We've done our research. Now, we're ready to give you the lowdown on the best neighborhoods in Phoenix, Arizona. Review the Phoenix neighborhoods that match your style, preferred location, and price range. If you're buying a house in Arizona, it's possible one of these neighborhoods could be perfect for you.
Top 10 List of the Best Neighborhoods in the Phoenix Area
Our highly-anticipated 2024 updated list of best neighborhoods in Phoenix is finally here! This year we're sorting by price, as the Arizona housing market is known to fluctuate. Ranked from least expensive to most expensive median home price (according to redfin.com), check out a few of our favorites below.
1. Encanto, Median Home Price $363K
Want the Biltmore area but on a budget? Check out Encanto. It's in Central Phoenix - close to Arcadia, Biltmore and Downtown Phoenix. With an active nightlife, tons of shopping & dining and events happening every weekend, this is a hot spot to live and play.
Close by you'll find:
- The Capitol of Arizona
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Chase Field
- So Many Parks and Museums!
Safety: ⭐
This area is not for the faint of heart! Although living downtown can be exciting and spontaneous, there is quite a bit of activity in Central Phoenix.
Location:
2. Surprise, Median Home Price $425K
Pinned up in the Northwest Valley, Surprise offers so many new and safe neighborhoods to call home. Many communities, such as Asante, have beautiful walking paths and water features to enjoy. You can also take the kiddos to play at parks like Warrior Park. With libraries, schools, and a new Fry's Marketplace it has everything a family could need. Keep in mind - when living on the outskirts, the streets can fill up pretty quickly with traffic when heading into Phoenix.
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A well-known place for retirees and families, Surprise offers a safe place to call home. The residents are known for their friendliness and often look out for one another. We dropped a star because the east and southern borders near Peoria and Glendale have more crime.
Location:
3. Buckeye,
Median Home Price $410K
Spread out and watch the sunset on one of the many green grassy areas Buckeye has to offer. With miles of plains, rivers, and the White Tank Mountains, these neighborhoods offer residents a peaceful and active lifestyle on the west side. To top it off, there are several new homes with plenty of square footage and land. Our top community picks include Verrado and Valencia Heights.
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Another safe option.
Location:
4. Glendale,
Median Home Price $425K
Considered a major suburb of Phoenix, Glendale has developed significantly over the last several years. Public parks, lots of chain restaurants and sports bars and universities makes it overall one of our top picks. Many locals love to attend football games and concerts at State Farm Stadium. Plus, the VAI Resort and Mattel Adventure Park will surely add more value to the area.
More fun things to do in Glendale:
- Tanger Shopping Outlets
- Westgate Entertainment District
- Wildlife World Zoo Aquarium & Safari Park
- Sahuaro Ranch Park (they have peacocks!)
- Thunderbird Conservation Park Hiking Trails
Safety: ⭐⭐
Glendale covers quite a bit of land, with most crime occurring in the south. For full details, check out the crime map on neighborhoodscout.com.
Location:
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5. Gilbert,
Median Home Price $595K
Gilbert is growing! With fun community events, a walkable downtown scene and affordable healthcare, Gilbert’s got families covered as a best neighborhood in Phoenix. You can take the family to play at Desert Sky Park or if you’re into the fine arts, try out a live show at Hale Centre Theatre. With so many home values appreciating year over year, homeowners often ask questions like "Should I refinance?" or "Could I benefit from a HELOC vs Home Equity Loan?"
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐
Crime statistics vary throughout Gilbert, with some pockets of higher crime. Overall, still a safe pick.
Location:
6. Norterra,
Median Home Price $640K
Lined with palm trees and beautiful desert views, Norterra is a gorgeous area to live. The Phoenix Sonoran Preserve offers plenty of trails for mountain biking and hiking. The central location on the map also makes it very convenient to travel North, South, East or West. You're that much closer to accessing a few hidden gems in Arizona!
More to check out:
- The Post Recreation Center
- The Shops at Norterra
- Destination Hot Air Balloon Rides
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐
Due to the surrounding Phoenix area, crime is higher on the south side. But still a solid choice!
Location:
7. Queen Creek,
Median Home Price $645K
As a newer neighborhood, Queen Creek is a clean and welcoming location to look into. At Legacy Sports Complex, children, teens and adults can compete in their favorite sports. Opened in 2024, Pecan Lake Entertainment is the new hot spot for all things family fun - they offer axe throwing, mini golf, a ropes course, virtual reality, escape rooms and karaoke booths. We know these home prices can feel intimidating. We have special Arizona down payment assistance programs to help you get there!
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Some crime occurs in central Queen Creek, but most neighborhoods are peaceful and family friendly.
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8. Vistancia,
Median Home Price $679K
A top master-planned community in Arizona. Vistancia features many different neighborhoods. The Village – for families, Trilogy – for active adults, Blackstone – for the golf fanatic, and the newly added Northpointe with beautiful mountain views and hiking access. The home prices hit higher in this community, with some homes even more expensive.
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
When looking at Peoria, the safety ratings are the highest in the North. Which is right where you'll find Vistancia!
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9. Moon Valley,
Median Home Price $775K
Don't let this median home price fool you! Moon Valley and the surrounding North Phoenix area has something for everyone. Here, you can find mobile homes, condos, townhomes, single-family homes, mountaintop mansions, ranches and more. There are plenty of affordable housing options for first-time homebuyers, offering a great place to start. We recommend working with a trusted realtor to find exactly what you’re looking for. With this location, you can easily access the 101 Loop, I-17, and the 51 to get anywhere in the valley.
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐
With a wide variety of residents, safety isn't always guaranteed. It's always a good idea to visit neighborhoods in person before buying. Plus, you can find several gated communities with private security here.
Location:
10. Central Scottsdale,
Median Home Price $940K
With the McDowell Mountains and dozens of golf courses close by, Scottsdale is where you'll find some of the best neighborhoods in scenic Arizona. You'll still have access to the big city excitement of Scottsdale, but can enjoy a peaceful life in one of these calm neighborhoods:
- Scottsdale Ranch
- McCormick Ranch
- Gainey Ranch
Some of our favorite activities around here include:
- Roadhouse Cinemas
- Talking Stick Resort and Casino
- Scottsdale Quarter Shopping Center
- OdySea Aquarium
- iFly Indoor Skydiving
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Many neighborhoods have HOAs, security teams, gated communities, neighborhood watch groups and police departments keeping the area safe.
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Regardless of the neighborhood you find yourself living in, you can always count on a local credit union to be on your side during the home loan process. Get pre-qualified or chat with a mortgage specialist today if you'd like more information.
Don't sleep on our other free resources when it comes to buying a home within the best neighborhoods in Phoenix:
- 5 Real-Life Lessons Provide Help For First Time Home Buyers
- 13 Misconceptions on How to Buy a House
- House Buying Checklist: Mortgage Documents You'll Need
- WISH Down Payment Assistance Program
This article is intended to be a general resource only and is not intended to be nor does it constitute legal advice. Any recommendations are based on opinion only. Rates, terms and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions. All loans subject to approval.
