Anyone who thinks that the entire state of Arizona is just a vast desert landscape carved into heavily irrigated high-end golf course resorts surely has never been to Flagstaff, a bustling university community situated at the foot of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounded by scenic pine forests.Even though this small town of 60,000 people displays a modern sense of discovery and economic progress, one still senses a strong lingering of its Western heritage echoing a legacy of cattle ranches, railroad pioneers and Native American warriors.
Visitors are drawn from all over the world by the scenic wonders of this region, including the Grand Canyon, just 80 miles to the north, and prehistoric Indian ruins and ancient cliff dwellings in the nearby WupatkiNational Monument and WalnutCanyon.Just a short drive from town through Oak CreekCanyon are the majestic red rock buttes of Sedona, one of the most unique and picturesque places in the U.S.
And unlike other cities in the southern part of Arizona, Flagstaff enjoys pleasant summers with temperatures rarely reaching above 90 degrees, a fact not unnoticed by retirees who are beginning to find the moderate year round climate to be a pleasant alternative to warmer parts of the state.Outdoor lovers, in particular, find an abundant choice of recreational opportunities, ranging from golf to snow skiing and exploring the surrounding forests and canyons.
Although Flagstaff still retains, by most standards, a rustic small-town atmosphere, the presence of a large contingent of university students gives the community a decidedly upbeat urban center, with a thriving arts scene, quaint coffee shops and an entertainment mecca for the region. Cultural life is enhanced by such well respected venues as the Museum of Northern Arizonaand the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra.
The fact that national publications such as The New York Times continue to tout the advantages of retirement in the Flagstaff area will certainly spark further attention and interest among the senior market.Describing it as “a southwest oasis with plenty of pines,” a recent Times article noted that Flagstaff “still remains a very much a small town” but with an atmosphere that is “more and independent than in other cities.”
With a cost of living that is 16% above the national average and median home prices above $340,000, Flagstaff may have lost some of its attraction. While real estate costs are among the highest in Arizona, there still appears to be a strong demand, as a growing number of retirees find that these short comings are more than compensated for by the enticing scenery, comfortable climate and opportunity for an active and adventure-filled lifestyle.
Housing options range from in-town neighborhoods where comfortable older homes are intermittently offered for less than $250,000 to upscale master-planned golf communities in the outlying pine forests with more luxurious homes priced from the high six figures.Also, retirees searching for affordable options might explore the possibility of finding a condo or townhome conversion which are becoming more common.
ForestHighlands, PineCanyon and Flagstaff Ranch are all upscale golf communities featuring challenging designer courses surrounded by fairway lots with homes for both retirees and weekend golfers.The Peaks is a retirement community offering both independent housing and assisted living.
Quality health care is provided to residents of Flagstaff and the surrounding regions by FlagstaffMedicalCenter, a modern, well-equipped facility with a full range of medical services, including emergency room and cardiac care.
Whether you are searching for a weekend retreat in the mountains or a full time residence for your retirment years, Flagstaff's great climate, spectacular scenery and outdoor playgrounds make it a hard place to beat.
Annual Days of Sunshine: Average 288 days Annual Precipitation: 22.91 inches
