Where do you want to live in retirement? Have you considered Arizona? While many retirees flock to Florida and other coastal areas, the Grand Canyon State may be an even better fit for you. From affordability to great weather, there are plenty of reasons so many retirees are settling in the Southwest. Here are six reasons why you should consider Arizona as you create your life care plan.
1. Affordability
With a cost of living 5 percent lower than the national average, Arizona is one of the most affordable retirement-friendly states. Housing costs are also low, and the median home costs about $220,800.
The state also has low income and property taxes, Social Security isn’t taxed at all, and there is no state tax on prescription drugs or food. There is even a homestead exemption for people over 65, and there is no inheritance or estate tax. Overall, Arizona is an excellent state for retirees on fixed incomes — and for people who want to protect their legacies.
2. Diverse Cities
Like Colorado and Texas, Arizona has a city for everyone. Phoenix is great for seniors who love the big city lifestyle but want an affordable home. Flagstaff offers a higher elevation, cooler climate and great outdoors opportunities. Finally, Tucson is particularly low on cost of living, yet it has more retirement amenities than almost any other city. Other popular senior spots include Sedona, Prescott Valley and Scottsdale, just to name a few. No matter where you plant your roots, you’ll never run out of interesting places to visit.
3. Plenty to Do
You’ll never run out things to do in Arizona, either. For the outdoors types, there’s fishing and golf — not to mention the Grand Canyon. Events like the Tucson Folk Festival and Phoenix Lights also draw thousands of music lovers every year. Finally, with the state’s unique blend of urban development and untouched terrain, nature lovers never have to travel far to find interesting plants and wildlife.
4. Comfortable Climate
Arizona is known for its heat, but unlike Florida and the Carolinas, it’s a dry heat. While East Coast humidity can make an 80-degree day feel muggy and miserable, a 100-degree day in Arizona is more than manageable. With little rainfall and cloud formation, Arizona is also among the sunniest states in the country. Overall, the state’s dry heat and mild winters are a welcome change for people who’ve experience Northern cold, East Coast humidity or the extreme temperature swings of the Midwest.
5. Low-Maintenance Living
The Colorado River provides enough irrigation to keep grass growing where it’s wanted, but many Arizona residents don’t have to worry about lawns. In fact, some of the state’s cities even pay people to save water and get rid of their grass altogether. Whether you live in a house, apartment or senior care community, you can be sure your maintenance requirements (and bills) will be low.
The Colorado River keeps grass growing where it’s wanted, but many Arizona residents don’t have to worry about lawns. In fact, some of the state’s cities even pay people to save water and get rid of their grass altogether. Whether you live in a house, apartment or senior care community, you can be sure your maintenance requirements (and bills) will be low.
6. Ample Options for Retirement Living
Finally, Sun City was home to some of the first retirement communities in the country, and Arizona remains one of the most popular senior destinations. No matter your lifestyle and goals, you’ll be able to find a comfortable community that suits you. Just as importantly, you’ll always be able to find like-minded friends.
Retirement living has so much to offer. Contact us today to learn more.
