With diverse landscapes ranging from red rocks to pine forests, Arizona offers a unique blend of natural beauty, sunny weather, and vibrant cities.
As one of the fastest-growing states in the country, Arizona contains a variety of major metropolitan areas appealing to all lifestyles and interests.From the bustling capital of Phoenix to the college town vibe of Tempe, deciding where to settle down poses a welcome challenge.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy both urban amenities and adventures in places like Flagstaff, while nightlife aficionados may prefer cosmopolitan Scottsdale. And for those seeking a quieter pace, Tucson’s laidback atmosphere beckons.
While the Grand Canyon State presents limitless possibilities, we explore the 10 most populous cities serving as Arizona’s foundation here.
Ranging from long-established destinations to up-and-coming suburbs, discover what makes each of these population centers an exceptional place to call home.
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Here is a table summarizing details on the 10 largest cities in Arizona:
| City | 2024 Population | Land Area (sq mi) | Median Home Price | Top Industries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 1,680,988 | 517.5 | $445,000 | Technology, Tourism, Manufacturing |
| Tucson | 542,629 | 226.7 | $328,250 | Technology, Education, Tourism |
| Mesa | 504,258 | 133.1 | $445,000 | Healthcare, Tourism, Education |
| Chandler | 280,711 | 58.0 | $445,000 | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Glendale | 248,325 | 55.8 | $445,000 | Healthcare, Sports, Aviation |
| Scottsdale | 241,361 | 184.3 | $770,000 | Tourism, Real Estate |
| Gilbert | 275,346 | 74.4 | $445,000 | Finance, Technology, Healthcare |
| Tempe | 185,950 | 40.1 | $445,000 | Education, Technology |
| Peoria | 197,866 | 175.2 | $469,000 | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Warehousing |
| Surprise | 143,148 | 121.5 | $430,000 | Healthcare, Tourism, Real Estate |
10 Largest Cities in Arizona
1. Phoenix
With a population of over 1.6 million, Phoenix is by far the largest city in Arizona. Located in the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. Originally founded in 1867, Phoenix has proliferated in recent decades to become the 5th most populous city in the U.S.
Phoenix is home to many attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden, the Musical Instrument Museum, and a thriving arts scene. Sports are also huge in Phoenix with popular teams like the Suns, Cardinals, Diamondbacks, and Coyotes. Phoenix offers an affordable cost of living compared to other major metro areas.
Key Phoenix Facts:
- 2024 Population: 1,680,988
- Median Home Price: $445,000
- Top Industries: Technology, Tourism, Manufacturing
2. Tucson
As Arizona’s second-largest city, Tucson has a distinct culture and vibe different from Phoenix. With a population of 542,629, Tucson forms the center of southern Arizona. Surrounded by mountains and the Sonoran desert, Tucson takes advantage of its outdoor location.
Popular sights include Saguaro National Park and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. The University of Arizona also provides plenty of amenities like sports and culture. With a lower cost of living than Phoenix, Tucson offers an appealing option.
Key Tucson Facts:
- 2024 Population: 542,629
- Median Home Price: $328,250
- Top Industries: Technology, Education, Tourism
3. Mesa
Forming part of the Phoenix metro area, Mesa comes in as Arizona’s third largest city with a population of 504,258. Mesa has proliferated in recent decades as Phoenix expands. Sometimes called the nation’s largest suburb, Mesa maintains a small-town vibe in places.
Mesa sits at the base of the Superstition Mountains and features attractions like the Mesa Arts Center and Cubs’ spring training. With a low cost of living and good schools, Mesa appeals to families.
Key Mesa Facts:
- 2024 Population: 504,258
- Median Home Price: $445,000
- Top Industries: Healthcare, Tourism, Education
4. Chandler
Bordering Tempe and Mesa, Chandler has emerged as one of Arizona’s premier cities with 280,711 residents. Incorporated in 1920, Chandler has preserved some of its agricultural history through festivals and amenities. At the same time, Chandler features plenty of high-tech industry.
Popular attractions include the Downtowner Chandler Folk Festival and the Ostrich Festival. Chandler also provides easy access to the rest of the Phoenix metro area. Housing costs remain relatively affordable.
Key Chandler Facts:
- 2024 Population: 280,711
- Median Home Price: $445,000
- Top Industries: Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare
5. Glendale
Home to sports teams like the Cardinals and Coyotes, Glendale serves as a major entertainment hub in the Phoenix area with 248,325 residents. Located northwest of Phoenix, Glendale features extensive shopping and dining options. Sports also account for a huge tourism draw with the State Farm Stadium and Gila River Arena.
Glendale enjoys a diverse population and features historic properties like the Sahuaro Ranch Park. The city provides easy access to downtown Phoenix.
Key Glendale Facts:
- 2024 Population: 248,325
- Median Home Price: $445,000
- Top Industries: Healthcare, Sports, Aviation
6. Scottsdale
Bordering Phoenix and Paradise Valley, Scottsdale has emerged as a tourism hotspot with 241,361 residents. Sometimes called the “Beverly Hills of Arizona,” Scottsdale is known for high-end resorts, golf courses, and shopping. Major attractions include the Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall and galleries along Main Street.
With a high cost of living, Scottsdale caters to an exclusive clientele. Yet it also features family attractions like the OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland. The city hosts major events like the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction.
Key Scottsdale Facts:
- 2024 Population: 241,361
- Median Home Price: $770,000
- Top Industries: Tourism, Real Estate
7. Gilbert
Over the last few decades, Gilbert has boomed from a small town into the seventh-largest city in Arizona with 275,346 residents. Located southeast of Phoenix in the East Valley, Gilbert still maintains a balanced and family-friendly atmosphere.
Major attractions include the Riparian Preserve and Hale Theatre. Gilbert also features some of the top-ranked schools in Arizona like the Gilbert Classical Academy. Housing costs remain affordable compared to other Phoenix suburbs.
Key Gilbert Facts:
- 2024 Population: 275,346
- Median Home Price: $445,000
- Top Industries: Finance, Technology, Healthcare
8. Tempe
Home to Arizona State University, Tempe has emerged as a youthful college town with 185,950 residents. Located just east of Phoenix, Tempe features an eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and nightlife around Mill Avenue near campus. Tempe also enjoys attractions like the ASU Gammage Theater and Tempe Town Lake.
With easy access to Phoenix and Scottsdale, Tempe caters to a young demographic. Housing costs also remain relatively affordable compared to other Phoenix suburbs.
Key Tempe Facts:
- 2024 Population: 185,950
- Median Home Price: $445,000
- Top Industries: Education, Technology
9. Peoria
One of the major suburbs in the Phoenix metro area, Peoria has experienced rapid growth with over 197,866 residents. Located northwest of Phoenix, Peoria still maintains a small-town atmosphere in places while offering amenities like the Peoria Sports Complex.
Outdoor recreation thrives around Lake Pleasant, while shopping and dining expand. Peoria features a diverse demographic and more affordable housing options than central Phoenix.
Key Peoria Facts:
- 2024 Population: 197,866
- Median Home Price: $469,000
- Top Industries: Healthcare, Manufacturing, Warehousing
10. Surprise
One of the fastest-growing cities in recent years, Surprise has swelled to 143,148 residents. Located northwest of Phoenix in the West Valley, Surprise was originally founded as a retirement community but now appeals to families.
Surprise offers recreation around the Surprise Recreation Campus and access to many Spring Training facilities. With a growing population, Surprise continues to expand amenities while maintaining a relaxed pace of life and affordable housing.
Key Surprise Facts:
- 2024 Population: 143,148
- Median Home Price: $430,000
- Top Industries: Healthcare, Tourism, Real Estate
Conclusion
With such dynamic variety among the largest cities, Arizona offers something to match practically every preference and budget.
From the urban energy of Phoenix to the resort-style living in Scottsdale, finding an ideal home comes down to lifestyle.While economic powerhouses like Phoenix and Tucson anchor the state, expanding suburbs like Chandler and Gilbert allow room to grow.
And no matter where you settle down, Arizona’s signature sunny weather and striking landscapes are never far away.So whether you crave an artsy vibe, a technology hub, or a welcoming community, the Grand Canyon State’s biggest population centers ensure a high quality of life.
Each distinct, yet quintessentially Arizona, these cities serve as ideal gateways into an unparalleled desert lifestyle.