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Tempe, Arizona

What It Is Like to Retire in Tempe

Tempe is a college town on the southeast side of Phoenix with a population of over 160,000. In addition to Arizona State University (ASU Sun Devils) there is a significant corporate presence. Tempe is one of the more interesting parts of the Phoenix area in which to live, in that is a streetscape with bars and restaurants to explore. Tempe also has an area called Tempe Town Lake, where concerts, festivals and other events are held. The Mill Avenue shopping district is one of the more interesting places in the city, because it offers a variety of restaurants and shops. Many are geared to the thousands of ASU students who inhabit the immediate area. Most people of retirement age would not want to live in the vicinity of this mega-university, but many people enjoy visiting Tempe's downtown and taking in the vibrant atmosphere, made more interesting by the presence of the students. Tempe offers one of the most exciting New Years celebrations in the country. All of downtown is fenced off and, for a modest admission charge, you can enjoy a variety of entertainment ranging from bands to dancers to bmx bike demos, as well as two fireworks displays and, usually, a major concert by a band that most people will have heard of. Photos courtesy of Wikipedia (skyline by Schwnj) Photo of Tempe Center for the Arts courtesy of Wikipedia and Scotwriter21 Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0/.

Where to Retire in Tempe and Home Prices

The farther south you travel in Tempe, the newer the neighborhoods you find, but retirees should note that Tempe is not a city with many 55+ communities. If you want to live in Tempe, you will most likely be the kind of person who likes the ability to interact with neighbors of all ages. For retirees who want to live in the town itself, there are plenty of good places at most price points. The median price of a home in Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale was $439,700 in the 1st quarter of 2023, according to the NAR. The Zillow Home Value Index in Tempe was $450,602 in mid-2023.

What Is Special about Tempe

The presence of ASU makes this a college town and a fun place to live and visit. The mountains and desert are near, and Tempe Town Lake is also a nice addition. Tempe is above average in walkability when compared to other communities.

What Is Not Special about Tempe

It is pretty darn hot here in the summertime, and as a college town it might be a little too busy for some.

Who Will Like Retirement in Tempe

Folks who like the idea of living in a college town in the desert, where outdoor activities are plentiful will probably like Tempe.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Arizona State University and its 54,000 students are a major factor in the local economy.

Climate and Physical Environment

Tempe is about 12 miles southeast of Phoenix, although they tend to run together. The average January temperature is in the mid 50s whereas the average July temperature is 90. It is typical to have 3+ months of 100 degree days. It is dry heat, but it is still hot!

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

The Mill Avenue area has many restaurants and shops. Those include two Irish bars/restaurants, a sophisticated brew pub, a couple of popular Mexican restaurants, some other enthic restaurants, and sandwich shops that round out the food offerings in this part of town. The presence of ASU means there are many cultural activities for Tempe residents to enjoy. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed ASU Gammage Auditorium seats 3,000 and offers a variety of plays, Broadway shows and other forms of entertainment throughout the year. Tempe has a very active senior center that is part of a municipal complex that also includes recreation facilities and a modern town library.