If you're considering a move to Arizona, there are many things the state has to offer beyond its landscape. With 300 days of sunshine and thriving economy, the cost of living is also reasonably low-making it appealing for young professionals, families, and retirees looking for a change.
However, trying to decide where specifically to live in Arizona can be tough due largely in part because there are so many amazing places with unique qualities. To help you out we've done some research and compiled a list of what we believe are the top places to live in Arizona as well as what makes each place great!
When relocating, there are a lot of details to think about, such as living expenses, career possibilities, schools, crime rates, entertainment options, and outdoor amenities. We're here to assist you in making the greatest decision for your requirements. Take a look at our list of Arizona's greatest places to live and why they're so great.
Scottsdale
This beautiful, affluent city is adjacent to Phoenix and the perfect place to call home if you're looking for the best of both worlds. While it's only a 20-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of the big city, Scottsdale offers a more relaxed suburban feel with plenty of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities to enjoy. The sunny weather makes it ideal for golfing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding enthusiasts-and the nightlife is pretty great too!
Mesa
Situated in the East Valley region of Arizona, Mesa is the third-largest city in the state with a population of just over 507,000 people. The cost of living here is quite reasonable compared to other large cities and the unemployment rate is relatively low. Mesa is also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the city has easy access to the Salt River and the Usery Mountain Regional Park where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Gilbert
The town of Gilbert was recently ranked as the 24th safest place to live in the U.S., which is no surprise given its low crime rates and friendly community feel. This family-oriented town is perfect for those who want a safe place to raise kids while still being able to enjoy all the amenities of a larger city-it's only a short 20-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. Gilbert also has an excellent school system and is home to many parks, trails, and recreation areas.
Tempe
If you're looking for a college town vibe, Tempe is the place for you. Home to Arizona State University, this city has a population of just over 185,000 people. The cost of living is relatively low here and there are plenty of job opportunities in the area-especially if you're looking for a position in the education field. In addition to the university, Tempe is also home to the Mill Avenue District which features many shops, restaurants, and bars. And if you love the outdoors, Tempe Town Lake is the perfect place to go for a walk or a run.
Phoenix
As the capital of Arizona and the largest city in the state, Phoenix is a great place to live for those who want access to all the amenities of a big city. The population of Phoenix is just over 1.6 million people and the cost of living is reasonably low. The city is home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that Phoenix has easy access to the Sonoran Desert where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking. Check Phoenix movers at UrMove right now and enjoy their services and rates.
Chandler
The city of Chandler is located in the southeast valley region of the Greater Phoenix area and is home to about 247,000 people. The cost of living is reasonably low here and the unemployment rate is relatively low. Chandler is also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the city has easy access to the Salt River where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Paradise Valley
This affluent suburb of Phoenix is the perfect place to call home if you're looking for a safe and peaceful community. The population of Paradise Valley is just over 12,000 people and the median household income is over $100,000. The crime rate here is very low and the schools are excellent. If you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the city has easy access to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Flagstaff
Situated at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff is a great place to live for those who love the outdoors. The population of Flagstaff is just over 72,000 people and the cost of living is reasonably low. The city is home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the city has easy access to the Coconino National Forest where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Oro Valley
The town of Oro Valley is located in the northwest region of the Tucson metropolitan area and is home to about 41,000 people. The cost of living is reasonably low here and the unemployment rate is relatively low. Oro Valley is also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the town has easy access to the Santa Catalina Mountains where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Litchfield Park
The city of Litchfield Park is located in the southwest valley region of the Greater Phoenix area and is home to about 5,000 people. The cost of living is reasonably low here and the unemployment rate is relatively low. Litchfield Park is also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the city has easy access to the White Tank Mountain Regional Park where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Cave Creek
The town of Cave Creek is located in the north-central region of the Greater Phoenix area and is home to about 5,000 people. The cost of living is reasonably low here and the unemployment rate is relatively low. Cave Creek is also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the town has easy access to the Spur Cross Conservation Area where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Queen Creek
The town of Queen Creek is located in the southeast valley region of the Greater Phoenix area and is home to about 26,000 people. The cost of living is reasonably low here and the unemployment rate is relatively low. Queen Creek is also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the town has easy access to the Sonoran Desert where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Catalina Foothills
The Catalina Foothills are located in the north-central region of the Tucson metropolitan area and are home to about 50,000 people. The cost of living is reasonably low here and the unemployment rate is relatively low. The Catalina Foothills are also home to many large businesses and corporations, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the area. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that the area has easy access to the Santa Catalina Mountains where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
There you have it: the top places to live in Arizona! If you're looking for a safe, peaceful community with great schools and plenty of job opportunities, one of these cities might be the perfect place for you. And if you love the outdoors, you'll be happy to know that each of these cities has easy access to beautiful hiking trails and parks. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the best places to live in Arizona today!