Retirement Communities in AZ

Snowbird Rentals Arizona

Arizona is a popular winter snowbird destination for retirees looking to get out of the cold and soak up some sunshine. Luckily, there are a wide variety of options for snowbird rentals in Arizona. If you are considering spending your winters in the sunny desert, read through this guide to learn more about what the weather is actually like, the different things to do around the state, and how to find the perfect rental property for you and what’s available in some of the retirement communities in AZ.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What is Arizona winter like?

If you’ve never experienced an Arizona winter, you’re in for a real treat. In fact, you’ll probably wonder what took you so long to get here! With no snow in sight and plenty of sunny days, it’s no wonder that winter vacation rentals in Arizona have become so popular. Of course, it can get a little chilly during December and January, but it’s nothing compared to those cold Midwestern winters! Our average daytime temperatures are in the mid 70’s and it typically only drops into the 50’s at night. We like to call it perfection!

Whether you choose to drive over from a neighboring state or need to fly in from somewhere a bit further, it’s relatively easy to get to Arizona – especially since you don’t have to worry about icy roads or snow days cancelling flights. And once you get to the desert, there are plenty of activities and events to keep you occupied.

Things to do in Arizona

One of the key considerations for renting or buying winter homes in Arizona is what you’ll actually spend time doing once you get there! If you like to get out and about, you won’t be disappointed by all of the options available in Arizona. From golf and sports to fine arts and food, there are plenty of activities to keep your calendar full.

Whether you’re looking at one of the many Mesa snowbird rentals or prefer to be in the North Phoenix area, there are a lot of different options all around the state to get out and meet people in one of the many over-50 retirement communities in Arizona.

Golf

Golf is one of the most popular activities in all of Arizona – and with good reason. There are multiple top rated golf courses all around the state, often included as an amenity in many of the different retirement communities in Arizona.

As you’re considering different winter monthly rentals in Arizona, look at which courses are nearby or even on the property. For example, snowbird vacation rentals in Mesa, AZ have access to courses like the Arizona Golf Resort or the Desert Sands Golf Course among many others. Meanwhile, over in Sun City, you have access to over 8 courses right in the neighborhood.

As you’re looking at different cities such as Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale or Apache Junction for your snowbird rental destination, make sure you find out if golf course access is included in your rental fee or if there is a separate membership fee that you’ll have to pay to play. This could be a deciding factor between different communities if you love the sport.

Outdoor Activities

In addition to golf, snowbird communities in Arizona have many other outdoor activities to help you stay active. Bocce ball, shuffleboard, community pools, hot tubs, tennis courts and walking trails are a staple at most retirement communities. Getting out and enjoying these amenities not only keeps you healthy, it can also help you meet your neighbors and make connections.

Pick up a game of couples pickleball at the tennis courts and then head over to one of the swimming pools to cool off, or soak your sore muscles in the hot tub. With all the amenities offered at the many snowbird rentals in Arizona, it’s easy to spend time on fun activities that keep you healthy and agile. After all, you rarely have bad weather as an excuse not to get outside!

Gardens

Another way to enjoy the outdoors in Arizona is to check out some of the gorgeous gardens around the state. In the Phoenix metro area, you have access to the Desert Botanical Garden and the Japanese Friendship Garden, while snowbird rentals in Mesa, AZ are nice and close to the Rose Garden at Mesa Community College.

Some retirement communities even have community garden space where you can work on developing your own green thumb. While plants and greenery might not be the first thing that come to mind when you think of Arizona, these opportunities to spend time enjoying nature should not be missed!

Restaurants

Skip the trip to the grocery store and check out some of Arizona’s restaurants. Of course, there are tons of options for Mexican food throughout the state, but that’s not all that’s available. Arizona is home to award-winning chefs cooking up all different kinds of cuisines. You’ll never be bored with the variety of great restaurants available around every corner.

Don’t forget to ask if you can give your compliments to the chef after your meal. Many of the best restaurants in town are locally owned, giving you a chance to learn more about the inspiration and intention behind each dish.

Museums

Another great way to soak up some culture in Arizona is to visit some of the many museums throughout the state. Snowbird rentals in Phoenix, AZ are close to world class museums like the Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum downtown, the Western Spirit museum in Scottsdale or the Musical Instrument Museum near Desert Ridge.

Spend a day learning about Native American history or learn a new fact about your favorite instrument. There’s never been a more fun way to learn and expand your horizons.

National Landmarks

Monthly vacation rentals in Arizona are also popular for folks who want to soak in the scenery. People travel from all over the United States to see the national landmarks throughout the state, so make sure you don’t miss out while you’re here! At the top of this list is the Grand Canyon – it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world after all!

You should also check out Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon if you’re ready to be awe-inspired. While you’re there, you could book a boat tour at Lake Powell for an unforgettable experience or even rent a houseboat for the weekend.

If you’re looking for great hiking trails, check out some of the options along the Colorado river for a cool way to see the sights. Arizona is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country, and there are plenty of options for beginners and experienced hikers alike!

Events and Festivals

In addition to all the great destinations throughout the state, there are plenty of events and festivals that roll through town. Many major (and smaller) artists host shows at the different concert venues throughout Arizona so you can get your groove on. Charity events are another staple of the Arizona social scene. Each year nationally recognized events like the Rock N’ Roll Marathon, Pat’s Run, Heart Ball, and Celebrity Fight Night give you a chance to do good while having some fun.

In addition to the major events during the year, many of the communities with monthly rentals in Arizona also regularly host farmers markets, art festivals, and food and wine festivals. These are a fun way to get out and find a new favorite local vendor. You can pick up a gift for your friends and family back home, or grab a great new art piece for your rental home.

Sports Events

Sports fans will appreciate all the opportunities to cheer for the home team in Arizona. The Phoenix Suns basketball team and Diamondbacks baseball team both have great arenas downtown. In Glendale, you have the Cardinals football team and the Coyotes hockey team. No matter where you’re renting, you can easily catch a game.

Spring training season is also a ton of fun! With 15 teams practicing for the season in the state, there are lots of chances to go to a game and grab a hot dog.

Fine Arts Events

Phoenix rentals for snowbirds also give you access to plenty of other art venues like the opera, symphony, the ballet, and multiple theatres. Or if you’re considering winter vacation rentals in Mesa, AZ, make sure you check out the various concerts and events at Mesa Arts Center. The Chandler Center for the Arts also hosts great events, and ASU Gammage features traveling acts from all around the country. Access to amazing music, plays and more is never more than a few minutes away.

Day Trips

Another benefit of winter rentals in Arizona is that you can easily take day trips to historic towns all over the state. Check out the stunning red rocks in Sedona and then head over to the haunted city of Jerome for a day of quirky fun. You can’t miss Flagstaff and all the wonderful outdoor activities it has to offer. Lake Havasu City is also a must visit with plenty of activities to help you relax and have fun along the waterfront.
There’s also lots to do down south in Tucson, from outdoor activities to casinos to science attractions. While you’re in that area, head over to Bisbee for a day of artsy fun. Arizona has so much history and culture to share just 2 -3 hours away from the Phoenix Metro Area.

Snowbird Rentals in Arizona

If life in Arizona sounds like your definition of happily ever after, then it’s time to start exploring snowbird rentals in Arizona. Whether you plan on coming for just the season or want to make the Grand Canyon State your permanent home, there are plenty of options for cheap snowbird rentals in Arizona.

Whether you’re looking at an Arizona winter rental condo, a mobile home retirement community in one of the RV parks or a single family home in one of the 55+ communities, working with an experienced real estate agent can help you zero in on your dream home.

Read: Retiring in Arizona Pros and Cons

Renting vs. Owning

If you’re considering a more permanent move, you may also want to give some thought to actually owning a home in one of the many snowbird communities in Arizona. As with everything in life, there are different pros and cons to renting vs owning your home.

Renting one of the Arizona snowbird rentals by owner gives you some flexibility to figure out which community is the best fit for you. Or, if you want, you can try out other cities to make sure Arizona is where you really want to spend your golden years. On the other hand, 55+ vacation rentals in Arizona can become a bit expensive, with prices increasing every year. You also don’t have the opportunity to update or customize your house to make sure it really feels like home.

Owning your home gives you an opportunity to invest in Arizona’s thriving real estate market. This can be a great financial opportunity to make your money work for you versus simply spending it on rent. If you plan on living in Arizona part time, you can also partner with a property management company to rent out your home when you aren’t using it to make some immediate cash back.

No matter which route you take, your retirement years in Arizona are sure to be full of fun activities, great company, delicious food and plenty of sunshine.

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