Here’s a list of ten of the best small towns in Arizona for retirement, considering public safety, quality of life, access to healthcare, and amenities. For each town, an overview, a list of amenities, healthcare facilities, parks, and other features are provided.

1. Prescott

  • Overview: Prescott is known for its historic downtown, mild climate, and outdoor activities. With its charming atmosphere, it offers a high quality of life for retirees.
  • Amenities: Restaurants, cultural centers, shopping districts, golf courses.
  • Healthcare: Yavapai Regional Medical Center.
  • Parks: Prescott National Forest, Watson Lake Park, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary.
  • Other Features: Rich history with museums, and a strong arts community.

2. Sedona

  • Overview: Sedona is famous for its red rock formations, spiritual retreats, and vibrant arts scene. It’s a tranquil town that offers a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, boutique shopping, wellness centers, and spiritual retreats.
  • Healthcare: Verde Valley Medical Center (Sedona Campus).
  • Parks: Red Rock State Park, Slide Rock State Park, numerous hiking trails.
  • Other Features: Known for its wellness focus, with plenty of spas and health retreats.

3. Cottonwood

  • Overview: Cottonwood is a small town with a growing reputation for its wine scene and Old West charm. It offers a slower pace of life while still providing modern amenities.
  • Amenities: Wineries, historic downtown, art galleries.
  • Healthcare: Verde Valley Medical Center.
  • Parks: Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Verde River Greenway State Natural Area.
  • Other Features: Thriving arts community, annual festivals, and easy access to Sedona.

4. Sierra Vista

  • Overview: Located near the Huachuca Mountains, Sierra Vista boasts a mild climate and beautiful natural surroundings. It's a popular spot for retirees seeking outdoor activities.
  • Amenities: Shopping centers, golf courses, restaurants.
  • Healthcare: Canyon Vista Medical Center.
  • Parks: Ramsey Canyon Preserve, Carr Canyon, Fort Huachuca Historical Museum.
  • Other Features: Close to national forests and military history sites.

5. Green Valley

  • Overview: Green Valley is a retirement community known for its focus on active senior living. It’s part of a larger collection of age-restricted communities.
  • Amenities: Recreation centers, golf courses, community clubs.
  • Healthcare: Santa Cruz Valley Regional Hospital.
  • Parks: Madera Canyon, nearby Tucson Mountain Park.
  • Other Features: Numerous senior-focused activities and classes.

6. Tubac

  • Overview: Tubac is an artist’s haven with a strong focus on culture and history. This small town is quiet, peaceful, and offers a creative environment for retirees.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, historical landmarks, boutique shopping.
  • Healthcare: Carondelet Holy Cross Hospital in Nogales (nearby).
  • Parks: Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, Anza Trail.
  • Other Features: Annual arts festivals and historic sites.

7. Wickenburg

  • Overview: Wickenburg is known for its Old West charm and cowboy culture. This quiet town offers a slower-paced lifestyle, perfect for those seeking relaxation.
  • Amenities: Ranches, museums, golf courses, spas.
  • Healthcare: Wickenburg Community Hospital.
  • Parks: Hassayampa River Preserve, nearby Vulture Peak.
  • Other Features: Historical sites, annual rodeo events, and easy access to Phoenix.

8. Fountain Hills

  • Overview: Fountain Hills offers a scenic desert setting with a quieter lifestyle compared to nearby Scottsdale. The town is famous for its large fountain and community events.
  • Amenities: Shopping, dining, art galleries, golf courses.
  • Healthcare: Fountain Hills Medical Center.
  • Parks: Fountain Park, McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
  • Other Features: Annual art fairs, community festivals, and proximity to Phoenix.

9. Cave Creek

  • Overview: Cave Creek is a small, artistic town known for its cowboy culture, historic sites, and unique desert landscapes. It offers a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, historic landmarks, golf courses.
  • Healthcare: HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center (nearby).
  • Parks: Cave Creek Regional Park, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.
  • Other Features: Old West events, rodeos, and proximity to Scottsdale.

10. Oro Valley

  • Overview: Oro Valley is a scenic town near Tucson, known for its luxury retirement communities, outdoor activities, and stunning mountain views.
  • Amenities: Golf courses, luxury resorts, restaurants, shopping.
  • Healthcare: Oro Valley Hospital.
  • Parks: Catalina State Park, Honey Bee Canyon Park.
  • Other Features: Access to cultural and educational events at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

These towns offer a range of amenities, healthcare access, and outdoor activities, making them attractive options for retirees seeking a high quality of life in Arizona.