Arizona is a popular destination for retirees, thanks to its warm climate and tax benefits, including no state tax on Social Security income. Many seniors are attracted to the state’s affordability, as there are several cities where a monthly budget of $3,100 or less can comfortably cover living expenses. To find the best cities in Arizona for retirees on a budget, GOBankingRates analyzed Zillow data to identify places where rent costs are $2,000 or less. Additional data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2023 Consumer Expenditure Survey was used to calculate average monthly expenses for groceries, healthcare, and utilities for individuals aged 65 and older. A livability score of 70 or higher was also required for each city, sourced from AreaVibes.
Here are the top seven Arizona cities for retirees seeking affordable living.
7. Avondale: Affordable and Accessible
Avondale is an excellent choice for retirees looking for a balance of affordability and accessibility. The average rent in Avondale is $1,702, making it one of the more affordable cities in the state. The city has a livability score of 72, which reflects its reasonable cost of living and availability of amenities. Monthly grocery costs are around $401, healthcare expenses average $619, and utilities cost approximately $372. The total average monthly expenditure in Avondale is $3,094, which is still well within the $3,100 budget.
6. Tempe: A College Town with Low Costs
Tempe, known for being home to Arizona State University, offers retirees a vibrant environment at an affordable price. The average rent in Tempe is $1,666, and it boasts a solid livability score of 78. The cost of living remains manageable, with average grocery expenses of $407, healthcare costs of $619, and utilities running about $363. The total average monthly expenditure in Tempe comes to $3,055, making it an excellent option for retirees seeking an active lifestyle on a budget.
5. Glendale: A Comfortable, Affordable Option
Glendale, located near Phoenix, is a city that provides a mix of suburban calm with easy access to city amenities. Rent in Glendale averages $1,650, and the city has a livability score of 76. Monthly grocery costs average $401, with healthcare expenses at $619 and utilities costing around $366. The average total monthly expenditure is $3,036, making Glendale an attractive choice for retirees looking for affordability without sacrificing comfort.
4. Phoenix: The Heart of Arizona Living
Phoenix, Arizona’s capital, is a bustling urban center offering plenty of activities, healthcare options, and cultural attractions. Rent in Phoenix averages $1,619, and the city maintains a livability score of 76. Monthly grocery costs average $403, healthcare expenses are about $619, and utilities come to around $365. With a total monthly expenditure of $3,006, Phoenix offers retirees an affordable lifestyle in a major metropolitan area.
3. Mesa: Affordable Living in a Thriving Community
Mesa, a growing city in the Phoenix metropolitan area, offers a high livability score of 81, making it one of the best cities for retirees on a budget. Rent here averages $1,608, with monthly grocery costs of $403, healthcare expenses of $619, and utility bills averaging $359. With an overall average monthly expenditure of $2,988, Mesa remains well within a $3,100 budget while offering retirees a vibrant community.
2. Sierra Vista: Low Cost of Living with Scenic Views
Sierra Vista is a smaller, more tranquil city known for its picturesque landscapes and slower pace of life. Rent in Sierra Vista is just $1,437, the lowest among the top cities listed here. The city has a livability score of 78, and monthly grocery costs are about $392. Healthcare expenses are slightly higher at $710, while utilities cost $367. With a total average monthly expenditure of $2,905, Sierra Vista offers retirees an affordable and scenic place to settle down.
1. Tucson: Budget-Friendly and Beautiful
Tucson, located in southern Arizona, tops the list of affordable cities for retirement. The average rent in Tucson is $1,497, and the city holds a livability score of 73. Monthly grocery costs average $396, healthcare expenses are $571, and utilities cost about $357. With an overall monthly expenditure of $2,821, Tucson offers retirees an affordable yet comfortable lifestyle in a beautiful desert setting.
Retiring on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. Arizona offers several cities where retirees can enjoy an affordable lifestyle while benefiting from the state’s warm climate and tax advantages. Whether you prefer a larger city like Phoenix or a quieter place like Sierra Vista, there’s a perfect spot in Arizona for retirees on a budget of $3,100 or less per month.
or a specific category with our 
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.