Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire

Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire are residential neighborhood communities specifically designed for adults aged 55 and older. These communities offer a range of amenities and activities tailored to the needs and interests of active seniors, providing a vibrant and fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

Arizona 55 Plus Communities offer the Best Desert Sun Sets

What are Arizona 55+ Communities?

When it comes to finding the perfect Arizona 55+ Community, Arizona offers a wealth of options for those aged 55 and above. With its sunny weather, stunning landscapes, and abundance of amenities, it’s no wonder why so many retirees choose to call Arizona home. Here are some of the best retirement communities in Arizona that are worth considering: the state has everything from golf courses and resort-style pools to vast hiking trails surrounded by beautiful mountain tops, making it hard to get bored here. Some of these communities even cater specifically to the influx of mature residents, providing a wide range of options for retirees looking for a lifestyle that fits their golden-years goals and financial picture.

What amenities do Arizona 55+ Communities offer?

Arizona 55+ communities typically offer a wide range of amenities to cater to the needs and interests of older adults. As you search for the perfect place to settle down, retirement communities have emerged as exclusive enclaves designed specifically for retirees. These can include golf courses, miles of walking trails, and expansive community centers that provide swimming pools, fitness centers, social clubs, pickleball and tennis courts. Residents can enjoy an active adult lifestyle, with activities and social events organized within the community destination. An experienced agent who knows your market can provide you with valuable insights into community characteristics such as crime rates, affordability, home construction quality, and the reputation of the governing association.

The Concept of Retirement Communities

Pickleball courts Arizona Retirement Communities

Arizona 55+ communities are evolving into dynamic, inclusive neighborhoods, geared towards individuals in their post-career phase. These communities are more than just residential areas; they are hubs of vibrant activity and social interaction, designed with the unique needs of retirees in mind. With a focus on promoting an engaging, active lifestyle, these communities come equipped with a variety of facilities and amenities. Residents have access to a wide array of options like wellness programs, sports facilities including tennis courts and golf courses, as well as a variety of outdoor pursuits. The aim is to offer a fulfilling and enriching environment where retirees can thrive, pursue new interests, and foster social connections..

Welcome to Arizona. The state with

When it comes to retirement destinations, Arizona, also known as the Grand Canyon state, stands out as a top choice for older Americans. Its warm climate, natural beauty, and abundance of outdoor activities make it an attractive destination. Active adults can enjoy activities such as hiking, golfing, and exploring national parks. Additionally, Arizona retirement communities provide a range of real estate options, catering to different price ranges and lifestyle preferences. The greater Phoenix area, which includes cities like Buckeye, Goodyear, Peoria, Sun City, Sun Lakes, Sun City West, Surprise, and Mesa, offers an array of retirement communities suitable for older adults looking to retire or downsize as they prepare for retirement. According to Forbes, Arizona ranked No. 7 of the best states for older Americans making a move to retire or to downsize in anticipation of retirement. GOBanking Rates found that the Arizona cities of Phoenix, Glendale, Tucson, and Mesa are suitable places where older adults can live well on as little as $2,500 per month in retirement. Low taxes (helpful for stretching Social Security, pensions, IRAs, etc.) are another appealing factor for seniors choosing Arizona as their retirement destination.

Age Restriction 45+ and 55+ Retirement Communities

Many Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places have age restrictions, typically 55 years or older. To be compliant with the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA) and federal Fair Housing laws, some 55+ communities follow the 80/20 rule. To qualify for the 55+ status, only one of the adults residing in the home needs to be 55 or older. Living in age-restricted communities allows retirees to enjoy a peaceful, adult-oriented environment, free from the hustle and bustle of younger communities. It is important to note that age restrictions may vary, so it’s essential to check the specific community requirements. The 45+ allows a percentage of residents to be between the ages of 45-54. Additionally, some of the newer 55+ communities allow an adult child 19yrs and older to live with retirees.

Arizona 55+ Communities in Phoenix

Now that we have a better understanding of retirement communities in and around Phoenix Arizona, let’s explore some of the most popular Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire in the state. These communities offer a range of amenities, lifestyle options, and real estate choices, ensuring retirees can find at home in a community that fits their life style as well as their budget. One way to see your options is to do your own research and search the internet with phrases such as, “retirement communities near me” or “55 and older communities near me.” Check ratings, reviews, and comments posted on the Better Business Bureau site, Gogle Reviews, and industry websites. Please visit a community’s website for the most up-to-date information on price ranges, services, and amenities.

Sun City: Retirement Community

Sun City, located near Phoenix, is widely recognized as the first active adult retirement community in the United States, built in 1960. This iconic retirement community, known for its innovative concept of self-contained active adult communities, offers a wide range of amenities, such as golf courses with an impressive number of golf holes, swimming pools, fitness centers, recreation centers, and grand ballrooms. Residents of Sun City can choose from a between single-family homes and townhomes, ensuring there is something to suit every budget. With the introduction of Del Webb’s Sun City in the 1960s, Arizona became the birthplace of modern active retirement communities, setting the stage for the flourishing of 55-plus age-restricted communities in the state.


Sun City West

Welcome to Sun City West Arizona

Sun City West, is another popular Arizona 55+ community in Arizona. This active adult community offers golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, and numerous clubs and activities. Sun City West is known for friendly atmosphere, creating a welcoming like-minded individuals. The community’s location in the Phoenix metropolitan area provides easy access to shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.


The Grand (Sun City Grand): Resort-Style Living

Welcome to The Grand / Sun City Grand

Located in Surprise, Arizona, The Grand, also known as Sun City Grand, offers resort-style retirement living at its best. This 45+ active adult community boasts amenities such as golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, and outdoor activities. Residents can choose from a range of home options, catering to various lifestyle preferences and budgets. The natural beauty of the Sonoran desert surrounds Sun Lakes, situated in Central Arizona just south of Chandler. It’s about six miles from the Coyote Lakes Golf Club and 11 miles from the Wildlife World Zoo Aquarium & Safari Park.


AZ 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire Luxury Communities

While Arizona 55+ communities cater to a range of price ranges, some retirees may be looking for luxury living options that offer the best amenities, upscale finishes, and exclusive enclave communities. Arizona has several luxury retirement communities offering best in class amenities and real estate options.


PebbleCreek: Luxury Living

PebbleCreek Good Year, AZ an Arizona Retirement Community

PebbleCreek, a Robson community located in Goodyear, Arizona, offers luxury retirement living at an affordable price. This 40+ active adult community features amenities such as golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, and outdoor activities. Residents can choose from a range of home options, including townhomes. The natural beauty of the White Tank Mountains and Estrella Mountain Park surrounds PebbleCreek, providing breathtaking views. Some younger residents and visitors also had very positive experiences at PebbleCreek, being pleasantly surprised by the surroundings and quality construction.


Sterling Grove

Sterling Grove, located in Surprise, Arizona, offers a premier Arizona 55+ community section. The community offers resort-style amenities, including golf courses, fitness centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Retirees can choose from a variety of home elevations, square feet options. providing stunning mountain views and outdoor recreation. Sterling Grove also offers a family section.


Trilogy at Vistancia: Resort-Style Living

Arizona Retirement Community

Trilogy at Vistancia offers resort-style retirement living in Peoria, Arizona. This active adult community boasts a stunning golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Retirees can choose from a range of home options. The natural beauty of the saguaro national park adds to the allure of Trilogy at Vistancia.


Trilogy® at Wickenburg Ranch

Golf Course Views Arizona 55+ Communites

Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch, located in Wickenburg, Arizona, offers a active adult living section in a picturesque desert setting. Wickenburg Arizona offers the old west small town charm. This exclusive gated community features amenities such as golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and miles of hiking and biking trails.


Victory at Verrado

Welcome to Victory Verrado

Victory at Verrado, located in Buckeye, Arizona, is a luxury 55+ community that offers retirees a truly exceptional lifestyle. This exclusive community features championship golf courses, amenities such as clubhouse facilities, fitness centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Victory at Verrado is the epitome of retirement living at its best with single-family homes offering modern design, upscale finishes, and spacious floor plans The community is surrounded by breathtaking White Tank Mountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting.


Affordable 55+ Retirement Communities

While luxury retirement communities offer an elevated lifestyle, retirees may be looking for affordable Arizona 55+ communities that provide value for their money. Arizona has several affordable retirement communities that offer lifestyle choices at a more affordable price range.


Sun City Festival: Living in Buckeye, AZ

Welcome to Sun City Festival by Del Webb

Sun City Festival, located in Buckeye, Arizona, offers newer homes at an affordable price. This active adult community features amenities such as golf courses, fitness centers, pickleball courts, outdoor activities, and miles of walking trails. Retirees can choose from a range of home options. Sun City Festival, has access to outdoor recreation such as razor trails.


Heritage at Asante: More for Your Money

Heritage at Assante Community an Arizona 55+ Community

Heritage at Asante, located in Surprise, Arizona, offers retirees an new homes lifestyle at an affordable price range. This active adult community has a fitness center, 9 hole minnature golf course, aand 12 pickleball courts. Potential home buyes can choose from a range of home options, or townhomes.


CantaMia: Active Adult Living

Welcome to CantaMia Estrella a Arizona 55 Plus community

CantaMia, located in the beautiful city of Goodyear, Arizona, offers active adult living with a range of amenities, real estate options, and lifestyle offerings. This community is designed for retirees looking for an active lifestyle and resort-style amenities. Residents of CantaMia can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts.


Understanding Community HOA’s

HOA Fees for 55 Plus Communities

Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire have specific rules and regulations that govern community CC&R’s. It is essential for retirees to understand these rules before committing to a retirement community. Rules may range from restrictions on pets, parking, or home modifications. By familiarizing themselves with the rules and regulations, retirees can ensure a harmonious living experience within the community. Additionally, retirees are typically required to pay homeowners association (HOA) fees, which cover community amenities. Understanding the HOA rules and regulations is crucial, as it affects retirees’ lifestyle and financial obligations. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the community, it is advisable to ask a number of different residents what their experience has been with the governing association.

Lifestyle and Activities

One of the primary reasons that older adults choose retirement communities is the lifestyle and activities offered. Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire provide retirees with a range of amenities, recreation centers, fitness centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and social events to enhance their retirement experience. These amenities and activities foster an active lifestyle, promote socialization, and provide opportunities for retirees to connect with like-minded individuals. From fitness classes to clubs and social gatherings, determining if the surrounding community meets your needs is one of the primary reasons that older adults choose retirement communities. Some are located near cities of varying sizes while others are in more rural areas which might mean you’ll have to drive more to get to desired destinations. For more on this, see our “Check out the community” section below this set of questions.

Location, Location, Location

AZ Retirement Communities map loacation

Accessibility and ease of transport, ensuring residents easily access medical facilities, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire located near major highways, airports, and well-connected road networks provide retirees with convenient transport options, making it easy for them to get around. The greater Phoenix area offers access to transportation services, ensuring they can travel to nearby cities, visit family and friends, or explore new destinations. Proximity to airports allows retirees to conveniently travel, whether for vacations or visits from loved ones. With its well-developed infrastructure, reidents can enjoy easy access to essential amenities, natural beauty, outdoor activities.

Visiting a Prospective Community

Accessibility and ease of transport, ensuring residents easily access medical facilities, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire located near major highways, airports, and well-connected road networks provide retirees with convenient transport options, making it easy for them to get around. The greater Phoenix area offers access to transportation services, ensuring they can travel to nearby cities, visit family and friends, or explore new destinations. Proximity to airports allows retirees to conveniently travel, whether for vacations or visits from loved ones. With its well-developed infrastructure, residents can enjoy easy access to essential amenities, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and long stretches of empty highway.

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Arizona 55+ Communities

Retirees can leverage the expertise of real estate agents specializing in retirement communities, including the national association of realtors. These real estate professionals have in-depth knowledge of retirement communities, exclusive communities, active adult communities, and the national association of realtors can provide potential buyers with exclusive community access, community tours, and financing options. By working with real estate agents specializing in retirement communities, retirees can make informed decisions, ensuring they find the perfect home in a retirement community that meets their budget and lifestyle. With just two minutes, you can match with the best real estate agents in the market who will contact you and guide you through the process from start to finish.

What is the Average Cost of Living in Arizona 55+ Communities?

Retirees often consider the cost of living when planning for retirement. While there are many retirement communities to choose from, it is important to assess the financial soundness of the community before making a purchase. This includes reviewing financial reports to ensure that the development is not facing financial instability or bankruptcy. By doing so, you can protect your own property values and ensure the maintenance and amenity offerings are of high quality. Hoa fees, property maintenance, property taxes, utility bills, and important questions about the community’s financial health are some expenses that home buyers need to consider, and understanding the community’s financial health can greatly influence your decision. Having this information will help potential buyers make an informed decision. A seasoned real estate agent can help you gain access to all of this information.

Conclusion

The Best Places to Retire cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury living, affordable options, or resort-style amenities, there is something for everyone. The state’s favorable climate, vibrant social scene, and proximity to essential amenities make it a popular choice for retirees. When choosing the right community, consider factors such as community rules, lifestyle and activities, financial stability, and proximity to amenities.


Arizona 55+ Communities Specialist

Arizona's 55+ Retirement Community Specialist.

Jarl Kubat, a seasoned Arizona real estate expert affiliated with West USA Realty, he offers over two decades of experience in the niche market of Arizona 55 Plus Retirement Communities, Golf Communities, and Country Club Resort-style properties across Phoenix. Feel free to reach out to him at 480-710-6326

Arizona 55+ Communities: Cash Buyers

Cash Buyers Arizona 55+ communities

AZ 55+ Communities: Why Cash Buyers are Winning

Arizona’s sunny 55+ communities are a dream for many active adults. But how can you get the best deal? Let’s break it down.

Cash Buyers: Why They’re Top Tier

Thanks to rising interest rates, cash buyers are in a strong position. Here’s why:

  • More Choices: There are more homes available in Arizona’s 55+ areas.
  • Time on Your Side: Homes are staying unsold for longer, so buyers can take their time and negotiate better deals.
  • Less Competition: In the past, other buyers would match cash offers by skipping appraisals. Not anymore. Cash buyers have an edge now.

Considering a Mortgage? Think Smaller

Sure, using all cash to buy sounds great. But what if you don’t have that much? Here’s a tip:

  • Go for a Smaller Loan: Instead of a big $300k loan, consider something between $75K and $250K. With added taxes and insurance, your monthly costs could still be affordable.

Quick Summary

Arizona’s 55+ spots are full of opportunities, whether you’ve got all cash or are thinking of a smaller loan. In today’s market, cash buyers have an advantage, so it’s a great time to jump in.

Easy-to-Remember Point: In Arizona’s senior communities, cash buyers have the upper hand.


Arizona 55 Plus Community Specialist

Arizona's 55+ Retirement Community Specialist.

Jarl Kubat, a seasoned Arizona real estate expert affiliated with West USA Realty, he offers over two decades of experience in the niche market of Arizona 55 Plus Retirement Communities, Golf Communities, and Country Club Resort-style properties across Phoenix. Feel free to reach out to him at 480-710-6326

55+ Active Adult Communities: New Builds & Resales

Real Estaes Agents assist buyers from cintract to close

In the vibrant world of 55+ Active Adult Communities, both new constructions and resales present unique opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of a brand-new property or the established charm of a resale home, having a buyer’s agent represent you is invaluable. Here’s why:

Navigating 55+ Communities: New Homes – Resales

  1. Diverse Community Insights: Every 55+ community is distinct. Through comprehensive tours, we’ll help you discern between the fresh dynamism of new communities and the established warmth of older ones, ensuring the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
  2. Tailored Lot & Home Selection: Whether you’re choosing a lot for new construction or a residence in a resale community, we provide expertise in securing the best location and direction.
  3. Negotiation Mastery for Both Worlds: While new builds might have limited negotiation scope due to high demand, resales offer a different landscape. We’re equipped to handle both, ensuring you get favorable terms.
  4. Maximizing Future Resale Value: Through design center insights for new builds and assessment of resales, we’ll guide you towards choices that enhance future resale value.
  5. Protecting Your Interests: From scrutinizing new build contracts to evaluating resale home agreements, we ensure all stipulations work in your favor.
  6. Regular Updates & Quality Checks: For new constructions, expect bi-weekly site visits, progress photos, and videos. For resales, we’ll coordinate thorough home inspections and recommend any necessary repairs or adjustments.
  7. Ensuring Quality & Satisfaction: Be it liaising with a builder’s rep over a new construction issue or negotiating repairs on a resale, we’ve got your back.
  8. Closing with Confidence: We’ll comb through final documents, whether it’s for a brand-new home or a resale, ensuring no discrepancies or errors.
  9. Staying Updated on Market Trends: The real estate landscape is ever-evolving. We keep a pulse on changes, such as the September 2021 update where many builders halted price negotiations, ensuring you’re always in the loop.

New Homes Active Adult Communities

Your First Visit Matters: Whether touring a new community or viewing a resale home, always remember: the salesperson, despite their affability, represents the seller. Thus, having me alongside during your initial visit ensures you have a champion in your corner.

Understanding the Financials: Builder commissions for agents, ranging from 1.5% to 3.0% of the base price, ensure you don’t bear extra costs for our services. Contact us before making any direct approaches, ensuring you receive optimal representation.

Discover Your Ideal 55+ Living Experience:

The choices are plentiful, from sparkling new communities to charming established neighborhoods. Let Jarl guide you through the labyrinth of new constructions and resales, leading you to a community that aligns seamlessly with your dreams and aspirations. Your enriched 55+ living journey awaits.


Arizona 55 Plus Community Specialist

Arizona's 55+ Retirement Community Specialist.

Jarl Kubat, a seasoned Arizona real estate expert affiliated with West USA Realty, he offers over two decades of experience in the niche market of Arizona 55 Plus Retirement Communities, Golf Communities, and Country Club Resort-style properties across Phoenix. Feel free to reach out to him at 480-710-6326