10 Best Arizona Towns For Retirees
Arizona provides an ideal setting for retirement, with its warm climate, striking natural beauty, and welcoming communities. Across the state, many towns offer a peaceful lifestyle, practical benefits like affordable housing, reliable healthcare, and a strong sense of safety. Whether nestled in the mountains or surrounded by desert vistas, Arizona’s communities offer a balanced mix of recreation, relaxation, and connection, making Arizona a standout choice for those looking to enjoy their retirement years.
Catalina Foothills
Nestled at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains, Catalina Foothills features breathtaking views and a serene desert lifestyle. With a median age of 56 and 35% of its population over 65, the city fosters a vibrant and active senior community. Catalina Foothills is also one of the safer places to live in Arizona, earning a solid “B” rating in violent crime from CrimeGrade.org. Homes here list for a median of $680,000, making the town more affordable than comparable Arizona towns. Golf enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with over 40 regional courses and the prestigious Cologuard Classic held annually nearby. Plus, world-class healthcare is just minutes away at Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, renowned for its stroke care.
Prescott
Prescott, Arizona, is a haven for those seeking safety, natural beauty, and an active lifestyle. Ranked safer than 70% of U.S. cities, Prescott earns a B+ overall crime grade from CrimeGrade.org, giving residents peace of mind. With a median age of 60, the city is a magnet for retirees and active seniors looking to enjoy life in a welcoming, scenic environment. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Prescott Peavine National Recreation Trail, which offers serene lake views for biking or walking, while the Granite Mountain Trail rewards hikers with panoramic vistas. Healthcare is top-notch, with Yavapai Regional Medical Center recently named one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Prostate Surgery in 2025.
Carefree
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Sonoran Desert, Carefree, Arizona, invites you to cast all your cares away. This tranquil town is a true desert gem with a serene atmosphere, majestic mountain views, and proximity to the Tonto National Forest. CrimeGrade.org gives Carefree a reassuring B+ for property crime, giving peace of mind to residents. Nearly half the population is over 65, making it an ideal destination for retirees seeking safety and scenic beauty. While luxury homes can reach the million-dollar mark, charming smaller homes remain available for under $300,000. Exceptional healthcare is just minutes away at Thompson Peak Medical Center, recognized with the 2025 Outstanding Patient Experience Award. Whether you're searching for relaxation, community, or stunning natural surroundings, Carefree lives up to its name in every way.
Florence
Discover the charm and quiet of Florence, Arizona—a hidden gem ideal for retirees seeking affordability, safety, and Southwest beauty. With only one reported homicide in the last five years, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Florence provides a sense of peace and security that’s hard to match. Realtor.com notes the median sold home price is just $350,000, making it one of the most budget-friendly retiree destinations in the state. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike to the historic tomb of Charles Poston, the “Father of Arizona,” atop scenic Poston Butte, or enjoy a round of golf at the nearby 18-hole championship Poston Butte Golf Course. Quality healthcare is within easy reach, with Central Arizona Medical Center just five miles away.
Wellton
Wellton, Arizona, offers the perfect blend of peace, affordability, and desert charm—an ideal destination for retirees and those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. With no reported robberies since 2017, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Wellton stands out as a safe and welcoming community. The town’s median age of 65 reflects its substantial, vibrant senior population, and with a median sold home price of just $280,000, it’s an affordable alternative to pricier retirement spots. Explore local treasures like the Pioneer Museum, Desert Hot Springs, Baker’s Tanks, and the historic El Camino del Diablo. Quality healthcare is also within easy reach, with Yuma Regional Medical Center nearby, honored as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery in 2023.
Somerton
Ranked safer than the average American city by CrimeGrade and supported by FBI data showing zero robberies in 2022, Somerton harbors a secure and welcoming environment. With a median sold home price of just $317,000, it's an attractive option for those looking to settle down without breaking the bank. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, over 25,000 acres along the Colorado River, offering rich wildlife and serene landscapes. History lovers can explore the Colorado River State Historic Park, which highlights the river’s vital role through time. Quality healthcare is always within reach, with the San Luis Walk-In Clinic conveniently located in town.
Bisbee
Located 90 miles southeast of Tucson along Historic Arizona Highway 80, Bisbee sits at an elevation of 5,538 feet, making it the southernmost city in the U.S. that’s higher than a mile. Tucked in the scenic Mule Mountains, this charming town gives a refreshing escape with a friendly senior community, reflected in its median age of 61. Homes here are remarkably affordable, with a median selling price of just $228,000—one of the lowest among retirement-friendly towns. Safety is also highlighted, with no homicides reported in 2023, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer. Residents enjoy the convenience of Copper Queen Community Hospital, located right in town. In Bisbee, peaceful mountain living meets small-town warmth.
Springerville
Nestled between Lyman Lake State Park to the north and the expansive Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest to the south, this high-elevation haven offers year-round outdoor adventures. Just seven miles west, the Grasslands Wildlife Trail invites hikers to explore a scenic 2.5-mile loop past volcanic cinder cones and vents. With only one homicide reported in the last decade, according to FBI crime data, Springerville is a safe and secure place to call home. Nearly a quarter of its population is retirement age, creating a welcoming and relaxed community vibe. The median home listing price is an affordable $300,000, and top-notch care is close at White Mountain Regional Medical Center, located right in town. Springerville is a small town with an immense natural beauty.
Sun City
Sun City, Arizona, is a vibrant and affordable community that blends safety, active living, and top-tier healthcare, perfect for those looking to thrive in retirement. With a median sold home price of just $290,000, it’s an incredibly budget-friendly option compared to other Arizona towns. CrimeGrade.org ranks Sun City above average in safety, giving residents peace of mind. Home to 38,000 residents with a median age of 72, the town fosters a welcoming, multi-generational atmosphere. Fitness and fun come together at the Bell Center, where you can enjoy everything from racquetball to aquatic workouts. For lifelong learners, RISE: Rio Institute for Senior Education features enriching programs nearby. Plus, Banner Boswell Medical Center, right in town, earned the 2025 Cardiac Surgery Excellence Award, ensuring outstanding healthcare.
Safford
Safford, Arizona, is a hidden gem where safety, nature, and affordability unite perfectly. With no reported murders in the past 10 years, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Safford offers peace of mind in a close-knit community. The median sold home price is just $305,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking value and quality of life. Adventure is always close by. Take a guided tour of the Mount Graham International Observatory, spot wildlife at Bonita Creek in Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, float down the Gila River, or soak in the mineral springs at Roper Lake State Park. For healthcare, Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center provides premium medical services right in town.
From scenic mountain retreats to peaceful desert towns, Arizona features diverse communities ideally suited for retirement. With a strong focus on safety, affordability, healthcare access, and quality of life, these towns provide more than just beautiful surroundings—they offer a sense of belonging and peace of mind. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a welcoming neighborhood to call home during your retirement, Arizona has a place where your retirement can truly thrive
