Best Places to Raise a Family in Arizona: 9 Cities That Rank Among the Nation’s Top

Arizona continues to solidify its reputation as one of the best places to raise a family, with nine cities ranking among the best in the U.S. in a new study by This Old House. The report analyzed 149 of the most populous U.S. cities based on factors such as affordability, safety, school quality, healthcare access, and family-friendly amenities.

Leading the pack is Scottsdale, which claimed the No. 1 spot nationwide. But it’s not just Scottsdale making waves—several other Arizona cities earned high rankings, making the Grand Canyon State one of the top choices for families looking for a strong community, great schools, and an excellent quality of life.

Arizona Cities Ranked Among the Best for Families

Arizona had the fourth most cities on the list, trailing only California (26), Texas (18), and Florida (10). Here’s where Arizona’s cities landed in the national rankings:

• Scottsdale – No. 1

• Gilbert – No. 6

• Chandler – No. 8

• Tempe – No. 15

• Phoenix – No. 36

• Mesa – No. 55

• Glendale – No. 66

• Peoria – No. 69

• Tucson – No. 77

This strong showing underscores Arizona’s growing appeal to families, thanks to its high-quality schools, affordable housing compared to other major markets, outdoor recreation, and family-focused communities.

Why Arizona Cities Are Among the Best for Families

The rankings were based on several key factors, including education quality, childcare availability, healthcare access, safety, and recreational opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Arizona’s top-ranked cities stand out.

Exceptional Education & Childcare

One of the biggest factors influencing these rankings was school quality, and several Arizona cities excelled in education.

• Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Chandler all earned a 9 out of 10 rating for their school districts, placing them among the best in the nation.

• Childcare availability is another key factor, with Scottsdale offering 5.34 childcare providers per 1,000 children under five—ensuring families have access to trusted childcare options.

• Tempe and Mesa also offer numerous early childhood education programs and top-rated preschools.

Strong Healthcare Access

Arizona’s top cities also offer excellent healthcare access, ensuring families have the medical resources they need.

• Scottsdale has the highest primary care provider ratio among the top five ranked cities, with 6.65 providers per 1,000 residents.

• Phoenix, Chandler, and Gilbert also rank well for healthcare access, making them attractive options for families prioritizing quality medical care.

• Tucson is home to the University of Arizona Medical Center, providing top-tier pediatric and family healthcare.

Outdoor Recreation & Family-Friendly Amenities

Arizona’s climate and stunning natural landscapes provide year-round outdoor opportunities—a major perk for families.

• Scottsdale ranked No. 2 in the U.S. for kids’ activities (2.81 per 1,000 residents) and No. 4 for libraries (0.14 per 1,000 residents).

• Tempe, Mesa, and Peoria are also home to beautiful parks, outdoor playgrounds, and sports complexes, offering plenty of recreation options for children and families.

• Gilbert’s Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch and Chandler’s Tumbleweed Park provide fantastic outdoor adventures for kids.

• The abundance of hiking trails, golf courses, and lakes in these cities also makes them ideal for families who love the outdoors.

Safe and Secure Communities

Safety is always a top concern for families, and Arizona’s top cities boast lower crime rates compared to other major metro areas.

• Gilbert ranked No. 5 in the U.S. for lowest crime rates.

• Chandler ranked No. 23, and Scottsdale No. 28, reinforcing the fact that these communities are secure and well-maintained.

• Even larger cities like Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale have dedicated safety initiatives that contribute to their family-friendly environments.

Cost of Living Breakdown for Arizona Cities

Arizona offers a mix of affordable and upscale living options, making it attractive for families at different budget levels.

While Scottsdale is known for its luxury real estate, cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Glendale offer more affordable housing options, making Arizona accessible to families with different financial needs.

Arizona’s Job Market & Economic Growth

A strong job market is crucial for families, and Arizona’s top-ranked cities offer excellent career opportunities:

• Chandler and Gilbert are home to major employers like Intel, PayPal, and Northrop Grumman.

• Phoenix and Tempe are booming tech hubs with companies like Amazon, State Farm, and ASU driving job growth.

• Scottsdale features a mix of healthcare, finance, and tourism industries, with Mayo Clinic and Vanguard as major employers.

• Tucson has a growing aerospace and defense industry, with Raytheon Technologies leading the way.

Conclusion: Why Arizona Continues to Be a Top Destination for Families

With strong school systems, high safety ratings, abundant recreation opportunities, and a family-friendly lifestyle, Arizona is proving to be one of the best states for raising children.

Whether you’re drawn to Scottsdale’s top-rated schools, Gilbert’s safety, Chandler’s thriving job market, or Tempe’s vibrant atmosphere, Arizona has a city that fits every family's needs.

If you’re considering moving to one of Arizona’s top-ranked cities, now is a great time to explore your options. Contact me today to find the perfect home for your family!