Warm weather, tax perks, and endless recreation make Arizona a retiree’s paradise—find out which cities offer the best lifestyle for your golden years.
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ST. PAUL, MN
– Arizona is a top retirement destination, offering retirees warm weather, scenic landscapes, and favorable tax policies. With its flat income tax rate of 2.5% and a property tax rate of 0.63%—one of the lowest in the nation—Arizona also lacks estate and inheritance taxes, making it financially appealing for those in their golden years. Here are nine of the best places to retire across the state, each with unique features and amenities.
Don’t miss the video Jack and I made at the bottom of this post – Arizona is soooo pretty!
9. Paradise Valley
Located just outside Phoenix, Paradise Valley is known for its stunning Sonoran Desert views, mountain scenery, and lush golf courses. This upscale community provides a quiet, rural atmosphere with quick access to city amenities.
Although the cost of living is high—land starts at around $899,000, and homes at $1.5 million—residents appreciate the beauty and tranquility. Paradise Valley offers an ideal blend of seclusion and convenience, making it a coveted retirement spot.
8. Yuma
Known as the sunniest city on Earth, Yuma enjoys over 4,000 hours of sunshine annually, translating to about 11 hours of sun each day. Positioned along the Colorado River, Yuma offers ample water activities, including fishing, boating, and paddleboarding.
Additionally, its three wildlife refuges—Cibola, Imperial, and Kofa—cover over 1,000 square miles, providing one of the nation’s largest protected habitats. Yuma’s sunny climate and access to nature make it a unique retirement destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Sedona
Sedona stands out for its vibrant arts community, with over 80 galleries showcasing a variety of art forms. The town hosts First Friday in the Galleries, a free monthly event that brings residents together to celebrate local art.
Retirees also have access to over 400 miles of hiking and biking trails, wilderness areas, and nearby wineries on the Verde Valley Wine Trail. Sedona’s dining scene emphasizes local ingredients, while events like the annual Winefest attract both residents and tourists.
6. Flagstaff
For retirees who crave seasonal changes, Flagstaff offers four distinct seasons with an average of 108 inches of annual snowfall. Located 7,000 feet above sea level, Flagstaff enjoys mild summer temperatures and is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.
Arizona Snowbowl, with 55 ski runs and eight lifts, and the Arizona Nordic Village offer abundant winter sports options. Flagstaff combines mountain-town charm with year-round recreation, making it a top pick for retirees seeking diverse weather.
5. Sun City
One of Arizona’s largest 55+ communities, Sun City hosts around 60,000 retired residents. Conveniently located near Phoenix and Scottsdale, it’s designed to be self-contained, with healthcare, shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
Sun City maintains a low annual assessment of $575 per property and has eight recreation centers, eight golf courses, and an outdoor amphitheater. Notably, this unincorporated area in Maricopa County lacks sales and school taxes, keeping overall costs low for residents.
4. Tucson
Tucson attracts retirees with its warm climate, affordable housing, and proximity to Saguaro National Park. In May 2024, the median home price was $380,000—below the national average. The city is home to 55+ retirement communities, ensuring options for active adults.
Tucson’s dark-sky policies help preserve night views for stargazing, while the nearby Santa Catalina Mountains provide ample outdoor activities. With its lower cost of living and access to nature, Tucson offers retirees a comfortable lifestyle.
3. Scottsdale
Known for its art and food scene, Scottsdale features over 800 dining options and a weekly ArtWalk in the historic district. The city has over 200 golf courses and abundant nightlife options in Old Town Scottsdale. Retirees can explore diverse recreational activities like hiking, river rafting, and horseback riding.
Scottsdale also embraces the growing pickleball trend, with one of the world’s largest pickleball facilities slated to open in 2025. With its upscale lifestyle and amenities, Scottsdale is a dynamic choice for retirees.
2. Tempe
Tempe is an active, age-friendly community recognized by the AARP Network. Downtown Tempe offers local restaurants, shops, theaters, and waterfront activities at Tempe Town Lake.
Sports fans benefit from nearby stadiums and proximity to teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns. Tempe’s relaxed yet lively atmosphere, combined with its focus on inclusivity, makes it a well-rounded retirement option.
1. Phoenix
Phoenix, also known as the “Valley of the Sun,” attracts retirees with its 300 days of sunshine, creating an environment for year-round activities like golfing and hiking. The area has over 200 golf courses and unique outdoor spots such as Papago Park, which features hiking trails, mountain biking, and the Desert Botanical Garden.
With an average home price of around $622,730, Phoenix tends to draw retirees looking for urban amenities and a vibrant community life. Condo options in downtown Phoenix provide urban living with access to arts, markets, and dining.
Arizona: A Top Choice for Retirees
Arizona’s varied landscapes and retirement communities cater to a range of lifestyles, from serene desert living to active, age-friendly neighborhoods. With tax benefits, sunny weather, and abundant recreation, Arizona remains a top choice for retirees.
VIDEO: The 9 Best Places to Retire in Arizona!
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