10 Best Cities to Live in Arizona

Ever wondered why so many people are moving to Arizona, especially Californians? You’re not alone.

Arizona is seeing a surge in newcomers, and it’s not just because of the beautiful sunsets. So, what’s the big draw?

There are plenty of reasons. Arizona offers more job opportunities, affordable housing, and great schools. People also love the excellent healthcare, fun entertainment options, and easy transportation.

The state’s diverse climate has something for everyone, from the warm deserts to the cool mountains. Arizona has it all – stunning landscapes, like the Grand Canyon and Sedona’s red rocks, vibrant cities, plenty of career opportunities and much more!

If you’re someone looking to move any time soon – bookmark this list of best cities to live in Arizona! You will most definitely need it.

Scottsdale ranks as one of the best places to live in Arizona. Scottsdale is well known for its upscale living, luxury spas, and renowned golf courses like TPC Scottsdale, which hosts the Phoenix Open, Scottsdale.

However, this comes at a price. Housing and rental costs are nearly double those of Phoenix, and the overall cost of living is 13% higher than the national average.

Scottsdale consistently earns high marks as one of the top cities to live in America, thanks to its stunning, warm weather all year round, abundant job opportunities, exciting attractions, and excellent walkability. According to Niche, it ranks 25th among the best cities to live in the U.S. and holds the same position for being one of the healthiest cities.

Second on our list of best cities to live in Arizona is Tucson! Home to the University of Arizona, it offers a vibrant college town atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the city’s rich cultural heritage. Tucson is also the second biggest city in Arizona, making it a hotspot for a lot of businesses!

Tucson is known for its beautiful desert scenery, with Saguaro National Park nearby offering plenty of hiking and outdoor fun. The city also has a great food scene, with everything from traditional Mexican food to fresh farm-to-table options.

Tucson offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs to art lovers. The city enjoys a warm, sunny climate year-round, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities in its many national parks. Additionally, Tucson is home to world-class museums and attractions that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.

Mesa ranks as the third-best place to live in Arizona. Located just east of Tempe in the East Valley, Mesa boasts a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, history, and arts. The Mesa Arts Center is a highlight, offering a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year. Along the Salt River, the Mesa Grande Cultural Park features the Mesa Grande mound, a significant Hohokam structure built nearly 1,000 years ago.

Mesa shares a similar climate with other Phoenix suburbs: hot and occasionally rainy summers, beautiful fall and spring seasons, and mild winters. The city is ideal for outdoor activities, especially in the cooler months or early mornings during summer. Popular spots include Usery Mountain Regional Park, along with numerous tennis courts, golf courses, tracks, and trails that locals frequently enjoy.

Fourth on our list of best cities to live in Arizona is Chandler. Situated in the southeastern part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Chandler offers a blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Known for its family-friendly environment, the city boasts excellent schools, extensive parks, and a vibrant downtown with a range of dining and entertainment options.

Chandler’s special appeal lies in its strong economy and high quality of life. The city is home to a growing number of tech companies and major employers, including Intel and PayPal, making it a hub for technology and innovation. This economic growth attracts young professionals and tech-savvy individuals seeking career opportunities and a modern lifestyle.

Additionally, Chandler’s well-planned communities and excellent public services make it popular among families and retirees looking for a comfortable and safe place to live. With its mix of economic opportunities, recreational amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Chandler stands out as a desirable place to call home in Arizona.

Fifth on our list of the best cities to live in Arizona is Gilbert, located just east of Chandler. Gilbert is known for its lively Heritage District, the city’s central area filled with popular restaurants, bars, and local shops like Culinary Dropout, Liberty Market, and Snooze.

Gilbert also offers plenty of parks, such as Freestone District Park and the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, perfect for outdoor fun.

Although Gilbert is a bit more expensive than nearby Chandler and Mesa, with home prices rising 36% since March 2020, it’s still a great place to live. The city’s neighborhoods are well-planned on a grid, which helps create a friendly community feel. Commuting into Phoenix might take a bit longer, but Gilbert’s vibrant downtown and green spaces make it a great choice for families and professionals looking for a high quality of life.

Sixth on our list of the best cities to live in Arizona is Peoria, located in the northwest part of the Phoenix metro area. Peoria combines the calm of suburban living with easy access to the amenities of a larger city.

Peoria is known for its well-planned communities, the city features excellent schools and a variety of parks, including the popular Lake Pleasant, which offers boating, fishing, and outdoor adventures.

Peoria’s family-friendly atmosphere is complemented by its proximity to Glendale, where residents can enjoy major sports and entertainment venues like State Farm Stadium and Gila River Arena. The city has experienced steady growth, attracting families and professionals who appreciate its balanced lifestyle.

The Peoria Sports Complex and Challenger Space Center are standout features of the area, while events like the Peoria Arts & Cultural Festival highlight local talent and creativity. With 36 neighborhood parks and 60 miles of trails throughout the city, there are plenty of spots for residents to connect with friends and enjoy the outdoors.

However, like many cities in the region, Peoria faces challenges such as extreme heat, drought, and potential flooding during the summer monsoon season.

Seventh on our list of best cities to live in Arizona is Tempe. Located just between Phoenix and the East Valley, Tempe benefits from its proximity to the vibrant downtown area of Phoenix and the tranquil surroundings of the East Valley.

Tempe is home to Arizona State University’s main campus, which is also the biggest employer in Tempe.

The city has a lively, urban vibe, especially in the northern part, which features dense development and is well-served by the Valley Metro Line. To the south, the city shifts to a more relaxed, suburban character with single-family homes, strip malls, and lower-density office parks. This mix of urban and suburban areas makes Tempe a dynamic and appealing place to live for a wide range of residents.

Flagstaff, Arizona, stands out with its four distinct seasons and stunning natural beauty. Located in Northern Arizona’s ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff enjoys mild summer temperatures averaging in the low 80s and crisp, cool breezes. The city is renowned for its excellent stargazing opportunities, being the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Winter activities abound with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

Despite its charm, Flagstaff’s real estate market is competitive, with homes typically selling within nine days and a median home value of $626,052. Its scenic beauty and recreational options make it a unique and desirable place to live.

Phoenix, the capital of Arizona and a major hub of the Southwest, is second to last on our list of the best places to live in Arizona. With a population of 1,664,409, Phoenix offers a wealth of amenities and attractions.

The city is home to nearly 200 golf courses, including the renowned Stadium Course, and boasts 186 parks and 200 miles of trails. South Mountain Park and Preserve is a top spot for outdoor recreation, while Encanto Island Amusement Park provides entertainment for all ages.

Like many large metropolitan areas, it does have its drawbacks, particularly related to crime rates in some neighborhoods.

Paradise Valley, an exclusive town nestled between Scottsdale and Phoenix, is renowned for its luxury and high-end real estate. With a population of around 20,000, it offers stunning mountain views and upscale amenities, including resorts like the Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North.

Known for its prestigious addresses, the town features high median home prices and a low crime rate. Paradise Valley boasts exceptional schools and a peaceful atmosphere, providing residents with a tranquil lifestyle. Despite its small size, it offers easy access to the vibrant cultural and recreational opportunities in nearby Scottsdale and Phoenix.