Arizona has many fantastic things to offer its 7 million residents. Some of the reasons why families love The Grand Canyon State are its unparalleled natural beauty, delicious food, and great family entertainment. The climate varies in different parts of the state, the northern part being more moderate than the South. The landscape also varies from deserts in the South to mountain ranges, forests, and ski resorts in the North. In other words, there is something for everyone. If you’re considering moving here with your family, you’re in luck because there are many amazing cities for families in Arizona – from up-and-coming, affordable places such as Buckeye to high-end communities such as Scottsdale. Here is our list of the best cities for families in Arizona to settle in.
Top cities for families in Arizona you should consider
Prescott
Prescott is a city in Yavapai County and its county seat. It is located in a secluded area – neither too crowded nor isolated. Due to its elevation of over 5,000 feet, no other part of the state has a greater climate variation. In comparison to other parts of Arizona, the cost of living in Prescott is higher but it is totally worth it.
Knowing what leisure activities an area offers will help you carefully plan your Arizona relocation. This area has two beautiful lakes. Goldwater Lake is the more popular of the two. It also serves as a day park that includes a volleyball park, a children’s playground, and a large Ramada. Lynx Lake is known as a boating destination but it also offers camping grounds. At the Courthouse Plaza, in the heart of downtown Prescott, you can often enjoy live music and art openings. You can also go boutique shopping, enjoy picnics in their grassy zone, or take leisurely strolls.
Prescott’s lakes will keep you cool in summer.
Gilbert
Gilbert is a fast-growing town in the southeast valley of the Greater Phoenix area. Its population grew from around 5,000 residents in 1980 to almost 250, 000 in 2020! That’s 40 times more people in three decades. Despite its dramatic population growth, Gilbert has managed to preserve a peaceful atmosphere and low crime levels. The climate is pretty hot in Gilbert – whether that’s good or bad depends on your personal preference.
Thanks to its low crime, affordable healthcare, good public schools, and heavenly nature, you will often see Gilbert on lists of the best cities for families in Arizona. Furthermore, there’s the Grand Canyon, ancient ruins, golf courses, farmland with fresh produce, wineries, arts bazaar, and so much more. All things considered, it is easy to see why living in Gilbert is more expensive compared to other cities in Arizona (including Phoenix). Nevertheless, you’ll be able to find affordable rental homes for families of all sizes.
Scottsdale
Some of the best Arizona cities for families are located in Maricopa County. Scottsdale is definitely one of them. Each of its four parts – Downtown, Central Scottsdale, North and South Scottsdale – has its own unique character. Scottsdale offers great schools, an abundance of upscale restaurants, fantastic golf courses, art galleries, and luxury shopping. Moreover, Scottsdale is a vacation hotspot boasting the largest number of destination spas per capita in the US. Tourism employs the largest number of people, which doesn’t mean there are no big employers in other industries. The city’s most notable attractions include The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.
Welcome to Scottsdale – one of the best cities for families in Arizona!
Buckeye
Another suburb in the Phoenix metropolitan area, located about 30 miles away from Phoenix. Buckeye is one of the fastest-expanding suburbs in AZ. Buckeye’s rapid growth proves how attractive and safe this location is for families. Buckeye’s hot and dry climate may not be for everyone, but who doesn’t appreciate year-long sunshine?
The town is committed to maintaining its green spaces through tree-planting initiatives which earned it the title of Tree City USA from the National Arbor Day Foundation. Recreational areas are scattered all around town, Buckeye Hills Recreation Area and Skyline Regional Park being among the most popular ones. Here, you and your family can enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, picnics, and camping.
Chandler
Chandler is one of the biggest cities on our list of top cities for families in Arizona. It is a prominent suburb of Phoenix, also located in Maricopa County. Its award-winning school district and lively downtown area make it both family-friendly and cosmopolitan. If you plan on renting or buying a house, affordable housing with plenty of room is another good reason to consider moving your family to Chandler.
Thanks to its developed computer-manufacturing industry, Chandler boasts a healthy economy and great job opportunities. If you are a skilled worker seeking a career in high-tech, this city is the place to be. In addition to technology companies, there are many other large employers as well.
When it comes to leisure, Chandler offers many beautiful parks and recreational areas, as well as amazing restaurants. The city is also famous for its Ostrich Festival, one of Arizona’s most beloved annual events offering tons of attractions and live music.
When it comes to nature, few states can compete with Arizona’s beauty.
Sahuarita
Sahuarita is a mid-sized city in Pima County, only 42 miles away from Marana. It is one of the safest cities for families in Arizona, so some of the reliable Verified Movers help numerous families relocate here every year.. Sahuarita has 7,000 acres of natural space. That includes pecan groves and agricultural fields. Sahuarita Lake, one of the town’s main attractions, is a beautiful man-made lake people aren’t allowed to swim in, but you can always admire its beauty.
In addition to its natural beauty, the town prides itself on its excellent educational system. The University of Arizona and Pima Community College in partnership with the school district (one of the biggest employers) are working on providing more higher education opportunities to the town.
The decision is yours
Now, all you have to do is consider the above-mentioned list and choose one of the best cities for families in Arizona given your circumstances and needs. Hopefully, the transition will be easy and fast, and the adaptation period pleasant and problem-free. Good luck!
