Imagine kayaking in front of the London Bridge (yes, that London Bridge) while enjoying the heat of the Arizona desert. Back in the Midwest, your friends and family are still shoveling snow while you relax on the sunny shores of Lake Havasu City. This has been part of the appeal of this Arizona oasis since its creation in the 1960s, and it’s still as strong today.
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According to AARP, Arizona attracts around 18,000 new retirees every year. With an average of 300 days of sun, no mosquitoes, and a vibrant senior community, Lake Havasu City has become a magnet for retirees from across the country. Add the fact that the actual London Bridge, purchased in 1968 and relocated to Arizona, connects residents across the lake, and you have a place full of convenience and charm.
Life in Havasu is slow and relaxed. It centers around the lake and has a small-town feel. While there’s no large concert venue or major sports team, there are a lot of outdoor activities both on and off the lake year-round. For anyone looking for big-city amenities, Lake Havasu City is a few hours' drive from both Phoenix and Las Vegas.
Dubbed “Arizona’s Playground,” Lake Havasu City was named one of the top 10 places in the Southwest to retire by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2025.
Living by the Numbers
Lake Havasu City is a dream for retirees. The average home price is higher than the national average, according to U.S. News, at $428,807, but it can vary widely depending on the amenities you want. Homes close to the lake, with boat and RV garages and lake docking privileges, will cost more than homes further into town.
Arizona has lower property taxes than the national average, 0.51% to the national 0.99%, and 2.5% tax on W-2 income, retirement withdrawals (401k, IRA, etc), pensions, and capital gains. The state doesn’t tax Social Security benefits.
Just over 35% of the population is over the age of 65, making Lake Havasu City a place for retirees to connect and find community.
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Is Lake Havasu for You?
If beach living without the beach prices sounds like a dream for you, then the next step is to plan a trip to Lake Havasu City. You should go in both summer and winter to get a feel for the temperature and try to attend as many community events as possible. Drive across the London Bridge, take a day trip on a boat, and eat along the waterfront.
California and Florida are expensive, but Lake Havasu City is a desert oasis. The hardest part about visiting this sunny city isn’t deciding to go, it’s deciding to leave.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice.
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