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Phoenix, Arizona, is known across the country for its year-round warm temperatures and unmatchable desert views of orange, red, and yellow sunset skies. The Phoenix metro area, otherwise known as the Valley of the Sun, is home to some of the United States’ best suburbs.
When you buy a home for sale in Phoenix, you automatically gain access to everything the other suburbs in the Valley offer. Similarly, if you buy a home in one of these top 5 best suburbs of Phoenix, you’ll get to take advantage of Phoenix’s incredible amenities while having the more peaceful experience of living in the suburbs.
17 Best Phoenix Suburbs
As the largest city in Arizona, Phoenix is an attractive destination for those moving from out of state. In fact, Phoenix was the second-fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country.
With its urban parks, great schools, and strong economic growth, it’s easy to see why Phoenix is attracting so many new residents.
However, finding the right Phoenix suburb can be challenging if you’re not familiar with the area. Keep reading to discover what’s the right Phoenix community for your needs.
Queen Creek
Population: 66,000
Median Income: $44,000
Median Home Value: $573K
Located southeast of the Phoenix area, Queen Creek is emerging as a popular destination to purchase Arizona homes for sale among families and young professionals thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere and low crime rate.
Despite this growth, Queen Creek has managed to maintain a small-town feel and sense of community. There are numerous parks and open spaces, making it easy to take advantage of the beautiful Arizona weather.
Residents get to enjoy stunning views of the San Tan Mountains while living 30 miles away from central Phoenix. There are plenty of options for outdoor recreation, and the local cowboy and agricultural culture are a plus.
One thing that really stands out about this town is the Queen Creek real estate market. You can find some incredible properties here, from spacious single-family homes to modern townhouses. The area has been experiencing a bit of a boom in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. With so many great homes on the market, it’s the perfect time to start your search.
Gilbert
Population: 273,000
Median Income: $44,000
Median Home Value: $587K
Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, just 30 minutes from the heart of Phoenix, Gilbert is the fifth-largest city in Arizona. Population growth figures reveal that the city has grown by more than 700% over the past 20 years.
One of the best suburbs of Phoenix for families, the Gilbert Unified School District has 11 A+ rated schools in the area, including Gilbert Elementary and Desert Hills High School. In addition, Gilbert is safer than 87% of Arizona cities, giving families peace of mind in their new home.
There’s also a strong job market in Gilbert that attracts young professionals with opportunities in sectors like science, tech, and engineering. Commuters also love how quickly they can get to Downtown Phoenix via US Highway 60 and Interstate 10.
Gilbert real estate for sale lists for a median price of $587K, with most of the housing stock consisting of single-family homes and Gilbert townhomes for sale with listing prices at a median of $427K.
Fountain Hills
Population: 25,000
Median Income: $90,000
Median Home Value: $606K
Living outside of the city limits has its perks if you’re looking for a quiet American community. With the U.S. Census Bureau reporting 25,000 residents, Fountain Hills has the feel of a small town with well-maintained trails, grocery stores, and an excellent school ranking.
Fountain Hills is within 30 to 40 miles of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, and residents can easily access Mesa and Scottsdale thanks to the North Beeline Highway and Pima Freeway.
The Salt River Pima Native American community is not far, and this Maricopa County community is home to an impressive network of trails that will take you through the McDowell Mountains, Sunridge Canyon, and Golden Eagle Park.
Plus, the real estate in Fountain Hills is incredibly diverse and there’s something to fit every lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re looking for a cozy townhome, a sprawling ranch, or a luxury estate, you’re sure to find it here. And with the stunning mountain views and year-round warm temperatures, you’ll be thanking yourself for making the move to Phoenix.
Scottsdale
Population: 242,000
Median Income: $49,000
Median Home Value: $810K
Scottsdale is in Maricopa County about a 20-minute drive from the center of Phoenix and is the fifth-largest city in Arizona by population. There’s no question why Scottsdale real estate has experienced such immense growth, as it offers a diverse housing stock, an even mix of parks and urban amenities, and a close commute to Phoenix.
Families consider Scottsdale one of Phoenix’s best suburbs because it’s home to some of Arizona’s best public and private schools, including BASIS Scottsdale High School and Primary School and Great Hearts Academy. Something that appeals to both families and other residents in Old Town Scottsdale, which holds a ton of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and recreation opportunities.
Looking to get out into the wild? Pinnacle Peak Park is an excellent spot to spend the day hiking, picnicking, or simply taking in the view. To the north, you’ll find the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, one of the largest urban wilderness areas in the country with miles of hiking trails. The stunning views on Camelback Mountain will quickly turn hiking into a favorite activity.
The median sale price for real estate as a whole in Scottsdale is $810K, but the median cost for single-family homes for sale is closer to the $1M mark. For more affordability, Scottsdale townhomes list for a median price of $660K and condos for sale list at a median of $417K.
Cave Creek
Population: 5,000
Median Income: $31,000
Median Home Value: $919K
Situated north of the Phoenix area, within Maricopa County, Cave Creek is a unique community where the desert climate meets the atmosphere of a small rustic town.
Living in Cave Creek, AZ, you’ll quickly realize that this community is like no other in the Valley of the Sun. With a population of just over 5,000 residents, Cave Creek has managed to maintain its small-town charm while still offering all the amenities you need.
With its historical buildings and restaurants, it’s easy to see why Cave Creek attracts tourists. Residents also enjoy all the amenities of a big city with live music and other events. The Cave Creek real estate market has a median cost of $919K, offering plenty of expensive homes (in the multi-millions), but also an exceptional quality of life.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also love life in Cave Creek with the nearby Jewel of the Creek Preserve and Cave Creek Regional Park. Hiking and horseback riding are go-to activities in Cave Creek for getting away from the busier urban cores.
Chandler
Population: 279,000
Median Income: $42,000
Median Home Value: $535K
Chandler is a bright and artistic suburb of Phoenix, bringing in several young professionals that want to live in a place as quirky as they are. Just 24 miles from Downtown Phoenix, Chandler real estate is surrounded by stunning views of red clay hills and valleys but offers plenty of urban amenities. Downtown Chandler is where most of the action happens, with several museums, urban parks, coffee shops owned by locals, and top-rated Arizona breweries ready for residents to explore.
With some of the best schools in Maricopa County and Arizona, Chandler is attracting many families looking for a safe and welcoming place to live. It’s also one of the best suburbs in the Phoenix area for pet owners, with its many dog parks.
Millennials and young couples are also drawn to Chandler because they don’t have to go far to find cool places to go with friends and loved ones. If you prefer outdoor adventures, Chandler has a number of hiking trails that overlook the Sedona Valley. If you prefer to stay indoors, local eateries and artisan shops offer a plethora of things to discover and try.
Accessing downtown Phoenix is quick and easy, thanks to the Maricopa Freeway, and Gilbert is only a few miles away. You’ll also be near Pinal County. One of the best things about Chandler is its diverse housing market. You’ll find plenty of new single-family homes, townhomes, and condos for sale in Chandler, with a median real estate price of $535K.
Peoria
Population: 194,000
Median Income: $37,000
Median Home Value: $467K
Peoria is a small suburb located between Glendale and Sun City to the northwest of Phoenix. Thanks to its quality public schools and active healthcare and manufacturing sectors, Peoria real estate has been attracting a steady flow of young professionals.
Peoria is an ideal choice if you enjoy boating and fishing, thanks to the nearby Lake Pleasant Regional Park. You’ll also be within 15 miles of downtown Phoenix and everything the city has to offer.
But what really sets the city apart is the real estate market. In Peoria, you’ll find everything from affordable condos, townhouses, and starter Peoria homes for sale to grand luxury estates, meaning there’s something for everyone and every budget. With its strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no surprise that Peoria has become a top choice for those seeking a place to call home in Arizona.
Paradise Valley
Population: 12,600
Median Income: $139,524
Median Home Value: $3.5M
This luxurious Phoenix suburb is complete with Sonoran Desert views, excellent schools, and a peaceful atmosphere. Paradise Valley is a Maricopa County city located just 25 minutes from the center of Phoenix and living there feels exactly as the name implies: like paradise. With the most high-value real estate and some of the most upscale amenities in the Phoenix metro area, Paradise Valley will enchant visitors and residents alike.
Paradise Valley is one of the best suburbs in Phoenix for mature families and those who dream of living in luxury. The Joya Spa, top-rated restaurant Lon’s at the Hermosa, and Camelback Golf Club are among some of the most-visited amenities in the area.
Paradise Valley has a mild population of just under 15,000 and the median household income is $139,524. Families love that Paradise Valley isn’t only a relaxing environment, but they also love that it is in a central location to fun activities, great schools, and highly-ranked entertainment.
Paradise Valley real estate primarily consists of single-family homes, many of them within the luxury market and with stunning views. While the median price for real estate here is $3.5M, homes for sale in Paradise Valley can range from $2M all the way up to $30M.
Paradise Valley also has a few condos for sale and townhomes peppered around the city, with condos averaging around $400K and townhomes listing for a median of $730K.
Goodyear
Population: 101,000
Median Income: $37,000
Median Home Value: $466K
Situated directly west of the Phoenix area, between the Phoenix Goodyear Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and the Phoenix Regional Airport, Goodyear is home to several airlines for passenger flights. With the international airport being the busiest passenger facility in the area, it’s no surprise that this community is home to many professionals in the travel industry.
It’s also an excellent place for hiking and other outdoor activities with Citrus Park, White Tank Mountain, and Sierra Estrella. Goodyear has the feel of a classic American suburb with good schools and a welcoming community.
If you’re considering moving to this area, it’s worth noting that the real estate in Goodyear is booming, with a variety of options to suit your taste and budget. You might choose to live in a family-friendly suburban neighborhood or opt for the convenience of a high-rise apartment complex.
Mesa
Population: 509,00
Median Income: $31,000
Median Home Value: $414K
Surrounded by Phoenix on one side and Apache Junction on the other, Mesa is a bustling suburb with a few quiet pockets. Nestled about 20 miles outside of Phoenix, in Maricopa County, Mesa is Arizona’s third-largest city. With an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities, an artistic downtown culture, and great public transportation, it’s clear why so many Arizonians call Mesa home.
Central Mesa is a vibrant community with the Mesa Arts Center, the Arizona Museum of Natural History, and the Nile Theater. The Mesa Gateway Airport is a major employer for the area, but there is also constant growth in the automotive, telecommunication, and education fields.
Getting around is easy, thanks to the Valley Metro Rail. This rail project connects Mesa to Tempe and Phoenix, while Superstition Freeway is a convenient way to access the Phoenix Metro Area and Arizona State University.
In Mesa, you’ll find single-story Spanish bungalows and mid-century modern homes, perfect for those who desire the accessibility of a one-story home. While there are a wide array of single-family homes for sale in Mesa for a median price of $495K, you’ll also find plenty of condos and townhomes for sale throughout Mesa. Condos for sale in Mesa list for a median price of $290K and the median price for townhomes in Mesa is $335K.
Litchfield Park
Population: 6,900
Median Income: $42,000
Median Home Value: $519K
With the nearby Luke Air Force Base, Litchfield Park is in Maricopa County and boasts a small and welcoming community of military families. It also attracts families with children thanks to its excellent schools and safe atmosphere.
As a Litchfield Park resident, you’ll have access to the Wigwam Golf Club and White Tanks Regional Park for leisure, and you’ll live 20 miles west of Phoenix.
Real estate in Litchfield Park, AZ includes a variety of options from cozy bungalows to grand estates, all nestled among lush green landscaping. But it’s not just the homes that make this community special; Litchfield Park is home to a variety of special events and activities, including the famous Litchfield Park Native American Arts Festival.
Tempe
Population: 184,000
Median Income: $32,000
Median Home Value: $450K
Living in Tempe, AZ offers a unique combination of urban excitement and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant downtown scene, Tempe is home to Arizona State University, which brings a youthful energy to the city. But beyond the bustling Mill Avenue, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
The South Mountain Park and Preserve and its 50 miles of trails will become your new backyard, while the local light rail system will help you reach Phoenix and Mesa in minutes.
You can also follow Mill Avenue to take a stroll through the Desert Botanical Gardens or use Washington Street or Price Freeway to get to Phoenix. The Tempe Town Lake is another popular area for enjoying the outdoors.
Tempe, a city in Maricopa County, feels diverse with its mix of families, college students, and retirees. It’s a friendly community, and there is always something to do between the outdoor reaction options and the many event venues. If you’re looking to buy, Tempe real estate offers a diverse range of options, from stylish condos to spacious single-family homes with a median listing price of $450K.
Carefree
Population: 3,600
Median Income: $39,000
Median Home Value: $1.1M
If you’re considering moving to a place that brings serene living and quality real estate to the forefront, look no further than Carefree, AZ. Living in this quaint desert suburb offers plenty of opportunities to embrace the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and being part of a tight-knit community.
Nestled among golf courses, Carefree is in the northeast portion of the Phoenix area with some gorgeous landscapes. It has the feel of a sparse suburban area, and you’ll find that a majority of residents are retirees, even though there are a few families. The Carefree downtown area is fun to explore between its restaurants, grocery stores, and luxury spas.
The real estate in Carefree, AZ offers a variety of properties, ranging from upscale villas to desert bungalows. You can also customize your home to blend in with the desert surroundings or make it stand out from the crowd – the choice is yours.
Ahwatukee
Population: 83,000
Median Income: $49,000
Median Home Value: $420K
Ahwatukee is a small urban village in the East Valley Region. The proximity of the South Mountain Park and Preserve makes this community popular among nature lovers.
It’s one of the best Phoenix suburbs with one of the lowest crime rates in the state. It has the feel of a small urban village with restaurants, malls, gardens, and more.
But the real draw of Ahwatukee goes beyond the housing market. With easy access to hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and parks, residents here can enjoy an active lifestyle year-round.
And when it’s time to unwind, there are plenty of local restaurants and entertainment venues to choose from as well. There’s really no place quite like Ahwatukee, and once you experience everything it has to offer, you’ll understand why it’s such a sought-after place to call home.
Glendale
Population: 249,000
Median Income: $29,000
Median Home Value: $388K
If you’re looking to settle down in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Glendale is a great place to consider. Situated just northwest of the city of Phoenix, Glendale offers all the amenities of an urban area with a small-town feel.
The city has experienced rapid growth in recent years, making it an economical yet comfortable place to settle. The fast-paced growth has led to the offering of diverse employment opportunities in this suburb. Some of the top industries here are aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and more.
Data from the United States Census Bureau shows that Glendale is home to a mix of young couples and families.
Following Camelback Road, Central Avenue, and other major north-south arterial roads like Black Canyon Freeway makes Phoenix easy to reach, and you can take South Mountain Freeway to commute to go around the Phoenix metropolitan area to the southwest suburbs.
The Glendale real estate market is diverse, with options ranging from high-end homes in Arrowhead Ranch to more affordable options in the historic downtown area.
Anthem
Population: 23,000
Median Income: $44,000
Median Home Value: $550K
Anthem is an excellent place to live if you want to remain within driving distance of the Phoenix area while raising a family in a small community. Anthem real estate is just north of Phoenix and Glendale, offering a peaceful suburban lifestyle that isn’t too far from all the excitement of the big city.
This town is a master-planned community that is ideal for pedestrians, and you’ll find plenty of single-family homes with appealing amenities. There aren’t many local job opportunities, but there is a good public school system and commuting is easy via Arizona Veterans Highway.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home, the Anthem real estate market has plenty of options to suit any taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a starter condo or a sprawling estate, the real estate market here has something for everyone.
Surprise
Population: 149,000
Median Income: $34,000
Median Home Value: $420K
Surprise is a sprawling city in Maricopa County and a desirable suburb in the Phoenix area with breathtaking sunsets and a friendly community. It is situated just northwest of Glendale, adjacent to the Agua Fria River and the golf community of Sun City West. .
Surprise a small city surrounded by the desert, where you’ll find amenities like the Surprise Spring Training, bowling alley, some great public schools, and many parks. Plus, its proximity to major highways and Phoenix amenities and landmarks makes it an ideal location for anyone looking to explore all that central Arizona has to offer.
The real estate in Surprise, AZ is both affordable and worth your money. The area is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and scenic vistas. You can find lovely properties that are perfect for individuals and families alike.
Surprise, AZ is also a peaceful community with low crime rates and friendly neighbors. If you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle with a touch of luxury, then this city might just be the place for you.
FAQs: Phoenix Suburbs
Read on to learn more about picking the right Phoenix suburb for you and your family.
Which is the safest suburb in Phoenix?
As the second largest city in Arizona, Phoenix has a few areas with higher crime rates. The suburbs are generally safer than the city, with Gilbert and Paradise Valley standing out as some of the safest suburbs.
Does Phoenix have good public transport?
There is a light rail system connecting Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. Phoenix also has an excellent bus transit system.
What are things to do in Phoenix?
With 300 days of sunshine in a year, it’s no surprise that residents refer to the region as the Valley of the Sun. Popular activities revolve around outdoor recreation and include hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and sightseeing in the desert.
What’s the most walkable city in Phoenix?
Tempe stands out as one of the most walkable suburbs of Phoenix, but Mesa and Scottsdale are also pedestrian-friendly.
What are the pros and cons of moving to Phoenix?
Unfortunately, having 300 days of sunshine a year means temperatures can climb. The combination of the average afternoon summer temperature of 103°F and the dry weather can make the desert climate uncomfortable. However, there are many benefits to moving to Phoenix:
- The median sale price can be high in some suburbs, but many affordable homes are available.
- There are many east-west and north-south numbered roads to navigate the area. Everything feels accessible.
- Income and sales tax rates are slightly lower than national rates.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for sunny weather, plenty of outdoor activities and close proximity to all the amenities you could need, one of these Phoenix suburbs would be perfect for you. Looking for warmth a little closer to the beach? Check out the 7 best suburbs of Miami to discover if coastal living is more your forte.
Consider working with a local real estate agent if you’re not familiar with the area. They will be able to answer your questions about the different suburbs and help you pick the right area based on the lifestyle you want.
But first, make sure to make a custom home search to see what’s available in your desired area of Phoenix. You can also sign up for daily or weekly alerts about new properties coming to the market. Planning to be in Phoenix for a few days? Attend some open houses so you can visit some suburbs and explore homes for sale that may interest you.
