When I set out to find the best retirement spots in Arizona, I wanted to evaluate them based on seven criteria that matter most to retirees. I’ve assessed each town on Cost of Buying a Home, Healthcare Access, Weather, Cultural Activities, Outdoor Activities, Crime Rate, and Airport Proximity. My evaluations compare each location against other Arizona towns to give you meaningful insights within the same region.
The grades I’ve assigned (ranging from A+ to D-) are my subjective assessments based on research and comparative analysis. I’ve listed towns in numerical order from 1 to 25 rather than by alphabetical order. Remember that my grades are relative to other Arizona towns, not compared nationally. Here’s the list.
Here’s the list.
1. Apache Junction
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: C
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: C+
- Airport Proximity: B
I found that Apache Junction offers excellent mortgage affordability compared to many Phoenix suburbs, making it attractive for retirees on a budget. The median home price hovers around $275,000, significantly lower than nearby areas, allowing for comfortable retirement living without breaking the bank.
While I noticed cultural activities are somewhat limited, the outdoor recreational opportunities are abundant with the Superstition Mountains providing a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploration. The town is about 35 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and has several medical clinics, though residents typically travel to Mesa (15 minutes away) for major healthcare needs.
Three main activities:
- Birdwatching in the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
- Visiting historical military sites at Fort Huachuca
- Exploring nearby Kartchner Caverns State Park
- Hiking the Superstition Mountains
- Visiting Goldfield Ghost Town
- Enjoying Lost Dutchman State Park
2. Bisbee
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: C-
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: C-
I was charmed by Bisbee’s unique artistic community and historic character set in the Mule Mountains. Median home prices are reasonable at around $300,000, offering good value for homebuyers interested in historic properties or homes with character rather than cookie-cutter developments.
I discovered the town boasts exceptional cultural activities with its thriving arts scene, galleries, and yearly festivals, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy moderate hiking and birdwatching opportunities. However, I found healthcare access is limited with just a small medical center in town, and the nearest major airport is Tucson International, about 100 miles away.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the historic Copper Queen Mine
- Attending First Friday Art Walk
- Strolling through the well-preserved Victorian Old Town
3. Buckeye
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: C
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
I found that Buckeye stands out for its combination of affordability and growth potential as Phoenix’s westernmost suburb. The median home price of approximately $350,000 makes securing a home loan more manageable than in many parts of the Phoenix metro area, and new developments continue to provide fresh housing options.
While I noticed cultural amenities are still developing, the White Tank Mountains offer excellent hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities for active retirees. The town is about 45 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and though it has some medical facilities, I learned most residents travel to the western Phoenix suburbs for specialized healthcare.
Three main activities:
- Hiking in the White Tank Mountain Regional Park
- Golfing at one of several local courses
- Experiencing the annual Buckeye Air Fair
4. Carefree
- Cost of Buying a Home: D+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B
I believe Carefree lives up to its name with a peaceful, upscale atmosphere that appeals to affluent retirees seeking tranquility and beautiful desert surroundings. With median home prices exceeding $900,000, I found that getting a mortgage could be expensive, placing it among Arizona’s pricier retirement destinations.
The town offers a nice blend of cultural amenities with its art galleries and the renowned Carefree Desert Gardens, plus excellent access to outdoor activities in the nearby mountains. Healthcare services are conveniently located in neighboring Scottsdale (20 minutes away), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a reasonable 40-minute drive.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the Carefree Desert Gardens
- Attending art shows and festivals at the Carefree Sundial
- Hiking in nearby Cave Creek Regional Park
5. Catalina
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: C
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: C-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
I found Catalina offers a peaceful retreat at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, perfect for nature-loving retirees. The median home price of around $325,000 provides reasonable mortgage affordability compared to nearby Tucson, making it attractive for retirees seeking natural beauty without breaking the bank.
Cultural activities are limited in this small community, but I was impressed by the magnificent outdoor recreational opportunities in the nearby Coronado National Forest that more than compensate. The town is about 30 minutes from Tucson and its international airport, while basic healthcare services are available in nearby Oro Valley (10 minutes away).
Three main activities:
- Hiking in Catalina State Park
- Birdwatching in the Santa Catalina Mountains
- Exploring nearby Mt. Lemmon
6. Cave Creek
- Cost of Buying a Home: D
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
I discovered that Cave Creek delivers an authentic Western experience with its rustic charm and cowboy heritage that attracts retirees looking for character. The median home price of approximately $750,000 means that a home loan could be quite expensive, positioning this town among the premium retirement destinations in the Phoenix area.
The town offers a delightful mix of Western-themed cultural activities, art galleries, and local events, plus I found exceptional outdoor recreation in the surrounding desert landscape. Healthcare facilities are available in nearby Scottsdale (25 minutes away), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport can be reached in about 45 minutes.
Three main activities:
- Attending rodeos and Western events
- Exploring Cave Creek Regional Park
- Shopping at local art galleries and Western stores
7. Cottonwood
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B-
- Airport Proximity: C
I found Cottonwood serves as an ideal gateway to Arizona’s wine country and Verde Valley attractions while maintaining reasonable living costs for retirees. The median home price of around $350,000 offers good value compared to nearby Sedona, presenting attractive options for homeownership in this scenic area.
The town has developed a growing cultural scene centered around its historic Old Town district and emerging wineries, while the nearby Verde River and mountains offer abundant outdoor activities. Verde Valley Medical Center provides decent healthcare access, though the nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor, about 90 minutes away.
Three main activities:
- Wine tasting at local vineyards
- Exploring Old Town Cottonwood
- Visiting nearby Tuzigoot National Monument
8. Flagstaff
- Cost of Buying a Home: D+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: C+
- Airport Proximity: B+
I found that Flagstaff offers a unique mountain town experience with four distinct seasons, standing in contrast to Arizona’s typical desert climate. The median home price of approximately $650,000 means that obtaining a mortgage could be expensive, reflecting the premium paid for the cooler climate and mountain setting.
The city boasts exceptional cultural activities with its university influence, historic downtown, and numerous festivals, plus I discovered world-class outdoor recreation in the surrounding Coconino National Forest. Flagstaff Medical Center provides excellent healthcare services, and the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport offers convenient regional flights, with Phoenix being about 2.5 hours away by car.
Three main activities:
- Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl in winter
- Exploring the historic downtown district
- Hiking in the San Francisco Peaks
9. Fountain Hills
- Cost of Buying a Home: D
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B
I was impressed by Fountain Hills with its iconic fountain and upscale community designed around scenic beauty and golf courses. The median home price of around $700,000 puts it on the expensive side for homebuyers, making it better suited for retirees with substantial savings or home equity from previous properties.
The town offers a good mix of cultural activities with its art festivals and community events, along with excellent outdoor recreation opportunities in the nearby McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Healthcare facilities are available in neighboring Scottsdale (20 minutes away), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is approximately 30 minutes by car.
Three main activities:
- Viewing the world-famous fountain
- Golfing at premier desert courses
- Hiking in McDowell Mountain Regional Park
10. Gold Canyon
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: C
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
I found Gold Canyon captivates with its stunning Superstition Mountain views and peaceful desert setting away from the hustle of larger cities. The median home price of approximately $450,000 represents middle-ground affordability for the Phoenix metro area, with many properties offering mountain or golf course views.
While not known for abundant cultural activities, I discovered the area excels in outdoor recreation with proximity to the Superstition Wilderness and several golf courses. Basic healthcare services are available in nearby Apache Junction (10 minutes away), with more comprehensive care in Mesa (25 minutes), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 45 minutes by car.
Three main activities:
- Golfing at Gold Canyon Golf Resort
- Hiking in the Superstition Wilderness
- Photography of desert landscapes
11. Green Valley
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B-
I found Green Valley stands out as one of Arizona’s premier retirement communities specifically designed with seniors in mind. The median home price of around $275,000 offers excellent mortgage affordability, with numerous adult communities featuring amenities tailored to retirees’ needs and preferences.
The town provides a wealth of organized activities for retirees through recreation centers and social clubs, plus good access to outdoor recreation in the nearby Santa Rita Mountains. Green Valley Hospital offers convenient healthcare services, and Tucson International Airport is approximately 25 miles north, providing reasonable travel access.
Three main activities:
- Golfing at multiple community courses
- Participating in organized recreation center activities
- Hiking in Madera Canyon
12. Lake Havasu City
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: C+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: C-
I discovered Lake Havasu City offers an attractive waterfront lifestyle centered around its namesake lake and the relocated London Bridge. The median home price of approximately $400,000 provides reasonable value for homeowners seeking waterfront or water-view properties, which would cost substantially more in California or Florida.
While cultural activities are somewhat limited, I found the abundant water recreation opportunities on Lake Havasu make this a paradise for boating enthusiasts and water lovers. Havasu Regional Medical Center provides basic healthcare services, though the nearest major airport is in Las Vegas, approximately 2.5 hours away.
Three main activities:
- Boating and water sports on Lake Havasu
- Visiting the historic London Bridge
- Exploring nearby desert trails
13. Marana
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: C+
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
I saw that Marana offers a growing community with newer developments and amenities northwest of Tucson. The median home price of around $400,000 represents moderate value for the Tucson area, with many master-planned communities featuring golf courses and other amenities that appeal to retired homeowners.
The town has limited cultural offerings but makes up for it with good outdoor recreation options including hiking and several golf courses. Healthcare services are available through Marana Health Center, with more comprehensive care in nearby Tucson (25 minutes), and Tucson International Airport is about 30 minutes away.
Three main activities:
- Golfing at The Gallery Golf Club or other courses
- Hiking in the Tortolita Mountains
- Shopping at Tucson Premium Outlets
14. Oro Valley
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B-
I found Oro Valley appeals to retirees with its upscale, safe community atmosphere and stunning mountain views just north of Tucson. The median home price of approximately $450,000 places it in the middle range for the Tucson metro area, with many properties in well-maintained golf communities.
The town offers decent cultural amenities including the Gaslight Music Hall and several art galleries, plus excellent outdoor activities with multiple golf courses and proximity to Catalina State Park. Oro Valley Hospital provides good healthcare access, and Tucson International Airport is about 30 minutes away.
Three main activities:
- Golfing at one of several championship courses
- Hiking in Catalina State Park
- Visiting the Oro Valley Aquatic Center
15. Payson
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A+
- Cultural Activities: C
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: D+
I believe Payson offers the perfect escape from desert heat with its location in Arizona’s scenic Rim Country at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The median home price of around $400,000 represents good value considering the cooler climate and natural beauty, making it an attractive option for retirees seeking mortgage affordability outside the desert.
While cultural activities are somewhat limited, I found the outdoor recreational opportunities are exceptional with the surrounding Tonto National Forest offering fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Banner Payson Medical Center provides basic healthcare services, though the town is relatively isolated, with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport being about 1.5 hours away.
Three main activities:
- Fishing in the nearby lakes and streams
- Hiking in the Mogollon Rim area
- Attending the annual Payson Rodeo
16. Peoria
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
I found Peoria combines suburban comfort with good amenities in the northwest Phoenix metropolitan area. The median home price of approximately $450,000 represents middle-range affordability for the Phoenix area, with newer developments in northern Peoria offering modern amenities popular with retirees.
The city provides good cultural amenities including the Arizona Broadway Theatre and Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, plus outdoor recreation at Lake Pleasant Regional Park. Several hospitals and medical centers ensure excellent healthcare access, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 30-40 minutes away depending on the part of town.
Three main activities:
- Boating at Lake Pleasant
- Attending performances at Arizona Broadway Theatre
- Watching spring training baseball games
17. Prescott
- Cost of Buying a Home: C-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
I was enchanted by Prescott with its historic downtown, mild four-season climate, and mountain setting that many retirees find ideal. The median home price of around $550,000 has increased significantly in recent years, making home loan applications more challenging than in the past for those on fixed incomes.
The city offers excellent cultural amenities with its historic Whiskey Row, numerous museums, and active arts scene, plus outstanding outdoor recreation in the surrounding Prescott National Forest. Yavapai Regional Medical Center provides good healthcare services, and Prescott Regional Airport offers limited commercial flights, with Phoenix being about 2 hours away by car.
Three main activities:
- Exploring historic Courthouse Square
- Hiking in the Granite Dells
- Kayaking or fishing on the Prescott lakes
18. Prescott Valley
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: C+
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: C+
I discovered Prescott Valley offers a more affordable alternative to neighboring Prescott while still providing access to the region’s ideal climate and natural beauty. The median home price of approximately $425,000 provides better mortgage affordability than Prescott proper, with newer developments and more modern infrastructure.
The town has growing cultural amenities including the Prescott Valley Event Center, though most residents head to Prescott (10 minutes away) for more robust cultural experiences, while still enjoying good access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding area. Healthcare services are available through the Prescott Valley campus of Yavapai Regional Medical Center, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 1.5 hours away by car.
Three main activities:
- Attending events at the Prescott Valley Event Center
- Exploring Glassford Hill
- Shopping at Prescott Gateway Mall
19. Scottsdale
- Cost of Buying a Home: D-
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A-
I found Scottsdale epitomizes luxury desert living with its upscale resorts, world-class golf courses, and vibrant cultural scene that attracts affluent retirees. The median home price exceeds $850,000 in most areas, making getting a home loan potentially expensive and placing it among Arizona’s most exclusive retirement destinations.
The city boasts exceptional cultural amenities including numerous art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues, plus excellent outdoor activities with the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and countless golf courses. Healthcare services are outstanding with the Mayo Clinic and numerous specialized medical facilities, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is conveniently located just 20 minutes away.
Three main activities:
- Exploring Old Town Scottsdale’s art galleries
- Golfing at championship courses
- Hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
20. Sedona
- Cost of Buying a Home: D-
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C
I was captivated by Sedona with its breathtaking red rock formations and spiritual atmosphere that draws retirees seeking natural beauty and an artistic community. The median home price hovers around $900,000, making homeownership a significant investment and challenging for many retirees without substantial savings or equity.
The town offers outstanding cultural amenities with numerous art galleries, wellness centers, and spiritual retreats, plus world-class outdoor recreation with countless hiking trails through the stunning red rock landscape. Healthcare services are somewhat limited with a small medical center in town, though Flagstaff medical facilities are about 45 minutes away, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is approximately 2 hours by car.
Three main activities:
- Hiking among the red rocks
- Visiting Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
- Taking jeep tours through the canyons
21. Show Low
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: C
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: D+
I found Show Low provides an appealing mountain retreat in Arizona’s White Mountains with four distinct seasons and cool summer temperatures. The median home price of around $350,000 offers good mortgage affordability for a mountain town, attracting retirees who want to escape the desert heat without breaking the bank.
While cultural activities are somewhat limited, I discovered the outdoor recreational opportunities are exceptional with nearby lakes, forests, and the Mogollon Rim providing fishing, hiking, and camping. Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center provides adequate healthcare services, though the town is relatively isolated, with Phoenix being about 3.5 hours away by car.
Three main activities:
- Fishing at nearby lakes
- Hiking in the White Mountains
- Visiting the Hon-Dah Casino
22. Sierra Vista
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: C+
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C
I found Sierra Vista attracts retirees with its affordable living costs and pleasant year-round climate in southeastern Arizona. The median home price of approximately $250,000 offers excellent mortgage affordability compared to most Arizona retirement destinations, making it particularly appealing to military retirees from nearby Fort Huachuca.
The city provides decent cultural amenities with its performing arts center and military museums, plus good outdoor recreation in the nearby Huachuca Mountains and Coronado National Forest. I discovered that Canyon Vista Medical Center offers good healthcare services, though the nearest major airport is in Tucson, about 75 minutes away.
Three main activities:
- Bird watching in Ramsey Canyon Preserve (known as the “Hummingbird Capital”)
- Exploring the military history at Fort Huachuca Museum
- Hiking the scenic trails in Coronado National Forest
23. Sun City
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
I found Sun City stands as the original age-restricted retirement community in Arizona, designed specifically for active seniors wanting resort-style amenities. The median home price of approximately $300,000 offers remarkable mortgage affordability for the Phoenix area, especially considering the amenities and services included in the community.
The community provides numerous organized activities through recreation centers, clubs, and golf courses, creating a social atmosphere I believe is ideal for retirees. Banner Boswell Medical Center specializes in geriatric care right in the community, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is approximately 40 minutes away by car.
Three main activities:
- Golfing at one of seven courses within the community
- Participating in recreation center activities and clubs
- Attending performances at the Sun Bowl amphitheater
24. Tubac
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: C-
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
I was charmed by Tubac with its artistic community and historic character as Arizona’s oldest European settlement. The median home price of around $400,000 represents moderate value for homeowners seeking a unique cultural setting, with many properties featuring traditional Southwestern architectural styles.
The village is known for its thriving arts scene with numerous galleries, studios, and the annual Tubac Festival of the Arts, plus decent outdoor recreation along the Santa Cruz River and nearby mountains. I noticed healthcare services are limited in this small community, with most residents traveling to Green Valley (20 minutes) or Tucson (45 minutes) for medical care, and Tucson International Airport is about 40 minutes away.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the Tubac Center of the Arts
- Visiting Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
- Shopping at artisan galleries and boutiques
25. Wickenburg
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: C
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
I discovered Wickenburg preserves authentic Western heritage with its historic downtown and ranching culture that appeals to retirees seeking a traditional small-town atmosphere. The median home price of approximately $350,000 provides good value for those seeking a home loan in a historic Western town, with options ranging from in-town properties to ranches on the outskirts.
The town offers interesting cultural attractions including the Desert Caballeros Western Museum and annual Gold Rush Days festival, plus good outdoor recreation with horseback riding and desert hiking trails. Wickenburg Community Hospital provides basic healthcare services, though I found most residents travel to the northwest Phoenix suburbs (40 minutes away) for specialized care, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about an hour away by car.
Three main activities:
- Visiting the Desert Caballeros Western Museum
- Horseback riding on desert trails
- Exploring the historic downtown district
References
- Arizona Association of Realtors https://www.aaronline.com/housing-market
- Arizona Department of Health Services https://www.azdhs.gov/
- Arizona Office of Tourism https://tourism.az.gov/
- U.S. News & World Report – Best Places to Retire https://realestate.usnews.com/places/rankings/best-places-to-retire
- Zillow Arizona Housing Market https://www.zillow.com/az/home-values
- Arizona League of Cities and Towns: https://lgd.azleague.org
- U.S. Census Bureau – Places in Arizona: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/AZ/PST045222
Considering community activities and climate really matters when choosing a retirement spot, right?
Exploring Arizona’s retirement towns is exciting! Flagstaff and Fountain Hills are just the start. consider Prescott and Sedona for their natural beauty and welcoming vibes.
I think it’s crucial to check out places like Oro Valley and Sun City, too. They offer great amenities and a strong sense of community. Looking back, I wish I had considered more options when I was exploring retirement towns. It’s all about finding the right fit for you!
I get what you’re saying. It can be overwhelming trying to find the perfect spot. I’m just concerned about how the costs of living or homeownership can really sneak up on you. Are there any specific neighborhoods you think might be better for budget-conscious retirees?
Which Arizona town would you choose for retirement? Cottonwood, Flagstaff, and Fountain Hills all have unique perks! I also think Prescott is a great option with its mild climate and rich history. Sedona’s art festivals and volunteer programs really enhance community life for retirees too!
Have you checked out the towns in Arizona for retirees? I love Sedona for its stunning scenery and art scene, while Green Valley feels like a tight-knit community for active adults!