Imagine enjoying a warm climate while spending your retirement stress-free—for under $3,100 a month. Let's explore Arizona's affordable cities!
The Appeal of Arizona for Retirement
Many seniors actively seek out Arizona for retirement, as this state offers a unique combination of no taxes on Social Security income alongside a consistently pleasant climate. With a monthly budget of $3,100 or less, retirees can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in several cities across this diverse state. This welcoming environment encourages relaxation and community engagement, making it an ideal place for those looking to make the most of their golden years.
How We Selected the Top Cities
In determining the best cities in Arizona for retirement on a budget, GOBankingRates dug into a wealth of data. Utilizing information from Zillow and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, researchers sought out every Arizona city where rent averages $2,000 or less. The most recent monthly expenditures for groceries, healthcare, and utilities for seniors over 65 were taken into account, ensuring reliable livability scores for effective retirement planning. Cities were ranked based on livability scores of 70 or higher, calculated through calculations from AreaVibes. The final results show a great potential for living happily and affordably in Arizona.
The 7 Best Arizona Cities for Retirement on a Budget
Explore these seven cities where your retirement budget can stretch further, allowing you to enjoy the life you've earned:
1. Tucson
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,497
- Livability: 73
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $396
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $571
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $357
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $2,821
2. Sierra Vista
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,437
- Livability: 78
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $392
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $710
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $367
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $2,905
3. Mesa
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,608
- Livability: 81
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $403
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $619
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $359
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $2,988
4. Phoenix
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,619
- Livability: 76
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $403
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $619
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $365
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $3,006
5. Glendale
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,650
- Livability: 76
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $401
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $619
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $366
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $3,036
6. Tempe
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,666
- Livability: 78
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $407
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $619
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $363
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $3,055
7. Avondale
- Average Rent (January 2025): $1,702
- Livability: 72
- Average Monthly Grocery Cost: $401
- Average Monthly Healthcare Cost: $619
- Average Monthly Utilities Cost: $372
- Average Monthly Expenditure Cost: $3,094
Living Affordably in Arizona
Retirement should be an enjoyable phase of life, free from financial stress. The GOBankingRates analysis illustrates the potential of living well within your means in Arizona. By selecting cities with affordable rent, grocery costs, and healthcare, seniors can make the most of their retirement budgets while enjoying all that these vibrant communities offer. From stunning desert landscapes to rich cultural opportunities, Arizona presents an appealing backdrop for a fulfilling retirement.
Final Thoughts on Retirement in Arizona
Making the choice to retire in one of these Arizona cities can lead to a satisfying and financially viable lifestyle. Carefully consider factors like community atmosphere, healthcare facilities, and local amenities that fit your lifestyle. With expenditures averaging between $2,821 and $3,094, these cities take the stress out of financial planning for retirement without compromising on comfort or leisure. Embrace the opportunity for a fulfilling life in the heart of Arizona's beautiful landscapes, allowing you to enjoy every moment of your well-deserved retirement.