Modern active adult communities in Arizona may have gotten their start in Phoenix, but Southern Arizona has become a retirement hot spot in its own right as homebuyers continue to discover the beauty of the Tucson area. Although Tucson is growing, the city has retained its cultural flavor and historic flair. Area active adult communities in Arizona share that regional design with a mix of Southwest Mission and modern architectural influences.
The City of Tucson is located about two hours southeast of Phoenix and 90 minutes north of the Mexican border. Although Tucson has hot summers and mild winters, its higher elevation makes the region a bit cooler and wetter than nearby Phoenix. Summer daytime temperatures often climb to over 100 degrees and winters stay nice and comfortable in the mid-60s to mid-70s.
Despite its hot summers, Tucson’s year-round sunshine encourages plenty of outdoor activities. Golf is a popular pastime and the area boasts courses designed by many of the country’s top golf architects and players, such as Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. High-end courses, like Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and Arizona National Golf Club, attract both celebrity and amateur golfers alike. Some other well-known courses in Tucson include Omni Tuscon National, The Golf Club at Vistoso, and La Paloma Golf Club.
Golf enthusiasts can also find a variety of Arizona retirement communities in the area that have their own on-site golf courses, such as SaddleBrooke by Robson Communities or Sun City Oro Valley by Del Webb. Beyond golf, these resort-style communities offer luxurious homes, spectacular grounds, and spacious clubhouses with a wide line-up of exciting amenities and activities.
Visitors and locals alike can take a step back through history as they explore Tucson’s cultural attractions. The area features Native American archaeological sites, Spanish missions—including the famous Mission San Xavier del Bac—and Old West mining towns. Modern-day attractions delight those interested in art, science, and more. Visitors can spend a day at well-known attractions like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum or the Pima Air and Space Museum, or take in a concert by the Tucson Symphony Orchestra.
Tucson has something for everyone, particularly when it comes to area shops and restaurants. Big-name brands are easy to find at retail centers like the Tucson Mall, Park Place, and La Encantada. Those looking for specialty shops and restaurants may prefer regional shopping destinations like the Campbell Avenue District, Main Gate Square, and the Lost Barrio.
Active adults who decide to call Tucson home will have their pick of many diverse age-restricted communities. Besides large golf communities like SaddleBrooke Ranch and those mentioned above, homebuyers can find both mid-sized developments and more intimate neighborhoods. Several Arizona retirement communities, such as La Cholla Hills or Vistoso Village, have less than 500 homes, yet still offer a fabulous location and appealing amenities.
Whether you are planning an Arizona visit or considering retirement locations, Tucson has many benefits that make it a prime active adult destination.
