Discover the Most Affordable Phoenix Suburbs

Sunset in the Sonoran Desert, near some of the most affordable suburbs of Phoenix, AZ
Sunset in the Sonoran Desert, near some of the most affordable suburbs of Phoenix, AZ

If you’re a homebuyer looking to plant roots in one of the most affordable Phoenix suburbs, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we share some of the best suburbs in Phoenix, AZ, that combine budget-friendly living with great amenities and a welcoming feel. Let’s explore a few of the top spots where you can make your dream of homeownership a reality.

Summary:

  • Most Affordable Phoenix Suburbs

  • Which Affordable Phoenix Suburb Is Right for You?

  • Affordable New Homes in Phoenix, AZ

  • Most Affordable Phoenix Suburbs Conclusion


Most Affordable Phoenix Suburbs

Lots of Phoenix suburbs offer the perks of homeownership: affordability, convenience, and charm. Whether you’re looking for more of a social scene or a quiet place to settle down, these affordable suburbs of Phoenix, AZ, make it easy to find your fit. 


Buckeye 

Buckeye is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the Phoenix area, according to 2024 data from GOBankingRates®.com. The area offers an inviting vibe and is home to Skyline Regional Park, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails that are great for outdoor enthusiasts. An ideal spot for homebuyers and one of the more affordable Phoenix area suburbs, you’ll find new residential developments with spacious homes at competitive prices. Buckeye’s ongoing growth means access to expanding amenities and schools, though entertainment and dining options are still developing. Explore new home communities in Buckeye, AZ, from Centex®. 

Pros

  • Lower housing costs than the state average, per Zillow® (December 2024)

  • Access to several parks, including Skyline Regional Park, for outdoor activities

  • Community-oriented neighborhoods

  • Rapidly growing infrastructure

  • Expanding educational facilities

Cons

  • Limited dining and entertainment options

  • Longer commute to central Phoenix

  • Minimal public transportation, requiring a car for most errands

  • Sparse nightlife offerings

  • Early-stage commercial development


Goodyear

Goodyear is also among the nice suburbs of Phoenix, known for its affordability, growing economy, numerous parks, and convenient shopping and dining options at places like Palm Valley Pavilions West. There are lots of opportunities for recreational activities at places like the Goodyear® Recreation Campus, which has an aquatic center, sports courts, and fitness facility. Plus, you’ll enjoy the proximity to Estrella Mountain Regional Park, which offers stunning desert views and hiking and biking trails to explore. 

Pros

  • Proximity to major employers

  • Abundant shopping and dining options

  • Easy access to incredible parks and outdoor activities 

  • Dynamic community life

Cons

  • Fewer cultural and entertainment options

  • Less pedestrian-friendly, requiring a car to get around

  • Limited public transportation


Maricopa

Located just south of Phoenix, Maricopa offers a small-town feel with plenty of modern conveniences. The Copper Sky Multigenerational Center serves as a centerpiece for community activities, with its aquatic center, gym, and sports fields. Maricopa is known for being one of the affordable suburbs around Phoenix, Arizona, which helps make it a popular choice for first-time buyers seeking more space for their dollar. If you’re drawn to this serene suburb, browse our new home communities in Maricopa, AZ, to find your perfect fit. 

Pros

  • More affordable housing compared to the state average, per Zillow (December 2024)

  • Tight-knit, welcoming atmosphere

  • Access to recreational facilities, like the Copper Sky Recreation Complex

  • Growing retail and dining options

  • Abundant parks and activities for all ages

Cons

  • Longer commute to central Phoenix

  • Limited public transportation options

  • Fewer nightlife and entertainment venues

  • Dependence on nearby larger cities for major shopping

  • A slower pace of urban development than other suburbs


Tolleson

Tolleson is one of the affordable suburbs near Phoenix, AZ, that’s also great for commuters given its proximity to downtown. This suburb features a variety of parks and local eateries, giving it a cozy and connected community feel. Its housing affordability appeals to budget-conscious buyers, and its location offers easy access to major highways and job corridors. 

Pros:

  • Easy access to downtown Phoenix

  • Affordable housing options

  • Small-town, community-oriented feel

  • Proximity to major highways like I-10

  • Nearby local parks and recreational areas

Cons:

  • Limited nightlife and entertainment venues

  • A smaller selection of retail and dining options

  • Less variety in housing types than in other suburbs

  • Heavily residential with fewer commercial developments

  • Sparse options for cultural and arts activities

 

Camelback Mountain overlooking some of the most affordable Phoenix area suburbs
Camelback Mountain overlooking some of the most affordable Phoenix area suburbs

Which Affordable Phoenix Suburb Is Right for You?

Deciding on the best Phoenix suburb to live in depends on your lifestyle and goals. If you're into outdoor adventures, Buckeye might be just right for you. If an easy commute would make life easier, Tolleson could be your ideal suburb. Whatever your priorities, there’s a Phoenix suburb that fits the bill. Here are a few of the most affordable suburbs around Phoenix, AZ, to choose from based on your potential lifestyle.


Affordable Phoenix Suburbs for Young Professionals

If you’re starting your career and want to be close to work or looking for a place to live near lots of activities and nightlife, these are some of the best suburbs to live in Phoenix:

  • Scottsdale: Known for its nightlife scene and upscale feel, Scottsdale offers easy access to employers and after-work fun. From bustling Old Town to trendy restaurants and galleries, you’ll never run out of things to do. 

  • Goodyear: For a mix of suburbia and city life, Goodyear is a standout. With its growing economy, numerous parks, and the Goodyear Ballpark, it offers the perfect balance of work and play.

  • Peoria: Locals love Peoria’s outdoor options, including Lake Pleasant Regional Park and trailheads for weekend adventures.


Affordable Phoenix Suburbs for Families and Individuals

If you have a growing household or seek community-focused neighborhoods, you’ll feel right at home in these affordable suburbs near Phoenix, Arizona:

  • Queen Creek: With its small-town charm and many local amenities, Queen Creek is perfect for homebuyers looking for more space. The Queen Creek Olive Mill and San Tan Mountain Regional Park are just a couple of the local attractions. 

  • Surprise: Packed with parks, recreational facilities, and a thriving community spirit, Surprise appeals to lots of homebuyers. Its affordability and welcoming vibe also help make it an ideal choice for first-time buyers. 

  • Litchfield Park: Known for its peaceful atmosphere and historic charm, Litchfield Park is a great option for anyone. Enjoy scenic strolls and a relaxed pace while living close to quality schools and amenities. 

 

Interior living room of a new construction home in one of the affordable Phoenix suburbs
Interior living room of a new construction home in one of the affordable Phoenix suburbs

Affordable New Homes in Phoenix, AZ 

At Centex®, we know homebuyers typically seek living spaces that are modern, affordable, and ready for real life. Check out our inviting new construction communities where we can make buying a home in Phoenix feel doable:

  • Copper Falls: In addition to two amenity parks, greenbelts, a trail system, shaded play structures, ramadas, picnic areas, open turf spaces, a half basketball court, and more, this peaceful community is centrally located near three shopping centers, close to West Valley job corridors, and offers convenient access to I-10 for commuting to the West Valley cities and Downtown Phoenix.

  • Village at Sundance: This cozy community features tot lots, playgrounds, open greenbelt space, a trail system, and a large community park with ramadas. Located in the Buckeye Unified School District, adjacent to Youngker High School and Painted Desert Montessori Academy, it also offers easy access to three shopping centers with retail and dining, as well as the I-10 and West Valley corridors for convenient commuting.


  • El Rancho Santa Rosa: Enjoy convenient access to Highway 347, the Ak-Chin Entertainment Center, and the Maricopa Town Center in this lovely community. Amenities include shaded playgrounds, a turf play area, a basketball court, and a ramada with picnic tables. Plus, the Copper Sky Recreation Complex is just over one mile away.


Most Affordable Phoenix Suburbs Conclusion

These affordable suburbs near Phoenix, AZ, are designed with the comfort and convenience homebuyers seek in mind. Take the first step toward living the life you’ve been dreaming about in these Phoenix suburbs that offer thriving communities, picturesque desert backdrops, and lots of room to grow. 

Explore affordable new homes in Phoenix, AZ, today, or browse more Centex blogs



Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 4/28/25