Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sun Lakes, AZ
Thinking about moving to Sun Lakes, AZ? With a population of about 14,800, this active adult community offers a relaxed lifestyle, abundant sunshine (86% of days), and affordable living with median home values around $405,000. Residents enjoy low crime rates (violent crime just 78 per 100K), short commutes averaging 24 minutes, and convenient access to quality healthcare and nearby amenities. Sun Lakes’ scenic setting and peaceful neighborhoods make it a top choice for retirees and those seeking a vibrant, friendly environment.
Demographics - Sun Lakes, AZ
Demographics - Sun Lakes, AZ
Sun Lakes is a close-knit community of approximately 14,800 residents, known for its predominantly older population with a median age of 71.5. The area is largely White (88%) and has a balanced gender ratio, creating a peaceful and welcoming environment for retirees. With a moderate population density and a small percentage of non-English speakers, Sun Lakes offers a tranquil, neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
14,800
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
71.5
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.0%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
7.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sun Lakes, AZ?
The cost of living in Sun Lakes is slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $405,000 and average rent around $1,850. Utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced, while housing costs reflect the area's desirable amenities. State taxes range from 2.59% to 4.5%, making it manageable for those on a fixed income.
Median House Value:
$405,000
Gross Rent:
$1,850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.50%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.4
Grocery:
97.5
Housing:
112.0
Utilities:
99.2
Transportation:
104.7
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
101.3
Crime
Is Sun Lakes, AZ a safe place to live?
Sun Lakes boasts a very low crime rate, with only 78 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of just 1 in 95. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, making the community especially attractive for retirees and families seeking peace of mind. The overall crime index is well below national averages.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,128
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,282
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Sun Lakes, AZ year-round?
Sun Lakes enjoys a warm, sunny climate with 86% of days filled with sunshine and mild winters averaging highs around 67°F. Summers can be hot, reaching up to 106°F, but rainfall is minimal at just over 9 inches annually. The pleasant weather encourages active outdoor living year-round.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
88°F
Summer
Min:
78°F
Max:
106°F
Fall
Min:
58°F
Max:
90°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
86%
Neighbors
Most Sun Lakes residents are financially comfortable, with a median household income of $56,000 and a low poverty rate of 4.7%. The community is highly educated, as nearly 98% have a high school diploma or higher, and unemployment remains low at 3.3%. Commute times are short, averaging about 24 minutes, and public transit use is minimal.
Median Income:
$53,400
Household Income:
$56,000
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$39,900
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
4.7%
Non English Speakers:
5.7%
Rent:
$1,850
Unemployment Rate:
3.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.6%
Bachelors or More:
37.4%
Education
How are the schools in Sun Lakes, AZ?
While Sun Lakes itself is an adult-oriented community, nearby Chandler provides access to quality public and private schools, such as Basha Elementary and Chandler Christian Academy. Higher education options are easily accessible, with Chandler-Gilbert Community College just 7 miles away and Arizona State University within a short drive. The area supports lifelong learning and educational opportunities for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Basha Elementary School
Street:
3535 S Basha Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248
Phone:
480-883-4400
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Private Schools
Name:
Chandler Christian Academy
Street:
301 N Hartford St, Chandler, AZ 85225
Phone:
480-899-9197
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Chandler-Gilbert Community College
City:
Chandler
State:
AZ
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
14,000
Name:
Arizona State University
City:
Tempe
State:
AZ
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
77,800
Healthcare
Sun Lakes residents have easy access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Banner Ocotillo Medical Center and Chandler Regional Medical Center nearby. The area boasts a high physician-to-population ratio of 2.5 per 1,000 and 94.1% of residents have health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are comprehensive, offering general and emergency care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner Ocotillo Medical Center
Address:
1405 S Alma School Rd, Chandler, AZ 85286
Phone:
(480) 256-7700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Chandler Regional Medical Center
Address:
1955 W Frye Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224
Phone:
(480) 728-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
76.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sun Lakes, AZ?
The housing market in Sun Lakes is stable, with median home prices at $405,000 and an average rent of $1,850 for a two-bedroom unit. Homeownership is high at 87%, and vacancy and foreclosure rates are both low, reflecting a secure and desirable community. Property values have seen steady appreciation, making it a solid choice for homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$405,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,850
Owner Occupied Rate:
87.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Sun Lakes can access motor vehicle services through the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in nearby Phoenix. The office offers comprehensive DMV services, and information is readily available via their website or phone. Arizona’s DMV is known for efficient processes and support for new residents.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
221 E. Olympic Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85040
Phone:
602-255-0072
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.