13 Arizona Towns Where You Can Live Well on Less

Additional Coverage:

13 Charming Arizona Towns Where You Can Retire on $2,800 a Month (financebuzz.com)

Arizona: Your Affordable Oasis for Retirement

Dreaming of a retirement filled with sunshine, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant community without breaking the bank? Look no further than Arizona!

The Grand Canyon State has long been a favorite for retirees, offering a winning combination of warm, dry weather, breathtaking natural beauty, and surprisingly low taxes. Beyond the picturesque views, cities like Tucson boast rich histories, deeply rooted in both Native American heritage and military significance, ensuring there’s a tapestry of arts and culture to explore.

If you’re ready to embrace your golden years in the desert sun, we’ve rounded up 13 affordable Arizona cities where your retirement dreams can become a reality.

1. Douglas

Nestled close to the Mexican border, Douglas offers a vibrant community rich in cultural events and close-knit neighborhoods. Retirees here are greeted with open arms and an exceptionally affordable lifestyle.

The average rent hovers around $775 a month, while groceries are 3% below the national average. Overall, the cost of living in Douglas is 8% lower than the national average, with healthcare costs an additional 5% lower – a crucial factor for seniors.

2. Eloy

Eloy charms with its small-town feel, colorful history, and incredible culinary scene, thanks to its proximity to Mexico. This city is a top pick for those seeking a budget-friendly retirement. Housing expenses are a remarkable 50% lower than the national average, with a median home price of $271,500, meaning more of your monthly budget can go towards enjoying your retirement.

3. Coolidge

Coolidge is a standout for its remarkably low cost of living. Housing, in particular, is 43% lower than the national average, with a median home price of $293,745.

Healthcare costs are also favorable, coming in 5% below the national average. This small town is renowned for the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and serves as an ideal retreat for retirees who love hiking and outdoor activities.

4. Casa Grande

Another budget-friendly gem, Casa Grande offers a lower-than-typical cost of living, with housing expenses an impressive 24% below the national average. This quiet town enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a perfect, pleasant, and relatively low-crime spot for retirement.

5. Yuma

In Yuma, the cost of living is 4% lower than the national average, and housing expenses are 13% lower, ensuring an affordable desert lifestyle. For those who enjoy culinary pursuits, grocery prices are approximately 2% below the national average.

Located in the Sonoran Desert on the banks of the Colorado River, Yuma is a haven for hikers and “plein air” painters alike. Plus, a vibrant downtown provides ample opportunities for more fast-paced entertainment.

6. Bullhead City

While Arizona might not be the first place that comes to mind for waterfront living, Bullhead City offers just that. Uniquely situated on the Colorado River, residents enjoy easy access to water activities and scenic views.

It’s also a stone’s throw from the Grand Canyon, delighting hikers. Best of all, the cost of living is 7% lower than the national average, and housing expenses are 9% lower.

7. Kingman

Retire to Kingman and benefit from housing expenses that are 9% lower than the national average, with an overall cost of living 7% lower. This affordable destination is cherished for its proximity to outdoor adventures, including hiking trails, the Grand Canyon, and the Cerbat Mountains. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the Mohave Museum of History and Arts and the Historic Route 66 Museum – perfect for personal enjoyment and entertaining guests.

8. San Luis

Envision your golden years filled with activity and newfound free time? San Luis delivers with over 60 acres of parks, the Colorado River, hiking trails, and public athletic complexes. The cost of living here is 9% lower than the national average, housing is 26% lower, and groceries are 2% lower, leaving you with more discretionary income for the things (and people) you love.

9. Golden Valley

For those who desire proximity to larger Arizona cities like Tucson but prefer a more affordable lifestyle, Golden Valley is an excellent choice. Here, the cost of living is 7% lower than the national average, and healthcare remains 6% lower – a significant advantage during your golden years.

10. Apache Junction

While a cost of living 6% lower than the national average is appealing, Apache Junction’s true allure for retirees is housing expenses, which are a remarkable 40% lower than the national average. This small town, nestled beneath the Superstition Mountains, is an ideal spot for adventurers seeking an affordable life close to natural beauty.

11. Nogales

If an affordable Arizona retirement is on your radar, Nogales shines with a cost of living 18% below the national average. This budget-friendly city offers stunning desert landscapes, hiking trails, and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

12. Springerville

Springerville boasts a cost of living 11% below the national average, with housing even more affordable at 37% below. Known as the Gateway to the White Mountains, this mountain town, at an elevation of 7,000 feet, uniquely experiences all four seasons. A bustling downtown, combined with outdoor activities like fishing at Becker Lake and exploring wildlife at the Little Colorado River Walk, ensures there’s always something to do.

13. Sierra Vista

Discover the beauty of “The Hummingbird Capital of the U.S.” while enjoying some of Arizona’s most affordable living. The cost of living in Sierra Vista is 8% lower than the national average, housing is 14% lower, groceries are 3% lower, and healthcare is 5% lower. Plus, a mild, dry climate offers a pleasant alternative to extreme heat.

The Bottom Line

Ready to explore the possibility of an earlier retirement? Your first step is to identify affordable towns in your ideal state.

Across nearly every region, you can find a place where your Social Security income can comfortably support your retirement dreams. All it takes is a bit of research into cities that align with your vision for retirement and, crucially, your budget.

Smart Money Moves for Everyone

Regardless of your current financial standing, there’s always room to optimize your finances. Here’s a quick checklist to consider today:

Tackle Debt: Debt can hinder your financial progress. Beyond cutting expenses, consider tools like balance transfer credit cards or debt counseling to accelerate your payoff.

Boost Your Income: A little extra income can provide significant breathing room. While a new job is an option, a part-time side gig might be a better fit if you’re not ready for a major change or are already retired.

Trim Expenses: While it might sound daunting, cost-cutting doesn’t have to be painful. Focus on your largest expenses for the biggest impact.

For instance, with auto insurance rates on the rise, shopping around for a new provider could quickly reduce your bill. Planning a vacation?

The right travel credit card can help offset costs.