Sun City

The original of the now-famous Del Webb developments, Sun City turned 44 in January 2004. This age-restricted community for active adults set the standard for what is now a familiar type of planned community. At least one resident per household must be 55 years of age; no one under 18 is allowed to live in Sun City.

The community is 13 miles west of Phoenix in the West Valley, separated from its sister community, Sun City West, by the Agua Fria River.

The 45,000 residents of Sun City enjoy all the services and amenities you would find in a small town, plus a variety of recreational offerings. The community is served by Walter O. Boswell Hospital, cultural centers, shopping of all kinds and entertainment.

There are 11 golf courses and seven recreation centers offering swimming, tennis, bowling and other activities. There is also a fishing lake connected with one of the centers. Volunteerism is another popular pastime among Sun

City residents. It is estimated that residents have donated thousands of hours of their time to local school districts and other agencies.

Maricopa County supplies the unincorporated community with such services as law enforcement, street repairs and zoning protection. Residents do not pay taxes for the local school district since there are no school-age children within the community. Sun City earned this tax-free status following a 14-year effort by residents.

The housing options available in Sun City reflect the different lifestyles and evolving life care needs of residents. There are single-family homes, duplexes, condos and apartments. There are also independent and assisted living centers, and life care communities. Sun City houses are priced from under $80,000 to $450,000. Condos can be purchased for as little as $37,000 or as much as $1,300,000.