12 Cities Near Phoenix to Live in 2024

As you explore the many cities near Phoenix, you'll find a fantastic range of communities that offer a perfect blend of urban convenience and serene desert landscapes. The greater Phoenix area is renowned for its sprawling suburbs, each with unique charm and amenities that cater to a diverse range of lifestyles.

In this article, we'll take you on a guided tour of the 12 best cities near Phoenix to consider calling home in 2024. From the high-tech manufacturing corridors of Chandler to the historic streets of Mesa and the scenic beauty of Gilbert, we'll delve into what makes each of these cities a desirable destination in the Grand Canyon State.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

12 Cities Near Phoenix, AZ

How We Chose Cities Near Phoenix

For our favorite cities near Phoenix, we took into account a variety of factors including proximity to the city, cost of rent, availability of public transportation, and amenities and nearby attractions. We tended to favor areas closer to the city, but we balanced it with a consideration of these other elements. When possible, we also used renter survey data posted in the city guides on our listing pages.

1. Glendale

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 9.7 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 18 minutes via W. Grand Avenue
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 58 minutes via bus No. 80 and Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 11 minutes via W. Maryland Avenue
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,278
• Population: 252,136
• Median household income: $66,375
• Walk score: 40
• Transit score: 34
• Bike score: 57

Glendale is one of the best cities close to Phoenix, Arizona, offering residents a unique blend of suburban comfort and metropolitan convenience. Just a short drive from Downtown Phoenix, Glendale boasts a rich cultural heritage, tons of shopping opportunities, and an array of outdoor activities perfect for families and young professionals alike.

The city is home to the Westgate Entertainment District, a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment hub that hosts everything from live music events to professional sporting events at the State Farm Stadium.

Many celebrate Glendale for its community-focused atmosphere, as you’ll find several well-maintained parks, a variety of schools, and an array of community events. If you’re looking for a balance between the peacefulness of suburban life and the excitement of city living, Glendale offers the best of both worlds.

2. Tempe

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 10 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 18 minutes via AZ-202
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 48 minutes via Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 47 minutes via W. Washington Street
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,391
• Population: 185,950
• Median household income: $72,022
• Walk score: 54
• Transit score: 45
• Bike score: 75

Tempe sits just east of Phoenix, and it is one of the most dynamic cities in the state, blending youthful energy and innovative spirit. It's home to Arizona State University, which infuses the city with a buzzing academic atmosphere and a bustling social scene.

Beyond educational opportunities, the university fosters a culture of research, arts, and entertainment that benefits the entire community. Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park offer kayaking, jogging, and outdoor festivals, plus a nice way to enjoy the natural beauty of the desert.

With a strong job market buoyed by tech startups and major corporations, Tempe’s economy is thriving, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to advance their careers.

You’ll also find a diverse culinary scene, eclectic nightlife, and an array of shopping options, from local boutiques to large retail centers. With its inclusive community, excellent public transportation, and a plethora of cultural and recreational activities, Tempe holds its own as one of the best cities around Phoenix, Arizona.

3. Peoria

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 13.2 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 22 minutes via W. Grand Avenue
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 15 minutes via bus Nos. 83 and 3
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 35 minutes via Arizona Canal Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,382
• Population: 197,866
• Median household income: $86,759
• Walk score: 30
• Transit score: 19
• Bike score: 47

Peoria is one of the cities north of Phoenix that lies in the Northwest Valley, offering just the right amount of suburban tranquility with access to the urban center. The city stands out for its well-planned neighborhoods, excellent schools, and abundance of parks and recreational areas, including the expansive Lake Pleasant Regional Park. This natural oasis provides residents with opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, making it a perfect locale for families seeking an active lifestyle.

Beyond its natural beauty, Peoria has a thriving arts and culture scene, highlighted by the Peoria Sports Complex, which is the spring training ground for Major League Baseball teams and a venue for a variety of community events.

The city is also home to the Arizona Broadway Theatre, where you can find high-quality theatrical productions. With a growing economy, there are ample employment opportunities, particularly in healthcare, education, and retail, making it an excellent city near Phoenix for families, retirees, and young professionals.

4. Scottsdale

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 12.1 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 21 minutes via AZ-202
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 51 minutes via bus No. 17 and Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 3 minutes via E. Oak Street
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,762
• Population: 243,050
• Median household income: $104,197
• Walk score: 32
• Transit score: 23
• Bike score: 56

Scottsdale, often referred to as "the West's Most Western Town," is renowned for its blend of luxury living, nightlife, and natural beauty, making it one of the best places to live near Phoenix. Its reputation for high-end shopping, fine dining, and world-class golf courses attracts those seeking an upscale lifestyle, while the stunning landscapes of the Sonoran Desert offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to horseback riding.

You’ll also find a thriving arts scene with a dense concentration of galleries, studios, and museums. For families, Scottsdale has an excellent school system, safe neighborhoods, and well-maintained public spaces, which is why so many lay roots here.

5. Mesa

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 19 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 26 minutes via AZ-202
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 2 minutes via Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 26 minutes via W. Washington Street
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,348
• Population: 512,498
• Median household income: $73,766
• Walk score: 38
• Transit score: 27
• Bike score: 60

Mesa is another city near Phoenix, Arizona, that has a unique mix of natural beauty and urban convenience. As the third-largest city in the state, it provides a diverse array of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural institutions like the Mesa Arts Center, one of the largest arts and entertainment parks in the Southwest.

Families are particularly drawn to Mesa for its highly rated public schools and family-friendly activities, including the Arizona Museum of Natural History and the Mesa Grande Cultural Park.

Of course, you also get access to outdoor recreation like the Tonto National Forest and the Superstition Mountains, both of which offer endless hiking and exploration opportunities. If that isn’t all good enough, the city has a much lower cost of living compared to other areas in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

6. Goodyear

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 18.5 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 21 minutes via I-10 E.
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 38 minutes via bus No. 3
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 44 minutes via W. Lower Buckeye Road
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,592
• Population: 105,406
• Median household income: $97,307
• Walk score: 17
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 42

In the West Valley, you’ll find Goodyear, one of the best small towns near Phoenix, Arizona.

Goodyear has plenty of well-planned communities, excellent schools, and abundant green spaces, including more than 20 parks and a plethora of outdoor recreational activities that leverage the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape.

The economy in Goodyear is on the rise, especially in the aerospace, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, providing a stable job market and contributing to the city's prosperity.

You’ll also find an array of state-of-the-art medical facilities and a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, so you truly never have to leave!

7. Paradise Valley

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 13.5 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 23 minutes via E. Lincoln Drive
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 19 minutes via bus No. 72 and Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 8 minutes via E. Roosevelt Street
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $10,500
• Population: 12,606
• Median household income: $221,333
• Walk score: 50
• Transit score: 38
• Bike score: 75

Paradise Valley is the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity in Arizona.

The region is known for its stunning landscapes, including Mummy Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Piestewa Peak, offering breathtaking views and a deep connection to Arizona's natural beauty. As for amenities, you’ll find sprawling estates, meticulously landscaped golf courses, and upscale resorts, all of which attract those who seek privacy and opulence.

With strict zoning laws, the tranquil, spacious environment is well preserved. However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, Paradise Valley’s community is tight-knit, and with top-rated public and private schools, it’s an ideal choice for families who prioritize education in a refined environment.

8. Guadalupe

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 11.4 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 18 minutes via I-10 W.
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 3 minutes via bus No. 56 and Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 1 hour and 4 minutes via E. Southern Drive
• Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,298
• Population: 5,287
• Median household income: $56,423
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

Guadalupe is one of our favorite small towns near Phoenix, as it offers a distinctive living experience that sets it apart from its larger neighbors. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and strong community, Guadalupe is a town where traditions flourish.

You’ll find a range of colorful murals, authentic Mexican restaurants, bustling marketplaces, and festivals, such as the celebrated Dia de los Muertos procession.

Despite its modest size, Guadalupe’s advantageous location offers easy access to the amenities and employment opportunities of nearby Tempe and Phoenix, making it an attractive option for those who prefer small-town living with the convenience of city life nearby.

With affordable housing, it’s even more appealing to families who want a more personal connection to their neighborhood.

9. Gilbert

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 22.1 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 28 minutes via US-60 W.
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 49 minutes via bus Nos. 108 and 72 and Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 2 hours and 5 minutes via Sun Circle Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,608
• Population: 275,346
• Median household income: $115,179
• Walk score: 29
• Transit score: 15
• Bike score: 53

Though it was once known as the "Hay Shipping Capital of the World," Gilbert has transformed into one of the most sought-after cities close to Phoenix. This rapidly growing city offers a high quality of life, excellent educational institutions, and a crime rate significantly below the national average, making it an ideal place for families.

Here, you’ll find well-maintained parks, recreational facilities, and miles of bike trails, while the vibrant Downtown, known as the Heritage District, provides a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment.

From the economic development and employment opportunities to the community events, farmers markets, and cultural festivals, Gilbert is not just a place to live but a place to thrive.

10. Chandler

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 22.7 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 28 minutes via US-60 W.
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 43 minutes via bus No. 112 and Valley Metro Rail
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 2 hours and 8 minutes via Sun Circle Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,579
• Population: 280,711
• Median household income: $99,374
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 24
• Bike score: 55

Chandler sits in the southeastern part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, and over the years, it has made a name for itself as a hub for tech companies and startups, offering plentiful job opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, IT, and aerospace. You’ll find plenty of leading employers here, such as Intel and Microchip Technology, both of which contribute to Chandler's robust economy.

Beyond its economic appeal, Chandler is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, exemplified by its excellent school and park systems.

The hustle and bustle of the city's Downtown area is always a surprise, and on any given day, you’ll find people heading out for a drink on the palm-lined streets.

11. Queen Creek

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 37.8 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 39 minutes via US-60 W.
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 3 hours and 20 minutes via Sun Circle Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,070
• Population: 70,734
• Median household income: $127,182
• Walk score: 17
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 44

Queen Creek sits on the far southeast fringe, around 38 miles to Phoenix, Arizona, and is a great option for anyone seeking rural charm and a quieter, laid-back lifestyle.

The community is cherished for its open spaces, agricultural roots, and scenic beauty, where residents enjoy a high quality of life with access to local farms and equestrian activities. Moreover, Queen Creek boasts top-rated schools and a burgeoning town center that hosts community events, shopping, and dining establishments.

The town has recently focused its efforts on community development and infrastructure improvement, and its growth is only expected to skyrocket in the coming years.

12. Surprise

• Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 21.9 miles
• Commute time to Phoenix via car: 36 minutes via Grand Avenue
• Commute time to Phoenix via public transport: 1 hour and 6 minutes via bus No. 571
• Commute time to Phoenix via bike: 2 hours and 30 minutes via Arizona Canal Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,748
• Population: 154,198
• Median household income: $87,756
• Walk score: 21
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 46

Though it might not be the nearest city to Phoenix, Arizona, Surprise is one of those towns north of Phoenix that is great for those who want a blend of modern amenities and a small-town feel. The city is known for its rapid growth and development, offering a high quality of life with well-maintained neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a plethora of recreational activities.

The city is home to the Surprise Stadium, the spring training ground for the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers. You’ll also find an aquatic center, numerous parks, and golf courses, providing ample opportunities for leisure and entertainment.

Overall, with its sunny disposition and continuous growth, Surprise will continue to be one of the best places in Arizona to call home.

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