Leisure World was thoughtfully developed by the Rossmoor Corporation, a pioneering force in creating vibrant active adult communities across the United States. This visionary development team brought their proven retirement community model from California to Arizona, breaking ground in Mesa in 1972 with a revolutionary concept that centered around providing a complete lifestyle package rather than simply housing. As a longtime broker serving Mesa with West USA Realty, I’ve witnessed how this trailblazing community has evolved into what residents fondly call “Disneyland for Adults” – a dynamic 958-acre oasis where recreation, social connection, and the active adult lifestyle are prioritized above all else.
The architectural landscape throughout the community evolved thoughtfully over time, transitioning from classic 1970s Southwest ranch designs to elegant Mediterranean influences in later phases. Development occurred in carefully planned phases between 1972 and 1994, with each neighborhood maintaining its unique character while contributing to the cohesive community vision. Today, Leisure World comprises approximately 2,664 homes across 958 beautifully landscaped acres, creating a mature oasis of established trees, 12 man-made lakes, and thoughtful desert design that continues to evolve through strategic renovations and amenity updates.
Rossmoor Corporation served as the primary developer of Leisure World, though the community was built by multiple quality builders including Western Savings, Dietz Crane, and Rossmoor themselves, resulting in an impressive diversity of architectural styles and floor plans. Construction spanned over two decades from 1972 to 1994, ensuring the community avoided the “cookie-cutter” appearance common in many developments.
The housing options reflect this architectural evolution and include:
Homes feature period-appropriate design elements including vaulted ceilings, traditional floor plans, and smaller decorative tiles. Many homes come equipped with single, double, or three-car garages and feature either tile or asphalt roofs. The established nature of the community means many homes showcase thoughtful upgrades by previous owners, mature landscaping, and desert or grass yard options depending on homeowner preferences and HOA districts.
Leisure World features two private, professionally designed golf courses by renowned architect Greg H. Nash, ASGCA, offering some of the finest golfing available in the Valley of the Sun. These courses are reserved exclusively for residents and their guests, plus limited outside memberships.
Coyote Run Golf Course is the championship course featuring:
Heron Lakes Golf Course serves as the executive course with:
Both courses feature pro shops, driving range, practice greens and bunkers, with PGA professionals on staff providing lessons and golf programs. During peak winter months, the courses utilize morning and afternoon shotgun starts to accommodate the high demand from residents and guests.
The community’s 10,000-square-foot Fitness Center represents one of the finest facilities in Arizona, featuring:
Aquatic Center amenities include:
Leisure World’s extensive sports facilities include:
The on-site Wellness Center provides convenient healthcare with registered nurses offering medical care for residents. The facility is complemented by nearby Banner Baywood Medical Center, a 342-bed hospital just minutes away offering emergency treatment, orthopedic services, rehabilitation, and a Primary Stroke Center.
Leisure World’s Arts and Crafts Building houses extensive facilities for creative pursuits:
Clubhouse facilities include:
While Leisure World is an age-restricted community (residents must be 45+ with 80% over 55), the community offers extensive continuing education opportunities:
On-site Educational Programs:
The community’s proximity to Mesa Community College and Arizona State University (just 6 miles away) provides additional educational opportunities for residents interested in auditing classes or pursuing lifelong learning goals.
Leisure World’s strategic location places residents directly across from Superstition Springs Mall, providing immediate access to major retail, dining, and entertainment options. The community’s central Mesa location offers:
Immediate Access:
Regional Attractions:
Excellent highway access via US Highway 60 and Arizona Route 202 connects residents to the entire Valley:
Leisure World operates as a gated community with 24-hour security, featuring:
The community is governed by a homeowners association divided into eight distinct districts, each with elected board representation handling community issues. This structure ensures residents have a voice in community management while maintaining the high standards that make Leisure World special.
Community Services:
With its motto “Design Your Own Lifestyle,” Leisure World offers an unparalleled array of clubs, activities, and social opportunities:
Social Clubs & Interest Groups:
Regular Community Events:
Leisure World represents the gold standard in active adult communities, combining the expertise of Rossmoor Corporation’s proven development model with Arizona’s year-round outdoor lifestyle. This established community offers the perfect balance of resort-style amenities, social connection, and maintenance-free living that today’s active adults seek.
The community’s 958 acres of mature landscaping, 12 pristine lakes, two championship golf courses, and comprehensive recreational facilities create an environment where residents can truly “design their own lifestyle.” Whether you’re drawn to the state-of-the-art fitness center, extensive arts and crafts facilities, social clubs, or simply the stunning Superstition Mountain views, Leisure World delivers an elevated living experience.
The established nature of the community, with mature trees, thoughtful architectural diversity, and proven track record of successful community management, provides the stability and quality of life that discerning buyers expect. With homes ranging from affordable condominiums to luxury golf course estates, Leisure World accommodates various budgets while maintaining consistent community standards.
As your experienced real estate professional with West USA Realty, I understand the unique appeal of active adult communities and can help you navigate the Leisure World market. From understanding HOA structures and amenity access to identifying the perfect home for your lifestyle preferences, I bring the local expertise and community knowledge needed to make your active adult dream a reality.
Ready to experience the “Disneyland for Adults” lifestyle at Leisure World? Contact Carl Chapman, Associate Broker with West USA Realty, at 602-617-4440 to explore available homes and discover why this pioneering active adult community continues to set the standard for resort-style living in Mesa, Arizona.
Carl Chapman, REALTOR®, Associate Broker
West USA Realty
Phoenix, Arizona
Direct: 602-617-4440
Leisure World offers exceptional housing diversity with options ranging from attached villas and patio homes to larger single-family residences on premium lots. Home prices typically range from the mid $200,000s for smaller models to over $700,000 for expansive single-family homes with luxury updates. The average price per square foot falls between $190-$275, representing significant value compared to newer communities with similar amenity packages. Properties in Leisure World demonstrate remarkable market stability, typically selling within 45-60 days when priced appropriately to current conditions. Many homes have undergone significant modernization with updated kitchens, contemporary bathrooms, energy-efficient systems, and expanded outdoor living spaces. Available property types include attached garden villas (approximately 1,000-1,600 square feet), patio homes, and single-family residences ranging up to 3,000 square feet. The community maintains a healthy inventory of available properties, allowing buyers to find options matching their preferences and requirements.
While Leisure World maintains age restrictions requiring residents to be 55 or older, educational opportunities remain important for resident enrichment. The community's lifelong learning program offers diverse classes spanning technology, arts, history, health, and financial management topics throughout the year. Many residents participate in educational trips to museums, concerts, theaters, and cultural destinations organized through the activities department. Mesa Community College, located just minutes away, welcomes older adults through their special audit program allowing seniors to attend classes at reduced rates. Arizona State University's Polytechnic Campus provides additional educational resources through lecture series and programs specifically designed for lifelong learners. The community partners with various educational institutions to bring specialized instructors directly to Leisure World for convenient learning opportunities.
Leisure World features two championship 18-hole golf courses winding throughout the community, offering diverse playing experiences for golfers of all skill levels. The 33,000-square-foot recreation center serves as the community's social hub with multiple gathering spaces, hobby rooms, billiards, and administrative offices. The spectacular resort-style aquatic center includes indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa facilities, and extensive deck areas for year-round enjoyment. Tennis enthusiasts enjoy multiple well-maintained courts with organized play, tournaments, and social events coordinated through the active tennis club. Additional sports facilities include pickleball courts, lawn bowling greens, bocce ball courts, and a fully-equipped fitness center with specialized programs. The community's performing arts theater hosts professional entertainers, resident performances, and movie screenings throughout the year, creating a vibrant cultural calendar.
Leisure World residents enjoy convenient access to extensive shopping options, with multiple grocery stores and pharmacies located just minutes from the community gates. The nearby Superstition Springs Mall offers department stores, specialty retailers, and casual dining options approximately 15 minutes away. Power Road's commercial corridor features diverse restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences suitable for special occasions. Entertainment options abound with Mesa Arts Center offering world-class performances, exhibitions, and cultural events just 20 minutes from Leisure World. The community's east Mesa location provides easy access to Sloan Park (Chicago Cubs spring training), multiple cinema complexes, and concert venues. Many residents take advantage of the proximity to downtown Gilbert's vibrant restaurant scene, with dozens of popular dining options just 15 minutes away.
Leisure World enjoys strategic positioning near major transportation corridors, with quick access to US-60 and Loop 202 facilitating convenient travel throughout the Valley. Most residents can reach Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in approximately 25 minutes, making travel connections seamless for visiting family or vacations. The community operates scheduled shuttle service to nearby shopping centers, medical facilities, and popular destinations throughout the week. Mesa's senior transportation program provides additional options for qualifying residents who need assistance with essential transportation to medical appointments. Public transit options include Valley Metro bus service with stops near the community entrance connecting to the broader metropolitan network. Many clubs and activity groups organize carpooling for events, dining excursions, and cultural activities, enhancing social connections while addressing transportation needs.
Leisure World maintains 24/7 gated security with professional staff monitoring all community entrances and conducting regular patrols throughout the property. The established emergency response system includes pull cords in homes and comprehensive protocols for rapid assistance when needed. Crime rates within Leisure World remain exceptionally low, with the gated environment and vigilant security team creating a safe living environment. The community maintains excellent relationships with Mesa police and fire departments, with emergency response times averaging under five minutes. Many streets organize informal neighborhood watch programs, with neighbors looking out for one another and reporting any unusual activity. The homeowners association provides regular security updates, educational programs on senior safety, and coordination with local law enforcement agencies.
Banner Baywood Medical Center, located just five minutes from Leisure World, offers comprehensive hospital services with particular expertise in serving the senior population. Banner Heart Hospital, adjacent to Baywood, provides specialized cardiac care recognized nationally for excellence in heart and vascular treatments. Numerous medical practices specializing in geriatric care, cardiology, ophthalmology, and orthopedics operate in close proximity to the community entrance. The dedicated on-site health clinic staffs nurse practitioners for convenient routine care, health monitoring, and wellness consultations within the community. Emergency response times to Leisure World are exceptional, with Mesa Fire Department stations strategically located for rapid deployment when needed. The community maintains relationships with specialized transportation services for medical appointments, ensuring residents can access healthcare even without personal vehicles.
Leisure World's expansive grounds feature beautifully maintained walking paths winding throughout the community, perfect for daily exercise amid mature landscaping. The nearby Usery Mountain Regional Park offers exceptional hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and desert wildlife viewing opportunities just minutes away. Many residents participate in organized outings to explore Arizona's spectacular natural attractions, from Sedona's red rocks to the Grand Canyon. The community's two championship golf courses provide year-round opportunities for play, with organized leagues, tournaments, and casual tee times available daily. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy fishing excursions, desert jeep tours, and botanical garden visits organized through the activities department throughout the year. The community's elevated position offers spectacular views of the Superstition Mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and social gatherings.
Leisure World maintains an exceptionally active social calendar with more than 100 clubs and interest groups spanning hobbies, sports, arts, and intellectual pursuits. The community hosts regular special events including holiday celebrations, dinner dances, theatrical performances, and concert series throughout the year. Residents can participate in volunteer opportunities both within Leisure World and the broader Mesa community through established partnership programs. The homeowners association operates with a resident-elected board of directors providing governance oversight while professional management handles daily operations. Monthly town hall meetings keep residents informed about community developments, upcoming projects, and opportunities for involvement in neighborhood initiatives. The strong community spirit fosters lasting friendships, with many residents forming close social bonds through shared activities and common interests.
Leisure World's east Mesa location delivers the characteristic Sonoran Desert climate that attracts retirees, with approximately 330 days of sunshine annually. Winter temperatures typically range from 65-75 degrees during the day, perfect for golf, tennis, and outdoor socializing during prime season. Summer brings sustained heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 100 degrees, though many residents travel during these months or enjoy air-conditioned community facilities. The community's thoughtful landscape design incorporates abundant shade trees, covered walkways, and strategic building orientation to enhance comfort throughout the year. Spring and fall deliver perfect weather with temperatures typically in the 70s and 80s, ideal for community gatherings and outdoor recreation. The minimal annual rainfall, averaging just eight inches, means few weather disruptions to daily activities or community events.
Leisure World operates under a well-established homeowners association with reasonable guidelines designed to maintain the community's exceptional aesthetic standards and property values. The community maintains age restrictions requiring at least one resident to be 55 or older, with no permanent residents under 40 years old. The homeowners association has developed comprehensive emergency preparedness plans addressing potential natural disasters, health emergencies, and other contingencies. Building regulations support aging-in-place modifications while maintaining neighborhood aesthetics, allowing residents to adapt homes for changing needs over time. The community is not located within a flood zone, with its elevation providing excellent drainage and minimal flood risk. Future planning includes strategic infrastructure updates, amenity refreshes, and technology enhancements to maintain Leisure World's competitive position in the active adult market.
While most Leisure World residents are retired, the vibrant East Valley economy creates opportunities for those seeking part-time employment or volunteer engagement. Major healthcare employers including Banner Health network operate numerous facilities near Leisure World, offering flexible positions well-suited to semi-retired residents. The community itself generates employment opportunities in management, maintenance, dining services, golf operations, and administrative support within the gates. Mesa's growing tourism and hospitality sectors provide seasonal opportunities that align well with residents seeking occasional work with flexible scheduling. Many residents utilize their professional expertise through mentoring, consulting, or teaching opportunities in the broader community. The East Valley's strong economic fundamentals contribute to property value stability, an important consideration for residents whose homes represent significant retirement assets.
Property ownership in Leisure World involves reasonable homeowners association fees ranging from approximately $175-$350 monthly depending on property type. These comprehensive fees cover the extensive amenities, security services, common area maintenance, and professional management services. Property taxes in Mesa remain moderate compared to many retiree destinations nationally, with an effective rate typically around 0.8% of assessed value. Many residents appreciate Arizona's retirement-friendly tax structure including no tax on Social Security benefits and favorable treatment of retirement income. Utility costs benefit from energy efficiency updates in many homes, with solar installations increasingly common throughout the community. The homeowners association maintains conservative financial management with healthy reserves, transparent budgeting, and strategic planning to avoid unexpected financial surprises. Insurance rates for Leisure World properties typically run lower than national averages due to excellent construction standards and limited natural disaster risk.
Leisure World falls under Mesa's municipal governance, operating under a council-manager form of government with district representation on the city council. The city provides comprehensive services including police, fire protection, parks maintenance, and various community programs with generally high resident satisfaction. Mesa maintains excellent infrastructure throughout the Leisure World area, with roads, utilities, and public spaces receiving regular maintenance and enhancement. The community enjoys efficient municipal waste management with twice-weekly trash collection, weekly recycling pickup, and quarterly bulk trash removal. The city's dedicated senior services department offers numerous programs and resources specifically designed for older residents, enhancing quality of life. Mesa's commitment to supporting its significant retiree population ensures consideration of senior needs in community planning, service delivery, and infrastructure development.