Coolidge Made the List as One of the Best Small Towns in the U.S. for Retirees!
Travel + Leisure
By Patricia Doherty
There's something about small towns that inspires nostalgia and the feeling that past traditions are still thriving. Many retirees look for that atmosphere, whether it recalls their own history or a long-imagined ideal place to settle down. There are also practical reasons to move to a small town upon retirement, including affordability, safety, wellness, culture, and comfort. Although not every town offers the ideal combination of these factors, there are many that meet the needs of retirees seeking a simpler life.
The population of a small town can vary from under 10,000 to several times that. Sometimes, towns are considered "small" based on their appearance, the lifestyle they support, or their sense of community. This list takes into a consideration a variety of qualities — cost of living, crime data, health care availability, senior housing, activities, transportation, attractions, and activities. The "best" is ultimately a matter of taste.
This south-central Arizona town — set in the northern area of the Sonoran Desert, about 60 miles from Phoenix — has a population of just over 14,700 residents. Retirees who enjoy desert living for health reasons or personal preference can expect very warm summers, with the hottest month (July) averaging 106 degrees. Winter is moderate, and snowfall is rare.
The cost of living in Coolidge is lower than the national and Arizona average. Natural beauty and a quiet lifestyle are also attractions. Some know the town because it's home to the country's first archaeological reserve, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Additionally, Central Arizona College in Coolidge offers personal enrichment classes, continuing education, and workshops for the community.
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Photo: Sam Antonio Photography/Getty Images
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