Whether you’re new to Arizona or a current resident deciding to make a fresh start in a new city, planning a move starts with choosing the perfect location. To help you weed through all the data, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to live in Arizona.
If visiting a natural wonder like the Grand Canyon is on your bucket list, set your sights no further than the state of Arizona. You’ll be able to soak up exquisite sunsets, visit wineries, enjoy endless outdoor activities and more. Plus, its easy enough to take side trips to California, Lake Mead, Mexico and Las Vegas.
Desert beauty aside, Arizona has done a lot in recent years to make the most of its dry climate and abundance of sunshine.
It’s pushed for clean energy and solar power. As a result, homeowners who choose the sustainable route may be eligible for tax rebates.
Where is the best place in Arizona to live?
Whether you’re new to Arizona or a current resident deciding to make a fresh start in a new city, planning a move starts with choosing the perfect location. To help you weed through all the data, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to live in Arizona. You’ll want to think about whether you prefer a big city or suburb and any other factors that tip the scale for you.
1. Phoenix, Arizona
A thriving city with natural vistas, Phoenix Arizona is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. The Valley of the Sun is home to start-ups, entrepreneurs, and Fortune 500 companies alike, such as Avent and ON Semiconductor. Aside from dry heat and authentic Mexican food, Phoenix has great terrain for hiking, mountain biking, cycling, fishing, rock climbing, tubing, golf and horseback riding. Its also reputed to have light traffic and an affordable light rail.
Top on Niche’s list for families are Gilbert, Chandler, and Atwatukee Foothills. For millennials, Camelback East and Encanto score high rankings.
Median home value (Census 2017) $197,800.
2. Tempe, Arizona
If you’re inclined to rent, and prefer the suburbs and need nightlife, Tempe might be the right city for you. Smaller than Phoenix, the recent population count here is more like 185,000 give or take. Here you’ll find a mostly young professional vibe which brings restaurants, cafes, shopping, concerts, and lots of beautiful geology.
Public schools are also really good.
Homesnacks likes neighborhoods such as Broadmor, Alta Mira, and McClintock. Digging deeper though, Tempe may not be among the safest places in Arizona so check on crime data to see whats what.
Median home value (Census 2017) $237,200.
3. Prescott, Arizona
Prescott takes desert living to new heights. Because its so close to the Prescott National Forest, Prescott has more flux in temperatures. Here you’ll have to limit your use of electricity at night, which means clearer views for astronomy enthusiasts. There are also several lakes nearby (Lynx, Willow, Watson, and Goldwater) which adds value if you love the outdoors.It has a small population for the state (42,731) and you’ll get a taste of the Old West on famous, Whiskey Row.
Median home value (Census 2017) 1,600.
4. Mesa, Arizona
If you’re in the market for a new townhouse, single-family home or lot that you can develop, you might look into Mesa. It has an interesting personality between the Mesa Grande ruins, an annual chicken wing festival, and several cultural attractions like the Commemorative Air Force Museum. You can also find hiking trails, go tubing, play golf, and pick oranges in season.For the middle-class suburban feel, with amenities that go with a population of 496,401, Mesa ranks as one of the best cities to buy a house in the U.S.
Median home value (Census 2017) $197,800
5. Scottsdale, Arizona
According to Niche, Scottsdale is one of the larger cities in Arizona (population 249,950) and often pops up as the best place to retire. It would be accurate to say there are sprawling adobe roofed mansions, luxury golf courses, and excellent spas here. What you may not know is Scottsdale still attracts young professionals and those who want good public schools for their children (Old Town Scottsdale, Arcadia). Its also one of the safest cities in the state. You’ll stay healthy through weekend hikes at the Sonoran Preserve or shopping for organic produce at a local family farm. Also a great place for that hot-air balloon ride you’ve always wanted.
Median home value (Census 2017) $433,500
