Are you considering a move to Sun City West, AZ? This vibrant retirement community, nestled on the former Lizard Acres cattle ranch, offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle for active adults.
With its plethora of recreational amenities, including golf courses and swimming pools, Sun City West is the perfect place to enjoy your golden years.
From affordable healthcare to a hot desert climate, this community has it all.
In this article, we’ll explore the demographics, cost of living, and the best neighborhoods in Sun City West.
Demographics
In Sun City West, you’ll find a population of almost 25,806 with 16,900 homes. The majority of residents are white with small percentages of other races and ethnicities. When moving to Sun City West, you can expect a diverse community with a median household income of $52,196. The community has a median age of 75.6 years, and about 34% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
The population is primarily made up of older adults, with a large number of seniors and a low child dependency ratio. The community is predominantly English-speaking, with only 1.85% of residents speaking a non-English language, primarily Spanish.
Sun City West is known for its retirement community atmosphere and offers a peaceful and welcoming environment for its residents.
Cost of Living
To get a better idea of the cost of living in Sun City West, you’ll want to consider factors such as housing costs, transportation expenses, and healthcare costs.
The median home value in Sun City West is $201,900, which is lower than the national median. About 12.20% of homes in Sun City West are rented, and the typical renter spends $1,243 per month on housing.
In terms of transportation, 78.30% of commuters drive to work, and the average commute time is 24.5 minutes. The estimated annual transportation cost for a single person is $9,391.
When it comes to healthcare, Sun City West residents have higher out-of-pocket costs compared to the national average. On average, a single adult in Sun City West spends $6,133 per year on healthcare.
Considering these factors will give you a good idea of the cost of living in Sun City West.
Crime Rate
The crime rate in Sun City West, AZ is a concern for residents. According to a source, Sun City West is in the 8th percentile for safety, meaning 92% of cities are safer and 8% of cities are more dangerous.
The rate of crime in Sun City West is 71.76 per 1,000 residents during a standard year. Your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Sun City West is 1 in 469 and property crime is 1 in 702.
People who live in Sun City West generally consider the northeast part of the city to be the safest. However, it is important to note that Sun City West’s crime rates are equal to the national average and it is safer than 27% of cities in the United States.
Economy
The economy of Sun City West, AZ employs over 3,000 people. The largest industries in the area include retail trade, health care and social assistance, and arts, entertainment, and recreation. Retail trade provides employment for 479 people, while health care and social assistance employ 406 individuals. The arts, entertainment, and recreation industry also contribute significantly to the local economy, with 334 people working in this sector.
Despite the presence of these industries, the unemployment rate in Sun City West is 6.1%. Starting a business in Arizona, including Sun City West, is considered an exciting opportunity. Forbes Advisor recommends properly filing your business entity formation papers and acquiring an EIN (if needed) for your company.
So, if you are considering moving to Sun City West and want to contribute to the local economy, there are various job opportunities available in retail, healthcare, social assistance, and arts and entertainment industries.
Education
Check out the top-rated schools in the area, such as Peoria Traditional School and Zuni Hills Elementary School.
Peoria Traditional School offers a ‘Back-to-Basics’ traditional program aligned with Arizona State Standards and National Content Standards. It provides a strong foundation for students’ education.
Zuni Hills Elementary School is also highly regarded, providing quality education for its students.
In addition to these top-rated schools, there are several colleges near Sun City West. Arizona Christian University, Arizona State University West Campus, and Central Arizona College – San Tan Campus are all options for higher education. These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students to pursue their dreams.
Whether you have children in need of a quality education or are considering continuing your own education, Sun City West and its surrounding area provide excellent options for learning and growth.
Healthcare
Sun City West offers excellent healthcare options. These include the award-winning Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center and the Sun City West Health Center. These facilities are part of the Banner Health Network and have received numerous national awards for their quality and performance.
The Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center is the main hospital in Sun City West. It provides a wide range of medical services. Additionally, there are urgent care centers like Banner Urgent Care and NextCare Urgent Care available for more immediate healthcare needs.
Whether you need specialized care or routine check-ups, you can find top-notch healthcare options in Sun City West. These facilities prioritize personalized care and are dedicated to meeting the whole health needs and goals of their patients.
Housing Market
Explore the current housing market in Sun City West, AZ with a wide range of affordable and luxurious homes available for sale.
Some of the neighborhoods offer affordable homes, such as Corte Bella Country Club, with homes ranging from $300,000 to $400,000. This gated community features a golf course and a fitness center.
Sun City West, the original retirement community, offers homes priced from $200,000 to $300,000, with amenities like recreation centers, pools, tennis courts, and clubs.
Sun Village is a resort-style community with homes priced between $150,000 and $250,000.
On the other hand, there are also neighborhoods with more expensive homes. Corte Bella Golf Club offers homes priced from $500,000 to $700,000, while Sun City Grand features homes ranging from $400,000 to $600,000.
Sun City Festival offers homes priced from $300,000 to $500,000.
Job Market
If you’re looking for employment opportunities, you’ll be pleased to know that Sun City West has a thriving job market with a variety of industries and job positions available.
According to my sources, the unemployment rate in Sun City West is 0.9%, which is 81% lower than the national average.
The highest paying industries in the area are Wholesale Trade, Manufacturing, and Finance & Insurance.
Some of the jobs that are currently in high demand include Amazon Packer, Handyman, Bookseller, Cashiers, Teacher, Administrative Assistant, Servers, Express Service Technicians, A&P Technician, Financial Clearance Call Center, Production Assistant, Human Resources Assistant, Retail Sales Associate, and Receptionist.
The most common job groups in Sun City West are Office & Administrative Support Occupations, Sales & Related Occupations, and Business & Financial Operations Occupations.
The Rec Centers of Sun City West is also a major employer in the area, with more than half of its 400 plus employees being Sun City West residents.
Public Transportation
There are several options for public transportation available in the area of Sun City West, making it convenient for residents to get around without a car.
The Valley Metro bus service offers several routes in the area, providing a reliable and affordable way to travel.
Additionally, Grande West Shuttle provides shuttle services in Sun City West and surrounding areas, offering another convenient transportation option.
If you need to travel to Phoenix or Sedona, you can take a bus or taxi.
The nearest airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and there are car rental companies available for those who prefer to drive.
With these transportation options, you can easily explore the surrounding areas and access essential services without the need for a car.
Tax Rates
Public transportation is convenient in Sun City West, with several options available for residents to get around without a car.
Although Sun City West is an unincorporated community and does not have its own city government or tax website, Maricopa County provides services such as maintaining the streets and providing police protection. These services are funded through property taxes paid by homeowners.
However, the property tax in Sun City West is relatively low compared to surrounding areas. For example, a typical property tax on a $150,000 home is less than $575 annually. This affordable tax rate allows residents to enjoy the benefits of public transportation while keeping their expenses manageable.
So, whether you prefer to use public transportation or own a car, Sun City West offers options that suit your needs.
Weather and Climate
When you live in Sun City West, you’ll experience a hot desert climate with mild winters and very hot summers. During the winter months, the average highs reach into the 70s, providing pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
However, in the summer, you can expect average temperatures over 100 degrees, making it necessary to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated. The occasional monsoons bring some relief from the heat and dust, but they can also bring heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Overall, Sun City West enjoys a sunny climate with an average of 300 sunny days per year. So, if you enjoy warm weather and plenty of sunshine, you’ll feel right at home in Sun City West.
Pros and Cons
Living in Sun City West has its advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, it is an active retirement community with tailored amenities and activities for adults aged 55 and above. The sunny and warm climate allows for outdoor activities and enjoyment of the natural beauty. There are also a wide array of golf courses for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Additionally, the city offers well-equipped healthcare facilities and medical services, ensuring access to quality care. Moreover, there is a strong sense of community and social interactions among residents.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Sun City West is an age-restricted community, which may not be suitable for those preferring a diverse environment. Furthermore, the limited employment opportunities within the city can be a challenge for individuals seeking job prospects. Additionally, the seasonal population fluctuations can affect the sense of community, and the extremely hot summers with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit may not be appealing to everyone. Finally, increased traffic congestion during peak seasons can be a nuisance.
Bars and Restaurants
There are various bars and restaurants in the area that cater to different culinary preferences.
If you’re looking for a local pub, you can check out Lizard Acres Pub located in the R.H. Johnson Sports Pavilion in Sun City West. This pub offers a selection of beer and wine, including three beers on draft. They even show sporting events on their TVs, so you can catch the latest NFL football games while enjoying your drink.
If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, there are plenty of dining options available in Sun City West as well. From casual to fine dining, you can find restaurants that cater to different cuisines and preferences. Some local favorites include [specific restaurant names].
With such a diverse culinary scene, residents can surely find something to satisfy their taste buds.
Things to Do
If you’re looking for activities to enjoy in the community, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Sun City West.
The community offers a wide range of events throughout the year, including live music and entertainment, special holiday events, and a diverse range of activities.
You can also take advantage of the partnership with Allied Tour Travel and go on exciting trips and tours to explore new locations.
If you’re interested in learning more about the community, you can participate in the TORCH Academy, a fun and interactive seven-week program that teaches you about the community’s workings and allows you to connect with fellow residents.
Additionally, there are numerous chartered clubs where you can create new friendships, discover new hobbies, and stay active.
Sun City West also provides community services such as the R.H. Johnson Library, health and wellness centers, the Lizard Acres Pub, the Sports Pavilion, and a wide range of convenient amenities and volunteer opportunities.
Best Neighborhoods
One of the best neighborhoods in Sun City West is known for its beautiful homes and close proximity to Surprise. This neighborhood offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and condominiums.
The median home price in this area is $388,094, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a comfortable and affordable place to live.
The neighborhood also boasts a strong sense of community, with many residents actively participating in the various clubs and activities offered in Sun City West.
Additionally, this neighborhood benefits from its convenient location, with easy access to supermarkets, shopping centers, and service providers.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet retirement community or a vibrant place to call home, this neighborhood in Sun City West has something to offer.
Conclusion
So, if you’re considering a move to Sun City West, AZ, you’ll find a vibrant retirement community with plenty to offer. With its affordable cost of living and peaceful atmosphere, it’s no wonder it’s ranked as one of the best places to retire in Arizona.
From the variety of housing options to the abundance of recreational activities, dining spots, and shopping centers, there’s something for everyone.
So why wait? Start your new chapter in Sun City West and enjoy all that this wonderful community has to offer.