Sun Lakes, AZ 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Sun Lakes is a census-designated place and active adult community in Southern Arizona. Active adults enjoy nearby cities featuring a variety of shopping and entertainment options. Residents also enjoy the many natural areas and parks that are perfect for outdoor recreation. Residents wanting the amenities and entertainment of a large city are just half an hour away from downtown Phoenix.

Climate & Geography

Sun Lakes residents can expect many more sunny days per year than average. The city experiences a desert climate with very little rain throughout the year. Sun Lake is located on low, flat land. Residents looking for water activities can enjoy Chandler's Eastern Canal and Phoenix's Salt River.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

While Sun Lakes is a largely residential city that is home to several active adult communities, nearby cities have plenty of entertainment options to offer retirees.

Nearby Chandler offers locals several unique dining options and activities. Additionally, Chandler features the Phoenix Premium Outlets, where residents can shop for affordable, brand-name clothing and household goods.

Residents seeking to enjoy outdoor recreational activities in the warm, sunny weather have a few options in the area. Visitors to Veterans Oasis Park can go fishing, horseback riding, or walking on one of the beautiful serene trails. Residents also enjoy the high number of golf clubs in the area.

Downtown Phoenix is just half an hour away from Sun Lakes. Residents can easily access the large city amenities, dining, and entertainment options there. 

Cost of Living & Taxes

The overall cost of living in Sun Lakes is higher than the state and national averages. The higher cost of living is primarily due to the higher cost of housing. Transportation costs are also above average. Health care and grocery costs in Sun Lakes are roughly at or below the national average.

Arizona is considered to be a moderately tax-friendly state. Social Security, and some government or military pensions are not taxed. However other forms of retirement income are fully taxed at rates ranging from 2.59 to 4.54 percent. Property taxes are low, while sales taxes are average.

Health Care

The state of Arizona scores in the top 15 states on Gallup’s Well-Being Index. 

There are a number of hospitals in the Sun Lakes area. Nearby Chandler Regional Medical Center is ranked as the No. 5 hospital in the state. U.S. News and World Report rates it as high performing in six procedures and conditions. Mercy Gilbert Medical Center is the No. 8 hospital in Arizona, and rates high performing in four procedures and conditions.