News Summary
Peoria, Arizona has been identified as the leading destination for retirees in the United States, according to a recent analysis. This shift indicates a move away from Arizona due to rising housing costs, highlighting Peoria’s affordability and range of amenities. The study reveals that retirees are increasingly seeking balanced lifestyles, prioritizing factors like healthcare access and recreational opportunities. Other Arizona cities, although ranked lower, still feature in the top ten for retirees. The overall trend indicates a significant change in preferences among retirees, focusing on cost of living and natural surroundings.
Peoria, Arizona – A recent analysis has shown that Peoria has emerged as the top destination for retirees in the United States, signaling a shift away from Arizona as a whole due to rising housing costs. This ranking highlights Peoria’s per capita growth as a retirement location, marking it as a favorable choice for those seeking an affordable lifestyle combined with a range of amenities.
According to the analysis by BizInsure, Peoria is recognized for its balanced affordability and established retiree community. Many retirees are drawn to the city not only for its lower cost of living but also for its generous recreational opportunities and healthcare access. In addition to Peoria’s top ranking, other Arizona cities like Chandler, Surprise, and Mesa have also made the list, securing the 4th, 8th, and 9th positions, respectively.
Historically, Arizona has enjoyed a strong reputation as a desirable retirement haven, particularly since the 1960s, thanks in part to well-known retirement communities like Sun City. However, current data suggests a troubling trend for the state. Recent reports indicate that retirees aged 65 to 74 are increasingly avoiding traditional retirement-friendly states, including Arizona, Florida, and Nevada. Factors contributing to this decline include heightened housing prices and insurance costs, which have become significant deterrents for those looking to relocate.
A study by AARP, using data from moving company HireAHelper, revealed that Arizona failed to make the list of top 10 retiree destinations, which was dominated by states such as Florida, which ranked 2nd. The financial implications of retirement, particularly for those on fixed incomes, are considerable, as rising costs can limit the options available to retirees seeking a comfortable living situation.
Furthermore, a separate analysis conducted by WalletHub affirmed this trend, not allocating a top position for Arizona based on factors like cost of living and healthcare accessibility. States that now rise to prominence for retirees include those with low costs in housing and everyday expenses, specifically Wyoming, Minnesota, South Carolina, Mississippi, and South Dakota. These states appeal to retirees looking for affordability alongside quality healthcare services.
In Peoria, the ranking reflects a broader trend among retirees prioritizing environmental factors and natural surroundings over traditional concerns such as sunny weather. Many are now looking for areas that offer “fewer neighbors and more nature,” indicating a significant departure from the previous focus on climate alone. Moreover, Phoenix and Birmingham currently feature the lowest property tax rates at 0.48% of homeowners’ property value, enhancing their appeal for retirees.
The overall trend indicates a drift from traditional retirement hotspots, as many retirees continue to seek out states like Wyoming and South Carolina, which have been experiencing an influx of new residents. Contrarily, established states such as Florida, Arizona, and Nevada have seen negative growth in retiree populations between 2013 and 2023, suggesting a potential reshaping of retirement trends across the country.
Ultimately, retirees are weighing various factors when choosing their living destinations, moving beyond an emphasis on weather to incorporate elements such as healthcare quality, cost of living, and available amenities. The growing shift toward affordability and natural surroundings suggests a new era for retirement living, highlighting the importance of these elements in the decision-making process for retirees today.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AZCentral: Arizona Falls Off List of Hotspots for Retirees
- USA Today: Most Popular Retirement States
- MSN: FBI Arizona Online Lottery Scams Against Seniors
- Travel + Leisure: Scottsdale, Arizona Named Best Place to Retire in USA
- SmartAsset: Where Retirees Move 2025
- Wikipedia: Retirement
- Google Search: Retirement Trends 2025
- Google Scholar: Retirement in Arizona
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retirement
- Google News: Retirement Destinations
