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Best Places to Retire in Southwest USA

Best Places to Retire in Southwest USA
Do you want to retire in Southwest USA, in a warmer, usually dryer climate? Below are our recommendations & ideas for places to retire in Southwest USA. Click on the destination links to find area description and characteristics, area amenities and things to do, climate and weather, housing options, cost of living, senior assistance, area demographics and job & volunteer opportunities

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retire in Galveston countyGalveston county, Texas - Galveston County is a county in state of Texas. As of the 2010 census, the population was 291,309. League City is the largest city in Galveston County in terms of population; between 2000 and 2005 it surpassed Galveston as the county's largest city. The county was founded in 1838.


retire in NacogdochesNacogdoches, Texas - Welcome to Nacogdoches, proud hometown of USA Futbol (soccer) team captain Clint Dempsey. Lately, we've earned the title of Garden Capital of Texas. Known also as the First Town in Texas - or The Oldest Town in Texas - it is in Nacogdoches that you walk in the footprints of history. Texas starts here.

retire in TexarkanaTexarkana, Texas - Texarkana, Texas is a city in Bowie County, Texas, United States, located in the Ark-La-Tex region. Together with neighboring Texarkana, Arkansas, it forms the community of Texarkana. The two separate municipalities have their own mayor, city councils and city staffs but sometimes function as one city.


retire in Silver City, Grant CountySilver City, Grant County, New Mexico - Our town sits in the sunny southwest corner of New Mexico. We’re equal parts Old West heritage and a distinctive arts and entertainment community, packed with a vibrant “small-town” style of living. Nestled against the 3.3 million acre Gila National Forest, Silver City is a quirky cultural town of just under 10,000 people.

retire in Lake Havasu areaLake Havasu area, Arizona - Lake Havasu City is an oasis in the Mohave Desert and the American home of the London Bridge. The lake itself was formed by the construction of Parker Dam in the mid-1930's. The city was founded by Robert McCulloch who bought the London Bridge from the City of London, shipped it across the ocean block by block and reconstructed the antique, giving Lake Havasu City a lifetime brand.


retire in BrownsvilleBrownsville, Texas - Steeped in a rich South Texas heritage and located in the South Texas tropics, Brownsville is a perfect two nation leisure travel destination where you’ll find plenty of exciting outdoor adventures, many historical sites and a bicultural ambience that's representative of Mexico.

retire in DentonDenton, Texas - Denton, Texas, just a short 30-mile drive from Dallas and Fort Worth, has experienced a great revitalization of their downtown area. There really is something for everyone, with varied dining options, more than 25 music venues, two universities and plenty of local events.

retire in Greater WacoGreater Waco, Texas - Greater Waco is centrally located along the I-35 corridor, and is 90 miles from the Dallas-Fort. Worth metroplex and Austin areas. Greater Waco also enjoys a low-cost of living compared with the state of Texas and nation-wide. Greater Waco is home to Baylor University, McLennan Community College and Texas State Technical College, and is near Ft. Hood.

retire in TucsonTucson, Arizona - The Tucson area enjoys the scenic beauty of several different mountain ranges that punctuate the enormously beautiful and mysterious Sonoran Desert. The Tucson region has a population of about one million people and is located just 60 miles north of the border with Mexico. The University of Arizona, one of the few Tier-One research universities in the country, calls Tucson home.

retire in Duncan, Oklahoma in Great Plains Country of Southwest OklahomaDuncan, Oklahoma in Great Plains Country of Southwest Oklahoma, Oklahoma - The spirit that turned cowboys into legends, cattlemen into men of fortune and oilmen into giants lives on in Duncan, Oklahoma. Originally a small trading post at the intersection of the Chisholm Trail cattle road and the military passage between Ft. Arbuckle and Ft.

retire in El Paso RegionEl Paso Region, Texas - El Paso’s unspoiled natural beauty is a rarity in today’s fast-paced world. During the day, our mountains take on shades of purple, vibrant orange and pale green under a sun that shines over 305 days a year. Wide-open vistas, big skies and beautiful desert weather are the norm, and almost every day ends with a breathtaking sunset.

retire in City of KaufmanCity of Kaufman, Texas - Kaufman was declared a Certified Retirement Community in 2010 and boasts the best of both worlds, Progress and Tradition. Situated 25 minutes from downtown Dallas, residents enjoy the comforts of a rural community with the conveniences of big city living just a short drive away.

retire in Blanco, Texas Hill CountryBlanco, Texas Hill Country, Texas - The Texas Hill Country is known for it's beautiful rolling hills, bodies of water in close proximity and an abundance of wildlife. The Blanco area community is mostly rural, with active city squares containing dining establishments and merchants. A great deal of events throughout the year bring visitors to town that increase the local economy.

retire in PrescottPrescott, Arizona - Prescott's mile high elevation provides natural beauty that is reflected ni anumber of small lakes, rock mountains and forest, intertwined with hiking trails. Prescott is a city of 43,000, total metro area of approximately 120,000 population.

retire in Permian Basin - Odessa Texas Certified Retirement CommunityPermian Basin - Odessa Texas Certified Retirement Community, Texas - The city of Odessa, 38 square miles in area, is the county seat of Ector County. Odessa is located in the heart of the Permian Basin area of West Texas and Southeastern New Mexico. The Permian Basin is a large oil and natural gas producing area, so named because of thick deposits from the Permian geologic period found in the area. In West Texas, the sky is limitless.

retire in Panhandle of TexasPanhandle of Texas, Texas - Rural community with 13,500 population for Borger in the heart of the Panhandle of Texas. A community of agriculture and industry form our workforce. The Greater Borger area features hunting, fishing, and boating at Lake Meredith and the Alibates National Park area. Frank Phillips College provides academic and workforce training in our area.

retire in StillwaterStillwater, Oklahoma - Stillwater is a small community with vibrancy, according to CNN/Money Magazine which ranked Stillwater on its list of "American's Best Small cities. Stillwater has much to offer residents of all ages and interests, with affordable housing and proximity to excellent medical care. It is home to 20 parks, with biking and jogging routes which transverse the community.

retire in ElginElgin, Texas - The City of Elgin was created by the Houston and Texas Central Railroad in 1872 and named for Robert Morris Elgin, the railroad’s land commissioner, following the practice of naming new railroad towns after officers of the company. The original plat placed the train depot in the center of a one-square mile area.

retire in PlanoPlano, Texas - Plano is truly the land of plenty. Blending historic charm with modern luxury, the city brims with attractions that make it perfect for a leisurely getaway. Plano offers 1,000+ restaurants, world class shopping, four walkable entertainment districts, a lively arts and nightlife scene, family-friendly attractions, and abundant natural beauty.

retire in AustinAustin, Texas - Austin is the capital of Texas, home of the University of Texas at Austin® and gateway to the beautiful Hill Country. As the Live Music Capital of the World®, the city has a soundtrack all its own. Live music venues flourish with rock, indie, pop and Tejano. World-class restaurants with legendary barbeque and farm-to-table cuisine whet your appetite.

retire in Nogales, Arizona - Santa Cruz CountyNogales, Arizona - Santa Cruz County, Arizona - Santa Cruz County is located the southernmost central part of Arizona, bordering Mexico and serving as the gateway to North America's most important port of entry, Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.

retire in Grand PrairieGrand Prairie, Texas - Grand Prairie is located in the middle of Dallas-Fort Worth. Grand Prairie residents and business owners feel that Grand Prairie has a small town feel in a big city.

retire in Las Cruces / Dona Ana CountyLas Cruces / Dona Ana County, New Mexico - The Las Cruces / Dona Ana county region can best be described as a high desert area that sees approximately 350 days of sunshine each year. Sitting at approximately 4,500 elevation, the area experiences a temparent climate that is perfect for many outdoor activites from golf to hiking to bicycle riding. Located next to the Organ Mountains, hiking for all levels is easily accessible.

retire in North Central Texas Metropolitan area / City of CoppellNorth Central Texas Metropolitan area / City of Coppell, Texas - LIVING IN COPPELL At 14.71 square miles, nearly 39,000 people call Coppell home, yet is retains a small town atmosphere. Excellent city services, outstanding parks and facilities, safe neighborhoods, strong churches, and exemplary schools all provide for a quality lifestyle and a sense of community.

retire in KingmanKingman, Arizona - The Kingman Area is a small community made up of the City of Kingman (pop. 29,000) and surrounding unincorporated areas. The area is mostly rural with a commercial hub in the city.

retire in Lake Texoma area/Southeast OklahomaLake Texoma area/Southeast Oklahoma, Oklahoma - Marshall County may be the smallest county in Oklahoma, but it is filled with numerous attractions available year round for the whole family. Marshall County is conveniently located two hours from both Dallas/Ft. Worth and Oklahoma City; and 30 miles from both Durant, OK to the east and Ardmore, OK to the west.

retire in NortheastNortheast, Oklahoma - Ottawa County, Oklahoma is in the far northeast corner of the state. The region is considered "green country" with beautiful scenery and agriculture. Miami is the hub of the region, and the famous Rt. 66 also serves as Miami's Main Street. The historic downtown district is home to quaint shops, restaurants and the Coleman Theatre Beautiful.

retire in TempleTemple, Texas - Located in Central Texas, Temple is home to 70,000+. Temple is part of Bell County with a population of 327,000. Temple is strategically located along on Interstate 35 and U.S. Highway 190. Temple is linked to major Texas cities including Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, San Antonio and Houston.

retire in Harker HeightsHarker Heights, Texas - Harker Heights, Texas in Bell County , is 4 miles SE of Killeen, Texas and 6 Miles SE of Fort Hood Army base. Harker Heights is also 56 miles N of Austin, Texas. Harker Heights is home to approximately 30,000 residents. The area now known as Harker Heights was once owned by Pinckney R. Cox and Harley Kern. In fact, the city was named after Harley Kern.

retire in Prairie and LakesPrairie and Lakes, Texas - Whether you're here for a weekend escape or looking to relocate for good, you've come to right place. Our city pays homage to our heritage through the careful preservation of our architecture, stories and legends. Granbury boasts more than 40 historic sites ranging from a 19th-century jailhouse to Comanche Peak, a sacred Native American site located a short drive from downtown.

retire in Sedona and the Verde ValleySedona and the Verde Valley, Arizona - The greater Sedona area houses about 20,000 people spread over three communities, all surrounded by public land so growth is limited and the environment highly protected.

retire in BridgeportBridgeport, Texas - Charming Small-town feel with the friendly locals always offering a welcoming smile. Lively downtown filled with everything a person could want for.

retire in SchertzSchertz, Texas - Schertz is known as the largest suburb of San Antonio. Schertz is a fast growing, traditional community with a lot of retired military. Schertz is home to families, and retirees and continues to strive for excellence. Schertz is known as "The Business Friendly City," and we encourage new economic ventures regularly.

retire in Texas Hill CountryTexas Hill Country, Texas - Beautiful rolling hills, seasonal creeks and rivers, farms and ranches, moderately priced homes in town, over 64 wineries, breweries and distilleries in the area. Historical Parks - LBJ Presidential Hometown and the President and First Lady's final resting place at the LBJ National Historical Park. Small town with 1800 people.

retire in MissionMission, Texas - Located right in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, about 250 miles south of San Antonio, lies a tight knit community of friends, family and children. In the winter, we happily embrace the thousands of Winter Texans that call Mission their temporary home. With warm winters and warm people, why wouldn’t they? Mission has a little bit of everything for everyone.

retire in EdmondEdmond, Oklahoma - Located in the heart of Oklahoma, just north of Oklahoma City, Edmond is considered by many to be the "Crown Jewel" of Oklahoma. If you're passing through, attending a convention or sporting event, taking a family vacation, or looking to relocate, Edmond is an exciting community that is sure to meet your needs.

retire in Southeastern OklahomaSoutheastern Oklahoma, Oklahoma - Eufaula, Oklahoma is a lake community located in the central part of the lake which is the largest lake in Oklahoma covering over 800 miles of shoreline. Eufaula is a small community of less than 3000 people but with lots of things to do. It is a center of fishing, boating and other water sports, as well as in town activities.

retire in San AngeloSan Angelo, Texas - Discover a beautiful West Texas city that offers the perfect blend of West Texas charm, outdoor recreation, culture & arts, and just plain old fun.

retire in Pearce/Sunsites AreaPearce/Sunsites Area, Arizona - The Pearce/Sunsites area is and has been a Retirement location since the 70's. Cochise County is the Old West's History capital of the world. From Doc and Wyatt, to Cochise and Geronimo, to Fort Bowie to Fort Huachucua, the old west comes alive. Sunsites is located about 40 miles from Tombstone.

retire in Taos and Taos Ski Valley, New MexicoTaos and Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico, New Mexico - Taos The Town of Taos, New Mexico is known for gorgeous lighting with epic sunsets of red, orange and purple blazing through the sky. Vast open spaces dotted with cedar trees, juniper, and sage brush in varying shades of green framed by mountains make you feel as though you’re in a painting.

retire in MaranaMarana, Arizona - Our Town’s history goes back much further than its 1977 incorporation. Archaeologists have discovered evidence of more than 4,000 years of human occupation in what is now known as Marana. Native Americans, European settlers and some of the earliest Americans lived in or passed through Southern Arizona.

retire in Angel FireAngel Fire, New Mexico - Angel Fire is situated along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in Northern New Mexico. At 8,600 ft. elevation, Angel Fire is bounded on the west side of the valley with Wheeler Peak, New Mexico’s highest mountain peak at 13,600 ft. and on the east by Agua Fria Peak at 10,600 ft.

retire in Village of Magdalena in Socorro CountyVillage of Magdalena in Socorro County, New Mexico - Village of 900 people at an elevation of around 6500. Beautiful striking landscape with amazing light. Founded in the mid 1800's due to the rich mining deposits and large empty spaces suited for ranching. An artistic community drawing both contemporary and traditional artists.

retire in Lincoln CountyLincoln County, New Mexico - A high-altitude escape into the Village known for both adventure and rejuvenation. Year-round golf, alpine skiing, boutique shopping, the acclaimed Spencer Theater and world-class gaming are just a few attractions found in this quaint mountain village nestled in the pristine Sacramento Mountains. Our mountain peaks at 12,000 ft in elevation which is the southern most peak in the Rockies.

retire in LampasasLampasas, Texas - Historic Lampasas is located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, centrally positioned between several major cities that are popular destinations for people to visit.

retire in Weslaco - Rio Grande ValleyWeslaco - Rio Grande Valley, Texas - Weslaco is in the southern tip of Texas. The area is called the Rio Grande Valley and is a 4-county area from the beaches of South Padre Island to the hills of Starr County. The region is on the US-Mexico border. Weslaco is seven miles north of the highly visited tourist town of Nuevo Progreso, Tamps., Mexico.

retire in Benson, AZ Cochise CountyBenson, AZ Cochise County, Arizona - Benson itself is a town of approximately 5000 people. Surrounding communities that rely on Benson are St. David, Pomerene, J-6/Mescal, and Willow Lakes. Including the surrounding communities, the population goes up to around 10,000. There is a new development/community that is in the process of being planned, with ground breaking scheduled in 2016.

retire in Southwest- Lincoln County, Southeast New MexicoSouthwest- Lincoln County, Southeast New Mexico, New Mexico - Ideally located in the heart of historic Lincoln County, Capitan is home to 2,000 friendly residents and a growing arts community The Village is situated between the Capitan and Sacramento Mountains at an elevation of 6,530 feet. Enjoy a temperate climate, days filled with brilliant sunshine cooled by the brisk mountain breeze.

retire in McCurtain CountyMcCurtain County, Oklahoma - McCurtain County Tourism Authority is located in Southeastern Oklahoma. It is home of Beavers Bend Resort Park, Broken Bow Lake, Pine Creek Lake, the Red Slough Wetlands, and the Ouachita National Forest. WELCOME TO MCCURTAIN COUNTY OKLAHOMA Find Out Whats Around the Beavers Bend? The Ouachita National Forest wraps the Beavers Bend area in a thick blanket of color.

retire in San MarcosSan Marcos, Texas - Conveniently located between Austin and San Antonio.

retire in Apache JunctionApache Junction, Arizona - Close to Phoenix, close to Mountains, lakes Warm climate


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