Active Adult, Retirement & Top Picks Across Maricopa and Pinal Counties
If you’re dreaming of your next chapter in sunny Arizona, you’re not alone. The Phoenix metro area has long been one of the country’s top destinations for active adults, retirees, and anyone seeking a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle.
This guide is your go-to resource for exploring the top 55+ communities across Maricopa and Pinal Counties—from golf course living to low-key retirement neighborhoods—and how to find the perfect fit based on your lifestyle goals.
Want to search all available homes for sale in 55+ communities?
| Community | City | Type | HOA Fees | Key Amenities | Build Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun City | Sun City | Active Adult | $25/mo | Golf, Clubs, Rec Centers | Resale | Iconic & affordable |
| Trilogy at Vistancia | Peoria | Luxury | $200+/mo | Golf, Resort Amenities | New & Resale | High-end, private golf |
| Sun Lakes | Chandler | Active Adult | $130-200/mo | Golf, Lakes, Clubs | Resale | 5 communities in one |
| Encore at Eastmark | Mesa | Active Adult | $150-180/mo | Modern Clubhouse, Events | New | Great for newer builds |
| Robson Ranch | Eloy | Active Adult | $170+/mo | Golf, Gated, Rec | New & Resale | Good value south of PHX |
| CantaMia | Goodyear | Active Adult | $180+/mo | Fitness, Lakes, Green Living | New & Resale | Energy-efficient homes |
| Leisure World | Mesa | Retirement | $280-300/mo | Golf, Gated, Arts | Resale | Busy calendar, affordable |
| Victory at Verrado | Buckeye | Luxury | $110-150/mo | Golf, Restaurants, Vineyard | New & Resale | Resort-style, great views |
| PebbleCreek | Goodyear | Luxury | $180-250/mo | Golf, Arts, Fitness | New & Resale | Luxury + amenities |
☀️ Why Phoenix is a Top Destination for 55+ Living
Phoenix offers more than just sunshine—though with over 300 days of it per year, that doesn’t hurt! Residents enjoy:
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A lower cost of living compared to many coastal states
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World-class medical facilities (Mayo Clinic, Banner Health)
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Outdoor recreation (golf, hiking, pickleball)
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Active community events year-round
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A wide range of home styles and price points
🧭 Types of 55+ Communities in Arizona
Not all “55+ communities” are the same. Here’s a quick breakdown:
🔹 Active Adult Communities
These are typically vibrant neighborhoods with robust amenities—think golf, clubs, classes, events, fitness centers, and restaurants.
🔹 Retirement Communities
Usually smaller-scale and more peaceful, often geared toward a quieter lifestyle. Still age-restricted, but often with lower HOAs and fewer bells and whistles.
🔹 Luxury 55+ Communities
Designed for those who want resort-style amenities, high-end finishes, and sometimes even concierge services.
📍 Best Active Adult Communities in Phoenix Metro
Sun City (Maricopa County)
📍 Northwest of Phoenixss
The OG of active adult living, developed by Del Webb. With multiple rec centers, golf courses, and clubs, it’s an iconic choice.
👉 Visit Sun City
Note: There are areas of Sun City like: Sun City West, Sun City Grand (now known as The Grand) that are also to be looked at and very different than Sun City.
Trilogy at Vistancia (Peoria)
A luxury active adult community with stunning homes, upscale amenities, and a private golf club.
👉 Visit Trilogy Vistancia
Sun Lakes (Chandler)
South of Phoenix with five golf course communities in one. Beautiful lake views, country clubs, and social living.
👉 Visit Sun Lakes
Encore at Eastmark (Mesa)
Modern homes, clubhouse, resort-style pool, and a strong sense of community. Great for those who want a newer build.
👉 Visit Encore
Robson Ranch (Eloy/Casa Grande)
Just south of Phoenix, this master-planned gated community offers great value and luxury living.
👉 Visit Robson Ranch
CantaMia at Estrella (Goodyear)
A lakeside community tucked into the Estrella Mountains with green building practices and modern amenities.
👉 Visit CantaMia
🛋️ Best Retirement Communities for a Simpler Lifestyle
Fountain of the Sun (Mesa)
Affordable and friendly, with its own golf course, activities, and gated security.
👉 Visit Fountain of the Sun
Leisure World (Mesa)
Gated, golf, pools, and a huge events calendar—but a little less busy than the largest active adult communities.
👉 Visit Leisure World
Apache Wells (Mesa)
A smaller, quiet neighborhood with a strong community feel and affordability.
👉 Visit Apache Wells
🏌️♂️ Best Luxury 55+ Communities in Greater Phoenix
Victory at Verrado (Buckeye)
Built into the White Tank Mountains, Victory offers custom homes, breathtaking views, and upscale amenities including a vineyard and chef-led restaurant.
👉 Visit Victory
Trilogy at Verde River (Rio Verde)
Golf-focused, high-end homes near Scottsdale with stunning desert scenery. Resort-quality living.
👉 Visit Trilogy Verde River
PebbleCreek (Goodyear)
Spacious homes, two golf courses, an art studio, and a full performance arts theater.
👉 Visit PebbleCreek. This is one of my personal favorites by the way. The homes seem like they are spaced further apart, the grounds are lush. The Community feels homey. It’s not as far south or north, and still somewhat close to the Airport and major medical.
🧾 What to Consider When Choosing a 55+ Community
Here are some key questions to ask:
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Do you want a golf course or prefer low-maintenance?
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How active is the social scene?
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What’s the HOA fee and what does it include?
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Are pets allowed?
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New build or resale?
Your priorities matter—and the right community depends on what you want in this next chapter.
🗺️ Serving Maricopa & Pinal Counties
Whether you’re looking in Peoria, Sun Lakes, Mesa, Goodyear, Buckeye, Chandler, Surprise, Eloy, or anywhere in between—I can help you compare options across both counties and guide you through the buying process with confidence.
🤝 Let’s Find the Right Fit Together
I’ve helped dozens of clients navigate their move into 55+ living—and I’d be honored to help you do the same.
👉 Thinking of downsizing? Dreaming of more sunshine and less maintenance? Let’s talk.
Blair Ballin 480-233-6433.
🎁 BONUS: Free Guide Coming Soon
Want a quick-glance chart comparing Phoenix’s top 55+ communities—features, fees, HOA info, amenities, and more?
And if you are looking for a home in the North Phoenix area, which includes Glendale/Peoria/Anthem, visit Living North Phoenix, an online Community to learn more about the area and get helpful tips and recommendations.
📥 We’re putting the finishing touches on a downloadable comparison chart just for you. Stay tuned or send me a message to get on the early access list!
🟢 Ready to take the next step? Reach out and let’s chat about which Phoenix 55+ communities align with your lifestyle and goals. I’m here to make the transition smooth, fun, and completely stress-free.