This Small Arizona Town Was Just Named the Safest and Wealthiest Place to Retire in the West

"And according to GOBankingRates' recent study of America's 50 safest and wealthiest retirement towns, there's one particular spot that the most affluent retirees tend to flock to. Oro Valley, Arizona-which was also recently named as the most livable place to retire in the West-came in No. 3 overall in the rankings. Following Pinehurst, North Carolina, and Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, it received the highest score out of all destinations in the Western U.S."

"Just north of Tucson, Oro Valley is jam-packed with outdoor activities. Golf is a major draw, with courses that look out on the scenic Santa Catalina Mountains, as are the hiking and biking paths and routes. The town itself is responsible for the upkeep of 30 miles of trails within the town limits. To enjoy these types of amenities in your post-retirement chapter, expect to pay north of $500,000 for your home."

Many retirees are attracted to the American West for wide-open spaces, abundant golf courses, and mild weather. Oro Valley, Arizona, ranked third overall and highest in the Western U.S. among America's 50 safest and wealthiest retirement towns. Oro Valley offers golf with views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, extensive hiking and biking trails—the town maintains 30 miles of trails—and other outdoor amenities. Typical single-family homes in Oro Valley commonly cost more than $500,000. The rankings used Census data on populations 65+, pre-Social Security retirement income, affordability metrics, crime rates, Zillow home values, and mortgage data.

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