Written by craig braddick

Best Places To Retire in Arizona 2024

Arizona offers a variety of attractive retirement destinations, each with its unique blend of climate, amenities, and lifestyle options. Here are some of the best places to retire in Arizona:

  1. Scottsdale: Known for its upscale amenities, vibrant arts scene, and world-class golf courses, Scottsdale offers a luxurious retirement lifestyle. The city boasts an abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as beautiful desert landscapes and outdoor recreational activities.
  2. Sedona: Renowned for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual ambiance, Sedona is a popular retirement destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers numerous hiking and biking trails, art galleries, and holistic wellness centers, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  3. Tucson: With its affordable cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and diverse culinary scene, Tucson appeals to retirees seeking a more laid-back lifestyle. The city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year and offers easy access to hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities in the nearby Sonoran Desert.
  4. Prescott: Situated at a higher elevation than many other Arizona cities, Prescott enjoys milder temperatures and four distinct seasons, making it an attractive retirement destination for those seeking relief from the desert heat. The city’s historic downtown area features charming Victorian architecture, art galleries, and antique shops, while nearby outdoor recreational opportunities abound in the Prescott National Forest.
  5. Green Valley: Located south of Tucson, Green Valley is a popular retirement community known for its active adult lifestyle and abundance of amenities. The area boasts numerous golf courses, fitness centers, and social clubs, as well as easy access to healthcare services and shopping centers.
  6. Sun City: As one of the first active adult communities in the United States, Sun City offers retirees a wealth of amenities and recreational opportunities, including golf courses, swimming pools, and community centers. The area is known for its affordable housing options and vibrant social scene, making it a desirable destination for active retirees.
  7. Oro Valley: Situated north of Tucson in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Oro Valley offers breathtaking mountain views, pristine desert landscapes, and a relaxed suburban lifestyle. The area is home to several master-planned communities, golf courses, and cultural attractions, making it an appealing choice for retirees seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

When choosing the best place to retire in Arizona, consider factors such as climate preferences, cost of living, healthcare options, recreational activities, and proximity to family and friends. Visiting potential retirement destinations and exploring local amenities firsthand can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle goals and preferences.

If you are searching for the best places to retire in Arizona for 2024, this guide should help! Furthermore, SLS Communities has great retirement locations in many exciting areas of Arizona. Thousands of retirees flock to Arizona each year to enjoy the moderate climate, escape the snow, and enjoy a state that has dedicated communities, towns, and cities for retirement age Americans.

Best Places to Retire In AZ

We have found a wide variety of places for you to look at when considering your retirement options in Arizona. This list contains something for every senior. If you are looking for a suburban location close to all the major conveniences and facilities we’ve got you covered. But if you are after a more rural, country setting, where you can enjoy the great outdoors in peace, we have options for you too!

Our list looks at a number of factors, the kind of community it is, does it have a diverse population or is it more senior-oriented, what is it like to live there, what can you do when you live there, how close is it to amenities and so on.

In short, we hope it will give you a snapshot of what these places will be like should you choose to live there.

  1. Sun City, Arizona

Sun City Arizona - Best Places to Retire

An exciting and vibrant planned retirement community just west of Phoenix, Sun City has the reputation of being perhaps the most senior-oriented city in the state. It features great stores, from the well-known chains to small boutiques, a wide array of medical professionals and facilities geared for the senior. Also, in many areas licensed golf carts can travel on roads! With nearly three-quarters of the city being of senior age or above, you will feel right at home with many social clubs and sports like pickleball, bowling, and golf.

  1. Sun City West, Arizona

Sun City West AZ - Best Places to Retire

Sun City West has grown quickly and established itself as one of the top 25 places in the nation to retire to and with good reason! Like Sun City, it was planned and built with the senior in mind. Although not quite as large as Sun City itself, it combines a cozy feel with easy access to everything in Sun City. Not that you will run out of things to do in Sun City West that offers a wide variety of sports and lots of different social clubs for various interests. According to SmartAssets, Sun City West as the best place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Peoria, Arizona

Peoria AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the northern suburbs of the Phoenix metropolitan area, the popularity of Peoria continues to grow every year with seniors looking for a place to live close to all the major amenities and convenience of a major city (it’s only 11 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.) It’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful desert mountain landscape in the nation. With an average low in winter of 55 degrees and an average summer high of 95 degrees, it is an ideal climate for many seniors looking to relocate!

Best Retirement Community in Peoria, AZ

Desert Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Desert Winds is the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Desert Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 362-1200!

Desert Winds Retirement Community is located next to the border of Peoria & Sun City Arizona. They are located near tons of great shopping locations, tasty restaurants, golf courses, sports arenas, cultural centers, medical offices and more. Desert Winds is known as the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona.

  1. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson AZ - Best Places to Retire

With a population of just over half a million, Tucson continues to grow and is a great option for seniors wanting to be part of bustling city life. The city itself is a combo of the very modern and old western charm and flavor. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it is a favorite with outdoor lovers. The city is a popular destination for lovers of the arts with many theatres and galleries and if you are looking for a city where you can enjoy the company of younger people, it is home to the University of Arizona!

  1. Nogales, Arizona

Nogales AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated on the Arizona-Mexico border, Nogales is blessed with a cooler summer climate that most of Arizona. An average daily high of just 77 degrees makes it ideal for seniors looking for a more temperate climate. It is a favorite place for walkers and hikers as the trails are not as extreme as other areas in the state. Being a border town, it will help if you can speak Spanish or be familiar with Mexican culture to take full of advantage of what Nogales has to offer.

  1. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott Arizona - Best Places to Retire

One of the most historic towns in Arizona, Prescott, less than two hours from Phoenix, yet at an elevation of nearly 5500 feet has maintained its small-town feel despite a population of around 40,000. Whiskey Row (the main strip for nightlife) dates to frontier times. Increasingly popular with baby boomers, Prescott offers a cooler climate than Phoenix with older even historic, housing available downtown and modern retirement complexes available on the outskirts.

  1. Yuma, Arizona

Yuma Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Yuma is known as just about the sunniest and driest spot in the USA. They get less than three inches of rain per year and over 330 days of sunshine! The city predates the 1849 California Gold Rush and much of the architecture of the city reflects that era. Lying on the banks of the Colorado River, Yuma has long been a US Army base and today still has a strong military community. Many seniors love Yuma as the cost of living is reasonable and there are many top-notch RV and mobile home communities.

  1. Prescott Valley, Arizona

Prescott Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Prescott Valley is the younger brother of Prescott. A planned community originating in the 1960’s it has now expanded and virtually joined at the hip with Prescott as suburbs creep ever closer to each other. It is slightly cheaper than Prescott for seniors to live, especially as you go further east towards Humboldt-Dewey and Mayer, but with most local amenities still in Prescott, a car is essential. Prescott Valley is very senior-friendly with many activities and groups to interest the senior.

  1. Litchfield Park, Arizona

Litchfield Park AZ - Best Places to Retire

Located in the western suburbs of Phoenix, this small community (less than 6000) has an increasing senior population and may be ideal for seniors looking to permanently relocate to Arizona. Most people in Litchfield Park own their home and the community is known for embracing traditional American values. With an air force base nearby, it has a patriotic vibe. Although local senior-oriented amenities are fewer, everything is just a short car ride away in Phoenix.

  1. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale AZ - Best Places to Retire

One of the wealthiest cities in the country for its size, Scottsdale is home to many rotating arts festivals and fashion shows throughout the year and many seniors call the place home. It is also home to many private golf and country club communities, as well as being the home of The Phoenix Open (now sponsored by Waste Management.) Scottsdale is also home to many corporations and small businesses. Scottsdale is not the most affordable area in Arizona but has a lot to offer if it is within your budget.

  1. Mesa, Arizona

Mesa AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the heart of the east valley, the growing population of Mesa (fast approaching 500,000) has made it one of the most diverse and affordable cities in Arizona with a wide range of housing options and communities for nearly every taste. Seniors enjoy having access to shopping close by from the major brand stores to independent small businesses, as well as access to nearly all forms of medical care. Mesa is a diverse community, upbeat and friendly, therefore welcoming to the active senior.

According to NewHomeSource, Mesa is one of the best cities to retire in Arizona.

Best Retirement Community in Mesa, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Canyon Winds Retirement Community is the best retirement community in Mesa Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Florence, Arizona

Florence AZ - Best Places to Retire

East of the east valley and nearly 60 miles from Phoenix, the city of Florence situated along US Route 60 is gradually becoming a more popular destination with seniors. A low cost of living is slightly offset by the fact you will have to drive to Apache Junction and Mesa for major grocery and big box stores. There is also a lack of dining options in the area. That said, the Sonoran Desert views are spectacular, and it is a few degrees cooler than the Phoenix metro area.

  1. Sierra Vista, Arizona

Sierra Vista Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sierra Vista enjoys a great year-round climate and the cost of living is below average for Arizona!. Of course, being the hummingbird capital of the United States, if birdwatching is one of your hobbies then you are going to find joy in being surrounded by all sorts of birds that are not common in other areas of Arizona.

The closest airport is a 68-mile drive, but it’s still closer than some other locations on the list. But, to balance things out, there are many things to keep busy with. In warmer months, the Sierra Vista Aquatic Center is available for locals, which is known as The Cove by many. There are also the therapy spas, lap pools, and wave pool available.

  1. Kingman, Arizona

Kingman Arizona - Best Places to Retire

With just over a population of 28,000, Kingman offers many amenities for being a smaller place and is one of the best small towns in Arizona to retire. This is the location of the International Route 66 Festival, which is an event that lasts four days with a parade, car show, and much more. Also, just off the historic road is The Roadrunner Café, which continues to provide great breakfasts to locals and travelers.

Although, if you are interested in traveling by airport, you will have a 102-mile road trip ahead of you, which will likely take you down the historic route.

  1. Sahuarita, Arizona

Sahuarita Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Just outside Tucson, Sahuarita is one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona. With Tucson only twenty minutes away there is plenty of great dining and shopping options as well as medical professionals and facilities available for the active senior.

It is ranked as one of the safest cities in Arizona and there are many festivals and attractions for fun, including the annual Fiesta Sahuarita. Because Sahuarita has a high standard of living and a rapidly increasing population the cost of living is increasing but there are no property taxes.  There are not as many retiree specific amenities as some cities but there are plenty of parks and over 17 miles of local trails.

  1. Green Valley, Arizona

Green Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

Green Valley is one of the most affordable senior-friendly cities in Southern Arizona. Situated just 20 miles south of Tucson, over 80% of the community is age-restricted and golf carts are legal to be driven on the streets. It is becoming very popular with active seniors because there are more than a dozen recreation centers, golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers and a thriving arts and entertainment community.

A big reason for Green Valley’s increased popularity is the climate. The average year-round temperature is just under 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The dry warm climate is also popular for those with arthritis. With Tucson less than a half-hour drive away, there are plenty of shopping choices and medical options within easy reach.

According to Niche, Green Valley is the #1 place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Cave Creek, Arizona

Cave Creek Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Situated in far northern suburbs of Phoenix, Cave Creek, at an elevation of just over 2200 feet is increasingly popular with seniors. People have lived in the area for over 1400 years but Cave Creek came of age in the 1950s and 60’s and still has a lot of the post WW2 charm with a big helping of old west architecture and street layouts. Seniors are moving to the Cave Creek area as it is slightly cooler than Phoenix, the landscape is more of a lush desert with beautiful views of Black Mountain. The cost of living is slightly less than Phoenix, too!

All the conveniences of the big city are just a short drive away. With low crime rates and great dining options, Cave Creek will only continue to grow in popularity.

  1. Paradise Valley, Arizona

Paradise Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Paradise Valley is truly one of the most luxurious but also most expensive places to retire to in Arizona. The average property price is pushing $1.5 million dollars and the average household income is approaching $200,000 per annum. There are twelve very upscale resorts in Paradise Valley offering fine dining, spas and golf. High-end shopping abounds in Paradise Valley a nearby Scottsdale. With phoenix close by, Paradise Valley is also a hub for arts and entertainment and the wealthy local population ensures all kinds of medical doctors are available.

It is also very warm indeed. With temperatures often over 100 degrees for extended periods during the day in summertime and goes down to an average of 54 in January. Crime rates are about half the national average meaning it is a very safe place to live.

  1. Cottonwood, Arizona

Cottonwood AZ - Best Places to Retire

Cottonwood is a small town located in Central Arizona, the scenery is pretty and it is geared more for the outdoor country lifestyle than towns and cities in more suburban areas. Traditional its outlook, Cottonwood is probably best suited to independent seniors. Although it is a small town (population under 13,000) the nearby Verde Valley Medical Center is an award-winning facility.

Cottonwood has the advantage of being very walkable, though temperatures often top 100 degrees in the summertime. There are lots of activities geared for seniors however and plenty of music options and festivals throughout the year. The largest city of note is Prescott, nearly 60 miles away so there will be a bit of a drive if you want certain shopping options.

  1. Golden Valley, Arizona

Golden Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

In the heart of Mohave County, Golden Valley is a quiet town but close enough to the cities of Kingman and Bullhead City to have everything the senior needs within a short drive. It is a very affordable place to live with average house prices less than $125,000. The temperatures in winter are mild and in the summer time somewhere between the mid 70’s and mid 90’s with the occasional high in excess of 100 degrees.

Golden Valley is situated in the desert and there are still plenty of undeveloped areas in the city and its surroundings. if you are looking to buy land and develop it, Golden Valley is definitely worth checking out. It is definitely a place for the active senior who enjoys rural life and is not dependent on having large shopping, dining and medical facilities on their doorstep.

  1. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sedona Arizona is a well-known tourist destination, hosting many activities and sights to see for retirees. For example, Sedona is most known for their “Red Rocks“, which were seen in countless western films like, Jimmy Stewart’s “Broken Arrow”. The color effects displayed on the sandstone rocks during the sunrises and sunsets in Sedona are amazing! This beauty coupled with moderate climates and mountains that stretch for miles has made Sedona one of the most sought after retirement communities in the United States and one of the best places to live in Arizona for Seniors.

According to at least one source, Sedona Arizona is actually rated as one of the top 20 retirement destinations in the country. The arts and hiking are of the most notable here. Many music and film events such as the International Film Festival are hosted in Sedona, but most choose Sedona for its beautiful setting and warm climate.

Best Retirement Community in Sedona, AZ

Sedona Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Sedona Winds is the best retirement community in Sedona Arizona offering Assisted Living, Senior Independent Living, and Memory Care. Call Sedona Winds Retirement Community today at (928) 284-1021! Sedona Winds offers a plethora of amenity packages, activities, and retirement home floor plans to choose from.

  1. Youngtown, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Youngtown Arizona is the home of the oldest retirement community in Arizona and in the United States of America. Youngtown relinquished its age restriction in 1999. Since then, Youngtown’s demographics evolved quickly making this town must-see if you are visiting the Phoenix Valley in search of retirement communities.

Youngtown sits right in between Olive Avenue and Grand Avenue on the south side.  Youngtown is located around many great amenities and is a little over 30 minutes away from the downtown area in Phoenix. Freeway Access: Youngtown is close to the 303 and 101 freeways ensuring easy access to entertainment, sporting events, shopping, restaurants, and recreation. Due to its compact size, Youngtown Arizona is a perfect retirement community for bicycling and walking.

Best Retirement Community in Youngtown, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Ventana Winds is the best retirement community in Sun City / Youngtown Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Surprise, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Surprise Arizona is located 45 minutes away from Phoenix, Surprise connects all aspects of your life including recreation, family, and work. Surprise is a charming community that is surrounded by the open Sonoran Desert, a regional lake, and mountain parklands.

Surprise neighborhoods are distinctive, clean, and unique. 9 out of 10 Surprise residents recommend Surprise to start a business. Surprise Arizona was founded by Flora Mae Statler in 1938. In 1938 Peoria was just 1 single square mile of farmland. In 2013, Surprise has grown to 120,000+ people in 2013. Statler’s daughter was convinced that she thought Surprise would never really amount to much.

Best Retirement Community in Suprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Chaparral Winds is the best retirement community in Surprise Arizona that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living,  & Memory Care services. Call Chaparral Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 544-4777!

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is located on the border of Surprise Arizona and Sun City. Their retirement community offers many options to meet all of your retirement needs. They are conveniently located next to everything one might need including terrific restaurants, great shopping, cultural centers, golf courses, medical offices, and sports arenas.

Locations That Still Need Enriching

Best Places to Retire in Arizona

Each cactus has barbs of its own, and Arizona provided some among these great havens for retirees. El Mirage was ranked at the bottom of the list, with very poor scores in both weather and amenities, with an average summer temperature of 95 degrees. Trailing close behind was Marana, with few amenities for retirees, and a higher crime rate. While Avondale is a pretty location, it also came in the bottom of the list due to extreme summer temperatures and the crime rate.

With these locations aside, there is a lot that Arizona has to offer. For those that are seeking adventure or simply wanting to relax on the poolside, this state is able to shine some light on your golden years.

Why retire in Arizona?

The biggest reasons to retire in Arizona is there are major tax breaks, allergy-free living, beautiful parks, perfect weather, world renowned gold courses, plenty of diversity, and great health care according to LeisureCare.

Best small towns in Arizona to retire

The best small towns to retire in Arizona are Youngtown, Peoria, Sun City, Sedona, and Green Valley.

Is Arizona a good place for retirees?

Yes, Arizona is a great place for retirees to live and retire. According to SmartAsset, “Arizona, the land of cacti and dry heat, is understandably a popular place to retire, especially if you lived in a cold-weather place during your career and you’re eager to escape the snow. Certain cities in The Grand Canyon State, though, are even more appealing to retirees than others.”

Is Arizona a good state to retire in?

Kiplinger says there are many great places to retire in Arizona. According to Kiplinger, “Many other retirees have settled in Arizona year-round. The nation’s first active adult retirement community sprouted in Youngtown, Ariz., in 1954, and today 17% of the state’s 7.2 million residents are 65 and older.”

SLS Retirement Communities

We have 4 locations open and another location under construction in the state of Arizona which offer a variety of services and living arrangements. From independent living to fully assisted living we complement our services with highly sought after amenities including memory care.  See below for the locations we currently have available.

Written by craig braddick

Best Places To Retire in Arizona 2023

If you are searching for the best places to retire in Arizona for 2023, this guide should help! Furthermore, SLS Communities has great retirement locations in many exciting areas of Arizona. Thousands of retirees flock to Arizona each year to enjoy the moderate climate, escape the snow, and enjoy a state that has dedicated communities, towns, and cities for retirement age Americans.

Best Places to Retire In AZ

We have found a wide variety of places for you to look at when considering your retirement options in Arizona. This list contains something for every senior. If you are looking for a suburban location close to all the major conveniences and facilities we’ve got you covered. But if you are after a more rural, country setting, where you can enjoy the great outdoors in peace, we have options for you too!

Our list looks at a number of factors, the kind of community it is, does it have a diverse population or is it more senior-oriented, what is it like to live there, what can you do when you live there, how close is it to amenities and so on.

In short, we hope it will give you a snapshot of what these places will be like should you choose to live there.

  1. Sun City, Arizona

Sun City Arizona - Best Places to Retire

An exciting and vibrant planned retirement community just west of Phoenix, Sun City has the reputation of being perhaps the most senior-oriented city in the state. It features great stores, from the well-known chains to small boutiques, a wide array of medical professionals and facilities geared for the senior. Also, in many areas licensed golf carts can travel on roads! With nearly three-quarters of the city being of senior age or above, you will feel right at home with many social clubs and sports like pickleball, bowling, and golf.

  1. Sun City West, Arizona

Sun City West AZ - Best Places to Retire

Sun City West has grown quickly and established itself as one of the top 25 places in the nation to retire to and with good reason! Like Sun City, it was planned and built with the senior in mind. Although not quite as large as Sun City itself, it combines a cozy feel with easy access to everything in Sun City. Not that you will run out of things to do in Sun City West that offers a wide variety of sports and lots of different social clubs for various interests. According to SmartAssets, Sun City West as the best place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Peoria, Arizona

Peoria AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the northern suburbs of the Phoenix metropolitan area, the popularity of Peoria continues to grow every year with seniors looking for a place to live close to all the major amenities and convenience of a major city (it’s only 11 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.) It’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful desert mountain landscape in the nation. With an average low in winter of 55 degrees and an average summer high of 95 degrees, it is an ideal climate for many seniors looking to relocate!

Best Retirement Community in Peoria, AZ

Desert Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Desert Winds is the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Desert Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 362-1200!

Desert Winds Retirement Community is located next to the border of Peoria & Sun City Arizona. They are located near tons of great shopping locations, tasty restaurants, golf courses, sports arenas, cultural centers, medical offices and more. Desert Winds is known as the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona.

  1. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson AZ - Best Places to Retire

With a population of just over half a million, Tucson continues to grow and is a great option for seniors wanting to be part of bustling city life. The city itself is a combo of the very modern and old western charm and flavor. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it is a favorite with outdoor lovers. The city is a popular destination for lovers of the arts with many theatres and galleries and if you are looking for a city where you can enjoy the company of younger people, it is home to the University of Arizona!

  1. Nogales, Arizona

Nogales AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated on the Arizona-Mexico border, Nogales is blessed with a cooler summer climate that most of Arizona. An average daily high of just 77 degrees makes it ideal for seniors looking for a more temperate climate. It is a favorite place for walkers and hikers as the trails are not as extreme as other areas in the state. Being a border town, it will help if you can speak Spanish or be familiar with Mexican culture to take full of advantage of what Nogales has to offer.

  1. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott Arizona - Best Places to Retire

One of the most historic towns in Arizona, Prescott, less than two hours from Phoenix, yet at an elevation of nearly 5500 feet has maintained its small-town feel despite a population of around 40,000. Whiskey Row (the main strip for nightlife) dates to frontier times. Increasingly popular with baby boomers, Prescott offers a cooler climate than Phoenix with older even historic, housing available downtown and modern retirement complexes available on the outskirts.

  1. Yuma, Arizona

Yuma Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Yuma is known as just about the sunniest and driest spot in the USA. They get less than three inches of rain per year and over 330 days of sunshine! The city predates the 1849 California Gold Rush and much of the architecture of the city reflects that era. Lying on the banks of the Colorado River, Yuma has long been a US Army base and today still has a strong military community. Many seniors love Yuma as the cost of living is reasonable and there are many top-notch RV and mobile home communities.

  1. Prescott Valley, Arizona

Prescott Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Prescott Valley is the younger brother of Prescott. A planned community originating in the 1960’s it has now expanded and virtually joined at the hip with Prescott as suburbs creep ever closer to each other. It is slightly cheaper than Prescott for seniors to live, especially as you go further east towards Humboldt-Dewey and Mayer, but with most local amenities still in Prescott, a car is essential. Prescott Valley is very senior-friendly with many activities and groups to interest the senior.

  1. Litchfield Park, Arizona

Litchfield Park AZ - Best Places to Retire

Located in the western suburbs of Phoenix, this small community (less than 6000) has an increasing senior population and may be ideal for seniors looking to permanently relocate to Arizona. Most people in Litchfield Park own their home and the community is known for embracing traditional American values. With an air force base nearby, it has a patriotic vibe. Although local senior-oriented amenities are fewer, everything is just a short car ride away in Phoenix.

  1. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale AZ - Best Places to Retire

One of the wealthiest cities in the country for its size, Scottsdale is home to many rotating arts festivals and fashion shows throughout the year and many seniors call the place home. It is also home to many private golf and country club communities, as well as being the home of The Phoenix Open (now sponsored by Waste Management.) Scottsdale is also home to many corporations and small businesses. Scottsdale is not the most affordable area in Arizona but has a lot to offer if it is within your budget.

  1. Mesa, Arizona

Mesa AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the heart of the east valley, the growing population of Mesa (fast approaching 500,000) has made it one of the most diverse and affordable cities in Arizona with a wide range of housing options and communities for nearly every taste. Seniors enjoy having access to shopping close by from the major brand stores to independent small businesses, as well as access to nearly all forms of medical care. Mesa is a diverse community, upbeat and friendly, therefore welcoming to the active senior.

According to NewHomeSource, Mesa is one of the best cities to retire in Arizona.

Best Retirement Community in Mesa, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Canyon Winds Retirement Community is the best retirement community in Mesa Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Florence, Arizona

Florence AZ - Best Places to Retire

East of the east valley and nearly 60 miles from Phoenix, the city of Florence situated along US Route 60 is gradually becoming a more popular destination with seniors. A low cost of living is slightly offset by the fact you will have to drive to Apache Junction and Mesa for major grocery and big box stores. There is also a lack of dining options in the area. That said, the Sonoran Desert views are spectacular, and it is a few degrees cooler than the Phoenix metro area.

  1. Sierra Vista, Arizona

Sierra Vista Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sierra Vista enjoys a great year-round climate and the cost of living is below average for Arizona!. Of course, being the hummingbird capital of the United States, if birdwatching is one of your hobbies then you are going to find joy in being surrounded by all sorts of birds that are not common in other areas of Arizona.

The closest airport is a 68-mile drive, but it’s still closer than some other locations on the list. But, to balance things out, there are many things to keep busy with. In warmer months, the Sierra Vista Aquatic Center is available for locals, which is known as The Cove by many. There are also the therapy spas, lap pools, and wave pool available.

  1. Kingman, Arizona

Kingman Arizona - Best Places to Retire

With just over a population of 28,000, Kingman offers many amenities for being a smaller place and is one of the best small towns in Arizona to retire. This is the location of the International Route 66 Festival, which is an event that lasts four days with a parade, car show, and much more. Also, just off the historic road is The Roadrunner Café, which continues to provide great breakfasts to locals and travelers.

Although, if you are interested in traveling by airport, you will have a 102-mile road trip ahead of you, which will likely take you down the historic route.

  1. Sahuarita, Arizona

Sahuarita Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Just outside Tucson, Sahuarita is one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona. With Tucson only twenty minutes away there is plenty of great dining and shopping options as well as medical professionals and facilities available for the active senior.

It is ranked as one of the safest cities in Arizona and there are many festivals and attractions for fun, including the annual Fiesta Sahuarita. Because Sahuarita has a high standard of living and a rapidly increasing population the cost of living is increasing but there are no property taxes.  There are not as many retiree specific amenities as some cities but there are plenty of parks and over 17 miles of local trails.

  1. Green Valley, Arizona

Green Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

Green Valley is one of the most affordable senior-friendly cities in Southern Arizona. Situated just 20 miles south of Tucson, over 80% of the community is age-restricted and golf carts are legal to be driven on the streets. It is becoming very popular with active seniors because there are more than a dozen recreation centers, golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers and a thriving arts and entertainment community.

A big reason for Green Valley’s increased popularity is the climate. The average year-round temperature is just under 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The dry warm climate is also popular for those with arthritis. With Tucson less than a half-hour drive away, there are plenty of shopping choices and medical options within easy reach.

According to Niche, Green Valley is the #1 place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Cave Creek, Arizona

Cave Creek Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Situated in far northern suburbs of Phoenix, Cave Creek, at an elevation of just over 2200 feet is increasingly popular with seniors. People have lived in the area for over 1400 years but Cave Creek came of age in the 1950s and 60’s and still has a lot of the post WW2 charm with a big helping of old west architecture and street layouts. Seniors are moving to the Cave Creek area as it is slightly cooler than Phoenix, the landscape is more of a lush desert with beautiful views of Black Mountain. The cost of living is slightly less than Phoenix, too!

All the conveniences of the big city are just a short drive away. With low crime rates and great dining options, Cave Creek will only continue to grow in popularity.

  1. Paradise Valley, Arizona

Paradise Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Paradise Valley is truly one of the most luxurious but also most expensive places to retire to in Arizona. The average property price is pushing $1.5 million dollars and the average household income is approaching $200,000 per annum. There are twelve very upscale resorts in Paradise Valley offering fine dining, spas and golf. High-end shopping abounds in Paradise Valley a nearby Scottsdale. With phoenix close by, Paradise Valley is also a hub for arts and entertainment and the wealthy local population ensures all kinds of medical doctors are available.

It is also very warm indeed. With temperatures often over 100 degrees for extended periods during the day in summertime and goes down to an average of 54 in January. Crime rates are about half the national average meaning it is a very safe place to live.

  1. Cottonwood, Arizona

Cottonwood AZ - Best Places to Retire

Cottonwood is a small town located in Central Arizona, the scenery is pretty and it is geared more for the outdoor country lifestyle than towns and cities in more suburban areas. Traditional its outlook, Cottonwood is probably best suited to independent seniors. Although it is a small town (population under 13,000) the nearby Verde Valley Medical Center is an award-winning facility.

Cottonwood has the advantage of being very walkable, though temperatures often top 100 degrees in the summertime. There are lots of activities geared for seniors however and plenty of music options and festivals throughout the year. The largest city of note is Prescott, nearly 60 miles away so there will be a bit of a drive if you want certain shopping options.

  1. Golden Valley, Arizona

Golden Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

In the heart of Mohave County, Golden Valley is a quiet town but close enough to the cities of Kingman and Bullhead City to have everything the senior needs within a short drive. It is a very affordable place to live with average house prices less than $125,000. The temperatures in winter are mild and in the summer time somewhere between the mid 70’s and mid 90’s with the occasional high in excess of 100 degrees.

Golden Valley is situated in the desert and there are still plenty of undeveloped areas in the city and its surroundings. if you are looking to buy land and develop it, Golden Valley is definitely worth checking out. It is definitely a place for the active senior who enjoys rural life and is not dependent on having large shopping, dining and medical facilities on their doorstep.

  1. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sedona Arizona is a well-known tourist destination, hosting many activities and sights to see for retirees. For example, Sedona is most known for their “Red Rocks“, which were seen in countless western films like, Jimmy Stewart’s “Broken Arrow”. The color effects displayed on the sandstone rocks during the sunrises and sunsets in Sedona are amazing! This beauty coupled with moderate climates and mountains that stretch for miles has made Sedona one of the most sought after retirement communities in the United States and one of the best places to live in Arizona for Seniors.

According to at least one source, Sedona Arizona is actually rated as one of the top 20 retirement destinations in the country. The arts and hiking are of the most notable here. Many music and film events such as the International Film Festival are hosted in Sedona, but most choose Sedona for its beautiful setting and warm climate.

Best Retirement Community in Sedona, AZ

Sedona Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Sedona Winds is the best retirement community in Sedona Arizona offering Assisted Living, Senior Independent Living, and Memory Care. Call Sedona Winds Retirement Community today at (928) 284-1021! Sedona Winds offers a plethora of amenity packages, activities, and retirement home floor plans to choose from.

  1. Youngtown, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Youngtown Arizona is the home of the oldest retirement community in Arizona and in the United States of America. Youngtown relinquished its age restriction in 1999. Since then, Youngtown’s demographics evolved quickly making this town must-see if you are visiting the Phoenix Valley in search of retirement communities.

Youngtown sits right in between Olive Avenue and Grand Avenue on the south side.  Youngtown is located around many great amenities and is a little over 30 minutes away from the downtown area in Phoenix. Freeway Access: Youngtown is close to the 303 and 101 freeways ensuring easy access to entertainment, sporting events, shopping, restaurants, and recreation. Due to its compact size, Youngtown Arizona is a perfect retirement community for bicycling and walking.

Best Retirement Community in Youngtown, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Ventana Winds is the best retirement community in Sun City / Youngtown Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Surprise, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Surprise Arizona is located 45 minutes away from Phoenix, Surprise connects all aspects of your life including recreation, family, and work. Surprise is a charming community that is surrounded by the open Sonoran Desert, a regional lake, and mountain parklands.

Surprise neighborhoods are distinctive, clean, and unique. 9 out of 10 Surprise residents recommend Surprise to start a business. Surprise Arizona was founded by Flora Mae Statler in 1938. In 1938 Peoria was just 1 single square mile of farmland. In 2013, Surprise has grown to 120,000+ people in 2013. Statler’s daughter was convinced that she thought Surprise would never really amount to much.

Best Retirement Community in Suprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Chaparral Winds is the best retirement community in Surprise Arizona that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living,  & Memory Care services. Call Chaparral Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 544-4777!

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is located on the border of Surprise Arizona and Sun City. Their retirement community offers many options to meet all of your retirement needs. They are conveniently located next to everything one might need including terrific restaurants, great shopping, cultural centers, golf courses, medical offices, and sports arenas.

Locations That Still Need Enriching

Best Places to Retire in Arizona

Each cactus has barbs of its own, and Arizona provided some among these great havens for retirees. El Mirage was ranked at the bottom of the list, with very poor scores in both weather and amenities, with an average summer temperature of 95 degrees. Trailing close behind was Marana, with few amenities for retirees, and a higher crime rate. While Avondale is a pretty location, it also came in the bottom of the list due to extreme summer temperatures and the crime rate.

With these locations aside, there is a lot that Arizona has to offer. For those that are seeking adventure or simply wanting to relax on the poolside, this state is able to shine some light on your golden years.

Why retire in Arizona?

The biggest reasons to retire in Arizona is there are major tax breaks, allergy-free living, beautiful parks, perfect weather, world renowned gold courses, plenty of diversity, and great health care according to LeisureCare.

Best small towns in Arizona to retire

The best small towns to retire in Arizona are Youngtown, Peoria, Sun City, Sedona, and Green Valley.

Is Arizona a good place for retirees?

Yes, Arizona is a great place for retirees to live and retire. According to SmartAsset, “Arizona, the land of cacti and dry heat, is understandably a popular place to retire, especially if you lived in a cold-weather place during your career and you’re eager to escape the snow. Certain cities in The Grand Canyon State, though, are even more appealing to retirees than others.”

Is Arizona a good state to retire in?

Kiplinger says there are many great places to retire in Arizona. According to Kiplinger, “Many other retirees have settled in Arizona year-round. The nation’s first active adult retirement community sprouted in Youngtown, Ariz., in 1954, and today 17% of the state’s 7.2 million residents are 65 and older.”

SLS Retirement Communities

We have 4 locations open and another location under construction in the state of Arizona which offer a variety of services and living arrangements. From independent living to fully assisted living we complement our services with highly sought after amenities including memory care.  See below for the locations we currently have available.

Written by craig braddick

Best Places To Retire in Arizona 2022

If you are searching for the best places to retire in Arizona for 2021, this guide should help! Furthermore, SLS Communities has great retirement locations in many exciting areas of Arizona. Thousands of retirees flock to Arizona each year to enjoy the moderate climate, escape the snow, and enjoy a state that has dedicated communities, towns, and cities for retirement age Americans.

Best Places to Retire In AZ

We have found a wide variety of places for you to look at when considering your retirement options in Arizona. This list contains something for every senior. If you are looking for a suburban location close to all the major conveniences and facilities we’ve got you covered. But if you are after a more rural, country setting, where you can enjoy the great outdoors in peace, we have options for you too!

Our list looks at a number of factors, the kind of community it is, does it have a diverse population or is it more senior-oriented, what is it like to live there, what can you do when you live there, how close is it to amenities and so on.

In short, we hope it will give you a snapshot of what these places will be like should you choose to live there.

  1. Sun City, Arizona

Sun City Arizona - Best Places to Retire

An exciting and vibrant planned retirement community just west of Phoenix, Sun City has the reputation of being perhaps the most senior-oriented city in the state. It features great stores, from the well-known chains to small boutiques, a wide array of medical professionals and facilities geared for the senior. Also, in many areas licensed golf carts can travel on roads! With nearly three-quarters of the city being of senior age or above, you will feel right at home with many social clubs and sports like pickleball, bowling, and golf.

  1. Sun City West, Arizona

Sun City West AZ - Best Places to Retire

Sun City West has grown quickly and established itself as one of the top 25 places in the nation to retire to and with good reason! Like Sun City, it was planned and built with the senior in mind. Although not quite as large as Sun City itself, it combines a cozy feel with easy access to everything in Sun City. Not that you will run out of things to do in Sun City West that offers a wide variety of sports and lots of different social clubs for various interests. According to SmartAssets, Sun City West as the best place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Peoria, Arizona

Peoria AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the northern suburbs of the Phoenix metropolitan area, the popularity of Peoria continues to grow every year with seniors looking for a place to live close to all the major amenities and convenience of a major city (it’s only 11 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.) It’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful desert mountain landscape in the nation. With an average low in winter of 55 degrees and an average summer high of 95 degrees, it is an ideal climate for many seniors looking to relocate!

Best Retirement Community in Peoria, AZ

Desert Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Desert Winds is the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Desert Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 362-1200!

Desert Winds Retirement Community is located next to the border of Peoria & Sun City Arizona. They are located near tons of great shopping locations, tasty restaurants, golf courses, sports arenas, cultural centers, medical offices and more. Desert Winds is known as the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona.

  1. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson AZ - Best Places to Retire

With a population of just over half a million, Tucson continues to grow and is a great option for seniors wanting to be part of bustling city life. The city itself is a combo of the very modern and old western charm and flavor. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it is a favorite with outdoor lovers. The city is a popular destination for lovers of the arts with many theatres and galleries and if you are looking for a city where you can enjoy the company of younger people, it is home to the University of Arizona!

  1. Nogales, Arizona

Nogales AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated on the Arizona-Mexico border, Nogales is blessed with a cooler summer climate that most of Arizona. An average daily high of just 77 degrees makes it ideal for seniors looking for a more temperate climate. It is a favorite place for walkers and hikers as the trails are not as extreme as other areas in the state. Being a border town, it will help if you can speak Spanish or be familiar with Mexican culture to take full of advantage of what Nogales has to offer.

  1. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott Arizona - Best Places to Retire

One of the most historic towns in Arizona, Prescott, less than two hours from Phoenix, yet at an elevation of nearly 5500 feet has maintained its small-town feel despite a population of around 40,000. Whiskey Row (the main strip for nightlife) dates to frontier times. Increasingly popular with baby boomers, Prescott offers a cooler climate than Phoenix with older even historic, housing available downtown and modern retirement complexes available on the outskirts.

  1. Yuma, Arizona

Yuma Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Yuma is known as just about the sunniest and driest spot in the USA. They get less than three inches of rain per year and over 330 days of sunshine! The city predates the 1849 California Gold Rush and much of the architecture of the city reflects that era. Lying on the banks of the Colorado River, Yuma has long been a US Army base and today still has a strong military community. Many seniors love Yuma as the cost of living is reasonable and there are many top-notch RV and mobile home communities.

  1. Prescott Valley, Arizona

Prescott Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Prescott Valley is the younger brother of Prescott. A planned community originating in the 1960’s it has now expanded and virtually joined at the hip with Prescott as suburbs creep ever closer to each other. It is slightly cheaper than Prescott for seniors to live, especially as you go further east towards Humboldt-Dewey and Mayer, but with most local amenities still in Prescott, a car is essential. Prescott Valley is very senior-friendly with many activities and groups to interest the senior.

  1. Litchfield Park, Arizona

Litchfield Park AZ - Best Places to Retire

Located in the western suburbs of Phoenix, this small community (less than 6000) has an increasing senior population and may be ideal for seniors looking to permanently relocate to Arizona. Most people in Litchfield Park own their home and the community is known for embracing traditional American values. With an air force base nearby, it has a patriotic vibe. Although local senior-oriented amenities are fewer, everything is just a short car ride away in Phoenix.

  1. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale AZ - Best Places to Retire

One of the wealthiest cities in the country for its size, Scottsdale is home to many rotating arts festivals and fashion shows throughout the year and many seniors call the place home. It is also home to many private golf and country club communities, as well as being the home of The Phoenix Open (now sponsored by Waste Management.) Scottsdale is also home to many corporations and small businesses. Scottsdale is not the most affordable area in Arizona but has a lot to offer if it is within your budget.

  1. Mesa, Arizona

Mesa AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the heart of the east valley, the growing population of Mesa (fast approaching 500,000) has made it one of the most diverse and affordable cities in Arizona with a wide range of housing options and communities for nearly every taste. Seniors enjoy having access to shopping close by from the major brand stores to independent small businesses, as well as access to nearly all forms of medical care. Mesa is a diverse community, upbeat and friendly, therefore welcoming to the active senior.

According to NewHomeSource, Mesa is one of the best cities to retire in Arizona.

Best Retirement Community in Mesa, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Canyon Winds Retirement Community is the best retirement community in Mesa Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Florence, Arizona

Florence AZ - Best Places to Retire

East of the east valley and nearly 60 miles from Phoenix, the city of Florence situated along US Route 60 is gradually becoming a more popular destination with seniors. A low cost of living is slightly offset by the fact you will have to drive to Apache Junction and Mesa for major grocery and big box stores. There is also a lack of dining options in the area. That said, the Sonoran Desert views are spectacular, and it is a few degrees cooler than the Phoenix metro area.

  1. Sierra Vista, Arizona

Sierra Vista Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sierra Vista enjoys a great year-round climate and the cost of living is below average for Arizona!. Of course, being the hummingbird capital of the United States, if birdwatching is one of your hobbies then you are going to find joy in being surrounded by all sorts of birds that are not common in other areas of Arizona.

The closest airport is a 68-mile drive, but it’s still closer than some other locations on the list. But, to balance things out, there are many things to keep busy with. In warmer months, the Sierra Vista Aquatic Center is available for locals, which is known as The Cove by many. There are also the therapy spas, lap pools, and wave pool available.

  1. Kingman, Arizona

Kingman Arizona - Best Places to Retire

With just over a population of 28,000, Kingman offers many amenities for being a smaller place and is one of the best small towns in Arizona to retire. This is the location of the International Route 66 Festival, which is an event that lasts four days with a parade, car show, and much more. Also, just off the historic road is The Roadrunner Café, which continues to provide great breakfasts to locals and travelers.

Although, if you are interested in traveling by airport, you will have a 102-mile road trip ahead of you, which will likely take you down the historic route.

  1. Sahuarita, Arizona

Sahuarita Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Just outside Tucson, Sahuarita is one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona. With Tucson only twenty minutes away there is plenty of great dining and shopping options as well as medical professionals and facilities available for the active senior.

It is ranked as one of the safest cities in Arizona and there are many festivals and attractions for fun, including the annual Fiesta Sahuarita. Because Sahuarita has a high standard of living and a rapidly increasing population the cost of living is increasing but there are no property taxes.  There are not as many retiree specific amenities as some cities but there are plenty of parks and over 17 miles of local trails.

  1. Green Valley, Arizona

Green Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

Green Valley is one of the most affordable senior-friendly cities in Southern Arizona. Situated just 20 miles south of Tucson, over 80% of the community is age-restricted and golf carts are legal to be driven on the streets. It is becoming very popular with active seniors because there are more than a dozen recreation centers, golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers and a thriving arts and entertainment community.

A big reason for Green Valley’s increased popularity is the climate. The average year-round temperature is just under 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The dry warm climate is also popular for those with arthritis. With Tucson less than a half-hour drive away, there are plenty of shopping choices and medical options within easy reach.

According to Niche, Green Valley is the #1 place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Cave Creek, Arizona

Cave Creek Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Situated in far northern suburbs of Phoenix, Cave Creek, at an elevation of just over 2200 feet is increasingly popular with seniors. People have lived in the area for over 1400 years but Cave Creek came of age in the 1950s and 60’s and still has a lot of the post WW2 charm with a big helping of old west architecture and street layouts. Seniors are moving to the Cave Creek area as it is slightly cooler than Phoenix, the landscape is more of a lush desert with beautiful views of Black Mountain. The cost of living is slightly less than Phoenix, too!

All the conveniences of the big city are just a short drive away. With low crime rates and great dining options, Cave Creek will only continue to grow in popularity.

  1. Paradise Valley, Arizona

Paradise Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Paradise Valley is truly one of the most luxurious but also most expensive places to retire to in Arizona. The average property price is pushing $1.5 million dollars and the average household income is approaching $200,000 per annum. There are twelve very upscale resorts in Paradise Valley offering fine dining, spas and golf. High-end shopping abounds in Paradise Valley a nearby Scottsdale. With phoenix close by, Paradise Valley is also a hub for arts and entertainment and the wealthy local population ensures all kinds of medical doctors are available.

It is also very warm indeed. With temperatures often over 100 degrees for extended periods during the day in summertime and goes down to an average of 54 in January. Crime rates are about half the national average meaning it is a very safe place to live.

  1. Cottonwood, Arizona

Cottonwood AZ - Best Places to Retire

Cottonwood is a small town located in Central Arizona, the scenery is pretty and it is geared more for the outdoor country lifestyle than towns and cities in more suburban areas. Traditional its outlook, Cottonwood is probably best suited to independent seniors. Although it is a small town (population under 13,000) the nearby Verde Valley Medical Center is an award-winning facility.

Cottonwood has the advantage of being very walkable, though temperatures often top 100 degrees in the summertime. There are lots of activities geared for seniors however and plenty of music options and festivals throughout the year. The largest city of note is Prescott, nearly 60 miles away so there will be a bit of a drive if you want certain shopping options.

  1. Golden Valley, Arizona

Golden Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

In the heart of Mohave County, Golden Valley is a quiet town but close enough to the cities of Kingman and Bullhead City to have everything the senior needs within a short drive. It is a very affordable place to live with average house prices less than $125,000. The temperatures in winter are mild and in the summer time somewhere between the mid 70’s and mid 90’s with the occasional high in excess of 100 degrees.

Golden Valley is situated in the desert and there are still plenty of undeveloped areas in the city and its surroundings. if you are looking to buy land and develop it, Golden Valley is definitely worth checking out. It is definitely a place for the active senior who enjoys rural life and is not dependent on having large shopping, dining and medical facilities on their doorstep.

  1. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sedona Arizona is a well-known tourist destination, hosting many activities and sights to see for retirees. For example, Sedona is most known for their “Red Rocks“, which were seen in countless western films like, Jimmy Stewart’s “Broken Arrow”. The color effects displayed on the sandstone rocks during the sunrises and sunsets in Sedona are amazing! This beauty coupled with moderate climates and mountains that stretch for miles has made Sedona one of the most sought after retirement communities in the United States and one of the best places to live in Arizona for Seniors.

According to at least one source, Sedona Arizona is actually rated as one of the top 20 retirement destinations in the country. The arts and hiking are of the most notable here. Many music and film events such as the International Film Festival are hosted in Sedona, but most choose Sedona for its beautiful setting and warm climate.

Best Retirement Community in Sedona, AZ

Sedona Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Sedona Winds is the best retirement community in Sedona Arizona offering Assisted Living, Senior Independent Living, and Memory Care. Call Sedona Winds Retirement Community today at (928) 284-1021! Sedona Winds offers a plethora of amenity packages, activities, and retirement home floor plans to choose from.

  1. Youngtown, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Youngtown Arizona is the home of the oldest retirement community in Arizona and in the United States of America. Youngtown relinquished its age restriction in 1999. Since then, Youngtown’s demographics evolved quickly making this town must-see if you are visiting the Phoenix Valley in search of retirement communities.

Youngtown sits right in between Olive Avenue and Grand Avenue on the south side.  Youngtown is located around many great amenities and is a little over 30 minutes away from the downtown area in Phoenix. Freeway Access: Youngtown is close to the 303 and 101 freeways ensuring easy access to entertainment, sporting events, shopping, restaurants, and recreation. Due to its compact size, Youngtown Arizona is a perfect retirement community for bicycling and walking.

Best Retirement Community in Youngtown, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Ventana Winds is the best retirement community in Sun City / Youngtown Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Surprise, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Surprise Arizona is located 45 minutes away from Phoenix, Surprise connects all aspects of your life including recreation, family, and work. Surprise is a charming community that is surrounded by the open Sonoran Desert, a regional lake, and mountain parklands.

Surprise neighborhoods are distinctive, clean, and unique. 9 out of 10 Surprise residents recommend Surprise to start a business. Surprise Arizona was founded by Flora Mae Statler in 1938. In 1938 Peoria was just 1 single square mile of farmland. In 2013, Surprise has grown to 120,000+ people in 2013. Statler’s daughter was convinced that she thought Surprise would never really amount to much.

Best Retirement Community in Suprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Chaparral Winds is the best retirement community in Surprise Arizona that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living,  & Memory Care services. Call Chaparral Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 544-4777!

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is located on the border of Surprise Arizona and Sun City. Their retirement community offers many options to meet all of your retirement needs. They are conveniently located next to everything one might need including terrific restaurants, great shopping, cultural centers, golf courses, medical offices, and sports arenas.

Locations That Still Need Enriching

Best Places to Retire in Arizona

Each cactus has barbs of its own, and Arizona provided some among these great havens for retirees. El Mirage was ranked at the bottom of the list, with very poor scores in both weather and amenities, with an average summer temperature of 95 degrees. Trailing close behind was Marana, with few amenities for retirees, and a higher crime rate. While Avondale is a pretty location, it also came in the bottom of the list due to extreme summer temperatures and the crime rate.

With these locations aside, there is a lot that Arizona has to offer. For those that are seeking adventure or simply wanting to relax on the poolside, this state is able to shine some light on your golden years.

Why retire in Arizona?

The biggest reasons to retire in Arizona is there are major tax breaks, allergy-free living, beautiful parks, perfect weather, world renowned gold courses, plenty of diversity, and great health care according to LeisureCare.

Best small towns in Arizona to retire

The best small towns to retire in Arizona are Youngtown, Peoria, Sun City, Sedona, and Green Valley.

Is Arizona a good place for retirees?

Yes, Arizona is a great place for retirees to live and retire. According to SmartAsset, “Arizona, the land of cacti and dry heat, is understandably a popular place to retire, especially if you lived in a cold-weather place during your career and you’re eager to escape the snow. Certain cities in The Grand Canyon State, though, are even more appealing to retirees than others.”

Is Arizona a good state to retire in?

Kiplinger says there are many great places to retire in Arizona. According to Kiplinger, “Many other retirees have settled in Arizona year-round. The nation’s first active adult retirement community sprouted in Youngtown, Ariz., in 1954, and today 17% of the state’s 7.2 million residents are 65 and older.”

SLS Retirement Communities

We have 4 locations open and another location under construction in the state of Arizona which offer a variety of services and living arrangements. From independent living to fully assisted living we complement our services with highly sought after amenities including memory care.  See below for the locations we currently have available.

Written by craig braddick

Golf Clubs For Seniors

Golf truly is a game for a lifetime and modern advances in golf equipment have kept seniors playing the game they love for longer. But whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, it is a game where the appeal never fades. In this article, we are going to talk about the various categories of clubs. Although we will not be recommending particular brands, the information will be very useful in making your next golf purchases.

Senior Does Not Mean Senior Or Does it?

Just because you are getting on in years it does not mean you automatically need senior flex shafts in your clubs. But if your clubhead speed has lessened over the years, how you assemble your set of clubs may be the key to lower scores. Known as “set make-up” – it really comes down to putting the clubs in your bag that give you the best chance of playing well. The late Arnold Palmer played golf against the kids on the PGA Tour well into his seventies as well as playing senior golf. One of his secrets was he adapted his equipment. He put more flexible shafts in his clubs, increased the loft on his driver, added some fairway woods and hybrids as well as oversized cavity back irons, wedges he felt comfortable with and rocked the modern putter for many years. Let’s look at each category of equipment for some ideas. By the way, although you can buy new and get totally custom fitted, there is now a burgeoning used golf club market, especially online. You can save money and still get great playing golf clubs!

Driver

The USGA (United States Golf Association) has set rules regarding the flexibility of driver faces so any top make driver made after 2010 or so should have a similar amount of face flexing. The 4 things the senior should look for are these:

1. Loft. Loft is your friend in golf. The Chances are you do not hit the ball as far as you used too. And yes, you may still be able to hit it out there 250 yards, but it is a fair bet the average is a lot less. A way to pick up some additional yards is to improve the “carry” distance on your tee shots and more loft helps you to do that. A lot of manufacturers offer Drivers in the 12-15 degree range of loft and they are definitely worth checking out if you can leave your ego alone!

2. Shaft length and weight. Many drivers are 46 inches long, yet the average driver length on the PGA Tour is 44.5 inches long. If you try a shorter driver, you will surprise yourself how much easier it is to hit the sweet spot and gain yardage by trimming an inch to an inch and a half off the grip end. It will not really impact the shaft flex but you can always add a little lead tape to the head if you like (one of Arnold Palmer’s tricks!)

3. Face Angle. Nowadays many drivers come with adjustable face angles to help counteract a tendency to hook or slice the ball. If you are a slicer, some manufacturers offer drivers with offset heads to reduce the slice and improve the launch angle of the ball.

4. Head size. There are some seniors who are just not comfortable with the 400cc to 460cc head size on modern drivers. Although you will give up a little distance on all but the purest hits, looking at some old school titanium club heads in the 250cc to 350cc range may help you find some confidence you can square the club up at impact. This may be especially the case if the shaft is also shortened and the loft is at least 11 degrees. Another bonus is these clubs are often less than $20!

Fairway Woods And Hybrids

Much of what can be said for drivers can also apply to fairway woods. Unless you can hit a 3 wood higher than a one level house, it is a club you probably do not need unless you play in a climate with very firm fairways where you may be able to eek out some yardage because of the roll. A 5 wood (hugely popular on all tours these days) will probably work better for you. Look for one with 18 or 19 degrees of loft and for the average sized person, a shaft of no more than 42 inches. A 7 wood and or a 9 wood (with between 21 and 24 degrees of loft) is also a great club for the senior to use as they work very well out of the rough as well as the fairway and tee box. The 5 wood can replace a 1-2 iron, a 7 wood, a 3-4 iron and a 9 wood a 4-5 iron. If you are looking for additional height, a shallow faced club may help, if you are using them more off the tee and from the rough, a slightly deeper face may help. Hybrids are iron replacements and are usually slimmed down looking hollow headed clubs designed to replace the longer irons. For most seniors a 1,2, or 3 iron is not a user friendly club but adding a 5 or 7/9 Wood combo and starting with a couple of hybrids in the 4 or 5 Irons can make the game a lot easier. You can even buy iron sets entirely made from hybrids. These are not “cheater clubs.” Lot’s of top notch players of all ages often have two or more in the bag.

Irons And Wedges

Assuming you have added a wood or a hybrid or two, your longest iron will probably be a 5 or a 6 iron. Cavity backed irons that spread their weight around the perimeter of the club is the way to go. Buying new or used, one of the most important things to get right is the lie angle (how the club is soled at impact with the ball.) Most golf clubs can be bent a couple of degrees in the neck area and with the help of a professional club fitter, this small adjustment to your irons may make shots a lot more accurate. Modern golf clubs are lofted stronger than clubs from the past. a Pitching Wedge in 1995 had around 48 degrees of loft, today 44 or 45 is commonplace as most sets now come with a Gap Wedge, an additional wedge of around 50 degree of loft before you get to the sand wedge (usually with around 56 degrees of loft.) Looking at some of the super senior professional golfers, it is notable, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Hale Irwin, Lee Trevino and many others do not carry a 60 degree wedge (also known as a Lob Wedge) so although you may want to carry one if you have a lot of hills and carries over sand traps around the greens on your home course, it is not by any stretch mandatory. A good sand wedge needs “bounce” on the sole (the number of degrees the back of the leading edge sits lower than the front of the leading edge.) If you play in wet conditions with a lot of fluffy sand in the bunkers, a sand wedge with 12 to 15 degrees of bounce is ideal. If you play on a course that is firm under foot with less sand in the traps, a sand wedge with 9 to 12 degrees of bounce will be a better weapon.

Putters

There is so much personal choice among putters. But whether you choose a traditional blade or centershaft putter, a Ping style heel to toe putter or one of the large and fashionable MOI putters, two things to look for. Most putters are too long for the user. You can cut it down and add weight with lead tape but take your putting stroke, see a professional and make sure your eyes are comfortable over the ball and then the right length of putter can be fathomed for you. Whatever design you choose, you will find a head weight that just feels ideal. Have fun trying different putters out and remember there are plenty of great putters on the used market!

Shafts And Grips

Modern graphite shafts do not have the performance issues of graphite from the 1980’s but it is amazing to hear experienced golfers still say silly things like: “Graphite turns the club into a hook machine” or “It has too much torque.” From a scientific viewpoint, that is simply not the case any more with decent quality graphite shafts the major manufacturers use. With its lighter weight, graphite should be a must for a seniors in their woods and hybrids and probably their irons as well. Most off the rack wedges come with “Wedgeflex” shafts, these are inevitably stiff shafted. Throughout his career, Jack Nicklaus used a sand wedge with a soft flex shaft and even if you keep steel in the wedges, having them reshafted with a more flexible shaft can help a great deal. You do not have to go with senior flex but it is a fact most american male amateur golfers use stiff flex because of their ego, when a regular or even senior flex club may help them better. Try out different shafts with a competent club fitter and you may surprise yourself.  Whatever grip you like the feel of can be assembled to suit your grip. If you have arthritis in your hands, the grip can be built up – many top senior pros do this to eliminate the grip taper on the lower half of the grip and to help with the vibration of the club at impact if they get sore and stiff hands.

Putting It All Together

Let’s take the example of Tom. Tom is a 65 year old male golfer with a swingspeed of 84 mph with a driver and 67 mph with a 6 Iron. His handicap is 12. He does not hit the ball as high or as far as he once used too. But he uses good course management and hits the ball pretty straight. He carries a 12 handicap and is capable of shooting 81-83 on a regular basis on a 6,100 yard par 72 golf course. Here is a suggested set make-up for him using senior flex shafts in the clubs:

Driver: 300-460cc (based on personal preference) driver head with 12-14 degrees of loft.

Wood: 5 Wood with 18 to 19 degrees of loft.

Hybrids: 4 and 5 Hybrids to replace the 4 and 5 Irons.

Irons: 6,7,8,9, Pitching Wedge and Gap Wedge – same model, same shaft.

Sand Wedge: 56 degrees with 12 degrees of bounce with a shaft, be it steel or graphite, of a similar flex profile to the other clubs.

Putter: Whatever he chooses!

That is only 12 clubs! The rules allow you 14 and you may find you do not need them but this set up gives you the room to add an additional fairway wood, maybe a 6 Hybrid Iron or a 60 degree wedge!
If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, swimming pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more! SLS Communities delivers today’s seniors the very best assisted living care services in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300

Written by craig braddick

Best Places To Retire in Arizona 2021

If you are searching for the best places to retire in Arizona for 2021, this guide should help! Furthermore, SLS Communities has great retirement locations in many exciting areas of Arizona. Thousands of retirees flock to Arizona each year to enjoy the moderate climate, escape the snow, and enjoy a state that has dedicated communities, towns, and cities for retirement age Americans.

Best Places to Retire In AZ

We have found a wide variety of places for you to look at when considering your retirement options in Arizona. This list contains something for every senior. If you are looking for a suburban location close to all the major conveniences and facilities we’ve got you covered. But if you are after a more rural, country setting, where you can enjoy the great outdoors in peace, we have options for you too!

Our list looks at a number of factors, the kind of community it is, does it have a diverse population or is it more senior-oriented, what is it like to live there, what can you do when you live there, how close is it to amenities and so on.

In short, we hope it will give you a snapshot of what these places will be like should you choose to live there.

  1. Sun City, Arizona

Sun City Arizona - Best Places to Retire

An exciting and vibrant planned retirement community just west of Phoenix, Sun City has the reputation of being perhaps the most senior-oriented city in the state. It features great stores, from the well-known chains to small boutiques, a wide array of medical professionals and facilities geared for the senior. Also, in many areas licensed golf carts can travel on roads! With nearly three-quarters of the city being of senior age or above, you will feel right at home with many social clubs and sports like pickleball, bowling, and golf.

  1. Sun City West, Arizona

Sun City West AZ - Best Places to Retire

Sun City West has grown quickly and established itself as one of the top 25 places in the nation to retire to and with good reason! Like Sun City, it was planned and built with the senior in mind. Although not quite as large as Sun City itself, it combines a cozy feel with easy access to everything in Sun City. Not that you will run out of things to do in Sun City West that offers a wide variety of sports and lots of different social clubs for various interests. According to SmartAssets, Sun City West as the best place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Peoria, Arizona

Peoria AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the northern suburbs of the Phoenix metropolitan area, the popularity of Peoria continues to grow every year with seniors looking for a place to live close to all the major amenities and convenience of a major city (it’s only 11 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.) It’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful desert mountain landscape in the nation. With an average low in winter of 55 degrees and an average summer high of 95 degrees, it is an ideal climate for many seniors looking to relocate!

Best Retirement Community in Peoria, AZ

Desert Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Desert Winds is the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Desert Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 362-1200!

Desert Winds Retirement Community is located next to the border of Peoria & Sun City Arizona. They are located near tons of great shopping locations, tasty restaurants, golf courses, sports arenas, cultural centers, medical offices and more. Desert Winds is known as the best retirement community in Peoria Arizona.

  1. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson AZ - Best Places to Retire

With a population of just over half a million, Tucson continues to grow and is a great option for seniors wanting to be part of bustling city life. The city itself is a combo of the very modern and old western charm and flavor. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it is a favorite with outdoor lovers. The city is a popular destination for lovers of the arts with many theatres and galleries and if you are looking for a city where you can enjoy the company of younger people, it is home to the University of Arizona!

  1. Nogales, Arizona

Nogales AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated on the Arizona-Mexico border, Nogales is blessed with a cooler summer climate that most of Arizona. An average daily high of just 77 degrees makes it ideal for seniors looking for a more temperate climate. It is a favorite place for walkers and hikers as the trails are not as extreme as other areas in the state. Being a border town, it will help if you can speak Spanish or be familiar with Mexican culture to take full of advantage of what Nogales has to offer.

  1. Prescott, Arizona

Prescott Arizona - Best Places to Retire

One of the most historic towns in Arizona, Prescott, less than two hours from Phoenix, yet at an elevation of nearly 5500 feet has maintained its small-town feel despite a population of around 40,000. Whiskey Row (the main strip for nightlife) dates to frontier times. Increasingly popular with baby boomers, Prescott offers a cooler climate than Phoenix with older even historic, housing available downtown and modern retirement complexes available on the outskirts.

  1. Yuma, Arizona

Yuma Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Yuma is known as just about the sunniest and driest spot in the USA. They get less than three inches of rain per year and over 330 days of sunshine! The city predates the 1849 California Gold Rush and much of the architecture of the city reflects that era. Lying on the banks of the Colorado River, Yuma has long been a US Army base and today still has a strong military community. Many seniors love Yuma as the cost of living is reasonable and there are many top-notch RV and mobile home communities.

  1. Prescott Valley, Arizona

Prescott Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Prescott Valley is the younger brother of Prescott. A planned community originating in the 1960’s it has now expanded and virtually joined at the hip with Prescott as suburbs creep ever closer to each other. It is slightly cheaper than Prescott for seniors to live, especially as you go further east towards Humboldt-Dewey and Mayer, but with most local amenities still in Prescott, a car is essential. Prescott Valley is very senior-friendly with many activities and groups to interest the senior.

  1. Litchfield Park, Arizona

Litchfield Park AZ - Best Places to Retire

Located in the western suburbs of Phoenix, this small community (less than 6000) has an increasing senior population and may be ideal for seniors looking to permanently relocate to Arizona. Most people in Litchfield Park own their home and the community is known for embracing traditional American values. With an air force base nearby, it has a patriotic vibe. Although local senior-oriented amenities are fewer, everything is just a short car ride away in Phoenix.

  1. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale AZ - Best Places to Retire

One of the wealthiest cities in the country for its size, Scottsdale is home to many rotating arts festivals and fashion shows throughout the year and many seniors call the place home. It is also home to many private golf and country club communities, as well as being the home of The Phoenix Open (now sponsored by Waste Management.) Scottsdale is also home to many corporations and small businesses. Scottsdale is not the most affordable area in Arizona but has a lot to offer if it is within your budget.

  1. Mesa, Arizona

Mesa AZ - Best Places to Retire

Situated in the heart of the east valley, the growing population of Mesa (fast approaching 500,000) has made it one of the most diverse and affordable cities in Arizona with a wide range of housing options and communities for nearly every taste. Seniors enjoy having access to shopping close by from the major brand stores to independent small businesses, as well as access to nearly all forms of medical care. Mesa is a diverse community, upbeat and friendly, therefore welcoming to the active senior.

According to NewHomeSource, Mesa is one of the best cities to retire in Arizona.

Best Retirement Community in Mesa, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Canyon Winds Retirement Community is the best retirement community in Mesa Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Florence, Arizona

Florence AZ - Best Places to Retire

East of the east valley and nearly 60 miles from Phoenix, the city of Florence situated along US Route 60 is gradually becoming a more popular destination with seniors. A low cost of living is slightly offset by the fact you will have to drive to Apache Junction and Mesa for major grocery and big box stores. There is also a lack of dining options in the area. That said, the Sonoran Desert views are spectacular, and it is a few degrees cooler than the Phoenix metro area.

  1. Sierra Vista, Arizona

Sierra Vista Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sierra Vista enjoys a great year-round climate and the cost of living is below average for Arizona!. Of course, being the hummingbird capital of the United States, if birdwatching is one of your hobbies then you are going to find joy in being surrounded by all sorts of birds that are not common in other areas of Arizona.

The closest airport is a 68-mile drive, but it’s still closer than some other locations on the list. But, to balance things out, there are many things to keep busy with. In warmer months, the Sierra Vista Aquatic Center is available for locals, which is known as The Cove by many. There are also the therapy spas, lap pools, and wave pool available.

  1. Kingman, Arizona

Kingman Arizona - Best Places to Retire

With just over a population of 28,000, Kingman offers many amenities for being a smaller place and is one of the best small towns in Arizona to retire. This is the location of the International Route 66 Festival, which is an event that lasts four days with a parade, car show, and much more. Also, just off the historic road is The Roadrunner Café, which continues to provide great breakfasts to locals and travelers.

Although, if you are interested in traveling by airport, you will have a 102-mile road trip ahead of you, which will likely take you down the historic route.

  1. Sahuarita, Arizona

Sahuarita Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Just outside Tucson, Sahuarita is one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona. With Tucson only twenty minutes away there is plenty of great dining and shopping options as well as medical professionals and facilities available for the active senior.

It is ranked as one of the safest cities in Arizona and there are many festivals and attractions for fun, including the annual Fiesta Sahuarita. Because Sahuarita has a high standard of living and a rapidly increasing population the cost of living is increasing but there are no property taxes.  There are not as many retiree specific amenities as some cities but there are plenty of parks and over 17 miles of local trails.

  1. Green Valley, Arizona

Green Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

Green Valley is one of the most affordable senior-friendly cities in Southern Arizona. Situated just 20 miles south of Tucson, over 80% of the community is age-restricted and golf carts are legal to be driven on the streets. It is becoming very popular with active seniors because there are more than a dozen recreation centers, golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers and a thriving arts and entertainment community.

A big reason for Green Valley’s increased popularity is the climate. The average year-round temperature is just under 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The dry warm climate is also popular for those with arthritis. With Tucson less than a half-hour drive away, there are plenty of shopping choices and medical options within easy reach.

According to Niche, Green Valley is the #1 place to retire in Arizona.

  1. Cave Creek, Arizona

Cave Creek Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Situated in far northern suburbs of Phoenix, Cave Creek, at an elevation of just over 2200 feet is increasingly popular with seniors. People have lived in the area for over 1400 years but Cave Creek came of age in the 1950s and 60’s and still has a lot of the post WW2 charm with a big helping of old west architecture and street layouts. Seniors are moving to the Cave Creek area as it is slightly cooler than Phoenix, the landscape is more of a lush desert with beautiful views of Black Mountain. The cost of living is slightly less than Phoenix, too!

All the conveniences of the big city are just a short drive away. With low crime rates and great dining options, Cave Creek will only continue to grow in popularity.

  1. Paradise Valley, Arizona

Paradise Valley Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Paradise Valley is truly one of the most luxurious but also most expensive places to retire to in Arizona. The average property price is pushing $1.5 million dollars and the average household income is approaching $200,000 per annum. There are twelve very upscale resorts in Paradise Valley offering fine dining, spas and golf. High-end shopping abounds in Paradise Valley a nearby Scottsdale. With phoenix close by, Paradise Valley is also a hub for arts and entertainment and the wealthy local population ensures all kinds of medical doctors are available.

It is also very warm indeed. With temperatures often over 100 degrees for extended periods during the day in summertime and goes down to an average of 54 in January. Crime rates are about half the national average meaning it is a very safe place to live.

  1. Cottonwood, Arizona

Cottonwood AZ - Best Places to Retire

Cottonwood is a small town located in Central Arizona, the scenery is pretty and it is geared more for the outdoor country lifestyle than towns and cities in more suburban areas. Traditional its outlook, Cottonwood is probably best suited to independent seniors. Although it is a small town (population under 13,000) the nearby Verde Valley Medical Center is an award-winning facility.

Cottonwood has the advantage of being very walkable, though temperatures often top 100 degrees in the summertime. There are lots of activities geared for seniors however and plenty of music options and festivals throughout the year. The largest city of note is Prescott, nearly 60 miles away so there will be a bit of a drive if you want certain shopping options.

  1. Golden Valley, Arizona

Golden Valley AZ - Best Places to Retire

In the heart of Mohave County, Golden Valley is a quiet town but close enough to the cities of Kingman and Bullhead City to have everything the senior needs within a short drive. It is a very affordable place to live with average house prices less than $125,000. The temperatures in winter are mild and in the summer time somewhere between the mid 70’s and mid 90’s with the occasional high in excess of 100 degrees.

Golden Valley is situated in the desert and there are still plenty of undeveloped areas in the city and its surroundings. if you are looking to buy land and develop it, Golden Valley is definitely worth checking out. It is definitely a place for the active senior who enjoys rural life and is not dependent on having large shopping, dining and medical facilities on their doorstep.

  1. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Sedona Arizona is a well-known tourist destination, hosting many activities and sights to see for retirees. For example, Sedona is most known for their “Red Rocks“, which were seen in countless western films like, Jimmy Stewart’s “Broken Arrow”. The color effects displayed on the sandstone rocks during the sunrises and sunsets in Sedona are amazing! This beauty coupled with moderate climates and mountains that stretch for miles has made Sedona one of the most sought after retirement communities in the United States and one of the best places to live in Arizona for Seniors.

According to at least one source, Sedona Arizona is actually rated as one of the top 20 retirement destinations in the country. The arts and hiking are of the most notable here. Many music and film events such as the International Film Festival are hosted in Sedona, but most choose Sedona for its beautiful setting and warm climate.

Best Retirement Community in Sedona, AZ

Sedona Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Sedona Winds is the best retirement community in Sedona Arizona offering Assisted Living, Senior Independent Living, and Memory Care. Call Sedona Winds Retirement Community today at (928) 284-1021! Sedona Winds offers a plethora of amenity packages, activities, and retirement home floor plans to choose from.

  1. Youngtown, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Youngtown Arizona is the home of the oldest retirement community in Arizona and in the United States of America. Youngtown relinquished its age restriction in 1999. Since then, Youngtown’s demographics evolved quickly making this town must-see if you are visiting the Phoenix Valley in search of retirement communities.

Youngtown sits right in between Olive Avenue and Grand Avenue on the south side.  Youngtown is located around many great amenities and is a little over 30 minutes away from the downtown area in Phoenix. Freeway Access: Youngtown is close to the 303 and 101 freeways ensuring easy access to entertainment, sporting events, shopping, restaurants, and recreation. Due to its compact size, Youngtown Arizona is a perfect retirement community for bicycling and walking.

Best Retirement Community in Youngtown, AZ

Ventana Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Ventana Winds is the best retirement community in Sun City / Youngtown Arizona that offers Assisted Living, Pathway Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Call Ventana Winds Retirement Community Today at (623) 583-2460!

  1. Surprise, Arizona

Sedona Arizona - Best Places to Retire

Surprise Arizona is located 45 minutes away from Phoenix, Surprise connects all aspects of your life including recreation, family, and work. Surprise is a charming community that is surrounded by the open Sonoran Desert, a regional lake, and mountain parklands.

Surprise neighborhoods are distinctive, clean, and unique. 9 out of 10 Surprise residents recommend Surprise to start a business. Surprise Arizona was founded by Flora Mae Statler in 1938. In 1938 Peoria was just 1 single square mile of farmland. In 2013, Surprise has grown to 120,000+ people in 2013. Statler’s daughter was convinced that she thought Surprise would never really amount to much.

Best Retirement Community in Suprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds - Best Retirement Community in AZ

Chaparral Winds is the best retirement community in Surprise Arizona that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living,  & Memory Care services. Call Chaparral Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 544-4777!

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is located on the border of Surprise Arizona and Sun City. Their retirement community offers many options to meet all of your retirement needs. They are conveniently located next to everything one might need including terrific restaurants, great shopping, cultural centers, golf courses, medical offices, and sports arenas.

Locations That Still Need Enriching

Best Places to Retire in Arizona

Each cactus has barbs of its own, and Arizona provided some among these great havens for retirees. El Mirage was ranked at the bottom of the list, with very poor scores in both weather and amenities, with an average summer temperature of 95 degrees. Trailing close behind was Marana, with few amenities for retirees, and a higher crime rate. While Avondale is a pretty location, it also came in the bottom of the list due to extreme summer temperatures and the crime rate.

With these locations aside, there is a lot that Arizona has to offer. For those that are seeking adventure or simply wanting to relax on the poolside, this state is able to shine some light on your golden years.

Why retire in Arizona?

The biggest reasons to retire in Arizona is there are major tax breaks, allergy-free living, beautiful parks, perfect weather, world renowned gold courses, plenty of diversity, and great health care according to LeisureCare.

Best small towns in Arizona to retire

The best small towns to retire in Arizona are Youngtown, Peoria, Sun City, Sedona, and Green Valley.

Is Arizona a good place for retirees?

Yes, Arizona is a great place for retirees to live and retire. According to SmartAsset, “Arizona, the land of cacti and dry heat, is understandably a popular place to retire, especially if you lived in a cold-weather place during your career and you’re eager to escape the snow. Certain cities in The Grand Canyon State, though, are even more appealing to retirees than others.”

Is Arizona a good state to retire in?

Kiplinger says there are many great places to retire in Arizona. According to Kiplinger, “Many other retirees have settled in Arizona year-round. The nation’s first active adult retirement community sprouted in Youngtown, Ariz., in 1954, and today 17% of the state’s 7.2 million residents are 65 and older.”

SLS Retirement Communities

We have 4 locations open and another location under construction in the state of Arizona which offer a variety of services and living arrangements. From independent living to fully assisted living we complement our services with highly sought after amenities including memory care.  See below for the locations we currently have available.

Written by craig braddick

Strength Training For Older Adults

Strength Training For Older Adults

From time to time we feature an interview that is worth quoting in full. Such an interview is one with Dr. Roger Fielding on Strength Training for Older Adults. Below is the text from the interview at the News In Health website. You can find the original at: https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2020/03/dr-roger-fielding-strength-training-older-adults

Disclaimer: You should speak with a medical professional before undergoing any exercise regime. Use proper safety precautions and have assistance available when you exercise.

NIHNiH: Are the benefits of strength training different for different age groups?

Fielding: The benefits of strength training across the lifespan are relatively similar. But as people get older, there’s a progressive decline in the amount of muscle mass and muscle strength.

So as we age, I think it’s even more important to consider incorporating some strength training into our physical activity routine, to either slow down the progression of that decline or to some extent prevent it from occurring.

NIHNiH: How does strength training help older adults live independently?

Fielding: There’s a very close relationship between the loss of muscle strength with aging and the development of mobility limitations and poor physical functioning. As people lose muscle mass and muscle strength, they begin to develop problems with their ability to walk, their ability to get up from a chair, to climb a flight of stairs. And those changes can reach a point where people lose their ability to be living independently.

Interventions that can prevent that loss in muscle mass and strength as people age may be able to delay or prevent people from losing their independence.… The most robust type of exercise training to prevent the loss of muscle strength and the loss of muscle mass is strength training.

NIHNiH: What would you say to an older adult who feels unsure about how to start strength training?

Fielding: The first thing to remember is that some exercise or a little bit of exercise or physical activity is better than no exercise and no physical activity. So anything you can do is going to have benefits that are real and sustainable.

More and more, there are programs at local gymnasiums, local health clubs, and accessible gyms like the YMCA and other organizations that are very targeted for older people. So if people are intimidated, I would suggest they look to see if there are programs like that in their community that might be more friendly and more accessible and welcoming to their age and their demographic.

There are also some strength training activities that can be done with things like ankle weights, or using your body weight and a chair. So there are some strength training activities that don’t really require specialized equipment or going to a gymnasium, that people can do to start off with.

They may ultimately progress to getting strong enough that they might want to go to a gym or a community program where there’s a bit more challenge. But there are certainly things that you can do in your home that are very scalable and accessible that don’t involve going to the gym.

NIHNiH: What are some tips for staying motivated with a new strength-training program?

Fielding: Ask yourself: Why do you want to do this? Like, you want to go on a four-mile hike or be able to play in the yard with your grandchildren or start playing a sport again. Goal setting can be really useful in trying to keep people motivated to stay with a program of physical activity.

It’s also important to find something that you really like to do and can make part of your daily routine, activities, or behaviors. If you’re somebody who absolutely loathes going to the gym, signing up for a gym membership is not going to be the right strategy for you. But getting some hand weights and some ankle weights that you can use at home, in a place where you’re very comfortable, may be something that’s going to get you motivated to start.

Some people really like to exercise with a friend or partner, or with a group of people. In that case, finding someone that you want to embark on a strength training program with can also be a really good way to keep you adherent and keep you motivated. The important thing is finding something that works for you.

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, swimming pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more! SLS Communities delivers today’s seniors the very best assisted living care services in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300

Written by webtechs

Physical Games For Seniors

Physical Games For Seniors

Most seniors love to stay active. Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, activity is vital in independent and assisted living facilities. With a plethora of exercises and games available across the state, we’ve hand-picked some of the best physical games for seniors.

Yoga

Yoga is the perfect activity for the indoors or outdoors-man. This is a highly effective practice for senior citizens. Yoga is comprised of controlled body positions and stretches, with a goal of physical and mental well-being. The activity is perfect for participants looking to attain deep spiritual tranquility. This is one hobby that is great for the body and soul!

Health Benefits

There are numerous health benefits for yoga participants. Weight loss is, of course, at the top of the list. With the possible weight loss comes a more balanced metabolism, with a lowering of blood sugar and blood pressure. But, that’s not all! Yoga can result in increased muscle strength, flexibility and better balance. Yoga, which is a practice believed to be more than 5,000 years old, has been shown to improve cardiovascular and blood circulation, as well.

Shuffleboard

Beginning in 15th century English pubs, this sport has constantly changed over time, but the goal has remained the same. This is one of the most popular sports to play for seniors because of its competitive, yet lighthearted nature. A player wins in shuffleboard when reaching a score of 15, but some bigger tournaments could require 21 points for a win. Alternating turns, each player slides four weights across an opponent’s board. Sliding your weights to the highest available scoring area is the objective here. Players can also knock opposing weights off the board with their own weights or use them to protect their current score.

Health Benefits

Shuffleboard increases heart rate and reduces stress at the very same time. Another benefit is the obvious workout for various muscle groups.

Line Dancing

A simple way to take part in the recommended 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per day is by partaking in line dancing. The sport is great for the heart and it keeps its dancers healthy and in shape. If you’re intimidated by dancing, there is no need to worry because line dancing is the perfect exercise for beginners.

Health Benefits

There are many health benefits in the world of line dancing. Improved stamina, posture and balance are just some of the benefits. The exercise can lower stress and improve stamina in the process. Avid dancers may see a lowered risk of osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, as well.

Bocce Ball

This sport’s history is fascinating! Dating back to ancient Egypt in 5200 B.C., bocce ball’s popularity began to soar in Greece hundreds of years later. The sport made its way to Belgium, Flanders and Holland after that. Bocce ball took center stage during the first Bocce Olympiad held in Athens in 1896. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that the sport officially took off in the United States, though. Open Bocce is the most played version of the game. Eight balls, plus a smaller ball (pallino) are shared between 2, 4, 6 or 8 players. A random player is chosen to throw the pallino first, then all participants try to get their ball closest to the pallino. The closest to the pallino receives one point after each round. Additional points are awarded when the leader’s ball is closer to the pallino than any other opponent’s shots. Once a total of 13 points is attained by one player, a winner is crowned.

Health Benefits

Ideal for stress relief, bocce ball can also improve mental stimulation and overall flexibility.

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, swimming pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more! SLS Communities delivers today’s seniors the very best assisted living care services in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300

Written by craig braddick

Classic Movies Popular With Seniors

Netflix Movies For SeniorsHere are some films on Netflix currently popular with seniors. Read on to learn more.

Dirty Dozen (1967)

Good World War II movie about a special force made up of unlikely characters to carry out a dangerous mission.

Casablanca (1942)

A complicated love story set in early World War II Africa.

The Magnficent Seven (1960)

Classic old fashioned “good guys versus bad guys” western – starring film greats like Steve McQueen and Yul Brynner.

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

Inspirational romance, drama, and hope for democracy. Starring Jimmy Stewart and Jean Arthur.

Singing in the Rain (1952)

Fun musical about love and the new era of motion pictures. Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds.

The King and I (1957)

A Rodgers and Hammerstein musical production about a woman coming to Bangkok to teach English to a royal family.

The Sound of Music (1965)

An upbeat classic musical – all the songs will be familiar!

Bringing up Baby (1938)

Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant in a funny comedy with tons of hilarious adventures.

 

Source: https://www.sageminder.com/Caregiving/CaregivingBasics/ActivitiesforSeniors/MoviesforSeniors.aspx

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, swimming pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more! SLS Communities delivers today’s seniors the very best assisted living care services in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300.

Written by craig braddick

Netflix Movies Popular With Seniors

Netflix Movies For SeniorsHere are some films on Netflix currently popular with seniors. Read on to learn more.

Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Set in her ways, Miss Daisy, a recent widow, needs help getting around by car.  Heartwarming and funny relationship develops between her and her driver.

On Golden Pond (1981)

A story about family – a Classic!

Out of Africa (1985)

Meryl Streep and Robert Redford in an Epic romance in the breathtaking scenery of colonial Africa.

All the President’s Men (1976)

A movie about how two reporters unraveled the Watergate conspiracy – starring Dustin Hoffman and Robert Redford.

Hachi – A Dog’s Tale (2009)

A heartwarming tale of man’s best friend, based on a true story of a dog named Hachiko.

Walk The Line (2005)

The story of Johnny Cash and his rise to fame. Great music and story.

Shadowlands (1993)

A British film about C.S. Lewis and the love of his life, American Poet, Joy Davidman. Based on true story.

The Help (2011)

Realities of race and women in the deep south in the early 1960’s.

The King’s Speech (2010)

Based on a true story of Britain’s King George VI and his triumph over his own speech impediment.

Lincoln (2012)

True story of one of America’s most beloved presidents during one of the most dramatic time periods in our history.

To Dance With The White Dog (1994)

A story of a widower working through his grief over the loss of his beloved Cora.

Source: https://www.sageminder.com/Caregiving/CaregivingBasics/ActivitiesforSeniors/MoviesforSeniors.aspx

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, swimming pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more! SLS Communities delivers today’s seniors the very best assisted living care services in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300.

Written by craig braddick

How Seniors Can Keep Healthy This Summer

How Seniors Can Keep Healthy This Summer

Although COVID-19 precautions take priority, here are some other ways senior can enjoy the summer in a healthy manner. Read on to learn more.

Activity

30 minutes a day of keeping your body moving to stay fit can help all seniors! Try new types of exercises, such as low impact aerobic exercises. The water helps to stabilize the body and strengthen the muscles. It’s a great option for those with osteoporosis because it reduces your risk of a bone fracture. Taking part in new exercises is a great way to meet new friends.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can lead to heat stroke, which can be life threatening if it’s not treated. As people age it can become more difficult for their bodies to regulate their internal temperature. Senior’s may not feel thirsty, but it’s important to keep track of how much water they are drinking. Also, certain medications can lead to further effects of dehydration. All of these things leads to the importance of staying cool and hydrated. They should discuss with a doctor how much fluids they should be drinking a day. In the hot months seniors should have access to an AC system for efficient cooling down.

Enjoy The Outdoors

This super vitamin helps in keeping your bones strong. Have fun outside walking your dog, having a picnic, or playing with your grandchildren at a park. While spending time out and about make sure to protect your skin with sunscreen. Seniors are more vulnerable to the sun’s rays because of their thinning skin. Other forms of protection are wearing cotton shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses. When out walking wear stabilizing shoes and beware of insect bites.

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, swimming pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more! SLS Communities delivers today’s seniors the very best assisted living care services in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300.

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