8 Reasons to Retire in Arizona

Last updated on September 19th, 2023

Why retire in Arizona? There are so many good reasons. Whether you prioritize a warm climate, a variety of available activities, local tax benefits, or overall quality of life, retirees will discover an ideal lifestyle and retirement experience in Arizona. Join us as we spotlight our top 8 reasons to retire in The Grand Canyon State, and comment below why you would consider retiring in Arizona.

 

1. Gorgeous Arizona weather

With the highest average annual sunlight in the country, Arizona is the ideal place for retirees who enjoy year-round sunshine. Arizona is known for being hot and dry, but the weather varies quite a bit depending on where you are and the time of year. While temperatures rise significantly during the summer months between June and August, Arizona offers dry, stable weather during the remainder of the year from fall to spring, often between 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, Arizona sees an overwhelming number of days with clear blue skies compared to the ones that call for rain.

 

2. Tax-friendly policies

Among the most appealing tax advantages that Arizona offers is its friendly fiscal structure in terms of the property and income taxes that retirees pay. As of 2023, Arizona has the lowest flat income tax in the country at 2.5% and is ranked 12th in the lowest property taxes of all U.S. states. Arizona does not tax social security benefits and offers tax exemptions on retirement income, including pensions and distributions from retirement accounts. Finally, Arizona does not impose an estate or inheritance tax when retirees pass their property or wealth to loved ones.

 

3. Ample outdoor activities

Arizona and its sublime weather allow retirees to enjoy various popular outdoor activities year-round. Hiking and biking are staples of recreational fun in Arizona thanks to the state’s many trails and mountain ranges, including the Sedona Summits, Superstition Mountains, and the Grand Canyon. If photography is your passion, Arizona provides the perfect backdrop with its vibrant landscapes and captivating wildlife. Explore many of the parks and reserves for a chance encounter with one of the many bird species found in Arizona and other wildlife such as deer, javelinas, coyotes, and big horn sheep. Arizona is also a camping utopia, ranging from developed campgrounds to more remote backcountry camping, where stargazing in clear skies and low light pollution is a must-do on a picturesque Arizona night.

 

4. Culture and the arts

Arizona’s rich cultural history is on full display in the many museums, art galleries, and historical sites throughout the state. The Phoenix Art Museum, the largest museum in the Southwest, is a must for any art enthusiast. At the same time, the Heard Museum provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous peoples through a collection of Native American art and artifacts. For audiophiles, the Musical Instrument Museum houses an impressive array of instruments from around the world that you can observe, listen to, and even play. For those passionate about politics, the Arizona State Capitol building has a museum dedicated to the state’s history, government, and political development. More unique experiences including the Desert Botanical Garden, Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, and Lowell Observatory are also available. 

 

5. An abundance of sports

For retirees who are diehard sports fans, there are endless options to enjoy a game in Arizona. Residents can root for the home team in any major professional sports league, whether it’s the Cardinals, Diamondbacks, Coyotes, Suns, or Mercury. For fans of NASCAR, the Phoenix Raceway offers an opportunity to watch a Cup Series race up close and personal. If watching America’s pastime is your favorite way of passing the time, Arizona offers premier off-season MLB action with Cactus League Spring Training and the Arizona Fall League.

 

6. Great golf in Arizona

Arizona’s golf scene is tough to beat whether you’re a scratch golfer or just trying to break 100. With accommodating weather, gorgeous views, and more than 300 courses, Arizona provides retirees with an array of golfing experiences, ranging from inexpensive municipal courses to challenging, tour-caliber venues. Some of the most notable courses in the state include Troon North Golf Club, Grayhawk Golf Club, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club, and many more. You can also sit back and enjoy watching the professionals at The Players Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale, the host site of the annual Waste Management Phoenix Open, one of the most exhilarating events on the PGA Tour. 

 

7. An ideal blend of metro and small-town living

Whether you prefer indulging in a vibrant, big-city lifestyle or enjoying a more laid-back, small-town atmosphere, Arizona allows retirees to explore both sides of the spectrum. Take a trip into Phoenix or Scottsdale and partake in top-notch shopping, or head over to a nearby city such as Surprise and savor some under-the-radar southwest cuisine at a local eatery. 

 

8. Retire in Arizona with Toll Brothers

If you’re considering retiring in Arizona, look no further than Toll Brothers’ exceptional Sterling Grove community, awarded the 2023 Master Plan Community of the Year by the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona. Showcasing nine distinct collections in the growing city of Surprise, Sterling Grove offers all-ages and 55+ communities featuring single-family and condo home designs with access to a large private clubhouse and spectacular resort-style amenities. Enjoy walking around local trails, eating and drinking at on-site restaurants, swimming in the sparkling pool, exercising in state-of-the-art facilities, relaxing at the full-service spa, golfing on the 18-hole Troon Privé Nicklaus Design golf course, and much more. 

 

To learn more about Sterling Grove and why Arizona perfectly suits your retirement lifestyle, visit our website.