Top Southwest Cities for Retirement Revealed

Additional Coverage:

15 Top Southwest Cities for Retirees (We’re in Love with Nevada Now) (financebuzz.com)

Calling All Soon-to-Be Retirees: Your Desert Oasis Awaits!

Dreaming of a retirement filled with endless sunshine, low humidity, and warm winter days? Look no further than America’s desert cities! We’ve scoured the landscape to bring you some fantastic locales where you can bask in those golden rays throughout your golden years.

Here’s a peek at some top desert destinations perfect for your post-work life:

1. Las Cruces, New Mexico

Nestled along the Rio Grande, Las Cruces offers a welcoming haven for retirees. This Chihuahuan Desert city boasts some of the state’s best healthcare and a surprisingly affordable cost of living. As of October 2025, the median home price in the area was a comfortable $299,450.

2. Lake Havasu City, Arizona

If your ideal retirement involves both sunshine and sparkling water, Lake Havasu City in the Sonoran Desert might just be your spot. Retirees here will discover a plethora of opportunities for fishing, boating, and all sorts of aquatic adventures.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

Ready to live it up in retirement? If late nights and a vibrant activity scene are on your wish list, Las Vegas beckons!

This bustling city offers an endless array of entertainment and dining options. Just remember to factor in the potentially higher cost of living and those tempting entertainment expenses when planning your budget.

4. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix continues to draw retirees, particularly those hailing from the West Coast. Redfin reports a significant influx of new residents from cities like Seattle, Los Angeles, and Dallas, with a good number also arriving from Midwestern hubs like Chicago. While appealing, it’s worth noting that Phoenix might not be the most budget-friendly option, with a median home price of $449,820 in October.

5. Palm Springs, California

For a quintessential West Coast desert retirement, Palm Springs is a strong contender. Like its desert counterparts, days here can be hot, but the lack of humidity makes outdoor pursuits like golf, hiking, and tennis much more enjoyable. Be mindful of housing costs, however, as the median sale price for a home in Palm Springs hit $577,000 in October.

6. Mesquite, Nevada

Seeking a charming small-town desert experience? Mesquite, situated along the Nevada-Arizona border, might be your perfect match. With a population of around 22,000, nearly 45% of residents are 65 or older, meaning plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow retirees.

7. St. George, Utah

Embrace the great outdoors in retirement by settling down in St. George. This city is conveniently close to the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and Zion National Park, offering abundant options for hiking, fishing, golfing, and soaking in the natural beauty.

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Northeast of Albuquerque, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, Santa Fe is a picturesque haven for art lovers. When the desert heat calls for a cool retreat, Museum Hill offers a wealth of art collections to explore.

9. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona presents another alluring Arizona option for those who crave warm desert air, outdoor activities, and breathtaking desert landscapes. However, this beauty comes with a price tag; the median home sale price in Sedona reached a significant $1,202,850 in October, so budget planning is key.

10. Grand Junction, Colorado

Located in Colorado’s western Rockies, Grand Junction offers warm, dry summers and a touch of winter snow, perfect for those who enjoy seasonal changes. With an abundance of hiking and biking trails, it’s an excellent choice for active retirees who love the outdoors.

11. Boulder City, Nevada

If you enjoy the allure of Las Vegas’s nightlife but prefer a quieter home base, Boulder City could be your ideal alternative. Just 25 miles south of Sin City, it offers easy access to entertainment while providing a more serene desert setting for nature and outdoor pursuits.

12. Moab, Utah

Eastern Utah is home to Moab, a city that serves as a gateway to the world-renowned Arches National Park. While peak season requires reservations, living nearby allows you the flexibility to experience the park’s unique landscapes and rock formations during calmer months, avoiding the crowds.

13. Flagstaff, Arizona

Another popular Arizona destination for retirees is Flagstaff, surrounded by a stunning mix of deserts and mountains. Expect warm summer temperatures and the potential for mountain snow, catering to those who enjoy winter activities. Be prepared for higher housing costs, however, as the median home sale price in Flagstaff was $707,500 in October.

14. Marfa, Texas

For a charming small-town feel in the Lone Star State, consider Marfa for your retirement. Located in the Big Bend region of western Texas, it offers expansive, beautiful desert views.

15. Joshua Tree, California

Living near Joshua Tree National Park means constant access to magnificent desert landscapes. If you plan to hike or enjoy the outdoors in the summer, remember to stay hydrated! The city is also less than an hour from Palm Springs, offering convenient access to golf and other amenities.

The Bottom Line: Your Golden Years, Your Desert Dream

It’s never too early to start envisioning your ideal retirement. As you diligently build your wealth, don’t forget to dream about where you’ll spend those well-deserved golden years. If a desert climate calls to your soul, this list provides a wealth of options to enjoy a retirement filled with warm days and cool, starlit nights.