also plenty of new construction 55+ communities in Arizona that give you the opportunity to fully customize your dream retirement home.

Maximize your investment with property management

Even if you only plan to live in Arizona for a portion of the year, buying an over 55 home can still be incredibly beneficial. Working with a property management company allows you to rent out your home when you aren’t using it to cover any costs. They do all the heavy lifting so you don’t have to worry or manage any of the tricky details. Talk about a win-win!

As you can see, there are many reasons to enjoy this new chapter of life in one of the retirement communities in Arizona. Whether you’re just doing initial research or are ready to sign on the dotted line, this guide can help you navigate your big decision. Our team of agents are available to answer any questions you may have and provide insight from their firsthand experiences.

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