Sun Lakes offers a resort-style atmosphere with lots of recreation and single-residence homes just south of Chandler and about 25 miles southeast of Phoenix. “One of the best aspects of Sun Lakes is simply its location,” says Melissa Rush, broker and owner of Rush & Associates Realty, who has over 26 years of experience. Developed in the late 20th century by E.J. Robson, the community was originally little more than a shopping center and a few hundred housing lots; today, the master-planned city is made up of five country club neighborhoods with a population of about 15,000—residents here must be 40 or older, and most are 55 or older. Folks enjoy an active, leisurely lifestyle with sports like golf and pickleball and a packed, year-round schedule of clubs and social events. “It’s unique—it’s not a nursing home community,” says Stephanie Reynolds, a Realtor with Exp Realty who has over 5 years of experience. “People are very social—it’s lively. The majority of people are older, so there’s not going to be bicycles and toys lying everywhere.”
Sun Lakes has many Mediterranean-style homes throughout the community.
Walking trails and ponds are scattered throughout the Sun Lakes neigborhood.
Ed Robson Library is located on Riggs Road in Sun Lakes.
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Sun Lakes homes plus homeowners associations
Sun Lakes’ homes were built during the late 20th century through the early 2000s and are lined along palm tree-dotted, circular streets without sidewalks that wrap around the community’s lakes. Overall, homes are typically ranch-style, but each subdivision has its own stylings, like Sun Lakes Country Club’s minimal, midcentury-inspired ranch-style and Cottonwood Country Club’s Mediterranean-style homes with red clay-tiled roofs and desert-colored stucco facades. There are also late 20th-century manufactured homes in Sun Lakes Country Club, which were part of the original community development. “Manufactured homes are completely refurbished—new cabinets, new counters, custom everything. You can make it look like anything you want it to be,” Reynolds says.
The median home price in Sun Lakes is $465,000, compared to $440,000 in Phoenix and $285,000 in Sun City, another active adult community. “There aren’t really apartments in Sun Lakes. There are single-family residences and one-story villas—they call them townhomes,” Reynolds says. The five country club communities in Sun Lakes are all part of homeowners associations; annual dues range from about $1,300 to $2,000 and go toward community upkeep. “It’s more expensive because you own the land, and the reason people want to live here is the lifestyle,” Reynolds says.
The Mediterranean-style homes in Sun Lakes have desert-colored stucco.
Manufactured homes in Sun Lakes often have carports and covered porches.
Ranch style homes are also common in Sun Lakes.
The majority of Mediterranean-style homes in Sun Lakes are single story with some two story.
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Year-round clubs, groups and events in Sun Lakes, Arizona
There are over 70 clubs and groups for residents to join in Sun Lakes. “You name it—woodworking, ceramics, cards, poker, all different activities,” Reynolds says. There’s also a full calendar of events, including monthly activities like karaoke, trivia and bingo. “They have music bingo, or ‘singo,’ as it’s called,” Reynolds says. “They play songs, and people sing along. There’s lots of joking, and it’s very social.” Annual traditions include the 2-mile Veteran’s Walk in November and the holiday tree lighting in December. Plus, there's the Sun Lakes Community Theatre and the Sun Lakes Chorale.
Sports and leisure in the five Sun Lakes communities
Each neighborhood in the city has its own set of amenities, including a golf course and clubhouse, and most access is shared among the five communities. However, some facilities, such as fitness centers are just for the residents of that neighborhood. There are sports like tennis, pickleball and bocce, and there are also organized tournaments, like the spring softball league. Golfers can hit the links at any of Sun Lakes’ five courses; Ironwood Golf Club and Oakwood Golf Course are both open to the public, but residents get preferred reservations for tee times. Sun Lakes has several community pools, plus clubhouses for tabletop games and club meetings. True to its name, there are also over 40 lakes in Sun Lakes. “You cannot swim in them, and there’s no boating, but there’s an RC boating club, and you can catch and release fish,” Reynolds says.
Residents practice their golf game at the Sun Lakes Country Club.
The pools at the local clubs in Sun Lakes are popular spots to cool off in the heat.
Field of Dreams is a fun place for Senior Softball participants to be active in Sun Lakes.
Achieve health and fitness goals at CrossFit Endless Summer in Sun Lakes.
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Shopping and dining essentials along East Riggs Road
Sun Lakes is mostly residential, but there are a few retail plazas lined along East Riggs Road, a central thoroughfare. “We’re far enough away that we don’t have to get involved in everyone’s business, but we’re close enough to where you can get things when you need to,” Reynolds says. Groceries, fast food and small businesses, like barbershops and nail salons, are nearby. Each neighborhood here also has its own restaurant. “We have five restaurants in the communities themselves, but there are restaurants all around there,” Reynolds says. Stone & Barrel at IronOaks offers a full bar and comfort fare like pizza, street tacos and burgers. For a homestyle breakfast, The Buttered Biscuit along East Riggs Road is a popular spot to start the morning.
The Buttered Biscuit in Sun Lakes is a popular spot to start the morning.
Bashas' in Sun Lakes offers a delviery service for its residents.
Ace Hardware is a great place for the home repair needs on Sun Lakes residents.
Vanna Nail Spa in Sun Lakes offers a variety of nail services.
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Getting around Sun Lakes
Route 87 borders Sun Lakes, providing direct access to Chandler, 8 miles away. Interstate 10 is close by for an easy trip to Phoenix, 25 miles away. Most residential streets are without bike lanes or sidewalks, and there isn’t public transportation, so cars are a must. “Golf carts are a big deal,” Reynolds says. “People dress up their golf carts; there’s a golf cart parade during the holidays—it’s part of the things to do.” Chandler Regional Medical Center is about 8 miles away, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is 20 miles away.
Sun Lakes crime and environmental factors
Crime data specific to Sun Lakes is not readily available, but according to FBI statistics, the total number of reported violent- and property-related crimes in Maricopa County decreased by 70% between 2012 and 2022. Between 2017 and 2022, about 75% of these incidents were property-related, compared to 80% nationally. The Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse, a volunteer group with classroom and on-the-job training, helps patrol the community.
Extreme heat and the risk of wildfires are ongoing environmental concerns. From June through August, temperatures regularly top 100 degrees. There haven’t been any recent wildfires in Sun Lakes, but in case of local emergencies, Sun Lakes Fire District Station 231 is located within the city.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
John Williams
Video By
Kristen Wilson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cathy Carter,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Sun Lakes, AZ sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Sun Lakes, AZ over the last 12 months is $467,750, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Indulge in the Sun Lakes lifestyle with amenities including; clubhouses, restaurants, pro shops, 36 hole golf course, tennis courts, pickleball, bocce ball, racquetball, handball, heated swimming pools, jacuzzis, a state of the art fitness center. Enjoy the seclusion and safety of this private, gated and guarded community while being just minutes away from some of the finest restaurants, shopping
Rare 3-bedroom, 1-floor plan in Sun Lakes. Very high-end remodel, looks like a Model Home. Slate floors in all high-traffic areas. Beautiful hardwood kitchen cabinets w/pull-outs, quartz countertops and tap on/off faucet. Frigidaire SS refrigerator and stove. Built-in Whirlpool microwave. Shutters and ceiling fans throughout. Decorative, electric fireplace. All towel bars are grab handles. Large
After a challenging day of golf, escape to the serenity of your backyard overlooking the 15th hole enjoying spectacular sunsets, and mountain views. Indulge in the Sun Lakes lifestyle with amenities including; clubhouses, restaurants, pro shops, 36 hole golf course, tennis courts, pickleball, bocce ball, racquetball, handball, heated swimming pools, jacuzzis, a state of the art fitness center.
Nestled within one of Chandler's most prestigious gated enclaves, 20 E Oakwood Hills is a masterwork of Santa Barbara-inspired architecture that offers a rare combination of lakeside tranquility and palatial design. The residence makes a powerful first impression with a dramatic portico entrance and circular drive that delivers guests to your door. Step through the ornate wrought-iron front door
This adorable 2-bedroom home awaits you in the desirable adult community of Sun Lakes! Step inside to explore the vibrant interior, showcasing tile floors, soaring vaulted ceilings for an airy feel, plantation shutters, abundant natural light, and an earthy palette throughout. Whip up your signature dishes in the well-appointed kitchen, displaying oak cabinetry, a spacious peninsula, and built-in
A gorgeous 2 bed, 2 bath townhome in Sun Lakes is now for sale! Featuring charming curb appeal and 2 garage spaces, this is sure to be the home for you! Inside you will find sizeable dining & living areas w/vaulted ceilings, soft carpet in all the right places, a warm fireplace, skylights, and neutral palette throughout. The kitchen is equipped w/ample cabinet & counter space, all the stainless
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED!!! The popular Shawnee plan with extended Primary Bedroom Suite & big walk-in closet. Completely remodeled kitchen with premium cabinetry, appliances & granite counters. Wet bar & wine refrig in Great Room. Relax in the screened-in Arizona room overlooking peaceful backyard & fruit trees. Garage with storage cabinets PLUS separate storage room. *** AVAILABLE FULLY FURNISHED
Welcome to the highly desirable Sun Lakes active adult community! This beautifully fully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an inviting open-concept layout designed for comfortable living and entertaining. A versatile bonus space provides the perfect spot for a home office, hobby room, or gym, giving you flexibility to fit your lifestyle. Enjoy everything this vibrant 55+ community has to
Welcome to this beautifully maintained single-story villa featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. Enjoy serene views of lush green open space right outside your door. This ideal lock-and-leave home is located in a vibrant adult community offering resort-style amenities, including pickleball, tennis, social activities, dining, and more. Perfect for full-time living or a seasonal
Welcome to this beautiful newly updated home that blends comfort, style and upgrades all set within a highly desirable amenity- rich community. A huge front courtyard and inviting pavered walkway create a welcoming entry. The home is equipped with exterior security roll-down shades, offering added privacy and peace of mind. Inside, you'll find all-tile flooring for a clean look and easy
Step into your ideal 55+ lifestyle w/ this 2-bed/2-bath home in Sun Lakes Golf Community! This home features inviting wood-look floors, wet bar for entertaining, lg family room, & updated kitchen w/ white cabinetry & SS appliances. The primary suite delivers dual sinks & double sided walk-in closet. Interior laundry w/ built-in cabinets & office nook, plus a covered 2-car carport w/ bonus storage
Come experience the good life in Sun Lakes, where everyday living feels like a vacation. This vibrant resort-style community offers an unmatched lifestyle--golf, tennis, pickleball, sparkling pools, a fitness center, clubs, social activities, on-site restaurants, and so much more--right at your fingertips.Set on a beautifully maintained lot, this updated Lexia model is a true gem featuring 3
Concessions available. 55+ community. Beautifully renovated home in a desirable 55+ community featuring abundant natural light from gorgeous skylights throughout. The open layout offers comfortable living and entertaining, highlighted by a large primary bedroom retreat with plenty of space to relax. Step outside to your private pool and inviting backyard, perfect for enjoying sunny days and
Back on market with upgrades!! Located in the highly sought-after gated community of Oakwood you will love the lifestyle and quick community access from the north Dobson access gate! This home has a NEWER ROOF, bright, spacious floor plan with over $30k in upgrades! The downstairs primary bedroom features 2 walk-in closets, a curbless shower, and a separate jacuzzi tub. Enjoy cooking and
Immaculate & spacious home on corner lot* Wood & tile floors thru-out* No steps, no carpet* Remodeled kitchen has gorgeous granite countertops, large breakfast bar, stainless appliances & stylish range hood* Newer dual paned windows & doors* Brass hardware* Permitted, professionally added family room* Archways removed to open up foyer, living rm & dining rm* Huge primary suite w/sitting area, 2
Fully Furnished, Extensively remodeled home in Sun Lakes, age restricted community 40+ 2/2 single level 1880 sq. ft. corner lot low traffic street,, golf cart available for tenant use. TV and Internet package available for an Added $139/month or tenant may obtain their own service. Available May 15, 2025 thru the end of October. Includes the use of a golf cart.
Everything in this home is brand new!! The owner completely remodeled this home and put amazing finishes in. Updated Kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, paint, all brand new appliances, you name it, its brand new! The spacious garage has a door access that leads directly into the home. The yard backs to the beautiful, quiet and serene agricultural area. Come live in the sought-after active adult
AVAILABLE May 15, 2026 thru October 30, 2026. 2/2 1800 sq. ft single level two car garage, remodeled home with lots of privacy on a low traffic street. Age restricted community to 40+ with a few exceptions. No pets. Award winning community with six golf courses, private bars and restaurants, tennis, pickleball, miles of lakefront walking/biking paths, arts and crafts classes, dance studios,
Beautiful home in an award winning planned community called Sun Lakes, age restrictions do apply. 2/2 1582 sq. ft. single level with two car garage, updated inside and out, fully furnished and available May 1, 2026 thru September 30, 2026.
Welcome to the epitome of comfortable and convenient living: a charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath unfurnished home nestled within the coveted Sun Lakes 55+ community. Tons of amenities! Refundable security deposit is 80% of the monthly rent. $65.00 per person application fee, $395 Admin fee, 2.9 % month service fee. Cleaning deposit/fee 20% of monthly rent w/half non-refundable. $85.00 rekey fee.
Great long term Fully Furnished rental in Sun Lakes Country Club on the Golf Course. 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 car garage. Nice size kitchen with plenty of storage. Covered patio to enjoy the beautiful AZ weather. Access to amenities such as golf, pickleball, fitness centers, pool/spa, bars, restaurants and more.
Located in the desirable active adult community of Oakwood at Sun Lakes, this popular Solano floorplan offers 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with a bright, open layout. The living room is filled with natural light and features fresh paint, newer carpet, and large windows. The kitchen includes granite countertops, a breakfast bar, and a cozy breakfast nook, opening to a spacious family room—perfect
Fully Furnished rental in Sun Lakes Country Club on the Golf Course. 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 car garage. Nice size kitchen with plenty of storage. Covered patio to enjoy the beautiful AZ weather. Available March 10th. Also available as a long term furnished lease for $2100.
Alex DurhamBuilt By Referral Rlty Grp 02
$3,600 per month
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,116 Sq Ft
Perfect location in 55+ community! Lovely home with tile in kitchen, spacious living room, dining area, 2 large bedrooms and bathrooms. Located next to Cottonwood Palo Verde Golf Club! Citrus trees on drip system. Very clean, light & bright home. Satellite TV and high speed internet. Home is on a large corner lot close to the clubhouse. Don't miss out on all of the fun this wonderful community
This updated and ''boutique'' style home is ready for occupancy in the 55 Active Adult Community of Sun Lakes.. Kitchen features white cabinetry and floating shelves, new stainless appliances and breakfast nook area,. Wood plank floors in main rooms and carpet in bedrooms. Bathrooms are updated, large walk-in closet in Master. Bedroom. Washer & Dryer in utility closet. 2 car Garage with access to
Available January 1, 2027 forward. 2/2 with Den, Beautiful private lake view, Fully Furnished vacation home located in Cottonwood, Sun Lakes, SW Chandler, award winning community offers six golf courses, tennis, Pickleball, health club, private restaurants and bars for residents only and much more--Truly a Resort Community. HOA age restricted to 40+ with exceptions. includes Wi-Fi and all
Tesla Solar panels w/battery storage!!! New interior paint!!!. Active adult community Sun Lakes at least one person must be 40+ years old and no on under age 19 may live at property. corner lot 2 bedroom plus a den(optional 3rd bedroom). 2 car garage with separate storage room. Sun Lakes amenities including community pools and more. Last 12 months electricity SRP bills the highest bill was $160
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