5 Safest and Most Affordable Cities to Live in Arizona (updated)

Arizona, the Country’s forty-eighth state, has breathtaking desert landscapes, striking mountain ranges, and vibrant local communities. All this combines to offer a distinctive blend of natural beauty and a choice of rural or urban living. 

The Grand Canyon State delivers an appealing mix of outdoor adventures, cultural and educational experiences, and economic opportunities, making it an attractive destination for individuals, families, and retirees alike. 

From the spectacular Sonoran Desert to the pine-covered mountains in the north, Arizona’s diverse geography provides residents with a wide variety of lifestyle options and recreational activities all within the state’s borders.

Different regions of Arizona offer their own unique character and lifestyle. Major cities like Phoenix and Tucson feature robust economies, diverse cultural scenes, and excellent healthcare systems. While smaller towns provide more relaxed atmospheres with strong community connections. 

Additionally, the more rural areas boast stunning natural landscapes, wide-open spaces, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities year-round. Including its Monument’s and other protected spaces, Arizona has 24 National Park Service Units. 

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Before relocating to Arizona, it is essential to consider several key factors. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

Climate: Arizona’s climate varies significantly depending on elevation and location. While considered an arid to semi-arid climate, with the desert regions experiencing extremely hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, the northern mountainous areas enjoy a more moderate climate with four distinct seasons and even snowfall in winter. Most heavily populated areas have very mild winters, making Arizona particularly attractive for those looking to escape wintry weather.

Water Resources: As a desert state, Arizona faces ongoing challenges with water resources. Many communities have implemented conservation measures, and water availability can be a concern in certain areas. Prospective residents should understand local water policies and conservation practices. Many homes are “desert landscaped” so mowing is no longer a chore. 

Cost of Living: While Arizona is more affordable than coastal states like California, the cost of living varies widely across the state. Property taxes are relatively moderate, but home prices in desirable areas have risen significantly in recent years. Arizona does offer lower income taxes compared to many other states. 

Employment Opportunities: Arizona has a diverse economy with strong sectors in healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, and tourism. The job market varies by region, with the Phoenix metro area offering the most diverse employment options. Tucson also has many employment choices including several Government Contractors and Davis Monthan Air Force Base. Tourism is strong and many jobs in this field are available across the state along with continual offerings in construction. 

Here is a list of the Five Safest and Most Affordable Cities to Live in Arizona:

1. San Luis, AZ

Population/Area: San Luis has a population of approximately 35,000 residents across thirty-four square miles, with steady growth driven by its border location and affordable housing.

Safety rating: San Luis has a crime rate of just 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly below both the Arizona and national averages, making it one of the safest cities in the state. As a comparison, the national crime rate is 22.5 incidents per one thousand residents. 

Located on the U.S.-Mexico border in southwestern Arizona, San Luis offers a unique cultural experience and affordable living in a safe community. The city serves as an important port of entry between the United States and Mexico, creating a vibrant blend of cultures, traditions, and economic opportunities. San Luis has experienced significant growth in recent decades while maintaining its strong community ties and exceptional safety record.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

San Luis MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $46,747

San Luis Housing Costs

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in San Luis is approximately 11%, much higher than the national average of 4.1, but typical for border communities.
• The poverty rate is higher than the national average at approximately 25%, this being reflective of the economic challenges in border regions.
• Major employers include U.S. Customs and Border Protection, San Luis Regional Medical Center, and various agricultural operations.
• The average commute time is approximately 22 minutes, with many residents working within the city or in nearby Yuma.

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C. Healthcare

San Luis provides residents with healthcare services through the San Luis Regional Medical Center and various community clinics. While specialized care may require travel to larger cities like Yuma, the community offers quality primary care and emergency services. The proximity to Mexico also provides unique healthcare options for residents, with many accessing affordable medical and dental care across the border.

D. Education

• San Luis is served by the Gadsden Elementary School District and the Yuma Union High School District, which provide bilingual education options.
• Arizona Western College maintains a learning center in San Luis, offering higher education opportunities within the community.
• The high school graduation rate is approximately 80%, reflecting some educational challenges common to border communities.
• The percentage of adults over twenty-five with a college degree is approximately 8%, significantly below the national average, presenting opportunities for educational growth.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

San Luis offers a distinctive lifestyle shaped by its border location and strong Mexican-American heritage. The community celebrates numerous cultural traditions throughout the year, and residents enjoy authentic cuisine, vibrant markets, and a strong sense of family and community. The lower cost of living makes San Luis particularly attractive for first-time homebuyers and retirees seeking affordable housing in a safe environment.

Fun Facts about San Luis:

• San Luis is one of the youngest cities in Arizona, with a median age of just twenty-eight, creating a dynamic and energetic community atmosphere.
• The city hosts vibrant celebrations for holidays like Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
• Friendship Park serves as a community gathering space, featuring recreational facilities and regular cultural events.
• San Luis was incorporated in 1979, making it one of Arizona’s newer incorporated cities.
• The nearby Colorado River provides recreational opportunities for residents, including fishing, boating, and waterfront parks.

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2. Surprise, AZ

Population/Area: Surprise has a population of approximately 158,285 residents spread over 108 square miles, providing ample space with a suburban feel.

Safety rating: Surprise has a crime rate 34.5% lower than the national average and ranks in the 74th percentile for safety nationwide, making it one of the safest cities in the United States.

Named by founder Flora Mae Statler, who would be “surprised if the town ever amounted to much,” Surprise has dramatically exceeded her expectations. What was once a single square mile of farmland with just a few houses has blossomed into a thriving city of over 148,000 residents. Located about 45 minutes northwest of Phoenix, Surprise offers residents the perfect balance of small-town charm with convenient access to big-city amenities.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Surprise MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $93,371

Surprise Housing Costs

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Surprise is approximately 3.5%, comparable to the national average of 4.1.
• At 7.8% the poverty rate in Surprise is lower than both the Arizona and national averages.
• Major employers include Banner Health, Amazon, Walmart, and the City of Surprise, with easy access to the additional job-market in Phoenix. 
• The average commute time is approximately 30 minutes, this is short and reflects the city’s location in relation to the Phoenix metropolitan area.

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C. Healthcare

Surprise residents benefit from excellent healthcare facilities, including Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center, which provides comprehensive medical services. The city also hosts numerous specialized medical practices and clinics, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare without traveling far from home. The healthcare system in Surprise continues to expand to meet the needs of its growing population.

D. Education

• Surprise is served by the Dysart Unified School District, which features mostly average to above-average schools according to GreatSchools ratings.
• The city is home to Ottawa University’s residential campus, known for its athletic programs and diverse selection of majors, including Business, Psychology, Communications, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies.
• Several charter and private schools provide additional educational options for families.
• The high school graduation rate in Surprise exceeds 85%, right in line with the national average.
• The percentage of adults over twenty-five with a college degree is approximately 30%, slightly below the national average but growing steadily.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Surprise lives up to its name by surprising residents and visitors with its exceptional quality of life. The city boasts numerous parks, recreation centers, and sports facilities, including the Surprise Stadium, which hosts MLB spring training for the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers. The community’s focus on outdoor activities and family-friendly events creates a welcoming atmosphere for residents of all ages.

Fun Facts about Surprise:

• Surprise is a golf paradise with eight golf courses in the immediate area and fifty-four within a 20-mile radius, making it a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.
• The city’s Citizen Patrol and Neighborhood Watch programs contribute to its low crime rate and strong sense of community safety.
• White Tank Mountain Regional Park, located just minutes from Surprise, offers over 30,000 acres of desert wilderness with hiking trails and ancient petroglyphs.
• The Surprise Aquatic Center features a competition pool, diving well, and water slides, providing summer fun for families throughout the hot Arizona summers.
• Surprise hosts the Tennis and Racquet Complex, a world-class facility with twenty-five tennis courts, which has been recognized nationally for its excellence.

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3. Sahuarita, AZ

Population/Area: Sahuarita has a population of approximately 34,000 residents across thirty square miles, with steady growth due to its proximity to Tucson and excellent quality of life.

Safety rating: Sahuarita has a crime rate of just 1.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, well below state and national averages, making it one of the safest communities in Arizona.

Situated south of Tucson in the scenic Santa Cruz River Valley, Sahuarita combines small-town tranquility with convenient access to urban amenities. 

Known for its planned communities, abundant green spaces, and exceptional safety, Sahuarita has become increasingly popular with families, professionals, and retirees seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle. The community’s commitment to controlled growth and quality of life has earned it recognition as one of Arizona’s most livable towns.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Sahuarita MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $85,208

Sahuarita Housing Costs

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Sahuarita is approximately 4.2%, below both the Arizona and national averages.
• The poverty rate is significantly lower than both state and national averages at approximately 6.6%. This is less than half the national average
• Major employers include ASARCO Mission Mine, Freeport-McMoRan, Sahuarita Unified School District, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and various retail and service businesses.
• Many residents commute to Tucson for work, with an average commute time of approximately 25 minutes.

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C. Healthcare

Sahuarita residents have access to healthcare through Northwest Medical Center and local medical offices and clinics, with more comprehensive services available in nearby Green Valley and Tucson. The proximity to Tucson provides access to world-class medical facilities, including Banner University Medical Center and Tucson Medical Center. The community also features wellness centers and specialized care facilities catering to its diverse population.

D. Education

• Sahuarita is served by the highly rated Sahuarita Unified School District, which has received numerous accolades for its academic excellence.
• The district includes nine schools serving students from preschool through high school, with strong programs in academics, arts, and athletics.
• Higher education options are available through nearby Pima Community College and the University of Arizona in Tucson.
• The high school graduation rate exceeds 92%, well above the national average.
• The percentage of adults over twenty-five with a college degree is approximately 42%, also above the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Sahuarita offers a blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences, with expert-planned communities featuring amenities like golf courses, parks, and recreation centers. The town’s location provides spectacular mountain views and access to outdoor activities while maintaining proximity to urban attractions. Sahuarita’s community-oriented approach to development creates a powerful sense of belonging among residents.

Fun Facts about Sahuarita:

• Sahuarita is home to the historic Titan Missile Museum, the only publicly accessible Titan II missile site in the United States, offering a fascinating glimpse into Cold War history.
• The town is surrounded by pecan orchards, contributing to its rural charm and agricultural heritage.
• Sahuarita Lake Park provides a scenic recreational area for fishing, walking, and picnicking, serving as a local community gathering space.
• The annual Sahuarita Pecan Festival celebrates the area’s agricultural roots with food, entertainment, and farm tours.
• Residents enjoy over seventeen parks and recreation areas, promoting an active outdoor lifestyle throughout the year.

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4. Sierra Vista, AZ

Population/Area: Sierra Vista has a population of approximately  45,000 residents across 153 square miles, providing spacious living in a picturesque setting.

Safety rating: Sierra Vista has crime rates significantly below the national averages for both violent and property crimes, contributing to its reputation as a safe community.

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Arizona at the base of the Huachuca Mountains, Sierra Vista lives up to its Spanish name meaning “Mountain View.” 

The community combines natural beauty, military heritage, and affordable living to create an appealing destination for residents of all ages. As home to Fort Huachuca, Sierra Vista has a diverse population and strong economic foundation, while its elevation of over 4,600 feet provides a more moderate climate than many other Arizona cities.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Sierra Vista MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $69,783

Sierra Vista Housing Costs

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Sierra Vista is approximately 4.8%, which is close to the national average.
• The poverty rate in Sierra Vista is 10.8%, which is lower than the state average at approximately 12.4%.
• Fort Huachuca serves as the largest employer, with additional opportunities in healthcare, education, government, and retail sectors.
• The average commute time is approximately 17 minutes, one of the shortest in Arizona, reflecting the compact nature of the community.

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C. Healthcare

Sierra Vista provides comprehensive healthcare through Canyon Vista Medical Center, a full-service hospital offering emergency services, surgical care, and specialty treatments. The community also features numerous medical offices, clinics, and wellness centers. The presence of Fort Huachuca ensures additional healthcare resources for military personnel and their families, benefiting the entire community.

D. Education

• Sierra Vista is served by the Sierra Vista Unified School District, which offers a range of educational programs and extracurricular activities.
• The community is home to Cochise College and a branch of the University of Arizona, providing higher education opportunities without leaving town.
• The high school graduation rate is approximately 86%, which is above the national average.
• The percentage of adults over twenty-five with a college degree is approximately 31%, slightly below the national average but reflecting the diverse educational opportunities available.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Sierra Vista offers a distinctive lifestyle shaped by its natural surroundings, military presence, and multicultural population. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the community’s proximity to the Coronado National Forest, Ramsey Canyon Preserve, and other natural attractions. The mild climate, with cooler summers than much of Arizona, supports year-round outdoor activities and a more comfortable living environment.

Fun Facts about Sierra Vista:

• Sierra Vista is known as the “Hummingbird Capital of the United States,” with more species of hummingbirds documented here than anywhere else in the United States.
• The nearby San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is one of the most important bird migration corridors in the United States, attracting birdwatchers from around the world.
• Sierra Vista hosts the annual Cochise County Fair, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit.
• The community’s elevation results in spectacular night skies, earning it recognition as an ideal location for astronomy and stargazing. Sierra Vista is one of Arizona’s 20 sites certified by DarkSky International.
• Fort Huachuca, established in 1877, is one of the oldest continuously operated military installations in the Southwest and houses significant military museums.

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5. Gilbert, AZ

Population/Area: Gilbert’s population is approximately 275,000 residents and is spread over an area of about seventy-six square miles. The population density allows for spacious living while maintaining close community connections.

Safety rating: Gilbert has one of the lowest crime rates in Arizona, with violent crime rates significantly below both the state and national averages. It is consistently ranked among the safest cities in America for its size.

Once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World,” Gilbert has transformed from a small farming community into one of the most desirable suburban areas in the Phoenix metropolitan region. This family-friendly city combines modern amenities with a powerful sense of community, making it an ideal location for households of all sizes. Gilbert’s thoughtful city planning, excellent schools, and abundant recreational spaces have earned it national recognition as one of the best places to live in the United States.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Gilbert MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $105,534

Gilbert Housing Costs

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Gilbert is approximately 3.2%, below both the Arizona and national averages.
• The poverty rate is significantly lower than both the state and national averages at around 5.8%.
• Major employers in the area include Banner Health, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, GoDaddy, and various educational institutions.
• Gilbert residents enjoy short commute times, with an average of approximately 27 minutes.

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C. Healthcare

Gilbert provides excellent healthcare options through Banner Health’s network, including Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Residents have access to specialized medical facilities, including Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. The healthcare system in Gilbert offers comprehensive services ranging from preventive care to advanced treatments from specialists, ensuring residents receive quality medical attention without traveling far from home.

D. Education

• Gilbert is served by several highly rated public-school districts, including Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified School District, both known for their academic excellence.
• The town features numerous charter schools that consistently receive “A” ratings from the Arizona Department of Education.
• Higher education options include Chandler-Gilbert Community College and nearby Arizona State University.
• Gilbert’s high school graduation rate exceeds 94%, well above the national average.
• The population of adults over twenty-five with a college degree is approximately 46%, significantly higher than the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Gilbert offers a distinctive blend of modern suburban living with a touch of its agricultural heritage. The community’s commitment to parks, trails, and outdoor spaces creates an active lifestyle for residents, while the revitalized Heritage District provides a charming downtown experience with unique restaurants and boutique shopping. 

Fun Facts about Gilbert:

• Gilbert was ranked the “Best Place to Raise a Family in Arizona” by WalletHub, highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent services.
• The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert is a renowned bird-watching destination, hosting over two hundred species of birds throughout the year.
• Gilbert’s Heritage District hosts a vibrant farmers market every Saturday morning, featuring local produce, artisan foods, and handcrafted goods.
• The town features over 135 miles of bike paths, making it exceptionally bike-friendly for commuting and recreation.
• Gilbert’s Water Tower Plaza serves as a community gathering space, featuring a splash pad for children and hosting numerous community events throughout the year.

Conclusion

Arizona offers a diverse range of affordable and safe communities to suit various lifestyles and preferences. From the family-friendly suburbs of Gilbert and Surprise to the culturally rich border town of San Luis, the peaceful planned community of Sahuarita, and the naturally beautiful Sierra Vista, the Grand Canyon State provides numerous options for those seeking quality living at reasonable costs.

Each of these communities offers its own unique appeal while sharing the common advantages of Arizona living stunning landscapes, abundant sunshine, recreational opportunities, and a lower cost of living than many coastal states. Whether you are a young professional starting your career, a family looking for excellent schools and safe neighborhoods, or a retiree seeking an active and affordable lifestyle, these five communities represent some of the best values in Arizona.

As with any relocation decision, prospective residents should visit these communities to experience their distinct character and determine which best matches their personal preferences and needs. With careful research and consideration, one of these affordable and safe Arizona cities could become your perfect new home in the Southwest.