Why Arizona Is No Longer a Retirement Hotspot (And What You Can Do About It)
by Olga Boyke–Your Local Arizona Real Estate Partner
Have you been dreaming of retiring in sunny Arizona? You're not alone. For decades, the Grand Canyon State has been a top pick for retirees looking for warm winters, beautiful desert landscapes, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
But lately, you may have noticed a shift. Headlines have started popping up: "Arizona drops in retirement rankings", "Phoenix no longer a retiree favorite". So what’s happening? And more importantly, what does it mean if you still want to retire here? Let’s talk about it.
Why Arizona Is Slipping in the Rankings
It wasn’t long ago that Arizona was considered one of the most affordable and attractive places to retire. But today, things look a little different. According to U.S. News & World Report, Phoenix recently dropped to 129th in the list of best retirement cities. That’s a sharp fall from its previous spot near the top.
The main reason? Rising home prices.
We’ve seen this across the board. Not just in Phoenix, but in Tucson, Flagstaff, and even the smaller towns that used to be considered hidden gems. Housing prices have climbed so high that many retirees, especially those on fixed incomes, are starting to look elsewhere.
It’s not just the price of homes. Other living expenses have crept up too; property taxes, insurance, healthcare, and everyday basics like groceries and utilities. And if you’re retired and depending on savings or Social Security, these cost jumps can really tighten your budget.
So, Is Retiring in Arizona Still Possible?
Absolutely. But it might take a different approach than it used to.
I completely understand why people still want to move here. Arizona has an incredible lifestyle. From beautiful sunsets to active adult communities and year-round sunshine. You don’t have to give up on that dream. You just need to be a little more strategic.
Let me share a few tips I give my own clients who are looking to retire here smartly:
Look just outside the big cities. Towns on the outskirts of Phoenix or Tucson often offer lower home prices without sacrificing amenities.
Explore age-restricted communities. These neighborhoods often have excellent value, built-in social connections, and shared resources that can reduce your overall costs.
Consider renting first. Try living in a neighborhood before committing to buying, it gives you flexibility and peace of mind.
Research local property taxes. Not all counties treat retirees the same. A quick check could save you thousands over time.
Work with a financial planner. A short planning session can help you feel confident about your choices. Especially if you're balancing multiple income sources.
Where Are Retirees Going Instead?
While Arizona is still beautiful, some retirees are finding better value in other states and surprisingly, Pennsylvania is gaining attention. Cities there are showing up in retirement rankings thanks to affordability, access to healthcare, and overall quality of life.
Even within Arizona, Peoria recently earned a spot as the No. 1 city for retirees. It’s a great example of how local markets within the state can offer better value if you know where to look.
The key is not to write off Arizona completely. Instead, take a deeper look and see where the lifestyle you want meets the budget you can sustain.
My Advice? Retirement Is Personal… and Local
Every retiree I work with has different goals. Some want a quiet home near hiking trails. Others want a buzzing 55+ community with daily activities and no lawn to mow. Some want to be near family, while others are starting a brand new chapter.
That’s why it’s important to base your decision not just on headlines, but on local insight, your unique budget, and the kind of lifestyle that makes you happy.
Arizona can still deliver all of that. But these days, it takes a little more research and the right guidance.
Let’s Make a Plan That Works for You. If you're thinking about retiring in Arizona and want honest advice, I’m here for you. I’ve helped many families find the right home, the right neighborhood, and the right price; and I’d be honored to help you too.
Thinking about retiring in Arizona but unsure what makes sense for you? I’d be happy to guide you. Whether you’re narrowing down locations or just exploring possibilities, I’m here to help you make confident, informed decisions.
Let’s talk about what really matters to you. Your goals, your budget, your future. Whether Arizona is your forever state or just one of the options on your list, let’s figure out what’s possible together.
