Sun Lakes is located about 24.4 miles from Phoenix, AZ. It is bordered by the communities of Chandler and Goodyear Village.
Before moving to Sun Lakes, it’s a good idea to spend some time learning about the benefits of living here. Let’s talk about why so many people enjoy living in Sun Lakes.
History of Sun Lakes
Founded as an active adult community, Sun Lakes has a pleasant country club setting. Today, it consists of five different gated and non-gated communities.
Sun Lakes was originally founded by E.J. Robson in 1972 as a master-planned community and was named after his company, Sun Lakes Marketing.
Sun Lakes is best known for its country clubs, golf courses, and resort-like lifestyle.
Most residents feel Sun Lakes is a good place to live because of its beautiful amenities, large homes, and luxury lifestyle.
Let’s learn more about the benefits of moving to Sun Lakes before you make the leap.
1. People Living in Sun Lakes, AZ – Population & Demographics
How many people live in Sun Lakes? The population growth in Sun Lakes has been fairly consistent over the last few decades. While it was just over 11,000 in 2000, the number of residents has increased by about 3,000 people since then.
If you plan on relocating to Sun Lakes, you’ll find plenty of local residents and newcomers to befriend. The Sun Lakes population is 14,147 people.
The median age of residents is 73.6 years old, making it a great place to live for retirees and other seniors.
Sun Lakes demographics include 95% Caucasian, 1% African American, and 1% Asian residents. Within Sun Lakes, the gender ratio is 56.4% female and 43.6% male.
The median household income in Sun Lakes is $62,148 per year. However, the majority of residents no longer work.
2. Cost of Living in Sun Lakes, AZ
How much does it cost to live in Sun Lakes, AZ?
The average cost of living in Sun Lakes is 13% higher than the United States average and 6.2% higher than the average in Arizona.
While groceries, housing, and transportation are higher than the Arizona average, health and utilities are slightly lower. Compared to the entire United States, Sun Lakes is more expensive for everything other than health care costs.
Typical Sun Lakes Living Expenses
- Milk (regular 1 gallon) $4.78
- Bread (1 loaf) $3.81
- Hamburger $5.49
- Large Pizza $12.99
- Chicken Filets (1 lb) $3.99
- Doctor Visit $85
- Dentist Visit $102.67
- Average Cost of Gasoline (per gallon) $3.46
- Average Cost of Utilities (per month) $271.08
3. Sun Lakes Real Estate | Buying or Selling a Home in Sun Lakes?
Sun Lakes real estate market consists of around 10,000 luxury homes in a beautiful, master-planned community. It includes five country club-like neighborhoods that are run by three different homeowner’s associations.
The homeownership rate in Sun Lakes is 88% with only about 12% of residents renting.
To discover what it’s like to live in the area, check out some of the Sun Lakes homes for sale.
The average price of a home in Sun Lakes is $380,500.
For Sun Lakes home buyers, the average down payment is 3% to 20%. This works out to $11,415 to $76.100 for the median home.
Home buyers can expect a median sale price of $284 per square foot.
The Sun Lakes property tax rate is 0.570%, which works out to $2,166 in annual taxes.
Sun Lakes rent is $1,853 per month. The average price of rent in Sun Lakes is $403 higher than the average rent price in Arizona.
4. Sun Lakes Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Sun Lakes
Where should you live in Sun Lakes? The best Sun Lakes neighborhoods offer luxurious features, gated communities, and stately architecture.
- IronOaks at Sun Lakes
- Ironwood Country Club
- Cottonwood Country Club
- Palo Verde Country Club
- Oakwood Country Club
Sun Lakes operates two parks and other amenities for all residents to enjoy. Check them out on the Sun Lakes Parks and Recreation site.
There is convenient shopping in Sun Lakes and the surrounding neighborhoods. Some of the closet stores include the Phoenix Premium Outlets, the Promenade at Fulton Ranch, and Target.
Sun Lakes is about 24.3 miles from Phoenix.
The commute from Sun Lakes to downtown Phoenix takes about 29 minutes.
5. Sun Lakes, AZ Weather & Climate
If you love sunshine, Sun Lakes weather is known for it. While summers can get hot, winters are fairly mild.
The climate in Sun Lakes is considered semiarid so there is very little rain.
The average temperature in Sun Lakes can range between lows of 40°F and highs of 66°F in the winter to highs of 105°F and lows of 81°F in the summer.
Typically, this area receives 9 inches of rain per year.
The area also receives 0 inches of snow. But if you’re passionate about snow activities, you can always drive a few hours north to access all of your favorite snow sports.
For local outdoor activities in Sun Lakes, residents typically enjoy hiking, golfing, and fishing.
6. Things to Do in Sun Lakes
If you’re visiting the area, check out some of the top things to do in Sun Lakes.
Hole in the Rock
If you’re passionate about hiking, this is one of the best outdoor activities in the area. Located in Papago Park, Hole in the Rock is a hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Phoenix skyline and the desert. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit at sunrise.
Hole in the Rock, 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 (602) 495-5458
Oakwood Golf Course
If you love parks and landmarks, one of the best Sun Lakes attractions is Oakwood Golf Course. This course has a Keith Foster design with 27 holes in three different courses.
Oakwood Golf Course, 9649 E EJ Robson Blvd, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 (480) 895-1159
Sisk Park
To discover local points of interest, visit Sisk Park. This lovely park offers picnic tables and plenty of space for gatherings. Each year, the community holds regular events and activities in this green space.
Sisk Park, 11110 East Dr, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
Cottonwood Country Club
Cottonwood Country Club is a true can’t miss thing to do in Sun Lakes. While the country club’s restaurant is one of the top places to visit, you should also arrange for a day on the golf course. You can check out Cottonwood’s championship course and the full-size driving range.
Cottonwood Country Club, 25630 S Brentwood Dr, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 (480) 895-3550
Additional Sun Lakes Attractions
7. Sun Lakes Restaurants
From fine dining to classic American cuisine, there are many Sun Lakes restaurants to choose from. The following are just a few of the best dining options.
Palo Verde Restaurant
For one of Sun Lakes’ top places to eat, check out the Palo Verde Restaurant. This restaurant is particularly famous for its live music and happy hour specials. Try the tempura shrimp, chop steak stack, or braised ribs.
Palo Verde Restaurant, 10801 E San Tan Blvd, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 (480) 895-1981
Sunset Grill
If you’re interested in a fine dining experience and outdoor seating, the Sunset Grill is one of the top restaurants in Sun Lakes. Boasting an extensive wine list, this restaurant also has an impressive brunch menu. If you go for lunch, try the pulled pork sandwich or the cobb salad.
Sunset Grill, 25601 S Sun Lakes Blvd, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 (480) 895-9270 ext. 124
The Buttered Biscuit
For one of the Sun Lake’s top places to eat, visit the Buttered Biscuit. This restaurant is famous for its breakfast specialties, although it also serves up lunch as well. WWII Spam and Eggs and South Mountain Scramble are just a few of the most popular dishes.
The Buttered Biscuit, 9542 E Riggs Rd, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 (480) 404-3921
8. Jobs in Sun Lakes
The average salary in Sun Lakes is $39,598 per year.
The state income tax rate is 2.5%.
The Sun Lakes unemployment rate is 5.44%.
If you’re interested in Sun Lakes jobs, the following places are some of the best places to work.
- Robson Communities
- Cottonwood Country Club
- Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse
- Oakwood Country Club
- Sun Lakes Country Club
9. Sun Lakes Schools
There are almost no kids between the ages of 0 and 18 years old in this community because they make up less than 1% of the population. Sun Lakes is primarily a retirement community so most residents are older.
The school districts serving Sun Lakes are the Chandler Unified School District and the Tempe Union High School District.
The following schools are the top schools in Sun Lakes or the neighboring areas.
- Great Hearts Academies Lincoln Prep
- Basis Chandler
- Arizona College Prep High School
- Archway Classical Academy Chandler
- BASIS Chandler
For colleges and universities in the area, check out the Sun Lakes Campus of Chandler-Gilbert Community College.
Students and other locals will enjoy the free Sun Lakes library.
10. Crime Rate in Sun Lakes
Is Sun Lakes a safe place to live? Sun Lakes is an incredibly safe place to call home.
The crime rate in Sun Lakes is 1,404 per 100,000 residents.
This city is protected by the Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse.
To check out how safe your neighborhood is, take a look at this Sun Lakes crime map.
11. Essential Sun Lakes Information
- Square Miles: 5.4 square miles
- County: Maricopa County
- Zip Code: 85248
- Area Code: 602
The time zone in Sun Lakes is Mountain Standard Time. Because it’s a part of Arizona, Sun Lakes doesn’t follow Daylight Savings Time. You don’t have to worry about changing your clocks each year.
The elevation in Sun Lakes is 1,194 feet above sea level.
Map of Sun Lakes, AZ
Find plenty of other things to do, places to eat, and more with this Sun Lakes map.
Tips for Living in Sun Lakes
- Sun Lakes is only half an hour from the Sky Harbor International Airport, so you can enjoy easy access for vacations, business trips, and visiting loved ones.
- Thanks to the many retirement communities in the area, Sun Lakes has a resort-like appeal.
- Arizona’s hot, so plan accordingly. Your new home will need an excellent air conditioner.
Moving to Sun Lakes, AZ
From excellent golf courses to fine dining, there are many reasons to move to Sun Lakes. Within this vibrant community, you can discover stunning single-family homes and country club estates.
If you need a real estate agent, reach out to a trusted Sun Lakes real estate team like our partners at SPACE.
