Arizona is one of the fastest-growing states in America. This growth rate has caused property values in cities such as Phoenix and Scottsdale to skyrocket. This, in turn, has raised the living standards of the areas, making them among the most expensive places to live in, in the country.
Aside from the increasing property values, these two cities have witnessed increased demand for housing and other amenities with limited supply.
However, worry not, as there are other affordable cities with a promising future in Arizona. This article will feature some of the alternative options to Scottsdale and Phoenix.
Avondale
Avondale is considered a suburb of Phoenix due to its 30-minute drive location from the city. This is one of the most affordable cities to live in, with tons of promising prospects. It is also home to Phoenix Raceway, making it a haven for sports lovers as it hosts two NASCAR events annually.
This city also features an 83,000 square-foot indoor sports complex where residents can enjoy their favorite sports, including volleyball, soccer, and basketball, among others.
Perhaps the most attractive feature about Avondale is the affordable housing. The city boasts a median home value of $215,100, with the average household income standing at $61,825. With these figures and strategic location, Avondale becomes one of the ideal locations to settle in, in Arizona.
Mesa
Mesa has an average population of 500,000 and is located 25 minutes away from Phoenix. Mesa makes it on to the list as one of the best alternative cities to live in, in Arizona, without straying too far from the major cities. The city is home to many attractions, including a contemporary art museum, an equestrian center, steamboat cruises, and an olive mill you can explore.
Aside from the physical attraction, Mesa has other features that make it an ideal location to relocate to. The location has a projected job growth of 47.1%, which is higher than the country’s overall average by 13.6%. On the other hand, the real estate market is relatively affordable, with the median property value standing at $226,500; this means more people can easily own homes.
Chandler
Chandler is considered one of the best cities to raise a family in Arizona. This is mostly because of its half-cosmopolitan, half-family-friendly nature. Chandler is home to several award-winning school districts, making it a center for excellence. This city’s other amazing features include a downtown area that spots various pubs that host jazz festivals, farmers markets, and yoga parks. Other amazing attractions that can be accessed from Chandler include the Petrified Forest and the Grand Canyon National Park, which are three hours away.
Aside from Phoenix and Scottsdale, Chandler is considered one of the most popular cities in Arizona. However, this has not significantly affected the property values by a big margin. The current median price for a home is $495,000, which is relatively cheaper, going by the price-value ratio.
Litchfield Park
Litchfield is characterized by palm and orange trees that adorn the land to give it its unique and priceless look. This city boasts several casual and comfortable spaces, sidewalk cafes, and properly tended homes. At the right price, you can find yourself a piece of this beautiful city to settle in. Aside from the beautiful scenery, Litchfield Park is home to various luxury features.
One of the most popular options is Wigwam, an elegant retreat center that has been part of the city’s history for more than a century. The retreat feature over 400 acres of restaurants, golf courses, and amenities that are definitely worth your time. Despite the rich culture in Litchfield Park, the real estate industry is still has a lot to offer, with the average rent price of a one-bedroom apartment standing at $1,152.
Glendale
Glendale has a lot to offer residents with six districts to choose from, each with a diverse population. In Arizona, Glendale should be one of your top choices when finding an alternative place to settle in, owing to its rich culture and spirit. The city is a lot to offer in terms of luxury, history, nightlife, and shopping.
Unlike most cities, Glendale doesn’t have a sports team; however, this has not stopped it from hosting NFL home games at the University of Phoenix Stadium. This stadium was also home to the 2008 Super Bowl XLVII, making it a perfect destination for sports lovers.
With a population of 252,381, Glendale is home to diversity, with people coming from different locations to find new beginnings, especially with the median household income standing at $55,020. Glendale has a steady economy with various employment opportunities in construction, sales, retails, and business services.
Peoria
When finding one of the cheapest and safest places to live in Arizona, then you can consider Peoria. One of the main reasons people are attracted to this city is the steady economy and availability of amenities. Peoria features some of the highest-rated school public school systems for those with school-going children.
According to statistics, 26 out of 38 institutions can be classified as either high-performing or excelling. The best part about this city is that the real estate industry is relatively easy n the pocket, not too heavy for the buyer, and not too small for the seller.
Aside from its strategic location, Peoria is home to several other features that make it an ideal place to settle. One of the most prominent features is the beautiful scenery with endless outdoor space where you can enjoy outdoor activities. The city has also put in place measures to ensure the residents observe clean and landscaped streets to boost the overall beauty of the town.
Surprise
Surprise was founded in 1938 and is home to a lot of history. The original settler Flora Mae Statler named the place Surprise as she thought it would be a surprise if the area developed into something bigger.
However, over time, the city has grown to house more than 120,000 residents. This city is home to some of the best public art collections in Arizona, with most of the art featuring scenic views of the desert environment.
Staying cool in the summer is essential for residents throughout the Valley, and homes for sale in Surprise, AZ with pool are extremely common. Additionally, many of the Active Adult communities feature pools for resident use, so there’s always an option for cooling off in the hottest months.
One reason that makes Surprise a top destination for settling is the family-friendly environment. The city boasts several public activities that you and your kids can enjoy.
One of the most popular activities is attending Second Sunday in the park. Here residents are treated to live music performances and other entertainments all through spring and fall.
Surprise also features several great schools that boast impressive ratings with some of the highest graduation rates in the state. It is also considered one of the safest places to live in Arizona, with the crime rate at 10%, 50% lower than the state average rates.
Goodyear
The prominent features of Goodyear include 20,000 acres of national, 100 miles of paved bike trails, and 47 miles of trails where you can enjoy leisure walks. This is one of the best locations for people who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle.
Sports lovers are also in for a treat as Goodyear is home to Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians. You can visit the Goodyear Ballpark during sprig and watch these teams as they train.
Compared to most cities, Goodyear offers affordable accommodation, with the average rent price for a one-bedroom going for $1,078. The best part about this city is that it’s approximately 20 minutes away from Phoenix, making it a convenient location for those looking to access the major city.