Arizona Retirement Tax Friendliness

Arizona Retirement Taxes

Arizona is a popular destination for seniors who want to relocate upon retirement. It has as much sunshine as any state in the U.S. and many of the amenities and attractions that appeal to seniors. When it comes to taxes, it turns out the Grand Canyon state is a good but not great choice for retirees.

Social Security is not taxed at the state level in Arizona. But, other forms of retirement income, including distributions from retirement savings accounts, are. Property taxes in Arizona won't break the bank, but sales taxes can hit a bit harder.

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Is Arizona tax-friendly for retirees?

Arizona is moderately tax-friendly for retirees. Like most U.S. states, it does not tax Social Security retirement benefits. However, other types of retirement income are taxed, either partially or fully. Distributions from retirement savings accounts like a 401(k) or IRA are taxed as regular income, while income from a pension is eligible for a deduction.

Arizona’s state sales tax is 5.6%, while local rates can range up to 7.83%. The average effective property tax rate is 0.62%.

Is Social Security taxable in Arizona?

The state of Arizona does not tax Social Security retirement benefits. You may incur taxes at the federal level, however.

Are other forms of retirement income taxable in Arizona?

Income from retirement savings accounts like a 403(b) or a 401(k) is taxed as regular income by the state of Arizona. It should be combined with income from other sources like wages or salaries as part of your total income. Arizona has a flat income tax rate of 2.5% for all tax filers.

Income from pensions is also taxed as regular income. U.S. government civil service pension income and Arizona state or local pension income are all eligible for a deduction of $2,500 annually. Private pensions and pensions from states other than Arizona cannot receive this deduction. And, those who get retirement or retainer pay from the U.S. armed forces could deduct up to $3,500.

How high are property taxes in Arizona?

Arizona’s property taxes are relatively low. Homeowners face a median annual property tax bill of $1,648. That’s about $1,200 less than the national median and is one reason why housing costs in Arizona are below average.

What is the Arizona property valuation freeze?

The property valuation freeze is a form of property tax relief available to homeowners in Arizona with total income below a certain level. It freezes a home’s value for property tax purposes, which in turn limits any potential increases in annual property taxes.

For individual owners, the income level is $45,264 for 2023. For properties owned by two or more persons, the 2023 income level is $56,580. To be eligible, the property must be the owners' primary residence and they must have lived there at least two years.

Additionally, eligible seniors could defer payment of their property taxes on their principal residence entirely. To be eligible for deferment, they must comply with specific requirements, including an assessed property value maximum and a household income limit.

How high are sales taxes in Arizona?

The state sales tax rate is 5.6%, which is fairly normal. However, local sales tax can range up to 7.83%.

Food is a major expense for seniors, but Arizona doesn't tax the sale of groceries. Likewise, prescription drug sales are exempt from sales taxes in the state.

What other Arizona taxes should I be concerned about?

The Arizona state government does not impose an estate tax or inheritance tax, so retirees who wish to pass some of their property or wealth to loved ones do not need to worry.