How Baby Boomers Choose the Right Active Adult Community in Arizona — and Which City Fits Best

 

How Baby Boomers Choose the Right Active Adult Community in Arizona — and Which City Fits Best

By Tom Krieger | The TJK Team at Realty Executives Arizona Territory

Arizona has been a top retirement destination for decades, but today’s baby boomers are approaching retirement differently than generations before them. They’re healthier, more active, more informed — and far more intentional about where they choose to live next.

When clients tell me they’re considering Arizona for retirement, the question is rarely “Which active adult community is best?” The real question is: “Which city and community fit the lifestyle I want now — and five, ten, even twenty years from now?”

Why Arizona continues to attract retiring baby boomers

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, adults age 65 and older are one of the fastest-growing age groups in the country. U.S. Census Bureau – Older & Aging Population

Research from the National Association of REALTORS® shows baby boomers commonly move for retirement, to downsize, or to be closer to friends and family. NAR – Home Buyers & Sellers Generational Trends

Step 1: Start with lifestyle — not the house

The most successful retirement moves start with clarity. Before touring homes, I recommend choosing your “Top 5” priorities — the things that will shape your daily life and long-term comfort.

• Climate tolerance (heat vs. elevation)
  
  
• Health care access and drive times
  
  
• Airport convenience and travel frequency
  
  
• Budget + monthly costs (HOA, utilities, taxes, insurance)
  
  
• Lifestyle and social rhythm (busy calendar vs. quieter pace)

1) Climate tolerance (Arizona is not one climate)

Arizona varies dramatically by region and elevation. One of the simplest ways to compare cities is the National Weather Service climate normals. NWS Climate Normals (Arizona)

If summer heat is a concern, higher-elevation cities may be a better fit. If you love warm winters and don’t mind planning around summer, Valley areas may still make sense — especially if you travel during the hottest weeks.

2) Health care access

For many retirees, being near quality medical care is a must. The Arizona Department of Health Services maintains licensing information for medical facilities statewide. AZDHS – Medical Facility Licensing

Beyond distance, consider specialty access, hospital systems, and your real-life routes for routine care.

3) Airport and travel convenience

If you’ll be flying regularly, airport access becomes a quality-of-life feature. Phoenix Sky Harbor offers the most direct routes; Tucson International often feels easier and less congested day-to-day.

4) Budget and ongoing costs

In active adult communities, the purchase price is only part of the picture. Compare HOA dues, what’s included, any club or amenity fees, and utilities — especially summer electric costs.

For property tax basics, start with the Arizona Department of Revenue. AZDOR – Property Tax

5) Lifestyle and social rhythm

Some communities are golf-forward. Others focus on fitness, clubs, learning, or outdoor access. The goal isn’t popularity — it’s fit.

Step 2: What an active adult community really changes

Active adult communities are designed around ease: low-maintenance living, age-friendly designs, amenities that support health and connection, and neighbors in a similar life stage.

• Predictable maintenance
  
  
• Amenities you’ll actually use
  
  
• A ready-made social network (if you want it)
  
  
• Homes that prioritize single-level living
  
  

Step 3: Which Arizona city fits best?

Tucson: culture, outdoors, and real-city living

Tucson is part of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. AARP – Age-Friendly Network

Best for retirees who want culture, outdoor access, and a true city feel without Phoenix-scale sprawl.

Oro Valley & Marana: near Tucson, quieter pace

Best for buyers who want Tucson access with a calmer, more suburban feel.

Green Valley & Sahuarita: retirement-forward living

Best for retirees who want a community built around retirement living and an easier day-to-day pace.

Phoenix Metro: maximum choice and convenience

Best for retirees who prioritize variety, big-metro amenities, and airport access.

Prescott & Prescott Valley: cooler summers, small-city feel

Best for retirees who prioritize summer comfort and a slower pace.

Step 4: Tour smarter

Drive your real-life routes, visit mid-morning on a weekday, and review the activity calendar to see whether it matches what you genuinely enjoy.

A note on Arizona taxes (high-level)

For current guidance, start with the Arizona Department of Revenue. AZDOR – Individual Income Tax

This is general information only and not tax advice.

Final thoughts

The best Arizona retirement move isn’t about the most popular city — it’s about alignment with your lifestyle, health needs, and long-term goals.

Contact: 520.222.9611 • info@thetjkteam.com • thetjkteam.com

Realty Executives Arizona Territory — Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated