AriZona Real Estate insider!

Great news for those looking to settle down in a beautiful, active, and budget-friendly location—Tempe, Arizona, has landed a spot in Fortune’s list of the top 20 affordable places to retire, ranking at #20. Whether you’re drawn by its sunny skies or its cultural offerings, Tempe has a lot to love for retirees seeking both adventure and affordability. Let’s explore why this city deserves its spot on the list and how it might just be the perfect place for your golden years.

Why Tempe is Perfect for Retirees

1. Rich Cultural Scene
   Tempe is home to Arizona State University, which means access to exciting cultural events, lectures, and performances year-round. ASU’s presence brings a youthful vibe and adds a range of educational opportunities for retirees wanting to expand their knowledge or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Imagine catching a symphony performance, a cutting-edge play, or a local art exhibit, all while living steps away from some of the most energetic venues in the state.

Plus, sports enthusiasts can enjoy attending ASU football or basketball games, cheering on the Sun Devils at the iconic Sun Devil Stadium or Desert Financial Arena. The energy of the crowd and the thrill of college sports bring an extra layer of excitement to life in Tempe.

2. Active Outdoor Lifestyle
   Love the great outdoors? Tempe is a haven for nature lovers, offering an abundance of parks, lakes, and hiking trails perfect for retirees looking to stay active. One of the city’s highlights is Tempe Town Lake, a local gem where you can enjoy a peaceful walk, go boating, or simply relax by the water. For a truly breathtaking experience, take a hike up “A” Mountain at sunrise—it’s an unforgettable way to start the day. Papago Park, with its stunning desert landscapes and scenic trails, is another favorite for hiking enthusiasts. The city’s extensive network of bike paths and golf courses ensures there’s something for every level of outdoor adventurer. And with nearly 300 sunny days a year, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh air without ever feeling cooped up inside.
3. Convenient Location Located just a stone’s throw from Phoenix, Tempe has the perfect balance of small-town charm with big-city conveniences. Sky Harbor International Airport is nearby for your traveling needs, whether it’s visiting family or jetting off on a new adventure. In addition, top-notch healthcare facilities, including Banner Desert Medical Center and Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital, are just around the corner, offering peace of mind as you enjoy your retirement.
4. Retirement-Friendly Taxes While Arizona does tax most retirement income, the state has a flat income tax rate of just 2.5%. And here’s the best part: Arizona does not tax Social Security income! That’s a major plus for retirees looking to maximize their savings and stretch their dollars further. The state’s relatively low property taxes and lack of an estate tax add even more to the financial appeal.

Real Estate in Tempe – Your Perfect Retirement Home Awaits

One of the key factors that makes Tempe an attractive destination for retirees is its real estate market. The city offers a wide range of housing options to fit any lifestyle, from condos near Arizona State University and the bustling downtown mill ave district to cozy and charming single-family homes in quiet, tree-lined and palm treelined neighborhoods.

• Condos & Townhomes:
  For retirees seeking low-maintenance living, Tempe offers a variety of condos and townhomes, many located near ASU and Tempe Town Lake. These homes often come with amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and clubhouses, providing great opportunities to stay active and connect with other retirees. For those who want a true urban experience, some condos even offer a “lock and leave” lifestyle where everything is within walking distance. Plus, the closer you are to ASU, the younger and more energetic the vibe—it might just make you feel younger, too!
• Single-Family Homes:
  If you’re looking for more space and privacy, Tempe’s single-family homes offer the perfect blend of suburban tranquility with easy access to the city’s amenities. Many of these homes are nestled in established, and even some historic, neighborhoods with mature landscaping, providing a peaceful atmosphere. You’ll find that many of these homes are older but well-maintained and built to last, with easy access to parks and golf courses for added convenience.
• 55+ Communities: There are also several retirement communities in and around Tempe designed specifically for those 55 and older. These communities often feature clubhouses, social events, and other amenities tailored to retirees, providing a close-knit environment where you can make new friends and enjoy an active lifestyle.

Discover the Charm: Exploring the 11 Best Neighborhoods to buy in Tempe, Arizona!

Whether you’re looking for a luxury condo or penthouse by the lake or a charming home in a quiet neighborhood, there’s something for every retiree in Tempe.

Tempe is home to me, and honestly, I didn’t expect that at first. I originally planned for my primary residence here to be an investment property, but after fixing it up, I fell in love with everything about it and couldn’t leave. There’s just this perfect blend of culture, convenience, and affordability that makes it hard to walk away. Whether it’s the warm climate, endless outdoor activities, or the easy access to major healthcare facilities, Tempe has everything you could want in a place to settle down, especially for retirement.

And now that I’m older, I can personally attest that the youthful energy in the area keeps me feeling younger. Living near Arizona State University and around such an active community adds a vibrancy to everyday life that’s hard to find elsewhere.

And the real estate options? They’re amazing. From condos with all the amenities to cozy single-family homes or vibrant retirement communities, there’s something for everyone. I know firsthand how great it feels to call this place home.

If you’re thinking about making Tempe your next chapter, whether you’re buying or selling, I’m here to help you find the perfect home in this exciting city. Reach out today, and let’s explore the possibilities Tempe has to offer together!

Quick Real Estate Market Snapshot 🎯 Tempe, Arizona

Let’s dive into some key real estate metrics to help you better understand the current market trends:

• Months Supply of Inventory: We’re at 4.92 months. This tells us how long it would take for all the current homes on the market to sell at the current pace. A lower number means it’s a seller’s market, while a higher number leans toward a buyer’s market.
• 12-Month Change in Inventory: There’s been a significant jump of +135.41% in inventory compared to last year. More homes available mean more options for buyers!
• Median Days on Market: Homes are typically spending 53 days on the market. A lower number indicates quicker sales, while higher means homes may take longer to sell.
• List to Sold Price Percentage: Homes are selling at 97.6% of their list price—great news for sellers who are getting close to what they’re asking.
• Median Sold Price: Currently at $473,000, this gives you a solid snapshot of where home prices are landing.

All in all, these numbers point to a market with good inventory, homes selling fairly quickly, and sellers getting near their asking prices. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, now’s a good time to make your move!

If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to Ask! Happy house hunting or selling!