If you’re thinking about where to spend your retirement years, Arizona has a lot going for it. In recent rankings, Scottsdale came in as the #2 Best Place to Retire in the entire U.S. according to WalletHub. What makes that even more impressive? Scottsdale isn’t alone here. In fact, seven Arizona cities are among the Top 100 Best Places to Retire in 2025.
Arizona Cities Making the Top 100
Here are the Arizona cities that made the cut, each offering something special for retirees:
- Scottsdale (ranked #2 nationally)
- Tempe
- Tucson
- Chandler
- Phoenix
- Gilbert
- Peoria
What Makes These Places So Appealing
So why are so many Arizona cities showing up in these retirement rankings?
- High quality of life. Many of these places score well in terms of amenities (parks, recreation, culture), climate, and overall livability.
- Good healthcare access. An essential factor for retirees, and Arizona tends to have many communities with good medical facilities relatively nearby.
- Variety of settings. Whether you prefer a desert vibe (Scottsdale, Gilbert), a more urban setting (Phoenix, Tucson), or somewhere in between, there are options.
- Proximity for family/friends. Especially in the East Valley (Scottsdale, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe), there’s closeness to Phoenix, so it’s easier to stay connected.
Things to Consider
Of course, no place is perfect, and what makes a city great for one person may not match another’s priorities. Here are some trade-offs to keep in mind:
- Cost of living — Some of these cities are more expensive than other parts of Arizona. Housing, property taxes, and utilities can vary widely.
- Heat and climate extremes — Arizona weather is a big draw, but summer heat can be intense, so things like air conditioning and access to cooler spaces matter.
- Transportation and infrastructure — Depending on how much you travel, access to airports, public transit, roads, etc., may be more or less important.
Conclusion
If retiring in Arizona is on your radar, there’s a lot to like. With Scottsdale sitting at #2 nationally, and six other Arizona cities in the top 100, the state clearly is doing many things right for retirees. Whether you want desert landscapes, warm winters, outdoor recreation, or good healthcare, there are several options that deliver.