The Affordable City Called 'Arizona's Playground' Is One Of America's Best Retirement Destinations

Abundant sunshine, beautiful scenery, and endless recreation opportunities are what retirement dreams are made of. But the demand for ideal retirement spots often makes these destinations out of reach for those on a budget. However, we'll let you in on a secret: There are still retirement bargains to be had if you know where to look. One such place is Lake Havasu City, Arizona, which has been making waves recently as one of the best places to retire in America.

Located on the eastern shore of dazzling Lake Havasu, this lively city in Mohave County has a population just under 60,000 — a big enough metropolis to offer plentiful amenities, but small enough to foster a sense of intimacy and community.

Often called "Arizona's Playground," the city is rated one of the best lake towns in the U.S. and a popular vacation destination for those living out their #lakelife fantasies. Opportunities for water sports abound, and it's a popular fishing spot. It also has a bustling downtown with shops and restaurants, sprawling city parks, and the iconic London Bridge — the actual bridge was relocated to Lake Havasu in the late 1960s and is Arizona's second-largest tourist attraction.

But for retirees, the real attraction may be the cost of living in Lake Havasu City compared with other similarly appealing locations. Because one thing you don't want in retirement is financial stress — no matter how nice the climate, how many activities are available, or how beautiful the scenery is in your chosen locale. Housing is a major expense, and it's an area where Lake Havasu City really shines. As of this writing, the average home price in Mohave County is $353,600, compared to $430,750 for the state of Arizona and $503,800 for the United States overall. In Scottsdale, another unbeatable place to retire in Arizona, the average home price is more than double the value in the Lake Havasu area. If renting appeals to you, you'll also save: The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Lake Havasu City is $400 less than the national average. 

Healthcare is another important consideration for retirees. Although small in size, the city has several hospitals and medical centers providing routine care as well as advanced treatments for illness, injury, and chronic conditions. Moreover, healthcare costs tend to be more affordable in Lake Havasu City compared to the average in the United States. In general, you'll find most things to be more affordable than in many other popular retirement spots, except when it comes to food. Although Arizona ranks 24th in the country for cost of living, it ranks 11th in terms of food spending — something to consider when it comes to retirement in Lake Havasu City.

Your health will also benefit from the area's air quality, which was rated the best in the nation in a 2023 study (via AZ Central). That's good, because you'll want to spend a lot of your time outdoors. Of course, there's the lake, which covers more than 30 square miles and boasts 400 miles of shoreline. Bask in the sun on one of its many public beaches, fish, boat, or paddleboard. On land, you can hike or mountain bike for miles on scenic desert trails with stunning vistas, or play a round of golf at one of the area's many courses, including Bridgewater Links with its panoramic lake views.

If shopping is more your speed, you'll find everything from small artisan shops to big chain stores. You can also peruse the weekly farmer's market for fresh local finds. For brunch, lunch, or dinner, head into town to eat and drink at over 150 bars and restaurants, including award-winning breweries and restaurants. If art and culture are must-haves, you won't find a lot of that in Lake Havasu City. Options include Lake Havasu Museum of History, performances at Grace Arts Live, and a smattering of private galleries and small arts centers. For anything more, the nearest large city, Phoenix, is about three hours away.