Sun City homes for sale, and life in America's original 55+ community.
Sun City opened on January 1, 1960 as Del Webb's first active adult community, and it is still one of the most popular places in the country to retire. It is our home turf.
- Opened
- January 1, 1960, by Del Webb
- Homes built
- Mostly 1960 to 1978
- Recreation
- Recreation Centers of Sun City (RCSC): 8 rec centers, 8 golf courses
- Age rules
- At least one resident 55+; under-19 stays limited
- Lakes
- Viewpoint Lake and Dawn Lake
- Health care
- Banner Boswell Medical Center in the middle of town
Why Sun City, Arizona?
More than 90,000 people showed up on Sun City's opening weekend in 1960. Today it is a full town of its own in the Northwest Valley, with recreation centers, golf courses, shopping, churches and Banner Boswell Medical Center right in the middle of it all.
We are Amy and Tim Nixon. Sun City is where we live and work, and we help buyers and sellers here every week. This guide covers what it is really like to live here and what to know before you buy.
What kind of homes are in Sun City?
Most Sun City homes were built between 1960 and 1978, so you get established neighborhoods with mature trees and curved streets laid out around the rec centers. Many original Del Webb floor plans are still loved today. You will find:
- Single-family homes on their own lots, many with Arizona rooms and carports or garages
- Patio homes and duplexes with less yard to care for
- Condos and co-ops for easy lock-and-leave living
- Golf course and lake lots if you want a view
Sun City is still one of the most affordable places for 55+ living in the Phoenix area. See current listings, the original floor plans, and the phases of Sun City.
Recreation centers, golf and 100+ clubs
Owning a home in Sun City gives you access to the Recreation Centers of Sun City: pools, fitness rooms, bowling, lawn bowling, woodworking, ceramics, lapidary, pickleball, softball and a huge list of chartered clubs. See our full guide to the Sun City rec centers and clubs, the eight golf courses and the Sun City lakes.
Sun City costs to know about
Most single-family homes have no traditional HOA. Instead, every property pays an annual assessment to the Recreation Centers of Sun City, and there are one-time fees when a home changes hands. Some condo and patio home areas also have their own association dues. Fees change from year to year, so we walk every buyer through the current numbers before they write an offer. Read RCSC explained and our cost of living guide.
Sun City 55+ age rules
Sun City is age restricted. At least one person living in the home must be 55 or older, and anyone under 19 cannot live there for more than 90 days in a 12-month period. Grandkids and family are always welcome to visit.
Sun City or Sun City West?
Many of our clients look at both. Sun City is older, generally more affordable and closer in. Sun City West opened in 1978 and has newer homes and its own rec centers and golf courses. Read our side-by-side Sun City vs Sun City West or explore Sun City West homes for sale.
In our clients' words.
Real Google reviews from buyers, sellers and families we've helped.
“We relocated from Iowa to Sun City… They are the very best and I would totally recommend them when purchasing a home.”
“Amy and Tim are the best! They know Sun City like nobody else, can get a great deal, and were there for us every step of the way.”
“Tim & Amy are a great tag-team. If one isn't available, the other usually is. They spent time showing us several homes and helped us dial in to what we were looking for.”
Reviews from Google, shortened for length.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sun City, AZ a 55+ community?
Yes. Sun City is age restricted. At least one resident in each home must be 55 or older, and people under 19 cannot live there more than 90 days in a 12-month period.
Does Sun City have an HOA?
Most single-family homes do not have a traditional HOA. Owners pay an annual assessment to the Recreation Centers of Sun City instead. Some condos and patio homes have their own association dues on top of that.
When was Sun City, Arizona built?
Del Webb opened Sun City on January 1, 1960. Most homes were built between 1960 and 1978.
Who can help me buy or sell in Sun City?
Amy and Tim Nixon of The Nixon Group are licensed real estate agents who live and work in Sun City and help buyers and sellers there every week. Call or text (623) 292-3141.
Thinking about Sun City?
Call or text us anytime. We are always happy to help, even if you are just starting to look.

