Living in Lake Havasu: Pros and Cons of Desert Life on the Water

Living in Lake Havasu City, Arizona: Pros, Cons, and What to Expect

If you're considering making a move to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, you're not alone. Known for its vibrant recreation scene, iconic London Bridge, and endless sunshine, Lake Havasu has become a popular destination for retirees, young families, and remote workers alike. But like any place, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a look at what you can expect when living in Lake Havasu City.

Pros of Living in Lake Havasu City

1. Sunshine Year-Round

Lake Havasu boasts more than 290 sunny days per year. If you love the warmth and spending time outdoors, this is paradise. Winters are especially mild, making it a favorite winter retreat for snowbirds.

2. Outdoor Recreation Galore

With Lake Havasu itself offering boating, fishing, and paddleboarding, and nearby trails for hiking and off-roading, there’s never a shortage of things to do outside. The city is known for its lively boating culture, spring break energy, and fun waterfront activities.

3. Affordable Compared to Big Cities

While housing prices have risen, Lake Havasu remains more affordable than places like Phoenix, San Diego, or Las Vegas. Property taxes are also relatively low, and there’s no state tax on Social Security benefits.

4. Small-Town Feel with Some Big-City Amenities

Lake Havasu City feels like a close-knit community. You'll find locally-owned shops, family events, and festivals like Winterfest and the Balloon Festival. Plus, bigger city conveniences like chain stores, good medical care, and a regional airport are available.

5. Scenic Beauty

From the desert landscapes to stunning lake views and gorgeous sunsets, the natural beauty of the area is breathtaking. Plus, having the historic London Bridge relocated right into the center of town adds unique character.

Cons of Living in Lake Havasu City

1. Extremely Hot Summers

Summers are brutal, with temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F. You'll either need to embrace the heat, spend lots of time indoors (thankfully, air conditioning is standard), or plan to travel during the hottest months.

2. Limited Job Opportunities

Unless you're in healthcare, construction, education, or remote work, finding a high-paying job can be tough. Many locals work in the tourism, retail, or hospitality sectors, which may not be ideal for everyone.

3. Smaller Healthcare System

While Lake Havasu has a good hospital and several clinics, for more specialized care or major medical issues, residents often travel to larger cities like Phoenix or Las Vegas.

4. Lack of Cultural Diversity

The population is predominantly White, and while the community is welcoming, those looking for a more diverse cultural scene may find it a bit limited compared to larger metropolitan areas.

5. Tourism Can Get Crowded

Especially during spring break and major boating events, the town can get extremely crowded. Traffic, noise, and longer waits at restaurants can be a hassle during peak times.

What to Expect When You Move to Lake Havasu City

• Casual, Laid-Back Vibes: People dress casually (shorts and flip-flops are standard year-round), and the pace of life is relaxed.
• Plenty of Community Events: Parades, food festivals, car shows, and boating events are regular occurrences.
• A Focus on Outdoor Living: Many homes come with pools, and weekends are often spent on the water or exploring the desert.
• Self-Sufficiency is Helpful: Since bigger cities are a few hours away, being prepared for things like specialty shopping or healthcare is important.
• A Growing Real Estate Market: More people are discovering Lake Havasu, meaning new housing developments and some increases in cost of living.

Final Thoughts

Lake Havasu City offers a unique desert oasis lifestyle filled with sunshine, adventure, and community. It’s perfect for people who love warm weather, the outdoors, and a relaxed pace of life. However, the heat and limited job market are real factors to consider. Like anywhere, it’s all about what fits your lifestyle best.

Thinking of making the move? Spend some time visiting during different seasons to get a true feel for what living here is like!