Cottonwood, Arizona , is becoming one of Northern Arizona’s most talked-about retirement towns Cottonwood, Arizona, has become one of the places people talk about when they want a quieter life, better scenery, access to medical care, local restaurants, wine country, outdoor recreation, and a true small-town feel. For many people looking at retirement in Arizona, Cottonwood offers a strong middle ground. It gives residents access to the Verde Valley, Sedona, Jerome, Clarkdale, Camp Verde, Prescott, and Flagstaff, yet it still feels relaxed and manageable. The city sits in Yavapai County, in the heart of the Verde Valley. It has a population of about 12,900 people, according to recent U.S. Census estimates. That size matters. Cottonwood is large enough to have restaurants, shopping, medical services, parks, schools, community programs, and local events, but small enough to feel personal. Many Arizona retirement towns fall into two groups. Some feel too remote. Others feel too crowd...