Who says you need Hollywood to live the true American dream? Arizona could be your La La Land—minus the overpriced coffee and parking nightmares! Ranked 4th best in economic growth, and a million new residents expected by 2029, the word is already out.
Phoenix is booming, Tucson is quirky, and the #1-ranked Arizona State University makes it even more tempting to move here. No matter your vibe, Arizona has options for you. Let’s explore the Best Places to Live in Arizona and find your perfect fit!
Where are the Best Places to Live in Arizona?
| # City | *Weighted Average Scores | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Community Wellbeing | Crime Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Gilbert | 65.3 | $610K | $115K | 7.5% ⬇️ | 62 | 43 |
| 2. Buckeye | 56.8 | $409K | $94K | 6.6% ⬇️ | 62 | 39 |
| 3. Paradise Valley | 54.7 | $3.6M | $221K | 7.7% ⬇️ | 62 | 31 |
| 4. Peoria | 54.2 | $525K | $86K | 7.5% ⬇️ | 62 | 30 |
| 5. Chandler | 52.6 | $515K | $99K | 7.5% ⬇️ | 62 | 22 |
| 6. Scottsdale | 50.1 | $860K | $104K | 7.5% ⬇️ | 62 | 19 |
| 7. Mesa | 46.7 | $461K | $73K | 7.5% ⬇️ | 62 | 18 |
| 8. Phoenix | 45.9 | $450K | $72K | 7.7% ⬇️ | 62 | 6 |
| 9. Prescott | 43.7 | $565K | $66K | 16.1% ⬇️ | 51 | 27 |
| 10. Tucson | 35.1 | $340K | $52K | 2.10% ⬆️ | 57 | 5 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
To simplify your search in the Arizona housing market, we’ve sorted the top 10 cities into four categories: for young adults, families, retirees, and with the best weather. Each city is evaluated based on career opportunities, affordability, community wellbeing, and lifestyle.
3 Best Places to Live in Arizona for Young Adults 💼
1. Chandler
- Median House Price: $515K
- Cost of Living: 7.5% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 22% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 3.6%
- Walkability Score: 91; walker’s paradise.
Chandler, Arizona, aka the ‘High-Tech Oasis of the Silicon Desert’. This city isn’t just a sun-soaked paradise; it’s a hub for innovation. And if you’re a baseball fan, you’re in for a treat—Chandler is home to the legendary Cactus League spring training sessions.
With 12% of its workforce in manufacturing and a low unemployment rate, opportunity is everywhere. And did we mention the 200+ annual events? If you’re into music, and food, or just love a good street festival, this city will keep your life exciting.
» Chandler Homes for Sale: Explore homes in the best place to live in Arizona for young adults.
2. Scottsdale
- Median House Price: $860K
- Cost of Living: 7.5% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 19% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 3.5%
- Walkability Score: 81; very walkable.
The city has plenty of art galleries, a weekly ArtWalk, and enough creativity to make your Instagram feed look like a museum exhibit. Additionally, the city is a haven for golf lovers and hosts the WM Phoenix Open where even non-golfers show up for the party.
With 14% of its workforce in healthcare, plus booming professional services and retail sectors, this city means business. If you’re a go-getter looking for both work and play, Scottsdale is the place to be!
» Scottsdale Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best places to live in Arizona for young adults.
3. Phoenix
- Median House Price: $450K
- Cost of Living: 7.7% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 6% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 5.2%
- Walkability Score: 41; it’s a car-dependent city.
Phoenix isn’t just hot—it’s on fire! From the Phoenix Suns lighting up the court to the annual WM Phoenix Open, this city’s got all the action you need. Additionally, with Arizona State University just around the corner, this city knows how to cater to the ambitious.
Phoenix isn’t just a desert playground, it’s the dream city for young adults. Healthcare, retail, and hospitality are the largest with over 41% of the jobs. Combined with a solid education system, it is one of the best places to live in Arizona for young adults.
» Phoenix Homes for Sale: Search for homes in one of the best cities to live in Arizona.
3 Best Places to Live in Arizona for Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Gilbert
- Median House Price: $610K
- Cost of Living: 7.50% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 43% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 3.50%
- Walkability Score: 29; it’s a car-dependent city.
With 135 miles of winding paths, Gilbert is a nature lover’s paradise. Get ready to embrace bird-watching, fishing, and hiking in every corner. And when you’re done soaking up the sun, head over to AZ Ice Gilbert for a cool escape on the rink.
Gilbert is more than just a pretty face. Families flock here for the unbeatable combo of low cost of living and a respectable crime score. Plus, The annual “Off the Street” Art Festival is a cherry on top, bringing art, music, and food together.
» Gilbert Homes for Sale: Look for properties in one of the best places to raise a family in Arizona.
2. Peoria
- Median House Price: $525K
- Cost of Living: 7.5% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 30% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 3.9%
- Walkability Score: 30; it’s a car-dependent city.
Peoria offers the best of both worlds, a laid-back suburban life with a touch of excitement! Enjoy a live performance at Arizona Broadway Theatre or cast a line in Lake Pleasant. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a peace lover, Peoria never disappoints.
Additionally, BASIS Peoria ranks #1 among the best public schools in the US. Healthcare is the largest sector with 14.4% of jobs. The low crime rate and quality of school education make the city ideal for single families.
» Peoria Homes for Sale: Search for homes in one of the best places to live in Arizona with a family.
3. Buckeye
- Median House Price: $408K
- Cost of Living: 6.6% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 39% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 5%
- Walkability Score: 11; it’s a car-dependent city.
Buckeye offers a peaceful retreat for your family, far from the city noise! With over 8,700 acres of mountain preserves, you’ll have endless trails to hike, camp, and explore. Plus, the nearby Buckeye Aquatic Center is perfect for hot Arizona summers.
The town is the poster child for family life in Arizona. Additionally, over 16% of residents work in retail, while healthcare and education are other major sectors. Buckeye’s affordable housing and safe environment make it best for families.
» Buckeye Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best places to live in Arizona for families.
2 Best Places to Retire in Arizona 🏖️
1. Paradise Valley
- Median House Price: $3.6M
- Cost of Living: 7.7% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 31% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 2.5%
- Walkability Score: 10; it’s a car-dependent city.
Also known as the ‘Beverly Hills of Arizona’, Paradise Valley is surrounded by the majestic Camelback Mountain and endless desert views. Enjoy hiking in the morning, play a round of golf in the afternoon, or explore one of the several fine dining options downtown.
Additionally, downtown is well-known for its luxury spa treatments. Despite its expensive housing, it is one of the best towns to live in Arizona for retirees. This is due to its community-oriented, safe neighborhoods.
» Paradise Valley Homes for Sale: Look for properties in one of the best cities in Arizona to retire.
2. Mesa
- Median House Price: $461K
- Cost of Living: 7.5% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 18% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 4.7%
- Walkability Score: 53; somewhat walkable.
If you want to trade in the rat race for some peace, this suburb of Phoenix is your answer. Between the serene Usery Mountain trails and Salt and Verde Rivers, you’ll find all the relaxation you need. And don’t forget the MLB spring training, where you cheer like a local.
Additionally, the city hosts numerous annual events, including the Mesa Music Festival and the Arizona Renaissance Festival. With its affordable living, scenic landscapes, and a variety of activities to keep you busy, Mesa is one of the best towns in Arizona for retirees.
» Mesa Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best areas to live in Arizona for retirees.
2 Cities With the Best Weather in Arizona
1. Tucson
- Median House Price: $340K
- Cost of Living: 2.1% ⬆️than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 5% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 6.50%
- Walkability Score: 43; it’s a car-dependent city.
Also known as the ‘Old Pueblo’ (people’s town) in Spanish, Tucson has a southwestern vibe. Take a hike through Sabino Canyon, enjoy a live show at the Fox Theatre, or just kick back and enjoy. Additionally, the sunsets here are legendary, and the views are a tourist attraction.
With a climate that lets you skip snow shoveling in winter while keeping you comfortable in the desert heat, it’s perfect for outdoor lovers. Tucson’s rich Hispanic culture, good climate, and southwestern vibe make it one of the best areas to live in Arizona for weather.
» Tucson Homes for Sale: Explore the cities with the best weather in Arizona.
2. Prescott
- Median House Price: $565K
- Cost of Living: 16.1% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 27% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 5.2%
- Walkability Score: 90; walker’s paradise.
Nestled in the Ponderosa Pines with 5 sparkling lakes, 450+ miles of scenic trails, and 15+ parks, Prescott is the place to be for nature lovers. Whether you’re into active adventures or just want to stroll through a local farmers’ market, Prescott is a perfect escape from the chaos.
With its mile-high elevation, Prescott offers a moderate climate. Summers in the 60s to 80s °F are ideal for outdoor fun, while winters in the 20s to 50s °F make for the perfect cozy atmosphere. Plus, the light snowfall is like a cherry on the cake.
» Prescott Homes for Sale: Find homes in the towns with the best weather in Arizona.
Mortgage Pre-Approval: Your First Step to Buy a Home 🏡
Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the home-buying process by giving you a clear picture of your budget and borrowing capacity. Additionally, the sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you’re pre-approved since it shows you’re a serious buyer.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.5%, there is an increase in home-buying demand in Arizona. So, don’t wait. Get a mortgage pre-approval today and avoid bidding wars!
Is Arizona a Good Place to Live for You?
Arizona is the best place to live in the US due to its thriving job market and great climate. Other things that contribute are its low crime rate and excellent city life. However, the cost of living in Arizona is 10% higher than the U.S. Average.
If you seek career growth, affordable living, outdoor adventure, and year-round sunshine, Arizona is the place for you. With a strong economy, diverse cities, and an active lifestyle, moving to Arizona could be one of the best decisions you make.
Research Methodology for the Best Places to Live in Arizona
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best places to live in the Grand Canyon State:
- Redfin[1]: Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Population, Median Income, Expenses, Unemployment Rate
- Salary.com[3]: Cost of Living
- Sharecare[4]: Community Well-Being
- Neighborhoodscout[5]: Crime Index Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: population (10%), home price (20%), income (20%), expenses (15%), unemployment (15%), cost of living (10%), crime index (5%), and well-being (5%).
Additionally, we have listed the best cities to live in Arizona for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
