Help Me Choose
How to Choose a 55+ Community in Arizona
Not sure how to choose a 55+ community? There are dozens in Arizona, and that can feel like a lot. So let’s make choosing a retirement community simple. First, answer four quick questions. Then we’ll show you the two or three communities we’d look at first. It takes about a minute.
Choosing a retirement community is a big decision. In fact, the hardest part is usually knowing where to start. That’s why founder Jarl Kubat has spent 22+ years helping buyers narrow the list. On a first phone call, he asks the same four questions every time. Now this quiz asks them too. Simply put, it’s the quickest way we know for how to choose a 55+ community without reading 100 pages first.
Loading the quiz… If it doesn’t appear in a few seconds, call or text Jarl at (480) 710-6326 and he’ll walk you through the same four questions.
How to choose a 55+ community: the four questions that matter
Every buyer is different. Still, after 22+ years of showings, we’ve found that four questions sort out almost everything when choosing a retirement community. Here’s why each one matters.
1. West Valley or East Valley?
The Phoenix area has two big sides. The West Valley 55+ communities include The Grand, Sun City and Sun City West, plus newer places in Goodyear and Buckeye. Meanwhile, the East Valley has Sun Lakes, the three Sunland communities in Mesa, and Trilogy at Encanterra. Most people pick a side based on family, doctors, or the airport. However, if you’re not sure, that’s fine. We’ll show you both.
2. What’s your budget?
Prices range widely. For instance, patio homes, townhomes and condos usually start around $200K, and a few are lower. Most of those are in Sun City. There are also condos in Sunland Village and The Grand that start near $200K, or a little less, depending on size. However, their monthly HOA fees can be on the high side. Single-family homes usually start in the low $300s. Yes, a few sell for less, but they typically need quite a bit of work. Also, don’t forget the monthly side. For example, HOA dues, and one-time fees at closing, vary a lot from place to place. Our guide to Arizona 55+ HOA fees breaks them down.
3. What will you do every day?
This is the fun part. For example, golfers want courses close to home. Meanwhile, pickleball players want lots of courts and open play. Some people want a big club calendar, and others want a smaller, quieter place. So be honest about how you’ll spend a normal Tuesday. After all, that tells you more than any brochure.
4. Yard or low maintenance?
A single-family home gives you space and a yard. On the other hand, a patio home or townhome means less upkeep, which is great if you travel or spend summers up north. Many buyers planning a retirement move are right-sizing, so this question matters more than you’d think.
Still not sure? Let’s talk it through.
I’ve lived in a 55+ community myself for years, in Arizona Traditions in Surprise. Just tell me what matters to you, and then I’ll give you a short list and honest answers. No pressure, ever.
Call or Text (480) 710-6326 Send Jarl a MessageQuestions about choosing a retirement community
How do I choose the right retirement community in Arizona?
Start with four things: which side of the Valley, your budget, how you’ll spend your days, and how much yard you want. Next, tour your top two or three in person. Visit once on a weekday morning, and again in the evening, and talk to residents at the pool or the courts.
Do I have to be 55 to buy in a 55+ community?
Not always. In most communities, the 55+ rule is about who lives in the home, not who owns it. For example, founder Jarl Kubat has helped many adult children in their 30s and 40s buy a home for their parents. The kids own it, and the parents live there. However, each community writes its own rules. A few communities require someone on the deed to be 55 or older. Others require the person living there to be on the deed, and in those cases Jarl can sometimes get a waiver. So always check that community’s rules before you write an offer.
Which Arizona 55+ communities are the most affordable?
Sun City and Sunland Village. There, condos, townhomes and patio homes start at around $200K and go up from there. Single-family homes start a little above $300K. Prices change, so call or text (480) 710-6326 to verify today’s numbers.
What if my top choice changes after I tour?
That happens all the time, and in fact it’s a good thing. Seeing a place in person tells you how it feels. In short, we’d rather you change your mind on a tour than after you buy.
Prices shown in the quiz are “homes from” figures based on recent Arizona Regional MLS sales, as of September 2026. They change often, so please call or text (480) 710-6326 to verify today’s numbers. Jarl Kubat is a REALTOR® with West USA Realty. You can look up any Arizona agent’s license with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.