Top 5 Places to Retire in Phoenix

With its year-round sunshine, low-maintenance desert landscaping, and abundance of world-class golf courses, Phoenix has earned its reputation as one of the most desirable retirement destinations in the United States. Often referred to as The Valley of the Sun, Phoenix offers retirees the perfect mix of relaxation, affordability, a wide range of activities, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful, gated neighborhood with resort-style amenities or an active 55+ community filled with daily social events and entertainment, Phoenix offers diverse options for every retiree.

In addition to the pleasant weather throughout the year, Phoenix is renowned for its top-tier healthcare facilities, tax-friendly policies for retirees, and endless recreational opportunities both indoors and outdoors. From scenic desert hikes to cultural landmarks like the Heard Museum and exciting spring training MLB games, there is always something new to discover. Plus, with a lower cost of living compared to many other major cities, your retirement savings can stretch further in Phoenix.

At the Gluch Group, we understand that finding the ideal place to retire in Phoenix can be a challenging task. That’s why we are dedicated to showcasing the best retirement communities and neighborhoods in the area, helping you narrow down your search for the perfect home to enjoy your retirement.

Tonto Verde

Tonto Verde is an exceptional choice for retirees seeking a peaceful yet active lifestyle in the Phoenix area. Located just east of Scottsdale in Rio Verde, this 55+ gated retirement community features 717 stunning homes with a variety of neighborhoods, home styles, and floor plans. Nestled between the breathtaking McDowell Mountain Regional Park and the expansive 2.9-million-acre Tonto National Forest, the Tonto Verde retirement community offers a serene desert retreat with easy access to nature while still being close to modern conveniences.

As one of the top 55 and over communities in Phoenix, Tonto Verde provides a well-rounded lifestyle for active adults. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate being in close distance to premier courses such as Scottsdale National Golf Club, Outlaw Golf Course, and SunRidge Canyon Golf Course, all of which are within 30 miles. Additionally, the adjacent Rio Verde Country Club offers another fantastic golfing option just minutes away.

Retirees who live at Tonto Verde can enjoy an active social life with over a dozen clubs and interest groups, ranging from art and poker to knitting and tennis. The heart of the community is the 26,000-square-foot clubhouse, which serves as both a golf clubhouse and a comforting gathering space for social events, activities, and dining.

Tonto Verde offers a mix of 55+ neighborhoods with various types of homes, including 200 townhomes and 517 custom-built single-family homes. Townhomes in Tonto Verde typically range from 1,400 to 2,400 square feet and typically include two to three bedrooms and an attached garage. A big perk of living in the townhomes of Tonto Verde is that HOA fees cover exterior maintenance and landscaping, which is something most retirees look for when searching for a new home. Single-family homes, ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 square feet, offer diverse floor plans and custom designs, with HOA dues covering common area upkeep and clubhouse access, which is another plus for retirees. Homes in Tonto Verde typically range from the low $500Ks to the mid $2 millions, providing options for a variety of retirement budgets.

With its stunning location, resort-style amenities, and active social scene, Tonto Verde stands out as one of the best places to retire near Phoenix. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance townhome or a custom-built single-family home, this 55+ community offers a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and community.

Sterling Grove

For those looking for an exceptional retirement experience, Sterling Grove stands out as one of the best 55 and over communities in Phoenix. Nestled in the scenic area of Surprise, this gated, 55+ community offers breathtaking mountain views, world-class golf, and a welcoming, tight-knit community. With homes ranging from the high $500Ks to the low $1Ms, Sterling Grove in Surprise provides a mix of new and resale single-family homes and condos, providing retirees with many options so they can find the perfect fit for their lifestyle.

One of the biggest reasons retirees are drawn to Sterling Grove is its resort-style amenities. The community is home to:

Two championship golf courses
An upscale clubhouse with dining options
A state-of-the-art fitness center
An extensive network of walking and biking trails
Pickleball
Tennis
A variety of social clubs and events

Another reason why Sterling Grove is one of the top 55-plus communities in Phoenix is its convenient access to healthcare and everyday necessities. Located just a short drive from various amenities, residents have quick access to premier medical facilities, shopping centers, and fine dining options, including Banner Health facilities.

If you’re searching for a vibrant, well-established community with stunning desert landscapes and top-tier amenities, Sterling Grove is the perfect place to retire in the Phoenix area. At the Gluch Group, we understand that finding the right retirement community can be overwhelming, and that’s why we’re here to help you explore the best options available.

Scottsdale Heights

For retirees seeking an active and luxurious lifestyle, Scottsdale Heights stands out as one of the best 55-plus communities in Phoenix. This exclusive, gated neighborhood offers an intimate setting with just 75 single-family homes, ensuring a close-knit community feel. With home prices starting in the low $1 million range, Scottsdale Heights provides modern residences designed for comfort and convenience. Every home is single-story and equipped with the latest amenities and technology, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a stylish and low-maintenance living environment.

One of the biggest reasons Scottsdale Heights is so highly sought after is its breathtaking surroundings. Nestled against the backdrop of the stunning Sonoran Desert, this 55 and over community in Phoenix is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents can enjoy easy access to scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as world-class golf courses. The community itself features a pool and spa, a fitness center, and a barbecue pavilion, providing plenty of opportunities for socializing and relaxation.

Scottsdale Heights also caters to retirees who want a lock-and-leave lifestyle with minimal upkeep. The homeowners’ association takes care of exterior maintenance and landscaping, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their retirement to the fullest. With its pet-friendly policies, lush landscaping, and top-tier amenities, Scottsdale Heights is an ideal choice for those looking to retire in style in Phoenix.

Trilogy at Vistancia

Trilogy at Vistancia is one of the most luxurious 55-plus communities in Phoenix, offering a resort-style living experience that’s perfectly created to fit the needs and desires of active adults in retirement. Designed as more than just a neighborhood, Trilogy at Vistancia is a lifestyle-centered community where every amenity and space is created to feel like a true extension of your home.

From the moment you enter this vibrant gated retirement community, you’ll notice the thoughtful planning and unmatched attention to detail. The 35,000-square-foot Kiva Club is the heart of the community, offering:

A state-of-the-art fitness center
An indoor lap pool
A resort-style outdoor pool with panoramic mountain views
Hobby studios
A movie theater

The Kiva Club also offers retirees a Center for Higher Learning, which provides enriching courses in everything from photography to foreign languages.

This 55 and over community in Phoenix also features the Alvea Spa, which is a full-service retreat that offers massages, skincare, nail care, and other indulgent treatments. Whether you’re enjoying a yoga class, meeting friends at V’s Taproom for lunch, or taking part in one of the many social events and excursions offered, you’ll always find something to enrich your daily life at Trilogy by Vistancia.

Trilogy’s dedication to health, connection, and personal growth is reflected in its impressive list of amenities, including:

Hiking, walking, and biking trails
Pickleball and sports courts
Culinary studios and hands-on cooking classes
Comprehensive wellness programs
Golf courses

With home prices ranging from the high $400,000s to the low $1 million range, both new and resale homes are available for retirees to choose from, giving buyers plenty of options in this sought-after community. For those looking for a dynamic, fulfilling lifestyle in one of the most scenic parts of the Valley during their retirement, Trilogy at Vistancia is one of the most exciting 55-plus communities in Phoenix.

Rose Garden

If you’re searching for one of the best places to retire in Phoenix, look no further than Rose Garden in Surprise, Arizona. Just 20 minutes from Sun City and Peoria, this vibrant 55+ community in Surprise, which is a part of Phoenix, offers a welcoming environment for active adults who are ready to embrace a fun and fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

Rose Garden is more than just a place for retirees to live. It’s also a lively, amenity-rich community where seniors can build friendships, stay active, and truly enjoy their golden years. From bingo and bunko nights to card tournaments, potlucks, and dances, the social calendar is always full and offers social engagement for all types of people. The expansive clubhouse features a dance floor and stage, a billiards room, a fitness center, and game rooms to bring neighbors together.

Residents can also take advantage of outdoor amenities, including a heated pool and spa, new pickleball and bocce ball courts, shuffleboard, horseshoe pits, and more. Whether you want to spend your time relaxing poolside or challenging neighbors in a friendly match, there’s always something to do.

Homes in Rose Garden range from the low $100Ks to the high $500Ks, featuring spacious 2- and 3-bedroom manufactured homes with fully equipped kitchens, modern appliances, and carports. With quick move-ins available, this retirement community in Phoenix offers a range of affordable options to suit your lifestyle and budget.

Ready To Find Your Dream Home In One Of The Best Places To Retire In Phoenix?

If you’re ready to find your dream home in one of the best 55-plus communities in Phoenix, don’t hesitate to contact our team at the Gluch Group today. With our real estate knowledge of The Valley, we work tirelessly to help retirees find homes that fit their lifestyle, needs, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an active adult community full of amenities, our team can help you find your dream retirement home. Let us guide you through every step of the process and make your transition into retirement as smooth and stress-free as possible.