The 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Arizona
Red rocks and red skies are just a couple of things that make Arizona magical. This southwestern state is full of natural beauty, and it’s one of the many reasons why people decide to move here. The sun always shines in Arizona, which means you’ll get stunning weather all-year round. From small towns to sprawling cities, Arizona gives quite a selection of locations to live at. Some of Arizona’s cheapest cities also happen to be the most desirable places to live in the state. Here are the 10 cheapest places to live in Arizona.
1. Oro Valley
Oro Valley is a mid-sized community located in the suburbs of Tucson. Although the population has been fast-growing in the last few years, Oro Valley seems to be attracting an older generation. There’s been tremendous growth in the high tech and pharmaceutical industry in the area. Oro Valley has grown to become the tech mecca of southern Arizona, which is adding incredible value to the community. While Oro Valley remains to be one of the more affordable communities in Arizona, it’s likely that this status will change soon.
2. Flagstaff
Only an hour north of the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff attracts quite a number of tourists and travelers each year. Many of those that travel to the area end up falling in love with the area. Combined with the small town vibe, the natural offerings of Flagstaff are more than anyone could ever ask for. Simply said, it’s just stunning here. Those looking for a quieter yet modern way of life can call Flagstaff home. Because of its versatility, it’s a surprise that Flagstaff is also one of the cheapest places to live in the entire state.
3. Gilbert
Gilbert is one of Arizona’s biggest towns, but it’s mostly unheard of when it comes to outside travelers. Gilbert is a younger community that offers vibrant, active living and incredible amenities. It’s a newer area compared to some other places here, so it does cater to modern wants. Gilbert is constantly growing, but it remains to be one of the most affordable places as of now.
4. Avondale
Most things in Avondale are cheaper than the rest of the state. Groceries are cheaper here. Health costs are cheaper here as well. Housing in Avondale is definitely cheaper too, and that’s why the city has become a choice for many families looking for an affordable location to live. The public schools here have a good rating, and the area has plenty of outdoor amenities such as parks for all the family to enjoy.
5. Chandler
When it comes to sunshine, you’d better love it if you were to move to Chandler. The city boasts of about 330 sunny days out of each year. But that’s not the best thing about Chandler. Apart from incredibly affordable living, Chandler boasts of some of the best amenities in Arizona. From world-class golf facilities to amazing dining and shopping options, Chandler offers fine living opportunities for a standard cost. It has definitely become one of the fastest growing cities in the US in the last few years.
6. Tempe
Living in the low desert valley of Tempe in Arizona will give you some of the most unbelievable backyard mountain views. You can definitely find your dream home here for a decent price. You won’t get remote living here at all, as Tempe has a population of more than 180,000 residents. But you can find the best amenities in the area as well as the best schools. Tempe will give you an urban-suburban feel—really the best of both worlds.
7. Sedona
The small town of Sedona is known for its tourist destinations. If you want to live right by the beauty of Red Rocks, this is your chance. Although it’s recognized as one of the top retirement towns in the nation, Sedona is really more than just that. This location offers a rich cultural experience for its visitors but more so for its residents. The fact that it’s affordable to live here is quite surprising to many, and Sedona is truly an opportunity for a different kind of life.
8. Coolidge
The median home price range in Coolidge is so much lower than the national average that the city has actually seen a population growth within the last couple of years. It’s not just the home prices that are attractive here either. Job opportunities have increased here as well. It helps too that Coolidge is in close proximity to the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, a 650-year old community that was built by the Ancient Sonoran Desert People. It’s a historically significant community that you can be part of by settling down here.
9. Prescott
There’s no end of nature here at Prescott, as the city is right next to the Prescott National Forest. This forest is a total of 1.25 million acres of wildlife, and it offers residents as much nature and outdoor activities as possible. Prescott is also near several bodies of water, so you have an option of water activities as well. It’s an affordable Arizona location that will also give you the best that the state has to offer. Living in the southwest really can’t get better than here.
10. Ahwatukee Foothills
With a population that serves less than 80,000 residents, the neighborhood of Ahwatukee Foothills in Arizona combines the best of all worlds. It’s like a sanctuary for people from all walks of life. Ahwatukee has city amenities in a suburb setting, but it’s also in close proximity to the natural wonders of Arizona. The mountain scenery here is just breathtaking, and the cost of living is completely affordable. Ahwatukee Foothills is exactly the kind of place you’d want to call home.