6 Best Places to Live in Arizona

From the Grand Canyon to the Hoover Dam, Arizona is home to some of America’s most iconic views and creations. You’ll find southwestern charm and beauty from corner to corner. With its low humidity and year-round stable climate, Arizona is a magnet to those who appreciate a desert lifestyle. If you’re not sure where to settle down in Arizona, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the six best places to live.

1. Tucson

• Housing cost to income ratio: 3.67%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.02%
• Violent crime index: 37.5
• Nonviolent crime index: 83.2
• Cost of living index: 91.6

Tucson is the gateway to beautiful southwestern scenery like the Saguaro National Park and Santa Catalina Natural Area. Further in the city, explore attractions like Reid Park Zoo, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and Pima Air & Space Museum. Tucson is home to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which is the largest living-history museum in the United States. Discover celestial delights at the Kitt Peak National Observatory, which is one of the world’s leading astronomical observatories.

Get out and enjoy the Sonoran Desert and all it has to offer.  From the 2 million+ saguaro cacti at Saguaro National Park to hiking and biking at Sabino Canyon, this area speaks to outdoor lovers. Tucson Mountain Park is a city park located on the west side of Tucson. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and rock climbing.

The presence of the University of Arizona, which has a student population of around 45,000, gives the city a youthful, lively culture. Expect warm and dry weather here; Tucson receives an average annual rainfall of 12 inches and 286 sunny days. This mild climate offers warm winters and hot summers. The average high temperature in January is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average high temperature in July is 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Spend your time out on golf courses with just the right challenge. You can also enjoy some minor league baseball watching the Tucson Padres.

Tucson leans somewhat politically liberal and is home to excellent hospitals and schools. Schools in the Tucson area include the likes of Tucson Unified School District, Amphitheater Unified School District, Marana Unified School District, Vail School District, and Tanque Verde Unified School District. Along with the University of Arizona, Pima Community College is another great option for higher education serving over 22,000 students. Expect outstanding healthcare at Banner University Medical Center Tucson, Tucson Medical Center, and Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital to name a few of the great medical care facilities.

Tucson’s economy is driven by a variety of industries, including aerospace, defense, healthcare, and education. Some of the larger employers here include Raytheon Missile Systems, the University of Arizona, Banner Health, and Pima County.

With tantalizing restaurants, you have your pick of comfort food, international flavors, and American cuisine. You will find locals enjoying meals at spots like Lindy’s on Fourth, El Charro Café, and Renee’s Organic Kitchen. Dog lovers will be thrilled to know that a whopping 250+ restaurants welcome dogs with their owners while they dine!

It goes without saying that Tucson has its share of fun annual events and festivals. Discover a variety of unique finds at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. Explore stunning art and culture at the Tucson Festival of the Arts and the Tucson International Film Festival. Cowboy it up at the Tucson Rodeo, there is something for everyone!

The stunning scenery of the Sonoran Desert, family-friendly vibe, and ease of recreation put Tucson on the map. If big city life isn’t for you, check out nearby suburbs like Oro Valley, Corona de Tucson, and Catalina Foothills. If you are looking for a place to buy a new home, Tucson is the perfect setting.

2. Yuma

• Housing cost to income ratio: 4.38%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.56%
• Violent crime index: 32.3
• Nonviolent crime index: 46.7
• Cost of living index: 88.2

Yuma is situated along the Colorado River in southwest Arizona, near the US-Mexico border. With 308 sunny days and a mere four inches of rainfall per year, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a sunnier, drier city than Yuma.

Enjoy outdoor activities all year long. Take advantage of the sunshine and cool down by tubing along the Colorado River or bring your dog along for kayaking at West Wetlands Park. Golf fans can practice their swing at multiple golf courses scattered throughout the city. Play on a variety of courses including Las Barrancas Golf Course and Desert Hills Golf Course. A popular state park, the Colorado River State Recreation Area, is located along the Colorado River and provides the perfect setting for fishing, swimming, and boating.

The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area is a large sand dune area located east of Yuma. The area is popular for off-roading, camping, and sandboarding. Picacho Peak State Park is a state park located west of Yuma. The park is known for hiking, camping, and birdwatching. With many tennis courts, hiking, biking, camping, and fishing opportunities, you will always fill your free time with fun.

Step back in time to the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, where you can visit a 19th-century prison built like a maze. Castle Dome City is a ghost town located north of Yuma. The ghost town is a popular tourist destination for its historical significance and its beautiful scenery. Fun annual events and festivals to look forward to include the Yuma Air Show with a variety of military and civilian aircraft, as well as other entertainment. Don’t miss the parade, concerts, and fireworks at the annual Colorado River Days. Discover a car show, parade, concerts, and festivities at the Yuma Sun Festival too. 

For all your shopping needs, check out the Yuma Palms Mall. Yuma leans politically liberal, and residents have access to three area hospitals. Yuma Regional Medical Center, Yuma County Hospital, and CIENA Healthcare are great options for all your medical needs and concerns. With public and private schools, you can choose from the excellent schools at Yuma Union High School District, Yuma Elementary School District, and Yuma Catholic School District.

Yuma is home to a number of major employers, including Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. .  Other companies offering job opportunities include Procter & Gamble and Walmart. The Marine Corps Air Station Yuma is the largest Marine Corps air station in the United States. Yuma has other large claims as well.  The Yuma Proving Ground is the largest military testing ground in the world.  You will also find the largest lettuce farm in the world here.

Yuma, Arizona is a popular place to live for a variety of reasons. Yuma has a rich culture that is influenced by its Mexican heritage. There are several Mexican restaurants including El Sombrero Café and Los Amigos Restaurant and shops in the area, as well as several Mexican cultural events throughout the year. Spend some time on the slots or relaxing at the Quechan Casino Resort, the Cocopah Casino Resort, or the Pascua Yaqui Casino Resort.

Yuma has many apropos nicknames including “The Sunniest City in the World,” “The Gateway to the Southwest,” and “The Heart of the Colorado River Valley.”  Popular nearby suburbs include Fortuna Foothills and Somerton. It’s hard to beat a beautiful city with a low cost of living, rich culture, outdoor recreation, and dry, warm climate. Start down the path to new homeownership in the Yuma area.

3. Kingman-Lake Havasu City

• Housing cost to income ratio: 5.17%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.35%
• Violent crime index: 59.45
• Nonviolent crime index: 50.99
• Cost of living index: 85

The Kingman-Lake Havasu City metropolitan area is in western Arizona. Kingman is the county seat of Mohave County, and Lake Havasu City is the largest city in the county. The two cities are located about 60 miles apart.

Like other areas in Arizona, you’ll find dry and hot weather; folks can expect to experience approximately eight inches of rain and 290 sunny days per year. Beat the heat at Lake Havasu, where you can boat and swim to your heart’s content, or simply sprawl out on the sandy beach and soak in the sun. Hualapai Mountain Park, Kingman Mountain Park, the Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge, and Lake Hualapai are all popular spots. From hiking, biking, camping, and fishing to golfing, tennis and boating, there is plenty to do outdoors.

For indoor activities, swing up to Kingman and visit attractions like Arizona Route 66 Museum, the Kingman Powerhouse Museum, the Mohave Museum of History and Arts, and Kingman Railroad Museum. Lake Havasu City will keep you entertained with the London Bridge, the Lake Havasu City Museum of History, and the Lake Havasu City Aquatic Center. Dog lovers will be pleased to know that there are over 30 restaurants between the two cities that welcome Fido.

The metropolitan area is moderately conservative, and folks have access to well-equipped hospitals and great schools. Kingman Regional Medical Center is a 190-bed acute care hospital located in Kingman. Located in Lake Havasu, Lake Havasu City Hospital is a 135-bed acute care hospital. Kingman-Lake Havasu City has a good school system with both public and private schools to choose from. The Kingman Unified School District is the largest school district in the area and serves over 10,000 students. The Lake Havasu Unified School District is the second-largest school district in the area and serves over 8,000 students. Private schools in Kingman-Lake Havasu City include Kingman Academy, Lake Havasu Preparatory Academy, and Havasupai Preparatory Academy.

Kingman-Lake Havasu City has a strong economy that is driven by a variety of industries, including tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare. Major employers in the area include the US Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management, Walmart, and Kingman Regional Medical Center.

Annual community events and festivals bring the communities together for fun, food, and entertainment. The Kingman Railroad Festival, the Kingman Route 66 Festival, and the Kingman Christmas Parade are always a good time. Lake Havasu City also hosts fun events including the Lake Havasu City Boat Parade, the Lake Havasu City Balloon Festival, and the Lake Havasu City Christmas Boat Parade.

If you’re looking to move to the suburbs, check out Fort Mohave and Golden Valley. This well-rounded area of Arizona makes its way to #3 on our list of best places to live for good reason. Take a look at some of the amazing new homes to enhance your quality of life here.

4. Phoenix-Mesa

• Housing cost to income ratio: 7.33%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.48%
• Violent crime index: 19.3
• Nonviolent crime index: 37.6
• Cost of living index: 104.2

The Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area offers something for everyone. Phoenix-Mesa is a metropolitan area located in central Arizona. Phoenix is the capital of Arizona and the fifth-largest city in the United States. Mesa is the third-largest city in Arizona. The two cities are located about 20 miles apart. The Phoenix-Mesa area is home to three great professional sports teams, including the Arizona Cardinals (NFL), the Phoenix Suns (NBA), and the Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB). As a popular tourist destination, the economy is boosted by over 40 million visitors each year. Phoenix is the largest city in the United States that is located in a desert. Mesa’s claim to fame is that it has the largest public library in Arizona.

Embrace the southwestern natural beauty at locations like Camelback Mountain, Papago Park, and Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see beautiful cacti and red rock buttes. Hike, bike, camp, and fish at spots like South Mountain Park, Usery Mountain Park, the Tonto National Forest, and the Sal River Recreation Area. Many of these parks and hiking trails allow you to bring your dog along with you.

Golfers and tennis players are equally impressed with the offerings here. Set frequent tee times at courses like the Legacy Golf Club, Superstition Springs Golf Club, and Stripe Show Golf Club. Amazing parks allow you to stay active at rec centers, golf courses, and community pools. From classes to sports leagues, you will never lack for things to do. Be sure to prepare for the weather before you explore all the cities have to offer: With 300 days of sunshine and only nine inches of rain annually, you’ll want to stay hydrated in this hot climate.

The Valley of the Sun is home to fun events and festivals. The Arizona State Fair is filled with activity, entertainment, food and more. The Phoenix Open, the Mesa Arts Festival, the Arizona Renaissance Festival, and the Country Thunder Music Festival celebrate the rich culture and interests of the area.

See over 1,400 animals at the Phoenix Zoo or learn something new at the Arizona Museum of Natural History; no matter what you decide, you’re in for a good time! The Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, the Mesa Arts Center, the Arizona Museum of Natural History, and the Mesa Grande Cultural Park & Museum offer an array of interesting exhibits.

Major employers adding to the vibrant economy include Boeing, Honeywell, and Banner Health. There are abundant hospitals in the area, so you’ll never have to worry about where to find medical care. Your healthcare options include Banner University Medical Center Phoenix, Mayo Clinic Hospital Phoenix, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Banner Desert Medical Center, and Chandler Regional Medical Center to name a few. The largest school district, Phoenix Union High School District, serves 100,000+ students with the second-largest, Mesa Public Schools District serving 60,000+ students. Some of the more popular private school options are Brophy College Preparatory, Xavier College Preparatory, and Desert Mountain School.

Phoenix-Mesa leans politically liberal, and popular suburbs include Gilbert, Fountain Hills, and Chandler. With a strong economy, affordable cost of living, excellent schools, mild climate, and great recreational opportunities, this area of Arizona is the complete package. Why not consider one of the exciting new home designs to be the ideal home base for all your Arizona adventures?

5. Flagstaff

• Housing cost to income ratio: 7.96%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.00%
• Violent crime index: 17.9
• Nonviolent crime index: 56.9
• Cost of living index: 117

Surrounded by mountains, Flagstaff is truly a sight to behold. Flagstaff is a city located in northern Arizona, at the base of the San Francisco Peaks. It is the county seat of Coconino County and has a population of over 76,000 people. Flagstaff is a popular destination for stargazing, due to its dark skies and high elevation. Flagstaff has a mild climate with four distinct seasons. The average high temperature in July is 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temperature in January is 25 degrees Fahrenheit. It receives 26 inches of rain and a whopping 81 inches of snow per year!

With a mild climate, outdoor recreation is easy. The north and northwestern areas of the city encompass great hiking trails, including Picture Canyon Trailhead and Fatmans Loop Trail, and provide easy access to the mountains. Spend your free time  hiking, biking, camping, and skiing at the Arizona Snowbowl. With several parks and trails in the area, including the Buffalo Park Trail System and the Kachina Trail, the outdoors awaits you. Explore more Arizona beauty at Riordan Mansion State Historic Park and other local parks. Bring your furry pal to the trails. There are also a number of golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools in the area.

Make new friends over your shared interests of craft brews at great spots like Lumberyard Brewing Co., Flagstaff Brewing Company, and Hops on Birch. Need a day trip? The Grand Canyon is only 80 miles from the city! Flagstaff has excellent entertainment options, including the Lowell Observatory, the Museum of Northern Arizona, and the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. Check out the bars, restaurants, and shops in the downtown area.

Looking for even more fun? Attend one of the many festivals and community events held in Flagstaff. The Flagstaff Blues Festival, the Flagstaff Festival of Science, and the Flagstaff Winterfest are just a few of the exciting happenings with fun, music, food and more.

Flagstaff’s economy is driven by a variety of industries, including tourism, education, and healthcare. Northern Arizona University, the City of Flagstaff, and Flagstaff Medical Center are some of the major employers along with thriving small businesses here.

Flagstaff leans politically liberal and contains two hospitals. Flagstaff Medical Center is a 250-bed acute care hospital located in Flagstaff. Flagstaff has a good school system with both public and private schools to choose from. The Flagstaff Unified School District is the largest school district in the area and serves over 12,000 students. Private schools in Flagstaff include Flagstaff Christian School, Montessori School of Flagstaff, and St. Mary’s Catholic School. The Northern University Lumberjacks call Flagstaff home.

Popular suburbs include Doney Park, Village of Oak Creek, and Sedona. “The Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” Flagstaff, is a wonderful Arizona setting to put down roots. Take a look at the new homes in the area to find your perfect fit.

6. Prescott

• Housing cost to income ratio: 11.28%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.48%
• Violent crime index: 20.7
• Nonviolent crime index: 37.2
• Cost of living index: 115.7

With a population of approximately 44,000 residents, Prescott is the smallest city on our list, making it ideal for those who are looking for a quieter lifestyle. Admire Prescott’s historic architecture and houses, which give the city a classic western feel. Prescott is a city located in central Arizona, at an elevation of over 5,200 feet. It is the county seat of Yavapai County.

Visit attractions like the Museum of Indigenous People, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, and the Phippen Museum. Prescott is a dog-friendly city, and 45 restaurants welcome Fido. Prescott has exciting entertainment options, including the Prescott Center for the Arts, the Sharlot Hall Museum, and the Smoki Museum. Annual festivals and events bring revelry and entertainment to the area. Check out the Prescott Frontier Days, the Prescott Blues Festival, and the Prescott Christmas Parade. Prescott Frontier Days is one of the oldest rodeos in the United States.

The economy is thriving and is driven by a variety of industries, including tourism, retirement, and healthcare. This inviting city is senior-friendly with large active adult communities and great medical care at Yavapai Regional Medical Center, a 288-bed acute care hospital. The City of Prescott, Yavapai County, and Prescott College are some of the larger employers. You will also find great schools in the Prescott Unified School District serving 9,000+ students. The Mayer Preparatory School, the Prescott Christian School, and the Heritage Academy are excellent private school options.

Residents can expect 16 inches of rain and 13 inches of snow per year; for the other 277 days, soak in the sun or dip your toes in Watson Lake to cool down. Hiking, biking, camping, and fishing along with tennis and golf make it easy to stay active. Prescott National Forest, Granite Dells, and the Watson Woods Riparian Preserve are popular spots to enjoy.

Prescott, “Everybody’s Hometown,” is a great place to live. Popular nearby communities include Village of Oak Creek, Clarkdale, and Sedona. Overall, Prescott is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. It offers a strong economy, good schools, a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, and a mild climate. New homes here are sure to check off your wants and needs list.

This list was compiled using statistics for cost of living, average housing costs, average childcare costs, and crime indices.