Retiring to Arizona: Pros and cons
12 Aug Pros and Cons of Retiring in Arizona
Posted at 08:18h
Choosing the right place to live in this phase of life is not the only important decision. It’s important to have a plan in place for your estate if you are
nearing retiring
. Let’s look at the pros of retiring in Arizona. Mild WintersWe know Arizona has a sunny weather. Winters in Phoenix are mild, with temperatures ranging between 45 and 65 degrees. If you want to escape the cold, these mild winters are a great attraction. The desert climate allows many outdoor activities to be enjoyed throughout the year. Some Arizona retirees like to golf all year round. Hiking, exploring the parks and nature reserves is also a popular pastime. We love the
Overton trail
at Cave Creek Regional Park. It’s only a 2-mile round-trip with minimal elevation change, making it a great location for a moderate exercise without strain. Taxes and Costs of Living
The cost-of-living in Arizona is quite low compared to other states. This makes it a good choice for retirees. Arizona’s tax laws also favor retirees. There’s
no state income tax on Social Security benefits, which can be a significant financial advantage.Housing options are diverse and often more affordable, due to our relatively low property taxes. Phoenix is a great place to retire. Phoenix has more affordable housing than many other major metropolitan areas and offers a wide variety of retirement communities. Active Adult CommunitiesLast year (2023), over 25,000 seniors moved to Arizona
. Arizona has more than 150 active adult and retirement villages. Mesa is a popular city to relocate and has seen a recent increase in its retiree population. Arizona’s retirement communities offer a wide range of amenities that
go beyond golf. You’ll find top-notch gyms, swimming pools and scenic trails, as well as dance parties, yoga, art classes, pickleball, and other classes. Many retirement communities are designed to be walkable and feature pedestrian-friendly pathways that connect you to a variety of dining options ranging from casual cafes up to elegant restaurants. Some retirement communities also have spas, salons and charming shops on-site, as well as health and wellness centers. TransportationLiving without a car is certainly doable in Arizona, especially if you live in a metropolitan area like Tucson, Tempe, or Phoenix. Here are five ways you can get around the state without having to drive yourself:
Bus system
Light rail
Paratransit servicesShuttles in select retirement communities
Ride-share services Cons of Retiring in Arizona
While our great state offers many benefits for those in retirement, we realize it’s not all sunshine and fun outings. You should also consider extreme heat waves that can be difficult for seniors.
1. If you’re not used to living in a desert climate it may take a while for you to adjust. If you are from Arizona, you don’t need to be told about the harsh summer weather. You can skip this tip and go straight to the next one if you live here. If you are considering moving to Arizona from another state you should be aware that the summer months can be extremely hot. In some parts of Arizona, temperatures can reach 118 degrees on summer days.
For seniors and other people sensitive to heat, the summer can be spent indoors. It will take some time to adjust to the desert heat. There are plenty of indoor activities you can enjoy, such as visiting air-conditioned museums or botanical gardens, going to local theater performances or taking art lessons.
- 2. Traveling is difficult and there are fewer amenities in rural areas. Sun Valley Express operates a bus service in some smaller cities like Florence. For some cities, such as Eagar and Wickenburg, a car is required to get around. Stay in the Phoenix metro area if you want to explore and travel, but don’t want to drive yourself.
- 3. Population Influx during Tourist Season
- Places such as Phoenix and Scottsdale see a large influx of tourists and seasonal residents in the winter. If you are looking for a busy, bustling place to retire then tourists will not bother you. If you’re worried about long lines, crowded areas, and congested roads, you might want to avoid the larger cities in Arizona during winter.
- Estate Planning Experts In ArizonaIf your retirement is on the horizon, don’t neglect to
- update you estate plan when planning. If you plan to retire in another state, you should also consult with your estate planning lawyer.
Estate Planning can be a confusing, overwhelming process. We are here to help you understand the process and make it easier. The Phelps LaClair Team can ensure that all your documents are in order, and that your estate plan covers all your needs. We have helped Arizonans with their estate planning for over 40 years. Even if you have a living trust or a will, you can benefit from expert advice on estate planning. We can help you reduce your taxes and avoid probate. We can also help you leave a legacy. Schedule a free virtual or in-person consultation today–
contact us
or attend our next
estate planning webinar to learn more.
Photo by Jared Murray on Unsplash
