Sun City, AZ Utility & Living Guide

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Sun City, AZ Utility & Living Guide

Living in Sun City, AZ offers a unique blend of retirement community amenities and small-town charm in the desert southwest

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax8.1%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Sun City
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Arizona Public Service (APS)
🔥 Gas

$30/mo

Southwest Gas
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Sun City Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The Sun City housing market is characterized by a mix of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses, with many properties offering golf course views or proximity to community amenities. Home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years, driven by demand from retirees and snowbirds. However, the market remains relatively affordable compared to other parts of the Phoenix metro area.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

96

Transportation

88

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax8.1%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 5.6% + County 0.7% + City 1.8%</p>

Arizona has a state income tax with rates ranging from 2.59% to 4.54%, depending on income level

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, technology, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, water conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Sun City has a limited public transportation system, but many neighborhoods are walkable and bikeable, with wide sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Lake Pleasant
  • 🎯
    Wildlife World Zoo
  • 🎯
    Arizona Aquarium

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Sun City include those with access to community parks, golf courses, and recreational facilities, such as Sun City Grand and Sun City Festival. These areas offer a range of housing options, from single-family homes to condos and townhouses, and are generally considered safe and welcoming.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Sun City based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Sun City has rules governing outdoor lighting, landscaping, and parking, as well as restrictions on commercial activities in residential areas

Sun City's economy is driven by healthcare, retail, and tourism, with a growing focus on technology and entrepreneurship. The city is also seeing an increase in new residents, particularly retirees and remote workers, drawn by its affordable cost of living and desirable climate.

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📊 Sun City — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Sun City vary significantly by season, with summer months seeing a surge in electricity usage due to air conditioning, while winter months are generally milder and require less energy for heating. As a result, residents can expect to pay more for electricity during the summer and less during the winter.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 85351 has a property tax millage rate of 0.65%, with an additional 0.15% surtax for local infrastructure projects

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with wide sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes, but limited public transportation options and some areas with uneven or missing sidewalks

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