7 Phoenix Metro Cities Named Best Places to Live in 2026

By Arizona Home Group

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Every year, U.S. News ranks the best places to live in America, evaluating cities on their job market, value, quality of life, and desirability. For 2026, the Phoenix metro area earned real recognition, with seven Valley cities making the list.

Here’s where they landed and what’s driving the attention.

Gilbert made the biggest jump. The largest move among our local cities was Gilbert, which climbed all the way to #57 nationally, up from #94 last year. It’s not hard to see why. Gilbert continues to attract families and professionals with its highly rated schools, strong sense of community, and massive growth in retail and restaurant offerings throughout the town.

It’s become one of the most sought-after places to live in the East Valley. We’re seeing that demand firsthand: a home in Gilbert’s Layton Lakes community, with 7 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and 5,633 square feet, recently sold for $892,500. Another in the Higley Park community, with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and just over 1,944 square feet, sold for $450,000, showing you can still find homes in the median price range there.

Chandler wasn’t far behind. Another city making a significant move was Chandler, which jumped from #123 to #78 this year. Chandler continues to be a favorite for its strong job market, technology employers, highly rated school districts, and vibrant downtown.

A recent sale in the Cooper Commons community, with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and about 2,884 square feet, closed at $410,000, and another in Riggs Ranch Meadows, with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and 3,517 square feet, sold for $600,000. These are the kinds of homes that keep attracting buyers who want a great quality of life while staying connected to major employment centers.

More Valley cities earned recognition. Several other communities made the list. Queen Creek came in at #103 and continues to grow rapidly while keeping its small-town feel. Peoria ranked #145, offering great outdoor recreation, sports facilities, and access to Lake Pleasant. Scottsdale landed at #149, and while it’s long known for luxury living, its world-class golf, dining, and entertainment keep it a top destination. Further west, Surprise ranked #223, and Goodyear came in at #245, both benefiting from continued growth, new development, and expanding amenities.

There’s something here for everyone. The takeaway is that the Phoenix metro area keeps gaining national attention, and you can see why on the full U.S. News best places list. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly neighborhoods, career opportunities, luxury living, or room to grow in the Valley, there’s truly something for everyone here.

If you’d like to learn more about any of these communities or you’re considering a move, we’d be happy to help. Call or text us at (602) 571-3730, email us at john@arizonahomegroup.com, or visit ahgnationasks.com.

We’d love to help you find your place in the Valley.