9 Best Places To Retire In Arizona
Settling down in Arizona can be an exhilarating and unique experience. Imagine the beauty of The Grand Canyon right in your backyard. Arizona's diverse landscape boasts impressive natural rock formations, rolling hills, and infinite canyons. It's time to embrace your inner night owl as the State is one of the best places to view the dazzling night stars and Milky Way galaxy. Besides yourself, it's also time to retire the winter coat and boots. You won't need them down here. Soak up the sun and breathe in that fresh Arizona air as you welcome this new chapter in your life.
Green Valley
If you venture 20 miles south of Tuscon, you will find yourself in the thriving neighborhood of Green Valley. This hotspot is a popular choice amongst retirees because of its affordability and flourishing senior community. Since most residents are 55+, you will fit right into the pleasurable atmosphere at Green Valley. Tuscon's positive proximity allows you to go back and forth between the quiet life and the hustle and bustle of a big city. Hop on the Sun Shuttle, a service that connects Green Valley to Tuscon.
Locals recommend enrolling in a Green Valley Recreation membership, your one-stop shop for excitement. Partake in aquatic exercise, stay fit through tennis, or challenge your friends at a billiard game. Art lovers can test their creative strengths at the Ceramics Club or Clay Studio. Once you are all tuckered out, kick back and enjoy a movie or attend a seasonal event. Nothing beats a cozy evening of Winter Cirque or a holiday orchestra performance to get you in the spirit. Green Valley Recreation promises to keep your calendar jam-packed.
Statistics on Zillow.com show that the average rent in Green Valley is around $1,900, which is $130 less than the national average. The overall cost of living in Green Valley is 8.8% lower than the average in Arizona, according to bestplaces.net. There are also plenty of assisted living options available, including top-rated options like The Villas and Silver Springs.
Sedona
Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers will fall in love with Sedona's stimulating atmosphere. With over 100 walking trails for all skill levels, it's the ultimate bucket list for dedicated hikers. If you prefer to see the area on wheels, Sedona has around 300 miles of biking trails. Rent a bike from Thunder Mountain Bikes, a top-rated one-stop shop in Sedona.
Seasoned adventurers can challenge themselves on the steep slopes of the Bear Mountain Trail. This rewarding trek offers panoramic views of Coconino National Forest with vast canyons that pan out for miles. Beginner hikers and families should head to the Bell Rock Trail, a 0.8-mile hike with striking views of the famous Arizona red rock formations. The Fay Canyon Trail is another ideal journey if you're short on time. This hike is just over two miles, offering similar scenery of the boulderous landscape. If your hiking shoes are out of order, you can also take a leisurely drive along the Red Rock Scenic Byway to still enjoy the breathtaking, diverse scenery.
Sedona has endless activities to keep your fitness level in check and your heart healthy. Experience the thrill of off-roading when you hop on a jeep tour through Pink Adventure Tours. Fly to new heights with a helicopter or hot air balloon tour. Gallop through the desert on horseback or glide your kayak through the flowing waters at Verde River. Regardless, bring your camera to snap pictures of these unforgettable memories.
Scottsdale
Go big or go home in Scottsdale, Arizona. Delve into the finer things in life with luxury accommodations and an upscale environment. Join the community at Maravilla Scottsdale for first-class retirement. Experience resort-style living as you mingle with other residents through Maravilla's lively social culture. Sign up for a wine-tasting event, make a new friend at Pilates, vibe with the live music, or embrace the Scottsdale scenery with the Maravilla hiking club. Indulge in gourmet, quality meals curated by culinary experts. The brandy-marinated rack of lamb with a lemongrass honey-lime sauce is a must-try. Many residents rave about Maravilla's high-class, quality, and comfortable living.
Living a world-class lifestyle should also come with top-tier healthcare. Scottsdale takes the crown for health and longevity. A study done by Wallethub shows that Scottsdale ranked number nine for the healthiest cities in the US. From specialty care clinics to quality hospitals, the city is a leader in healthcare. Scottsdale is proudly home to Mayo Clinic, a world-renowned and top-rated healthcare facility. With advanced technology and knowledgeable doctors, Mayo Clinic is a phenomenal choice for your medical needs.
Payson
Retirees who yearn for a slow-paced life and a milder climate should consider relocating to Payson. This charming Arizona town is hugged by Tonto National Forest, providing a quiet retreat for its residents. The lush greenery, flowing waters, and mountainous regions offer endless adventures. Unwind with a serene fishing session at Woods Canyon Lake. Take in the peaceful sounds of nature with a thrilling horseback riding session through Tonto National Forest. During your ride, you'll see the flourishing flora and fauna that calls Tonto home.
Payson is a top choice for those wanting to avoid the grueling desert heat. This quiet Arizona town experiences pleasant seasonal changes. Data on weatherspark.com shows that summers are warm with average temperatures ranging from 64°F to 91°F. Winter weather comes in cooler with average temperatures from 33°F to 60°F. These mild temperatures make Payson a phenomenal choice for year-round comfort.
Tucson
Retirement is a time to kick back and prioritize your overall well-being. Your passion for food may be a huge part of your life, but maybe you want to say goodbye to endless hours in the kitchen and the daunting cleanup. Tucson is a food lover's paradise for retirees where you are encouraged to eat your heart out. With the abundance of restaurants, you likely won't eat the same thing twice.
Tucson is a devoted culinary hub. The city's restaurants take pride in offering only the freshest ingredients that are locally sourced. From Mexican and seafood to vegan and Asian, there is a cuisine to satisfy every palate. Being a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, the area does not fall short of food-centered events. Oro Valley Fall Foodie & Art Festival, Soul Food Wednesday, Sabor ng Bayan, or the Vegan Night Market will keep your tummy full and heart happy. Experience the culinary world from its roots and support the local economy by visiting a farmer's market.
While Tucson has countless Michelin Stars restaurants, a trip to Le Rendez-vous is a must. Join them for a cozy evening with a romantic ambiance. One TripAdvisor guest raves that Le Rendez-vous dishes are as exquisite as the food in Paris, France. You will be pleased to know that all cuisines are spread around the city. There's no need to cross borders to indulge in fine Mexican delicacies. Tucson is known for its traditional Mexican fare. A stop at El Charro Cafe, the oldest Mexican restaurant in Tucson, is a must-try. Dig in to guacamole, enchilatas, fajitas, tacos, and chimichangas. Wash it all down with a margarita or refreshing cerveza. Olé!
Chandler
As you enter this new chapter in your life, you want to focus on lowering your stress levels. If personal safety is a concern, relocating to Chandler for a safe retreat is a wonderful choice. Statistics on areavibes.com show that the city has an astonishing 51% lower crime rate than the national average. The overall crime rate is 14% lower than the national average. Chandler receives an A- for safety according to crimegrade.org. The website also mentions that residents state the northeast area of the city is the safest.
If you would like to cross off another item on your list of worries, getting around the city is an easy feat. Chandler has an incredible public transportation system through Valley Metro. Traverse intercity, catch a trip to the airport, or effortlessly travel by bus, train, streetcar, or paratransit. Plan a thrilling day trip with routes to Phoenix, Mesa, or Scottsdale. Adults over 65 and those with disabilities can pay a reduced fare. A trip planner is available on the Valley Metro website to take the guesswork out of planning, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy.
Flagstaff
Golf enthusiasts will fall in love with the tranquil lifestyle Flagstaff has to offer. Become a member at Pine Canyon Golf Club, a top-rated luxury golf club. Put the day away and test your skills at the championship golf course. Meanwhile, bask in the sun and indulge in the lush surrounding scenery of the San Francisco mountains and ponderosa pine forests. For a more budget-friendly option, Continental Country Club is another fan favorite that's easy on the wallet.
Flagstaff is an ideal Arizona sanctuary if you yearn for seasonal changes. Data on weatherspark.com shows that the temperatures in Flagstaff range from 19.4°F to 80.6°F throughout the year. The summer typically experiences an average daily high of about 73.4°F, while winter sees an average daily high of around 50°F. Stick around from late September through mid-October, as Flagstaff is a prime hotspot for fall foliage. Some of the best places to journey are Arizona Snowbowl, The Arboretum, the downtown area, and Oak Creek Canyon. Bringing your camera is essential.
Prescott
Grab your cowboy boots and hat because you are heading to the Wild West. Prescott is an enchanting, historic old town perfect for retirees wanting a unique hideaway. There are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the area's rich history. The four-acre premises has 11 buildings loaded with exhibits, artifacts, and history. See early home life at the Bashford House, relax in the exquisite Rose Garden, and see a replica of the area's first school.
Prescott's downtown area is an iconic destination. Travel back in time as you explore Whiskey Row and pop into one of the many restored saloons. Check out Palace Restaurant & Saloon for a feel of the olden days. Just try not to involve yourself in a shootout. The downtown area is extremely walkable and you can spend the day wandering through many shops, art galleries, restaurants, and museums.
Williams
Any Arizona travel is not complete without seeing the majestic Grand Canyon. The city of Williams is coined as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon." Within an hour and 20 minutes, you can marvel at this natural masterpiece. If you stay past sunset, you can witness some pretty intense stargazing opportunities. Williams is also located on the famous Route 66, so a future road trip is in order. The city is also conveniently located around 40 minutes from Flagstaff if you're looking for those big city amenities.
If affordable living is your top priority, look no further than Williams. Citytistics.com rates the city as 72/100 for overall livability. The website states that the cost of living in the city is lower than the national average. Market trends on Zillow show that the average rental price in Williams is around $1,200, which is comparable to the average rent in Arizona of $2,000. Imagine what you can do with an extra $800 in your pocket.
Consider Arizona For Your Retirement
Arizona is an incredible place to call home. The diverse landscape is ideal for biking, hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. With varying elevations, you can either choose a city that's consistently warm or experiences seasonal changes. Live a life of luxury in Scottsdale, experience endless adventures in Sedona, or eat your way through Tucson. Choose Flagstaff for that slow-paced golfer's paradise, or ditch the car in Chandler for its incredible public transport. You also can not go wrong with affordable living in Green Valley which takes pride in providing for its majority senior residents. Regardless of the choice you make, you'll find peace in Arizona.
