Retirement is the time to enjoy life to the fullest, explore new places, and start a new chapter in your life. You want to relax in your armchair while sipping a margarita, enjoy the toasty warmth of the sun, and marvel at the beautiful landscape surrounding you. If this sounds like a dream come true, Arizona is the perfect place to call your retirement home.
Known for its warm climate, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural history, Arizona offers a perfect blend of urban and rural living. This blog post will explore some of the top reasons to move to Arizona after retirement.
How to Plan Your Move
If you’re reading this, there are high chances you’ve already set your heart on retiring in Arizona. But before you start packing your bags, it’s important to plan your move carefully. It’s best to research the area first. Visit the place to get a feel of what it has to offer. It is especially important if you’re looking for somewhere that offers good healthcare and transportation options. You should also check the cost of living in the area to ensure that it suits your budget.
If you’re moving from another state, it’s best to hire a professional mover who is familiar with the area. We recommend you go through https://www.colemanallied.com/areas-served/moving-from-san-diego-to-phoenix/ to learn more about the moving options available.
Top Reasons to Retire in Arizona
Warm Climate
Arizona’s warm and dry climate is a major attraction for retirees looking to escape the harsh winters of the North. The state boasts over 300 days of sunshine yearly, and temperatures rarely dip below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and swimming year-round.
Moreover, unlike other parts of the US, Arizona is relatively humidity-free. It makes it easier to breathe and stay cool during the hot summer months.
Also, no seasonal allergies!
Ease on Taxes
It’s no secret that retirees are looking for ways to save money. Thankfully, Arizona provides some tax breaks to help you keep more of your hard-earned cash. The state does not tax Social Security retirement benefits. It also has no inheritance or estate taxes, so you won’t have to worry about that when passing your assets to the next generation.
Bear in mind, though, that the state can tax other kinds of retirement income, like withdrawals from an IRA or a 401(k). So, do your research before you make any decisions.
Active Lifestyle
As soon as you reach your fifties, your metabolism starts slowing down, and you need to stay active to ensure healthy aging. Plus, staying fit will help improve your mood and reduce stress. Fortunately, Arizona offers a plethora of activities for people of all ages and abilities.
The state is home to numerous hiking trails, golf courses, and outdoor fitness parks. There are also plenty of bike paths and nature preserves for exploring. Plus, if you enjoy swimming, Arizona has some of the best swimming and boating areas in the country.
Moreover, the state also has a thriving arts and cultural scene, which offers retirees plenty of opportunities to stay intellectually stimulated and engaged. For instance, you can enjoy live music, theater performances, art galleries, and numerous other activities.
Natural Beauty
Arizona’s stunning natural beauty is another reason why retirees choose to call the state home. From the red rocks of Sedona to the Grand Canyon, the state boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Moreover, Arizona’s diverse geography, which includes deserts, mountains, and forests, offers retirees plenty of opportunities to explore and discover new places. One day, you could be exploring a red rock canyon, and the next day, you can take a short drive to the alpine forests of Flagstaff.
Wait, there’s more.
You can evoke your adventurous spirit by taking a tour of Kartchner Caverns State Park or embark on an outdoor picnic at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. If that isn’t enough, spend the day sailing around Lake Havasu and take in its stunning views!
Quality Healthcare
Arizona is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in the country, making it an ideal destination for retirees who want access to top-quality medical care. The state’s major cities, including Phoenix and Tucson, have several world-class hospitals and medical centers that specialize in geriatric care.
Moreover, Arizona’s healthcare system also provides access to numerous medical specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists. Plus, the state’s proximity to Mexico means you can take advantage of lower-cost healthcare options south of the border.
Luxury Shopping Experiences
Arizona also offers some of the best shopping experiences in the country. From malls and boutiques to local farmers’ markets, you can find just about anything you need in the state. Plus, there are several luxury shopping centers that are popular with retirees.
For instance, Scottsdale Quarter is an outdoor shopping center that features high-end stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Tucson Mall is another popular spot for those looking to find designer clothes, jewelry, and home décor.
If you’re looking for unbeatable bargains, head to Arizona Mills — an outlet store that’s sure to have something just right. And if a unique experience is what you seek, Old Town Scottsdale won’t disappoint!
Diverse Communities
Last but not least, Arizona is known for its diverse communities. Whether you’re looking to settle in a rural area or an urban center, you’ll find something to fit your needs.
This diverse environment is conducive to a vibrant, fulfilling retirement. You can explore all the different cultures and join in on various celebrations. There’s always something new to experience!
Final Thoughts
Retiring in Arizona offers numerous benefits, including a year-round warm climate, tax breaks, access to top-notch healthcare, and plenty of recreational activities. Plus, the state’s stunning natural beauty will ensure you stay captivated for years to come.
However, before you move, make sure you do your research and find out what kind of taxes the state levies on retirement income. That way, you can enjoy your precious retirement years stress-free.
One thing’s certain if you’re planning to settle down in the Grand Canyon State, you definitely won’t regret it.
