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Talk to a Specialist →About Sun City West
Sun City West was developed by Del Webb starting in 1978 as the planned expansion of the original Sun City concept. The homes are larger, more modern, and on bigger lots than the original Sun City — reflecting the housing preferences of buyers in the late 1970s through 1990s. The RCSC governance model is the same: annual fee (currently ~$575–$650/year) for access to recreation centers, golf courses, and the full amenity package.
The price premium over original Sun City reflects the newer construction and larger floor plans. Buyers who find original Sun City homes too small for their needs often step up to Sun City West. The trade-off is modest: slightly higher prices, slightly older than Sun City Grand but meaningfully newer than original Sun City, and the same open (non-gated) community structure.
Sun City West Key Facts
| Location | Sun City West, AZ — northwest Phoenix metro |
| Built | 1978–1998 (Del Webb) |
| Homes | ~16,000 homes |
| Price Range | $220K–$480K (resale) |
| Annual RCSC Fee | ~$575–$650/year |
| Golf Courses | 8 included with RCSC membership |
| Age Requirement | 55+ (at least one resident) |
| Gated | No — open community |
| County | Maricopa County |
| New Construction | No — resale only |
Pros & Considerations
Advantages
- Larger homes than original Sun City — better for buyers needing 1,500–2,200 sq ft
- RCSC annual fee model — among the lowest cost-per-amenity in the Phoenix market
- 8 golf courses included — strong golf value
- More modern construction (1978–1998) than original Sun City
- Established community with strong social infrastructure
- No CDD bond
Considerations
- Open community — not gated
- 1978–1998 construction — older than Sun City Grand or newer communities
- Prices higher than original Sun City but lower than gated alternatives
- Some homes need kitchen/bath updates to current standards
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