10 Most Growing Cities in Arizona

Often, when you think of Arizona, the foremost image is of a desert area or the popular state attraction, the Grand Canyon. But the 7.1 million residents in Arizona will tell you there’s more to this state than its attractions and landscape.

With Arizona’s population increasing by 3.8% in the past three years, many cities in Arizona, besides Phoenix and Tucson, have also seen tremendous growth in different aspects. 

From city population to economy, job market expansion, and quality of life, these cities in Arizona are not letting up in these areas. They have made so much progress that it’s difficult to overlook them as they are some of Arizona’s rising stars. 

If you are looking to relocate to the Grand Canyon State, you shouldn’t skip this article, as it will offer an in-depth look at why these areas are among top 10 most growing cities in Arizona.

Queen Creek, AZ

Essentially a small town with big ambitions, Queen Creek has evolved into an area with only its rural charm going for it and morphed into one of Arizona’s top growth stories. 

Between 2020 and 2023, the population of Queen Creek shot up by a whopping 28.6% due to its affordable housing, family-friendly neighborhoods, and strong job opportunities. 

Queen Creek’s infrastructure is playing catch-up with major road expansions, such as the extension of State Route 24 and improvements to public transportation. 

Sure, the cost of living is creeping up as well (currently 14% higher than the national average), but it reflects a high influx of people to the city who move for the high quality of life and small-town vibe, with the perks of urban convenience.

• Population: 59,519
• Median Household Income: $127,182
• Unemployment Rate: 3.7%
• Average House Rent: $1,827
• Median Home Value: $570,000

Buckeye, AZ

Buckeye is Arizona’s “wild west,” but instead of gold rushes, it is population booms and real estate expansions — within the past three years, Buckeye’s population has soared by 19%. 

Although the cost of living here is 3% higher than the national average, the movers in Arizona are more busy than ever as people continue to sweep into Buckeye for relatively affordable housing and job opportunities. 

Industries like manufacturing, retail, and healthcare are setting up shop here, earning it a spot as one of the best cities to live in Arizona. 

Plus, the city continues to attract new residents who value its easy going vibe, stunning desert landscapes, and wide-open spaces.

• Population: 91,502
• Median Household Income: $94,188
• Unemployment Rate: 4.9%
• Average House Rent: $1,881
• Median Home Value: $412,300

Goodyear, AZ

Every year is good in Goodyear as the city continues its take off. 

With the Phoenix-Goodyear Airport and major transportation hubs close by, Goodyear has become an economic powerhouse in the West Valley. 

If you want to see what a city with over 16% population growth in three years is like, Goodyear is a great place to begin. Cinching its spot as one of the leading Arizona economic growth cities, people flock here for job opportunities in aviation, healthcare, and tech industries. 

Quality of life is one of Goodyear’s strong suits, with plenty of parks, sports complexes, and access to nature. Plus, the city has become a family favorite, with so many new amenities popping up. 

Even the rising cost of living (12% higher than the national average) hasn’t stopped the momentum!

• Population: 95,294
• Median Household Income: $97,307
• Unemployment Rate: 4.2%
• Average House Rent: $1,699
• Median Home Value: $494,800

Marana, AZ

If you’re looking for a city that mixes natural beauty with modern growth, Marana is your answer. 

Tucked between Tucson and Phoenix, this once-sleepy desert town has experienced explosive population growth (12.6% between 2020 and 2023), particularly with retirees and families. 

Marana’s economy is on the rise, with logistics and retail sectors driving new jobs. Housing is still pretty much affordable compared to neighboring cities like Tucson. 

But that may be changing soon as more people discover Marana’s balance of quiet and opportunity, making it among the 10 most growing cities in Arizona.

• Population: 51,908
• Median Household Income: $105,624
• Unemployment Rate: 2.6%
• Average House Rent: $1,551
• Median Home Value: $453,000

Gilbert, AZ

Next on this list of the 10 fastest growing cities in Arizona is Gilbert. 

This city has completely transformed from its agricultural roots to a tech-driven hotspot. Tech companies are increasingly setting up in Gilbert, drawing talent from across the region. 

Perhaps the educational sector might be the big influence for families coming into the area.

The city has top-tier schools overseen by the Gilbert Unified School District, which consistently ranks among the best in Arizona and outperforms over 80% of all U.S. school districts in school quality. 

• Population: 267,918
• Median Household Income: $115,176
• Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
• Average House Rent: $1,820
• Median Home Value: $596,000

Surprise, AZ

Taking Arizona further into a hub for new folks is none other but Surprise in Maricopa County. 

Surprise has exploded into one of Arizona’s most active suburbs. Over the past three years, the population has jumped by over 10%, with people drawn to its safe neighborhoods and job growth in healthcare, retail, and education. 

Surprise’s cost of living is on the rise (9% higher than the national average), but it’s still affordable compared to neighboring cities. 

Plus, its numerous parks and family-friendly events, including Major League Baseball’s spring training, make it a fun place to live. 

• Population: 143,148
• Median Household Income: $87,756
• Unemployment Rate: 4.5%
• Average House Rent: $1,783
• Median Home Value: $512,500

Maricopa, AZ

Once a not-so-talked about city in the Gila River Valley region, Maricopa has transformed into a place most people would love to be.

Maricopa used to be on the outskirts of the Phoenix metro area. But today, it’s in the spotlight as one of the 10 most growing cities in Arizona with the city’s population growing by over 20% in the past three years. 

Employment tip: industries like manufacturing, distribution, and tech fuel the job market. 

The truth is residents love the mix of small-town charm and proximity to the big city. Although the cost of living is steadily rising, Maricopa remains an affordable option for homebuyers compared to Phoenix.

• Population: 58,125
• Median Household Income: $88,795
• Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
• Average House Rent: $1,604
• Median Home Value: $375,000

Tempe, AZ

The subtle King city just east of Phoenix!

Tempe may be known as home to Arizona State University, but this city is about much more than just college life. It’s become a hotspot for young professionals, and the population continues to grow.

Although the cost of living is higher, Tempe’s unbeatable mix of nightlife, outdoor activities, and cultural events makes it worth every penny for those who want an urban experience with a laid-back vibe.

Note:

The college peeps and young folks tend to flock to this city more than families or retirees.

• Population: 180,587
• Median Household Income: $72,022
• Unemployment Rate: 3.7%
• Average House Rent: $1,891
• Median Home Value: $519,900

Casa Grande, AZ

What was once a quiet agricultural town has transformed into a bustling industrial hub, grabbing a spot as one of the 10 most growing cities in Arizona. 

The population growth in Casa Grande has been significant (18.8% within the past three years), with more people moving in for job opportunities in manufacturing and logistics.

Although the cost of living is gradually increasing, it’s currently 5% lower than the national average. 

Casa Grande remains one of the most affordable housing options (23% lower than the national average) and provides a balance between career growth and peaceful living.

• Population: 53,658  
• Median Household Income: $64,535
• Unemployment Rate: 4.9%
• Average House Rent: $1,359
• Median Home Value: $375,000

Peoria, AZ

For those in search of the ultimate suburban dream or folks looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Phoenix but still want easy access to the city’s amenities, Peoria calls to you. 

The population here has surged by over 20% in the last decade, and it’s easy to see why.

For instance, Peoria’s job market has expanded, particularly in healthcare, education, and hospitality. Plus, residents tend to love Peoria’s family-friendly atmosphere, top-rated schools, and plenty of outdoor activities like Lake Pleasant. 

• Population: 190,985
• Median Household Income: $86,759
• Unemployment Rate: 3.7%
• Average House Rent: $1,645
• Median Home Value: $540,000

Endnote — The Best Growing Cities of Arizona

These 10 most growing cities in Arizona are booming, thanks to their expanding job markets, improved infrastructure, and high quality of life. 

With the looks of things, it’s easy to see why they are attracting people from across the country. 

While the cost of living may be on the rise in many of these areas, the opportunities they offer still make a bargain anyone would be willing to go for.

Remember: Arizona is where the future is bright, and the desert is full of growth!

Written by Alejandro Guerrero. September 30, 2024

With a mixed love between the sciences and the arts and a passion for reading, Alejandro has developed a background that allows him to discuss many subjects. Being home design one of them, he likes to share thoughts and tips on how to not to forget that those buildings we live in are our homes at the end.