8 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Arizona

Arizona takes pride in being the home of the Grand Canyon, one of the most beautiful national parks in the US, which is where its nickname, “the Grand Canyon State,” was derived. It is also known for its hot and dry climate, but since temperatures vary across the state, it is a year-round outdoor playground for residents and visitors alike. Slowly, Arizona has also become one of the best retirement destinations, with its reasonable cost of living, beautiful scenery, tax-friendliness, and vibrant culture being among the top reasons for moving there. It is the second state where retirees are moving, with 25,090 senior newcomers as of 2021.

The Grand Canyon State offers many senior-friendly places to retire, and cities like Mesa and Scottsdale are among the most popular spots. Still, nothing beats spending your golden years in a small town, where you will be near mountain vistas, gorgeous landscapes, scenic drives, and some of the most incredible hiking trails. Here are the most affordable towns in Arizona to retire in.

Florence

On the Gila River, Florence, between Tucson and Phoenix, is known for its breathtaking mountain views and endless outdoor recreational opportunities. Its cost of living is affordable compared to other popular spots like Tucson, and on average, one can buy a home for $365,000, which is lower than Arizona’s median of $435,000. Moreover, Florence also has a significant number of seniors, who make up 18.51% of the entire population.

Retirees can head to the Pinal County Historical Museum to learn about the fascinating history of Pinal County, which is well preserved and presented through incredible exhibitions and educational programming. You can also get an insight into the Arizona territory period at the McFarland State Historic Park, which is situated in downtown Florence and features a courthouse as well as other preserved buildings dating back to that era. Meanwhile, outdoorsy seniors can enjoy golfing at Three Parks Fairways Clubhouse. The challenging 9-hole course is a great option for retirees who want to enhance their skills.

Wellton

An affordable retirement is something older adults will enjoy when they choose to relocate to Wellton, whose homes are valued at $300,000 on average. The town’s quiet atmosphere, beautiful sunrises, and the impressive surroundings of the Gila Mountains have been a major draw for folks looking for a peaceful place to relax.

Retirees can take advantage of a great mix of challenging and friendly golfing experiences at Coyote Wash Golf Course, which boasts 18 holes of golf. Whereas High Tanks Brewing Company is the place to enjoy tasty craft brews and delicious food made from scratch, served in a breathtaking desert setting, with friends.

Somerton

Somerton, about 11 miles from Yuma, is a vibrant small town rich in Hispanic culture and boasts a peaceful atmosphere that seniors will appreciate. The town’s Desert Valley Senior Center is committed to enhancing the well-being of older adults through physical activities, field trips, games, singing, dancing, and arts & crafts.

Seniors can play golf at the nearby Cocopah RV and Golf Resort, which comes with a swimming pool where they can relax. There is also an option to take a craft class or play shuffleboard with friends at the golf resort. Moreover, history buffs and culture enthusiast retirees will enjoy the amazing exhibits at the Cocopah Museum and Cultural Center, featuring musical instruments, pottery, and traditional tattoo designs, as well as the Cocopah Warrior’s display. Golden agers will also find it very affordable to become homeowners in Somerton, as home value averages $296,300.

Bisbee

The southeastern Arizona town of Bisbee was once known for being one of the richest mining communities in America. It also happens to be one of the most affordable towns to retire in Arizona, and on average, a senior can only spend $325,000. Retirees can take a tour of the Copper Queen Mine to get the real story of the town’s mining history. These tours are led by the very people who participated as copper miners, and they offer first-hand accounts.

Seniors can also partake in conversations over an amazing beer collection at Old Bisbee Brewing Company, known for its award-winning craft beers made using local ingredients, including the Sonoran mountain limes and native hops. Furthermore, Bisbee is home to Bisbee Senior Center, a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the health and overall well-being of retirees. There is an incredible variety of activities they can participate in, including exercise classes, field trips, and enjoyable games like bingo.

Springerville

Springerville is a great retirement option for golden agers looking for a small mountain town with a country vibe. It is a very affordable place, and becoming a homeowner will not cost much for seniors as homes are valued at $337,500, which is cheaper than the state median. Its spectacular scenery of mountains, lush forests, and canyons make it one of the most beautiful towns you can retire in Arizona. It also means endless outdoor recreational opportunities, ranging from hiking to horseback riding to camping and biking in the White Mountains.

The town is home to Round Valley Community Services and Senior Center, which offers social activities and delivers meals to retirees. If you love golf, you can hit the road for the Alpine Golf and Country Club in Alpine, only 32.3 miles away. Camping with friends at Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which is home to more than 400 wildlife species, including big game animals like the bighorn sheep, deer, and elk, is another great option. Retirees can also head to Junk & Java, which specializes in coffee, espressos, and antiques, and catch up with fellow mates.

Douglas

On the Mexican border, Douglas is one of the most affordable towns in Arizona to retire in, thanks to a low home value, which hovers at $182,500, as well as amazing perks that would appeal to most seniors. CQCH Douglas Primary Care Clinic and Pima Heart Hospital are the town’s primary health facilities, making care accessible to all.

An amazing golfing experience awaits at Douglas Golf Club & RV Park, an 18-hole golf course that dates back to 1995 and is known for its high-quality facilities. The Art Car World is one of the best spots in town to visit with grandkids to explore some of the funkiest cars on the globe. Seniors interested in arts can discover the town’s vibrant art scene at the Gallery and then stock up on home needs at Douglas Homespun Market.

Eagar

Eagar’s senior-centric initiative puts it on the map for retirees to consider. Its “Save Our Seniors” program is dedicated to helping homebound and/or disabled older adults enjoy peace of mind through a variety of home-based care services with the help of volunteers. Furthermore, listing $385,000 as the amount to buy a house, which is well below the state average, with healthcare services easily accessible at the local facilities, including Summit Healthcare Family Medicine, the town is surely a catch.

Eagar's small-town charm is very welcoming, and the year-round warm climate allows retirees to enjoy the region’s great outdoors. Retirees can make the most of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which is incredibly scenic and offers impressive wildlife spotting opportunities. Stretching your legs on Ramsey Park’s walking path is another good idea. The park also boasts a fishing spot, a skate park, and a splash pad. In winter, unforgettable skiing experiences await at the nearby Sunrise Park Resort, just about half an hour away.

Sierra Vista

Sierra Vista, about 80 miles southeast of Tucson, is bordered by some of the tallest peaks above 10,000 feet, which makes it a great retirement destination for seniors who want picturesque mountain vistas and outdoor recreation. Retirees can afford a typical home for $315,000, lower than the national average. If additional care and help are required, then you need not worry, as the town is home to some great assisted living facilities like Via Elegante Assisted Living Sierra Vista Highlands and Hummingbird Senior Resort Living.

Meanwhile, Sierra Vista’s Parks and Recreation division runs an Active Adults Program, which offers a variety of activities, games, and hobbies for seniors. The nearby San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area, which has amazing wildlife spotting, picnicking, and hiking opportunities, provides opportunities for retirees to remain active. Hiking the easy Brown Canyon Ranch House Loop for a peak at the historic ranch at the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains is a good activity to undertake with friends.

Arizona is a beautiful retirement spot, which comes with many options to choose from, and while Mesa and Scottsdale are among the top spots where retirees relocate to, the most affordable towns to retire in Arizona guarantee amazing lifestyles. From the amazing historical charm of Florence to Sierra Vista’s endless mountain vistas and outdoor recreation, the Grand Canyon State’s small towns are a retiree's dream come true.