The best places to retire are residential communities designed specifically for adults 55 and older. These communities offer a range of amenities and activities tailored to the needs and interests of active adults, providing a vibrant and fulfilling retirement lifestyle. Resort-style communities give you opportunities to mingle and make new friends.
What is Arizona 55+ Community?
When finding the perfect Arizona 55+ Community, Arizona offers many 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.
Amenities 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 explicitly designed for retirees. These 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 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
Arizona’s 55+ communities are evolving into dynamic, inclusive neighborhoods geared toward 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 have various facilities and amenities. Residents can access various options like wellness programs, sports facilities, tennis courts and golf courses, and various outdoor pursuits. The aim is to offer a fulfilling and enriching environment where retirees can thrive, pursue new interests, and foster social connections.
Why Arizona is a Popular Choice?
Arizona, often called the Grand Canyon state, is a prime destination for individuals over 55. With its delightful climate, stunning natural landscapes, and a wide range of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that Arizona is a sought-after retirement location. Active adults can indulge in hiking, golfing, and exploring national parks. Moreover, Arizona’s retirement communities offer diverse real estate options for different budgets and lifestyles. The greater Phoenix area, encompassing cities such as Buckeye, Goodyear, Peoria, Sun City, Sun Lakes, Sun City West, Surprise, and Mesa, houses numerous retirement communities perfect for older adults seeking to retire or downsize ahead of retirement. Forbes ranks Arizona as the 7th best state for older Americans considering a move to retire or downsize for their retirement. GOBanking Rates has identified Phoenix, Glendale, Tucson, and Mesa as cities where older adults can enjoy a fulfilling retirement with as little as $2,500 per month. With its low taxes, Arizona is an ideal choice for seniors looking to make the most of their retirement income from Social Security, pensions, and IRAs.
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 must 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 a 19 yrs and older adult child to live with retirees.
Arizona 55+ Communities in Phoenix
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 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.
Another popular 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 its friendly atmosphere, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for like-minded individuals. The community’s location in the Phoenix metropolitan area provides easy access to shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.
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 golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, and outdoor activities. Residents can choose from various 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, a Robson community located in Goodyear, Arizona, offers luxury retirement living at an affordable price. This 40+ active adult community features 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, 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 hiking and biking trails. Retirees can choose from various home elevations and square feet options, providing stunning mountain views and outdoor recreation. Sterling Grove also offers a family section.
Trilogy at Vistancia offers resort-style retirement living in Peoria, Arizona. This active adult community boasts stunning golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and 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, located in Wickenburg, Arizona, offers an active adult living section in a picturesque desert setting. Wickenburg, Arizona, offers the old west small-town charm. This exclusive gated community features golf courses, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and hiking and biking trails.
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, clubhouse facilities, fitness centers, sports courts, outdoor activities, and 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.
While luxury retirement communities offer an elevated lifestyle, retirees may seek 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
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, located in Surprise, Arizona, offers retirees a new home lifestyle at affordable prices. This active adult community has a fitness center, a 9-hole miniature golf course, and 12 pickleball courts. Potential home buyers can choose from a range of home options or townhomes.
CantaMia, located in the beautiful city of Goodyear, Arizona, offers active adult living with amenities, real estate options, and lifestyle offerings. This community is designed for retirees seeking an active lifestyle and resort-style amenities. Residents can enjoy fitness centers, pickleball, and tennis courts.
Arizona 55+ Communities: The Best Places to Retire have specific rules and regulations that govern community CC&Rs. It is essential 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 covering community amenities. Understanding the HOA rules and regulations is crucial, as it affects retirees’ lifestyles and financial obligations. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the community, asking several residents about their experience with the governing association is advisable.
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 provides retirees with 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 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 information, see our “Check out the community” section below this set of questions.
Location, Location, Location
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 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. Its well-developed infrastructure allows residents easy access to essential amenities, natural beauty, and 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 near major highways, airports, and well-connected road networks provide retirees with convenient transport options, making it easy 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. Its well-developed infrastructure allows residents easy access to essential amenities, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and long stretches of empty highways.
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. This can provide potential buyers 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 the development is not facing financial instability or bankruptcy. By doing so, you can protect your 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 caters 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 community rules, lifestyle and activities, financial stability, and proximity to amenities.
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The best places to retire are residential communities designed specifically for adults 55 and older. These communities offer a range of amenities and activities tailored to the needs and interests of active adults, providing a vibrant and fulfilling retirement lifestyle. Resort-style communities give you opportunities to mingle and make new friends.
