by Robert Borges on November 25, 2024
55+ senior communities in Arizona and other states with desert climates are popular destinations for those looking to retire. Before exploring areas you may be interested in, identify your lifestyle priorities for a new home. These might include the availability of indoor or outdoor activities, a cost of living that aligns with your budget, a strong sense of community, access to quality medical care, typical weather patterns, or other factors.
A list of must-haves will help you narrow your search as you peruse the many communities profiled on the Private Communities platform.
Why Are Deserts So Popular for Retirees?
When people retire, they want to enjoy themselves and relax; retiring often involves selling their primary home and downsizing in a warmer climate. When looking at potential areas, many consider the outstanding benefits of desert climates for 55+ communities.
For example, desert climates offer:
- Nearly endless sunshine, so you can spend more time outside participating in the activities you enjoy year-round
- A dry, warm climate that’s kind to those who struggle with allergies, arthritis, respiratory problems, and other issues that often arise with age
In addition, desert landscapes are breathtaking. Even if you’re not an avid outdoor adventurer who enjoys long hikes in nature, it’s hard not to appreciate the splendor of a desert view.
The cost of living in desert locations is also generally more affordable than other places in the country. Similarly, the pace of life tends to be a bit more relaxed than the hustle and bustle of many urban areas. Luckily, housing options are diverse in desert communities, so you can easily enjoy a luxury lifestyle in senior living in Arizona, Texas, or Utah.
The creators of developments designed for active adults have years of experience. They know what their target audience wants, and they ensure that their desert retirement communities offer amenities that appeal to all tastes and preferences. Developments can include pedestrian and equestrian trails, relaxing spas, elegant and casual dining choices, fishing, pickleball, robust public transportation systems, and a host of other options.
Considerations to Narrow Your Choices
Once you’ve decided that the desert is the way you want to go, research each area you’re considering. Ask yourself:
- Does the community have the outdoor activities and cultural experiences you desire?
- Do you prefer mild winters and hot summers, or a more moderate temperature all year?
- What activities do you want to participate in? Are you a gardener? Bird watcher? Theater buff? Golfer? Is fly fishing something you want to learn to do?
- Is the community located near quality healthcare? Is it near art galleries, theaters, and professional sports venues?
- Is there an onsite community center? Does it seem like a lively and fun place to live?
- What’s the cost of living in the area like? Are there any homeowners association fees?
- Is this a place you can afford to buy and want to live for years to come?
Navigate to the PCR platform and select the amenities you want. Our system will automatically filter through the options and provide you with a list of communities that have what you are looking for!
Take a Look for Yourself
If you can, visit the communities you’re interested in during different seasons so you know what it’s like to live there full time. This may help you decide how easily you can adapt to the climate.
When you walk around the community, take note of the neighbors you meet. Are they friendly? Try to visualize yourself living there, making friends, and socializing. When you meet a resident, ask them about the pros and cons of living there. You might be surprised at how honest the responses are!
Exploring Your Future
Moving to an active adult community in a desert climate can be one of the smartest retirement decisions you make. Start your research through the Private Communities platform to explore amenity-rich, master-planned lifestyle communities with a wide selection of maintenance-free housing options!
