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Recent statistics show that a growing number of people are choosing to retire much younger. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans are now retiring at 55 or younger. As younger generations redefine retirement as an earlier goal and a continuation of their active lifestyle, typical retirement hotspots fall by the wayside in favor of locations rich in outdoor adventures and activities. While younger retirees still favor mild year-round temperatures and easy access to high-quality healthcare, even more important is how they can connect to and explore nature, as well as options for their children who might not yet have left the nest.
Many of the top suggested “young retiree” hotspots below are in Arizona and the Southwestern United States.
1. Show Low, Arizona - Torreon Golf Community
Show Low is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, nestled within the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona and surrounded by the world's largest contiguous stand of ponderosa pine forest. The natural beauty is family-friendly and perfect for active retirees who love to fish, hike, mountain bike, off-road, kayak, hunt, and explore. The Torreon Golf Club and community is a growing second home and retirement location for individuals and families attracted to its 36 holes of Championship golf, clubhouse, resort-style pool, arcade room, fishing pond, fitness center, and the Torreon Grille offering first-rate food and wine, plus tequila tastings and other culinary experiences.
Surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, wildlife, and privacy, young retirees can choose a custom lot overlooking the fairway, a beautiful lakeview lot, or a quick-move-in Golf Villa – a true lock-and-leave home option. Torreon has everything needed for a fantastic retirement at any age. For real estate inquiries, contact Linda Cedarblade, Designated Broker of Cedar Ridge Real Estate. 1-928-532-3030 / lrc@torreon.com.
Located on the Mogollon Rim in east central Arizona.
2. Corpus Christi, Texas
Active retirees love the sun, surf, sand, and endless adventures found in Corpus Christi, Texas. Corpus Christi is a great choice for active retirees, offering bike rides along the city’s beautiful bayfront, a wide variety of restaurants and shopping, and hikes along the Nueces River.
Located on the South Texas Gulf Coast.
Best known for its “Red Rocks,” Sedona has plenty of mountainous areas ideal for walks and hikes, plus a bustling downtown area. You’ll find tons of restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
Did you know? Sedona is one of the world’s only “dark sky communities,” which means the city works hard to reduce light pollution at night so that the stars are exceptionally visible to the naked eye and to ground telescopes. That makes Sedona an exceptional place to retire for stargazers.
Located in the northern Verde Valley region of Arizona.
Located to the north of Phoenix and not far from Sedona and Flagstaff, Prescott’s main attraction is the Prescott National Forest. Prescott is a beautiful city with all the amenities you’d hope for, like dining and shopping, combined with easy access to some of the best outdoor areas in the state. In the city, you’ll also find live music, art galleries, and other cultural activities for all those weekends you don’t want to spend on the trails.
Located in Yavapai County in central Arizona, about 2 hours north of Phoenix.
A warm year-round climate and access to a variety of cultural and entertainment options put San Diego at the top of the list of best places to retire in California. You can find 55+ communities, swanky condos, or a house to fit your lifestyle. You’ll also have access to a robust healthcare system, with a wide range of medical facilities.
Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California.
6. San Antonio, Texas
Rich in history, seasonal events and local festivals, San Antonio is a great option for those considering an early, but active retirement. Exploring Natural Bridge Caverns, biking along the River Walk, hiking, camping, or canoeing down the Guadalupe, Comal, Frio or San Marcos rivers are just a few of the nearly endless outdoor excursions in San Antonio.
Located about 75 miles southwest of Austin and 190 miles west of Houston.
Wherever and whenever you choose to begin retirement, we extend our best wishes on the next chapter of life, surrounded by the people and places that matter most.
Just three hours from Phoenix in Show Low, Ariz., Torreon is a luxury golfing community nestled in the White Mountains. It offers convenience, world-class recreation, and amenities for the entire family. Offering everything from a sprawling outdoor pool, expansive fitness center to award-winning food at Torreon Grille as well as a family and game center, fishing pond and endless trails throughout the community, every member or guest is sure to enjoy time at Torreon. Learn more at https://torreon.com/
Contact Linda Cedarblade, designated broker for Torreon Realty at (928) 532-3030 or lrc@torreon.com for more information on gorgeous, high country lots nestled in the White Mountains.