Community Overview
Sun City Festival is Del Webb's most recent Sun City addition in the Phoenix metro — a traditional HOA-governed 55+ community (not RCSC) in Buckeye with two on-site golf courses and a full resort amenity campus. It opened in 2007 and continues to build out, making it one of the few Sun City properties in the Phoenix area with new construction still available.
The Buckeye location is the defining tradeoff. Buyers get newer construction, two golf courses, and Del Webb quality at prices below established Sun City communities — but Buckeye is the westernmost point of the Phoenix metro, approximately 40 minutes from Sky Harbor and the urban core.
Amenities
Sun City Festival vs. Sun City Grand
| Factor | Sun City Festival | Sun City Grand |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Buckeye (far west) | Surprise (northwest) |
| Price range | $280K–$560K | $280K–$600K |
| Golf courses | 2 (HOA-included) | 4 (RCSC rec fee) |
| HOA model | Traditional HOA | RCSC non-profit |
| Ongoing golf cost | Included in HOA | ~$550/yr rec fee |
| Transfer fee | None | ~$4,000 at purchase |
| New construction | Yes — still building | No — resale only |
| PHX airport drive | ~40 min | ~35 min |
Festival wins for new construction buyers who want golf included in HOA without RCSC transfer fee. Grand wins for buyers who want four courses and the established RCSC community depth.