Arizona continues to rank among the fastest-growing retirement destinations in the United States. Thanks to its sunny climate, abundant outdoor recreation, and expanding healthcare infrastructure, Arizona’s active adult communities attract retirees who want more than just warm weather; they want a vibrant, health-focused lifestyle.
Whether you’re seeking affordable housing, resort-style amenities, or luxury desert living, Arizona offers options across nearly every budget and preference.
Why Retirees Choose Arizona
Arizona attracts retirees with its dry, sunny climate and more than 300 days of sunshine each year. The low humidity makes the heat more comfortable than in many coastal states, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor living year-round.
The state also offers a strong wellness culture, with active adult communities centered around fitness, social activities, and recreation. Residents enjoy hiking trails, golf courses, pickleball courts, and scenic parks, with more than 300 golf courses statewide.
Compared to coastal retirement destinations, Arizona often provides more affordable home prices and lower property taxes, making it a practical and lifestyle-friendly choice for active retirees.
Best Arizona Cities for 55+ Living, Costs, and Lifestyle
The Phoenix metro area offers the largest concentration of Arizona active adult communities, top-tier hospitals and medical specialists, a wide range of housing options, and convenient access to a major international airport in Scottsdale. It’s ideal for retirees who want variety, strong healthcare access, and numerous community options in one region.
Scottsdale stands out for its luxury 55+ communities, world-class golf courses, spa resorts, and strong wellness culture. Home prices are typically higher than in other Arizona cities, but buyers seeking upscale retirement living often find the premium worthwhile.
Tucson appeals to retirees looking for a lower cost of living and a more relaxed pace. Known for its arts scene, cultural amenities, and excellent hiking in the Catalina Mountains, Tucson is especially attractive to budget-conscious buyers who value outdoor recreation and a laid-back atmosphere.
Top Arizona Active Adult Communities
Sun City
Sun City is a budget-friendly, established 55+ community originally developed by Del Webb in 1960. It offers affordable resale homes, multiple recreation centers, seven golf courses, pools, fitness facilities, and numerous social clubs. With prices typically ranging from $200,000 to $400,000, it’s known for its active, community-focused lifestyle.
Del Webb at Anthem
Del Webb at Anthem is ideal for buyers seeking upscale desert views and an active lifestyle. Located north of Phoenix, this 55+ community offers scenic mountain views and resort-style amenities, including swimming pools, hiking trails, tennis courts, and pickleball facilities. With home prices typically ranging from $350,000 to $550,000, it delivers an active, scenic, and upscale retirement experience.
Robson Ranch
Robson Ranch is ideal for those seeking resort-style luxury in an active adult setting. Located near Casa Grande and Eloy, these communities feature championship golf courses, expansive fitness complexes, creative arts centers, and on-site dining venues that create a polished, country-club atmosphere. With home prices typically ranging from $400,000 to $600,000 and above, Robson Ranch offers a lifestyle-focused, socially active retirement experience.
Featured Shea Homes 55+ Communities
Shea Homes has built a strong reputation in Arizona active adult communities through its Trilogy® brand, which emphasizes resort-style living, wellness programming, and thoughtfully designed homes. These communities combine modern home design with social clubs, fitness facilities, dining, and outdoor recreation.
Ridgecrest offers a more intimate Trilogy® Boutique Community® experience, ideal for buyers who prefer a smaller neighborhood feel while still enjoying upscale amenities and social engagement.
Trilogy at Verde River offers desert luxury with mountain views, a golf course, fitness center, pools, and an active social calendar that appeals to wellness-focused retirees.
Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch combines resort amenities with championship golf in a scenic setting northwest of Phoenix, offering a balance of tranquility and activity.
Encanterra is one of the largest and most amenity-rich Trilogy® communities in the state, featuring extensive clubs, dining venues, pools, a golf course, and a vibrant, socially connected atmosphere.
Affordable Manufactured Home 55+ Communities in Arizona
For buyers seeking lower price points within Arizona active adult communities, manufactured home neighborhoods can provide an attractive alternative to traditional site-built homes. These communities typically feature lower purchase prices, manageable HOA or lot fees, and low-maintenance living — while still offering social amenities and an active lifestyle.
Dorado Canyon offers a quiet 55+ setting with clubhouse access, organized activities, and a close-knit neighborhood atmosphere. Homes are generally more affordable, making it appealing to budget-conscious retirees.
Coppersun is known for its friendly environment and recreational amenities, including a community center, social events, and shared gathering spaces that encourage resident interaction.
Sage Point provides a comfortable, maintenance-friendly lifestyle with common areas, activity programming, and convenient access to nearby shopping and healthcare.
Aspenwood appeals to retirees seeking simplicity and affordability, often featuring landscaped grounds, clubhouse amenities, and organized social activities.
Sevilla Sol combines value-oriented housing with active-adult amenities, including community events and shared recreational spaces that foster social connection.
Overall, these manufactured home communities allow retirees to enjoy active adult living in Arizona at a more accessible price point, often with lower upfront costs and reduced maintenance responsibilities compared to traditional homes.
Final Thoughts
Arizona offers a powerful combination of affordability, sunshine, and outdoor living. From budget-friendly classics like Sun City to luxury communities in Scottsdale, there’s a wide spectrum of options.
For retirees who prioritize health, recreation, and year-round sunshine, Arizona active adult communities remain among the strongest choices in the country.
