Sun City West, AZ 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview

Located in Central Arizona, Sun City West is a popular golf community perfect for retirees who enjoy being active. There are many entertainment and recreation options available to residents including live shows, over 100 social clubs, and close proximity to the capital city of Phoenix. 

Climate & Geography

Sun City West has a hot desert climate, meaning the weather is typically very dry with warm to hot temperatures all year round. There is little seasonal variation except for the monsoon season in the summer, during which there is sparse rainfall. On average, residents of Sun City West experience no snowfall, 10 inches of rainfall, and nearly 300 sunny days per year. Temperatures during the summer can rise as high as the triple digits.

The community is located in a low desert valley, with the Agua Fria River to the east.  

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment 

There are four recreational centers available to Sun City West residents and guests. These centers are equipped with pools, athletic courts, fitness centers, and more. In the community, there are seven golf courses for active adults to choose from, including four regulation-length courses and three executive-length courses. 

There are 24 trails for hiking, walking, and other activities near Sun City West. The trails range in length from 0.2 to 11.6 miles. 

Live entertainment such as musicals, shows, and dance performances can be found at the Stardust Theatre, Arizona Broadway Theater, or West Valley Symphony. 

Located less than an hour from Phoenix, Sun City West residents have many options for additional recreation such as visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, or hiking through the many natural trails. 

Cost of Living & Taxes

There is a slightly higher cost of living in Sun City West than the state and national average. The high cost of homes and housing is the main factor for the cost of living difference, while groceries and health care are below the averages. There is a 6.3 percent sales tax in the city.

In Arizona, Social Security benefits are not taxed and up to $2,500 total of military, civil-service, and state and local government pensions are exempt. The income tax ranges from 2.59 percent to 4.54 percent.  

Health Care

Near Sun City West, Banner Boswell Medical Center is ranked No. 2 in Phoenix and Arizona, and rated high performing in nine procedures and conditions according to U.S. News. 

Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center is ranked No. 6 in Phoenix and No. 8 in Arizona. The medical center is rated high performing in four procedures and conditions: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, hip replacements, and knee replacements.