If you’re considering a move to Phoenix, Arizona, you couldn’t ask for a sunnier spot to call home — in fact, it’s known as the Valley of the Sun! This desert oasis is one of the five largest U.S. cities with 1,662,607 residents and an annual growth rate of .76 percent. But before you hitch up that moving truck to head out West, you’ll want to determine the best neighborhoods in Phoenix to set your sights on first.
Transplants flock to Phoenix from across the country, and who can blame them? The nature views are spectacular, the arts and culture scene is diverse, the entertainment options are superb, and the weather is warm all year-round (don’t worry — it’s a dry heat).
This sprawling metro area contains 24 municipalities and nearly 50 neighborhoods, each with their own unique selling points. So, which one is right for you? We’ve removed all the guesswork with this list of the 8 best neighborhoods in Phoenix — from trendy urban centers to bohemian artist enclaves to family-oriented communities — based on the following criteria:
Overall safety and low crime rates
Convenient public transit access
Average monthly rent and home value
Outdoor spaces and recreation
Vibrant local attractions and activities
Highly -rated public school districts
Walkability around the neighborhood
No matter your preference, there’s a destination to suit everyone.
Best Neighborhoods in Phoenix
1. Sonoran Foothills: A resort-inspired retreat
2. Central City: Phoenix’s exhilarating urban core
3. Camelback East: Where nature meets the city
4. Roosevelt Row: A hub for creatives at heart
5. Melrose-Woodlea: Welcoming community vibes
6. Encanto Village: Quaint charm and lush scenery
7. Willo Historic District: Proud heritage, modern feel
8. Arcadia: Phoenix’s swankiest neighborhood
8 Best Neighborhoods in Phoenix
Ready to take the leap and relocate to the Valley of the Sun? You’re sure to feel at home in any of these Phoenix neighborhoods. Whether you want access to picturesque hiking trails, a dynamic entertainment and nightlife scene, a tranquil suburban environment to raise kids, or anything in between, this comprehensive list has got you covered.
1) Sonoran Foothills: A resort-inspired retreat
Average rent: $1,791
Average home value: $772,500
Best for: Families, retirees, amenities, safety
Known for: Strong community, excellent schools, access to nature
Getting around: Close to I-17 freeway, helps to own a car
Sonoran Foothills is one of the best neighborhoods in Phoenix for families with a highly rated public school district, premier resident amenities, and vibrant outdoor recreation practically right on homeowners’ doorsteps. This safe master-planned community flanks the Sonoran Preserve, featuring 9,600 acres of pristine desert scenery and a 36-mile trail network. Most of the homes are spacious one- or two-storey houses on quiet, peaceful streets.
The neighborhood also has a swimming pool, numerous athletic courts, and unique monthly social events like the Sonoran Foothills Community Market with local farmers, artisans, and live music. Not to mention, you’re a 10-minute drive from The Shops at Norterra, which offers more than 40 retailers, eateries, wellness services, and other entertainment options.
2) Central City: Phoenix’s exhilarating urban core
Average rent: $1,665
Average home value: $345,991
Best for: Students, young professionals, singles
Known for: Diversity, entertainment, nightlife, urban convenience
Getting around: Walkable, close to bus lines and Valley Metro Rail
Central City, in the heart of downtown, is among the coolest Phoenix neighborhoods, known for its seamless fusion of dynamic entertainment, business innovation, and energetic urban vibes. Whether you’re in the mood for an eclectic restaurant, immersive cultural event, or trendy nightlife hotspot, Central City has what you’re looking for. Plus, there’s a variety of housing options to choose from, including high-rise apartments, modern townhomes, and cozy bungalows.
This neighborhood attracts young professionals due to its reputation as a new tech hub (earning it the nickname, “Silicon Desert”), but its walkable location near Arizona State University’s downtown campus also makes it a popular choice among college students.
In your spare time, check out world-class exhibits at the Phoenix Art Museum, grab a specialty coffee and hatch chili grilled cheese sandwich at Cactus Cloud Café, or sip on a craft cocktail while jamming out to indie music at Valley Bar.
3) Camelback East: Where nature meets the city
Average rent: $1,496
Average home value: $561,635
Best for: Families, young professionals, outdoor lovers
Known for: Hiking trails, entertainment, mix of urban and suburban
Getting around: Close to bus lines and Valley Metro Rail, helps to own a car
Camelback East combines the perks of an urban lifestyle with the tranquil splendor and adventurous thrills of a natural desert vista. Nestled between Camelback Mountain and Papago Park, only a short commute to downtown, this area is a desirable spot for families, nature enthusiasts, and professionals. When house hunting, you’ll have numerous options, from sleek condos to charming ranch-style houses to large new constructions.
In terms of entertainment, there’s no shortage of activities, no matter what you’re into:. Sports fans can attend MLB Spring Training at the Scottsdale Stadium less than 15 minutes away. Outdoor lovers can explore the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, and the iconic Camelback trails. Meanwhile, urbanites can enjoy more than 60 upscale boutiques and irresistible restaurants at the Biltmore Fashion Park.
4) Roosevelt Row: A hub for creatives at heart
Average rent: $1,650
Average home value: $744,500
Best for: Artists, young professionals, singles
Known for: Diversity, galleries, colorful street art, nightlife
Getting around: Walkable, close to bus lines and Valley Metro Rail
Roosevelt Row, a walkable downtown artist’s community, is another cool neighborhood in Phoenix that brings creative spirits, young professionals, bohemians, and other diverse folks together. Whether you live in a restored craftsman-style cottage or a trendy loft apartment, this flourishing enclave will place you just around the corner from vibrant art galleries, quirky street murals, hip nightlife venues, and globally inspired cuisine.
Roosevelt Row’s primary claim to fame is the First Friday Art Walk, an open-air festival that showcases multicultural artists, makers, food purveyors, musicians, and other local vendors. This neighborhood has a thriving culinary scene, too. Savor the jumbo pancakes at Matt’s Big Breakfast, the Mexican street fare at Taco Chelo, the Southeast Asian delicacies at LeDu Thai, or the extensive tap list and classic pub eats at Arizona Wilderness Brewery.
5) Melrose-Woodlea: Welcoming community vibes
Average rent: $1,260
Average home value: $451,000
Best for: Families, young professionals
Known for: Inclusive community, entertainment, historic architecture
Getting around: Somewhat walkable, close to I-10 and I-17 freeways
Melrose-Woodlea has an inclusive community feel that embraces residents from all walks of life. As one of the main LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in Phoenix, Melrose-Woodlea is home to many queer-owned businesses along Seventh Avenue, the area’s bustling entertainment district. It’s also known for retro mid-century modern houses in ranch and bungalow styles.
Each year, this neighborhood hosts the Melrose Street Fair, an iconic Phoenix institution, with over 200 eclectic artisans, food trucks, live musicians, farmer’s market booths, and a craft beer garden. But whether you're a foodie, a shopper, or just out to explore, Melrose-Woodlea offers something for everyone year-round. Treat yourself to a flavored latte and bagel at Copper Star Coffee. Peruse the antiques, vinyl records, arts and crafts, or other unique finds at Melrose Vintage Market. Or sample authentic Native American cuisine at the James Beard-winning Fry Bread House.
6) Encanto Village: Quaint charm and lush scenery
Average rent: $1,608
Average home value: $439,785
Best for: Families, retirees, outdoor lovers
Known for: Access to green spaces, entertainment, mix of urban and suburban
Getting around: Close to bus lines and Valley Metro Rail, helps to own a car
Encanto Village offers the ideal balance of convenient urban proximity along with the serenity of quaint, tree-lined streets and lush, green spaces. Just about anyone will thrive here, from retirees looking for a calmer pace of life to families with young children who love outdoor recreation. In terms of housing, you’ll find various options to suit your taste or budget, such as townhomes, apartments, and historic Spanish, Mediterranean, and Pueblo houses.
In the heart of this neighborhood lies Encanto Park, featuring more than 220 acres of nature trails, lagoons, picnic areas, golf courses, athletic courts, a swimming pool, and even an amusement park. Following an afternoon in the sun, unwind over a signature cocktail, seasonal farm-to-table meal, and panoramic Sonoran Desert views at Ocotillo. Then, cap off the night with a live performance at The Phoenix Theater Company or immerse yourself in the Heard Museum’s curated collection of Indigenous artwork.
7) Willo Historic District: Proud heritage, modern feel
Average rent: $1,505
Average home value: $760,000
Best for: Families, young professionals, urban convenience
Known for: Historic architecture, entertainment, strong community
Getting around: Walkable, close to bus lines and Valley Metro Rail
Willo Historic District is among the oldest Phoenix neighborhoods — in fact, this close-knit community can trace its roots back to the 1920s. Its quiet, tree-lined streets showcase this legacy, featuring preserved homes in a mix of architectural styles, from Spanish Colonial and Monterey Revival to French Provincial and English Tudor. But while this area is steeped in rich history, it’s full of modern energy as well.
Willo might seem like a small-town corridor, but its prime location less than 10 minutes from the downtown core gives you access to exceptional urban entertainment and cultural attractions. Cheer on the MLB Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field or the NBA Suns and WNBA Mercury at Footprint Center. Snag tickets to a concert at The Phoenix Symphony. Savor a wood-fired Neapolitan pizza at Forno 301. And of course, don’t miss out on the Willo Home Tour and Street Fair, an annual block party that’s been running for over 35 years.
8) Arcadia: Phoenix’s swankiest neighborhood
Average rent: $1,987
Average home value: $1,800,000
Best for: High-income professionals, retirees, safety
Known for: Excellent schools, upscale amenities, entertainment
Getting around: Somewhat walkable, close to I-10 and 202 Loop freeways
Arcadia is one of the richest neighborhoods in Phoenix, which arguably makes it the safest area of Phoenix to live in, too. Residents seek out this affluent enclave due to its upscale amenities, pristine natural scenery, and luxurious million-dollar estates. With competitive schools and a low crime rate, Arcadia is also a top choice for families who can afford to call it home.
Arcadia offers something for everyone, blending outdoor adventures, upscale shopping, and vibrant dining. Check out the 70-mile multi-use Arizona Canal Path, the designer boutiques at Scottsdale Fashion Square, or the trendy eateries, coffee carts, and wine bars at La Grande Orange. Not to mention, Arcadians are just a few minutes away from the locally owned retailers, tap rooms, restaurants, art galleries, and open-air festivals in Old Town Scottsdale.
Move to Your Ideal Phoenix Neighborhood with Colonial Van Lines
With each neighborhood offering its own distinct character and a number of selling points, the best area to live in Phoenix is ultimately a matter of preference.
Whether you choose to put down roots in artsy and bohemian Roosevelt Row, urban and walkable Central City, or tranquil and scenic Encanto Village, the next step is actually moving there.
Let the experts at Colonial Van Lines take care of all the packing, heavy lifting, and transporting, so you can focus on settling into your new Phoenix neighborhood with maximum efficiency and minimal stress. Contact us for a free quote today, and soon you’ll be soaking up that brilliant desert sunshine in your new Phoenix home!