Living the Dream on a Dime: “Why Bullhead City is the Ultimate Budget-Friendly Destination…15 Best Places in Arizona…”

When the work days are over and the retirement chapter begins, many retired couples find themselves relying on their Social Security checks as their main sources of income.

In fact, according to the Social Security Administration, the average monthly check as of June 2023 is around $1,702. So for couples looking to stretch their dollars and make the most of their well-earned retirement, finding an affordable place to live in Arizona is a smart move.

To make the search easier, we’ve put together a list of the 15 best places in Arizona where retirees can enjoy life on a Social Security check alone. In order to do this, GOBankingRates took the median Social Security benefits for 2023, doubled it for couples, and then set out to find cities where the rent doesn’t take up more than half of that total. Plus, we made sure these cities also scored well on the AreaVibes livability index.

Here are the 15 best places to live in Arizona on just a Social Security check. And here are the 15 best places overall.

• Average monthly rent: $1,864
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,759
• Livability index: 78

For those who yearn for an urban lifestyle, Tempe offers a vibrant atmosphere and a top-notch livability index. Although it comes with a higher cost, the city presents an affordable alternative to many areas across the nation. Plus, Tempe Town Lake promises water-based leisure and scenic trails.

• Average monthly rent: $1,196
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,021
• Livability index: 63

Drexel Heights strikes a balance between suburban charm and breathtaking mountain views. While its livability score ranks mid-range, its proximity to the Tucson metropolitan area offers retirees a tranquil suburban setting paired with picturesque natural beauty.

• Average monthly rent: $1,820
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,729
• Livability index: 80

Mesa takes the crown for livability, making it a prime contender for retirees seeking an enriching retirement. While it’s a bit more expensive, the city’s abundant amenities, from spring training baseball to the Mesa Art Center and nearby Tonto National Forest, create an oasis of cultural and natural experiences.

• Average monthly rent: $1,314
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,143
• Livability index: 69

Catalina Foothills strikes a harmonious balance between upscale living and nature’s allure. With a wealth of outdoor attractions, including Sabino Canyon’s canyons and hiking trails, this locale promises an upscale suburban lifestyle with a touch of wild beauty.

• Average monthly rent: $1,529
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,311
• Livability index: 73

Tucson shines with its high livability score and affordability, making it a magnet for retirees seeking an enriching lifestyle. From a vibrant arts scene and numerous museums to its famed Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine, Tucson offers a well-rounded and budget-friendly retirement.

• Average monthly rent: $981.43
• Monthly total cost of living: $2,787.72
• Livability score: 62

For those who crave excitement, Eloy delivers an adrenaline rush. With a lower livability score, it compensates with the thrill of skydiving and aviation centers. Plus, its affordable rent and living costs make it an attractive choice for retirees seeking an adventure-packed retirement.

• Average monthly rent: $1,471
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,270
• Livability index: 74

Situated along the iconic Route 66, Kingman beckons with a healthy dose of nostalgia and a gateway to outdoor escapades. The city’s museums and recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping and off-roading, ensure retirees will find both history and adventure in equal measure.

• Average monthly rent: $1,463
• Monthly total cost of living: $3,262
• Livability index: 74

Casas Adobes offers a warm welcome to retirees with a combination of character-filled homes, shopping centers and a tight-knit community. Its modest living costs and charming neighborhoods create an inviting residential atmosphere for those seeking a tranquil retirement.