Best Affordable Places to Retire in the West: 8 Top Choices

Are you looking for the perfect retirement location in the west, that’s also affordable? In this article, we’ll be exploring some great locations to that won’t break the bank and have a ton of great things to offer retirees.

When it comes to choosing the perfect place to retire, cost of living is definitely a top concern for most people. But, it’s not just about money. The best places to retire have plenty of healthcare options, recreational activities, and attractions to keep you busy and entertained.

There are so many factors to consider when choosing where to settle down in retirement.

The western region of the United States is well known for its diverse landscapes and cultures. From the deserts of Arizona to the mountains of Colorado, there’s lot’s to see and explore. So, buckle up and let’s dive into our top picks for the best affordable places to retire in the west.

8 Best Affordable Places to Retire in the West

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is a small city in the Coconino National Forest. It’s surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. It has a cool, temperate climate and plenty of options for outdoor recreation. With a population of around 80,000, it’s a great choice for those looking for a more laid-back, rural lifestyle.

The cost of living in Flagstaff is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s still significantly lower than other popular destinations in Arizona, like Phoenix and Tucson. You can expect to pay around $1,720  for a two-bedroom apartment, and groceries cost an average of $3.84 for a loaf of bread and $2.46 for a gallon of milk.

When it comes to healthcare, Flagstaff has a hospital and several clinics that offer a variety of medical services. There’s plenty of easy-to-use public transportation, and all the local amenities you’d expect to need.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the recreational activities on offer in Flagstaff. Hiking, fishing, and skiing are just a few of the many options. There are also plenty of attractions to keep you entertained, such as the Lowell Observatory and the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Flagstaff is ideal for outdoorsy individuals who prefer cool summers and snowy winters. With 266 days of sunshine annually, you can be sure to enjoy the sunny outdoors year-round.

Reno, Nevada

Reno is a city that’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Las Vegas. But, it’s actually a fantastic choice for retirees looking for an affordable, yet exciting place to live. With a population of just over 275,000, it’s a bit larger than Flagstaff, but still has a friendly feel.

The cost of living in Reno is about on par with the national average, making it a great choice for those on a budget. You can expect to pay around $1,800 for a two-bedroom apartment and just over $3 for a loaf of bread and $3 for a gallon of milk.

Healthcare is readily available in Reno, with several hospitals and clinics offering a variety of medical services. There are also plenty of senior-friendly amenities, like grocery stores with designated parking spaces and easy-to-use public transportation.

If you’re looking for excitement and entertainment, Reno won’t disappoint. It’s home to several casinos, as well as a number of museums, parks, and theaters. And, with its close proximity to Lake Tahoe, there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities available as well.

Reno has a hot-summer, semi-arid desert climate – with about 300 sunny days every year. Winters here are cold and snowy, making it an ideal spot for people who love snow sports.

Grand Junction, Colorado

Grand Junction is a small city located in western Colorado, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. With a population of just over 67,000, it’s a great choice for those who want a slower pace of life, but still want access to city amenities.

The cost of living in Grand Junction is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for retirees. You can expect to pay around $1,200 for a one-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $3.70 for a loaf of bread and $2.39 for a gallon of milk.

Healthcare is readily available in Grand Junction, with several hospitals and clinics offering a variety of medical services. There are also several senior-friendly amenities, like grocery stores with designated parking spaces and easy-to-use public transportation.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Grand Junction won’t disappoint. With the Grand Mesa, Colorado National Monument, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison all located nearby, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring. And, if you’re looking for indoor entertainment, there are several museums, theaters, and art galleries in town.

Grand Junction experiences a semi-arid desert climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Plus, it has an incredible 245 days of sunshine each year! Through its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, it also makes for a great place to explore the outdoors.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is a small city located in central Oregon, known for its beautiful mountain scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. With a population of just over 90,000, it’s a great choice for those who want a slower pace of life, but still want access to city amenities.

The cost of living in Bend is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s still affordable compared to other popular destinations in the state, like Portland and Eugene. You can expect to pay around $1,700 for a one-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $3.79 for a loaf of bread and $2.50 for a gallon of milk.

Healthcare is readily available in Bend, with several hospitals and clinics offering a variety of medical services. There are also several senior-friendly amenities, like grocery stores with designated parking spaces and easy-to-use public transportation.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Bend is the place for you. With the Deschutes River running through town and the Cascade Mountains nearby, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and skiing. And, if you’re looking for indoor entertainment, there are several museums, theaters, and art galleries in town.

Getting around 158 days of sunshine a year, Bend’s high desert climate is perfect for outdoor activities year-round. Summers are cool and dry while winters bring snow – perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Cascade Range.

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a friendly, affordable city, making it a great choice for retirees. With a cost of living that’s lower than the national average, retirees can expect to pay around $1,300 for a two-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $3.32 for a loaf of bread and $2.13 for a gallon of milk.

The city is home to a thriving arts scene, a bustling downtown, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing.

With an average of 200 days of sunshine annually, Boise is a great destination for outdoor activities. Summers can be quite hot and winters quite cold, due to its dry continental climate. Nevertheless, the city offers plenty of opportunities for year-round fun.

Plus, Boise is consistently ranked as one of the best places to retire in the US.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

With its sunny skies, beautiful scenery, and rich culture, Albuquerque is a great place for retirees. The cost of living in Albuquerque is lower than the national average, and you can expect to pay around $1,300 for a two-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $3.41 for a loaf of bread and $2.18 for a gallon of milk.

The city is famous for its hot air balloon festival, its stunning sunsets, and its rich Native American heritage. There’s also plenty of outdoor recreation available, including hiking in the nearby Sandia Mountains and skiing at Sandia Peak.

Albuquerque’s sunny climate makes it an ideal destination for those who love the outdoors. With 310 days of sunshine annually, it has hot summers and mild winters – perfect weather to enjoy the sun!

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas may be known for its bright lights and casinos, but it’s also a great place for retirees. With a cost of living that’s lower than the national average, retirees can expect to pay around $1,000 for a two-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $4 for a loaf of bread and $3 for a gallon of milk.

While the city is certainly famous for its nightlife, it also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation, including golf courses, parks, and museums. And, of course, there’s always a show to see in Las Vegas, whether you’re in the mood for a concert, a comedy performance, or a Cirque du Soleil production.

Las Vegas is a great place for sun-lovers with its hot desert climate and 300 days of sunshine every year. Summer temperatures can be intense while winters are mild, making it the perfect spot to get away from chillier climes.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is a charming city with a small-town feel and big-city amenities. With a cost of living that’s lower than the national average, retirees can expect to pay around $1,650 for a one-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $3.48 for a loaf of bread and $2.22 for a gallon of milk.

The city is surrounded by stunning scenery, including Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. There’s also plenty of outdoor recreation available, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Colorado Springs is a great place to be with its temperate semi-arid continental climate, giving you over 300 days of sunshine annually. Additionally, wintertime brings plenty of snow for outdoor activities like skiing and more!

El Paso, Texas

El Paso is a sunny city with a rich cultural heritage and a warm, welcoming community. With a cost of living that’s 11% lower than the national average, retirees can expect to pay around $1,100 for a one-bedroom apartment, and groceries will run you about $3.60 for a loaf of bread and $2.30 for a gallon of milk. The city is known for its beautiful parks, its vibrant arts scene, and its delicious Mexican cuisine. And, with its proximity to Mexico, retirees in El Paso can enjoy even more cultural experiences, including shopping, dining, and exploring the nearby ancient ruins.

El Paso enjoys a hot desert climate with high temperatures in summer and moderate ones in winter. This city receives around 297 days of sunshine annually, making it ideal for those who are fond of warmer climates.

Enjoy your retirement in the west

Well, there you have it! Eight amazing places to consider for your retirement in the western United States. From Flagstaff, Arizona to Bend, Oregon, each of these cities has something unique to offer and are all affordable and retirement-friendly.

No matter which of these places you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a fantastic quality of life. With plenty of healthcare options, recreational activities, and attractions to keep you busy, you’ll never run out of things to do.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your retirement in one of these amazing, affordable places in the west today!