10 Arizona Towns Perfect for Retirees on a Fixed Income

If Arizona has caught your eye as a potential retirement destination, you probably already know that the state doesn't tax Social Security, inheritances, or estates. And while you may still have to give Uncle Sam back a bit of your IRAs and 401(k)s, there are still plenty of benefits to living in Arizona.

That includes allowing those living on a fixed income to experience more of a stress-free retirement thanks to relatively low property taxes, inexpensive homeowners insurance, and more. 

Keep reading as we explore the 10 best spots you can move to in Arizona if you're planning to live out your golden years on a fixed income.

All property prices are from Zillow, and all cost-of-living figures are from BestPlaces, unless otherwise noted.

Average monthly rent: $1,736

Median home price: $473,438

Lake Havasu City offers retirees plenty of natural beauty and outdoor pursuits. More importantly, it's an affordable retirement destination with a low cost of living and lower-than-average property crime. While homeowners will pay a premium to buy here, renters can still have it all for a price that remains less than the national average.

If you enjoy lots of sunshine or are suffering from arthritis and need dry conditions, picking this Mohave County destination as your new home may be the best choice you can make.

Average monthly rent: $1,639

Median home price: $445,815

Mesa is a suburb of Phoenix that is significantly more affordable than the city proper for retirees on a fixed income. Besides the proximity to the big city, it's a good place for seniors who want to save money on groceries and transportation.

While a typical home in Mesa is 26% more expensive than the national average at $425,900, renting in the city is affordable and can give you a feel for Arizona life.

Average monthly rent: $1,470*

Median home price: $377,505

Page is located close to several national parks, giving budget-savvy retirees many free outdoor opportunities to spend their time. It has a small-town vibe and is a green and walkable city.

If you researched Florida as a potential retirement destination and were put off by its tourist-trap feel, you'll be happy to know that while Page thrives on summer tourism, it's a quiet place during winter. Besides, its cost of living is 16.8% less expensive than the national average, which is important when your retirement plan involves living on a fixed income.

*Data pulled from BestPlaces.

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Average monthly rent: $1,793

Median home price: $344,932

Florence is also part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, putting you in proximity to bustling city life without bringing it to your doorstep. It's located close to Apache Leap Trailhead and Saguaro National Park, giving you plenty to do outdoors.

This safe city offers visitors and residents affordable groceries and utilities. While summers can be hot, plenty of sunshine and a low cost of living more than make up for it in Florence.

Average monthly rent: $1,432

Median home price: $299,097

Sierra Vista is another scenic city that welcomes potential retirees with the breathtaking views of the Arizona high desert. It is surrounded by mountains, which makes it cooler than the average Arizona location.

Pick Sierra Vista if you're retiring on a budget for its low cost of living and average expenses — 15.2% and 22.8% lower, respectively, than the national average — and groceries and utilities are also more affordable here than elsewhere in the state.

Average monthly rent: $850*

Median home price: $175,515

Douglas offers the same amazing views and outdoor opportunities, with the addition of gentle horseback riding for sporty seniors, as Sierra Vista. If anything, this small town is even more affordable. As an extra attraction, it's close to Tucson.

If you're on a fixed income, Douglas can give you peace of mind. From low housing costs to lower-than-average utility and grocery costs, this city is the best choice for budget-conscious seniors.

*Data pulled from BestPlaces.

Average monthly rent: $1,040*

Median home price: $275,955

The biggest downside of living in Safford is the summer heat. However, the mild winters and affordable cost of living soften the blow. Safford is 15.3% less expensive overall than the national average.

Coupled with affordable housing, this low cost of living means that retiring on a fixed income is possible in this southeastern Arizona town. Factor in a strong community spirit, and you have the best place for contentment in your old age.

*Data pulled from BestPlaces.

Average monthly rent: $810*

Median home price: $359,408

This small town is ideal for seniors who don't appreciate the buzz of city life. Located in western Arizona, it is surrounded by the desert, giving you access to the great outdoors.

While summers in Parker can be hot, you can find shade and relief on the Colorado River. With extra affordable rents and a cost of living that is 18.3% lower than the Arizona average, Parker is your best bet for retiring on a fixed income in Arizona.

*Data pulled from BestPlaces.

Average monthly rent: $1,491

Median home price: $300,169

Bullhead City is located close to Lake Havasu City, along the Colorado River. It's a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating at locations like the Riviera Marina. In addition to all of that, it has great healthcare offerings — an important perk for seniors.

The city's cost of living is 15.6% lower than the national average, and a typical home costs $300,169, significantly less expensive than the national and Arizona averages.

Average monthly rent: $1,641

Median home price: $418,159

Glendale is surprisingly affordable given its proximity to Phoenix. It's the perfect spot for retirees who enjoy living in the city and taking advantage of all the urban amenities and various outdoor recreation activities.

If you're on a fixed income, pick Glendale for its beautiful downtown and parks, which can give you a great quality of life and maximize your senior benefits by giving you access to some free and low-priced recreational activities. Buying a home here may be more expensive, but with lower-than-average rents, there's a lot to love about this town.

Arizona may be less desirable for many seniors than Florida, but if you're on a fixed retirement income and looking to get out of tax debt, you can't ignore its retiree-friendly tax policies and affordable communities.

When you pick one of these Arizona cities for your retirement — whether it's a neighborhood of Phoenix like Florence or a thriving area like Page — you contribute to the local economy, which ensures your retirement years truly are your golden years.