Cresswind Wesley Chapel
Charlotte, North Carolina
Sedona, Arizona
What It Is Like to Retire in Sedona
The red rocks of Sedona are world famous, having been immortalized in countless westerns like Broken Arrow (with Jimmy Stewart). The colors displayed by sunrises and sunsets on the red sandstone rocks have brought in admirers from around the world. That beauty, combined with the mountains and the moderate climate provided by an altitude of 4500’ have made Sedona a very popular retirement community as well as tourist destination. The population in 2024 was just over 7,500.
At least one source rates Sedona in the top 20 retirement spots in the country. Hiking and the arts are extremely notable here. The International Film Festival, many musical events, and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute are an indication of the high level of culture that Sedona enjoys. The Sedona area straddles 2 counties – Coconino and Yavapai. The nearest city is Flagstaff. Many active adults have chosen Sedona as their community for its warm climate and beautiful setting. Zoning is very strict here, even the McDonalds looks like a pueblo. Photo of the Chapel of Holy Cross courtesy of Wikipedia and Matthew P. Del Buono, Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0/. Here is information on retirement in Arizona or in Flagstaff or Phoenix
Where to Retire in Sedona and Home Prices
There are many high-end developments both here and in nearby Cottonwood-Verde, either built or planned, that would be ideal for active adults in retirement. But there are also some very reasonably priced communities (see our Arizona Directory.
In early 2025, the median home value was $926,721, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the country, according to Zillow. Views and acreage will dramatically influence prices, and there is at least one manufactured home community with much lower prices.
What Is Special about Sedona
Sedona's Red Rocks are breathtaking; 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest; outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, horseback riding; Sedona International Film Festival.
What Is Not Special about Sedona
• There are a lot of tourists • Worries about overdevelopment will always be here – it is too nice to spoil • Real estate is very expensive.
Who Will Like Retirement in Sedona
Sedona attracts people interested in great scenery, outdoor activities, and the arts. Since real estate is pricey, its new residents tend to be very affluent. Some 19% of the population is over 65, just above the state and national average.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Sedona enjoys a booming economy thanks to its popularity as a tourist and retirement destination. Top components of the economy include: services, retail, hospitality, construction
Climate and Physical Environment
Sedona’s red rocks have their origin in the Schnebly Hill Formation - a thick layer of red to orange-colored sandstone found only in the Sedona vicinity. At 4500’ the climate is more moderate than Phoenix. Oak Creek Canyon runs through this part of north central Arizona. The Mogollon Rim of the Colorado Plateau is home to the largest contiguous stand of ponderosa pine in the world.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Sedona Arts Center; the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks festival; Sedona International Film Festival; Chamber Music Sedona; Arizona Opera League; NORAZ Poets; Yavapai College, which has the Sedona Center for Arts & Technology; Coconino Community College; countless galleries.
Crime
The crime rate is about half the national average.
Medical facilities
Flagstaff Medical Center, Verde Valley Medical Center, Sedona Medical Center and Northern Arizona Homecare are all in the area.
Transportation
Flagstaff Airport is 21 miles, Prescott's is 46. Sedona is a little above average in walkability when compared to other communities.
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