Is Mesa the right place to spend your golden years? As a thriving suburb of Phoenix, this desert city has become increasingly popular with retirees seeking affordable living, quality healthcare, and a strong sense of community. But how does Mesa really stack up as a retirement destination in today’s market?
As a longtime resident and local government specialist, I’ve watched Mesa evolve to meet the needs of its growing senior population. The city earns a retirement suitability score of 87/100 in my assessment, thanks to its combination of practical advantages and quality-of-life factors. Let’s take a closer look at what retirement living in Mesa is really like.
Healthcare Access for Seniors
Access to quality medical care is a top priority for most retirees, and Mesa delivers on this front. The city is served by several major hospital systems, including Banner Health, Dignity Health, and Abrazo Health. Seniors can find a wide range of specialists, from cardiologists to orthopedists, with high Medicare acceptance rates across the board.
For routine and urgent care needs, Mesa offers numerous options. The city has over a dozen urgent care clinics, many with extended hours, as well as several dedicated physical therapy and rehabilitation facilities. Specialty senior care is also available, with memory care units and skilled nursing facilities located throughout the area.
While traffic can be a challenge in the greater Phoenix area, most Mesa neighborhoods have reasonable drive times to medical facilities. For example, the Banner Desert Medical Center and Banner Baywood Medical Center are both centrally located, with average drive times of 15-20 minutes from popular retirement communities. Many health systems also offer shuttle services and telemedicine options for seniors who have mobility limitations or prefer virtual visits.
Senior-Friendly Amenities and Services
Beyond healthcare, Mesa offers a robust selection of amenities and services geared towards seniors. The city operates two dedicated senior centers — the East Mesa Active Adult Center and the Red Mountain Active Adult Center — which offer fitness classes, educational workshops, social events, and wellness services. There are also numerous private recreation centers and 55+ communities with amenities like pools, pickleball courts, and clubhouses.
Transportation is another key consideration for retirees, and Mesa provides several senior-friendly options. The city’s Valley Metro bus system offers reduced fares for riders 65 and older, as well as an ADA Dial-a-Ride service for those with mobility challenges. Many grocery stores and pharmacies in Mesa also offer delivery services, making it easier for seniors to access necessities.
For those seeking lifelong learning opportunities, the Mesa Community College hosts an active Encore program for students 50 and over. The Mesa Public Library system is also a popular resource, with four branches located across the city. And history buffs will appreciate the Arizona Museum of Natural History and the Mesa Historical Museum, both of which offer senior discounts.
Cost of Living for Retirees
Of course, affordability is a major factor in any retirement decision. So how does the cost of living in Mesa stack up? According to recent data, the median home price in Mesa is $415,000 — significantly lower than many other popular retirement destinations like San Diego or Fort Lauderdale. Retirees can find a variety of housing options, from cozy condos to spacious single-family homes in 55+ communities.
Arizona is also known for its relatively low property taxes, with an average effective rate of just 0.62%. Mesa homeowners 65 and older may qualify for additional exemptions on their primary residence, further reducing housing costs. Utility rates in Mesa are slightly higher than the national average, but the city does offer some senior discount programs for water and energy bills.
Another important consideration for retirees is how Arizona treats retirement income. The state does not tax Social Security benefits, and it offers generous deductions for other types of retirement income like pensions and IRA withdrawals. However, Mesa residents should budget for relatively high sales taxes (around 8%) and rising Medicare supplement costs, which can add up over time.
| Expense Category | Modest Monthly Budget | Comfortable Monthly Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage or Rent) | $1,100 | $1,600 |
| Healthcare (Insurance, Copays) | $450 | $600 |
| Food & Groceries | $350 | $600 |
| Transportation (Car, Gas, Transit) | $200 | $350 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | $250 | $400 |
| Entertainment & Hobbies | $200 | $400 |
| Miscellaneous & Emergencies | $300 | $500 |
| Total Monthly Budget | $2,850 | $4,450 |
Estimates based on average senior spending patterns and local costs. For a full breakdown, see our guide on the Cost of Living in Mesa, AZ.
Community and Social Opportunities
For many retirees, a strong sense of community is just as important as practical considerations like healthcare and housing. Fortunately, Mesa offers numerous opportunities for seniors to connect with others and stay engaged in the community.
The city has an active network of senior-focused organizations, including the Mesa Senior Citizens Advisory Board, which advocates for the needs of older residents, and the Mesa Association of Retired Employees, which hosts regular social events and volunteer opportunities. Faith communities are also a major part of Mesa’s social fabric, with dozens of churches, synagogues, and other religious organizations offering programming for seniors.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Mesa, from hiking and biking trails to golf courses and pickleball courts. The city’s parks system includes over 200 acres of green space, with popular spots like Pioneer Park and Red Mountain Park offering walking paths, fishing lakes, and scenic mountain views. Many neighborhoods also have their own community pools, tennis courts, and recreation centers.
For those with artistic interests, the Mesa Arts Center hosts a variety of classes, workshops, and performances geared towards seniors. The city also has a thriving music scene, with regular concerts at the Mesa Amphitheatre and other venues. And foodies will appreciate the diverse selection of restaurants and farmers markets scattered throughout the area.
Aging in Place Considerations
As seniors age, their housing and care needs often change. Mesa offers a range of resources to help retirees stay safe, healthy, and independent in their own homes for as long as possible.
The city’s Housing and Community Development department offers several programs for seniors, including home repair assistance, accessibility modifications, and energy efficiency upgrades. The Mesa Fire and Medical Department also provides free home safety assessments and smoke alarm installations for older residents.
For those who need more support, Mesa has a variety of in-home care options, from hourly assistance with tasks like cooking and cleaning to 24/7 live-in care. The city is also home to dozens of assisted living facilities and memory care units, providing a continuum of care for seniors with varying needs.
Of course, Mesa’s desert climate can present some challenges for older adults, particularly during the hot summer months. Many retirement communities and senior centers offer indoor recreation options and cooling stations to help residents stay safe and comfortable year-round. The city also has a robust emergency preparedness program, with resources specifically geared towards vulnerable populations like seniors.
FAQs About Retirement in Mesa
What’s the average cost of retirement in Mesa?
According to recent estimates, retirees in Mesa can expect to spend between $2,800 and $4,500 per month, depending on their lifestyle and care needs. Housing, healthcare, and transportation tend to be the biggest expenses for seniors.
How good is healthcare access for seniors?
Mesa has a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and specialist providers, with high Medicare acceptance rates and reasonable drive times from most neighborhoods. The city also has several highly-rated skilled nursing and memory care facilities.
Are there active senior communities?
Yes, Mesa has a thriving 55+ community scene, with dozens of age-restricted neighborhoods offering amenities like golf courses, fitness centers, and social clubs. The city also has two dedicated senior centers and a variety of parks and recreation programs geared towards older adults.
What are the tax implications of retiring in AZ?
Arizona is generally considered a tax-friendly state for retirees, with no tax on Social Security benefits and generous deductions for other types of retirement income. However, Mesa residents should be prepared for relatively high sales taxes and rising healthcare costs.
Making the Move: Is Mesa Right for Your Retirement?
Ultimately, the decision to retire in Mesa (or any city) is a personal one that depends on your unique needs, preferences, and priorities. For many seniors, Mesa offers an appealing mix of affordability, amenities, and community spirit — but it’s not without its challenges, from summer heat to transportation headaches.
If you’re considering a move to Mesa, I recommend spending some time in the city to get a feel for the different neighborhoods and lifestyle options. Talk to local retirees, visit senior centers and recreation facilities, and explore the various housing and care options available. And don’t forget to crunch the numbers on your retirement budget to ensure that Mesa is a financially sustainable choice for the long term.
With a little research and planning, you can make an informed decision about whether Mesa is the right place to enjoy your golden years. From affordable living to quality healthcare to a vibrant social scene, this desert oasis has a lot to offer retirees looking for a place to call home.