Tempe, Arizona

Located just east of Phoenix, Tempe offers retirees a rich cultural scene. The city may be best known as the home of Arizona State University, whose ASU Gammage theater hosts Broadway shows and concerts. They can also catch a performance at Tempe Center for the Arts, which hosts everything from symphonies to open mic nights. Seniors can get creative themselves by taking one of the 300-plus classes offered at the Edna Vihel Arts Center. 

With its warm, desert climate, Tempe also promotes an active outdoor lifestyle. The city has been named a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community, encompassing more than 50 parks. Tempe Town Lake, a reservoir, is a popular spot for water sports and walking. The city is also home to two award-winning golf courses for those who enjoy a day out on the green.

Tempe has several active residential adult communities, including Mirabella at ASU. Located right on campus, this unique retirement experience enables seniors to easily immerse themselves in lifelong learning opportunities and culture.

The city is conveniently located within reach of a number of urban amenities, including hospitals—Banner Desert Medical Center and Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital—and the Sky Harbor International Airport, making it easy for retirees to travel.

Although Arizona taxes most types of retirement income, it introduced a new flat income tax rate of 2.5% to help lower bills. It also doesn’t tax Social Security.