Scottsdale, Arizona, is a beautiful city located in the Sonoran Desert at the foot of the McDowell Mountains.
While Scottsdale has a lot to offer, it also has its downsides – like the high home prices, lack of public transportation, and tourists. Thankfully, you have options if you want to live near Scottsdale without permanently residing there
We’ve gathered a list of 8 cities near Scottsdale, all within 50 miles from the city, that you may want to consider buying or renting this year. Let’s take a look.
#1: Tempe, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 6
Population: 192,000
Median home sale price: $500,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,570
Walk Score: 54
Bike Score: 45
Transit Score: 75
The city of Tempe, Arizona, is located in the southeastern part of the state. The city is home to Arizona State University, which is one of the largest universities in the United States. Tempe is known for its warm weather, diverse population, and lively downtown scene.
There are many things to do while living in Tempe. Some popular activities include visiting the Arizona State University campus, hiking in the Tempe Buttes, playing in one of the city’s many parks, and shopping at the Tempe Marketplace.
Homes for sale in Tempe, AZ
Apartments for rent in Tempe, AZ
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#2: Mesa, AZ
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Miles from Scottsdale: 12
Population: 509,000
Median home sale price: $460,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,395
Walk Score: 38
Bike Score: 27
Transit Score: 60
Mesa is located in the eastern part of the state and is part of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Mesa is known for its warm climate, golf courses, and desert landscape. The city has a diverse economy with a strong focus on manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
The city is a great place to live for people who enjoy outdoor activities and the arts. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area, and the Mesa Arts Center hosts a variety of performances and exhibitions. There is something for everyone living in Mesa.
Homes for sale in Mesa, AZ
Apartments for rent in Mesa, AZ
#3: Phoenix, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 12
Population: 2 million
Median home sale price: $440,850
Average 1-bed rent: $1,427
Walk Score: 41
Bike Score: 36
Transit Score: 56
Known as the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix is the capital and most populous city of Arizona. Phoenix is a cultural center for the state, with many museums, theaters, and sports teams. The city is also home to several major corporations, including US Airways, GoDaddy, and Avnet.
If you’re looking for ways to pass the time while living in Phoenix, some popular attractions include the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Heard Museum. Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain are popular spots for runners and hikers looking to enjoy stunning views of the desert surroundings. If you’re looking to enjoy life in the sun, Phoenix is home to some of the best golf courses, water parks, and resorts in the country.
Homes for sale in Phoenix, AZ
Apartments for rent in Phoenix, AZ
#4: Glendale, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 17
Population: 250,500
Median home sale price: $440,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,439
Walk Score: 40
Bike Score: 34
Transit Score: 57
Located in Maricopa County and one of the four largest cities in Arizona, Glendale is a great place to live. With great weather, affordable housing, and popular sporting venues, Glendale has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for things to do in Glendale, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re looking for a place to spend the day, look no further than Historic Glendale. From festivals to antique shops, there’s always something to do. And when you need a break, take advantage of the locally owned coffee shops and outdoor dining. Do you like attending big events like concerts and festivals? The Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale is the perfect place for you. There’s always something going on at Westgate, and if you live in one of the great neighborhoods nearby, you won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot. And mark your calendars–Westgate will be hosting Superbowl LVII in 2023.
Homes for sale in Glendale, AZ
Apartments for rent in Glendale, AZ
#5: Gilbert, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 18
Population: 248,500
Median home sale price: $587,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,634
Walk Score: 29
Bike Score: 15
Transit Score: 53
Despite being adjacent to the large metropolitan area of Phoenix, Gilbert is known for its wide open spaces and rural feel. The town has several key landmarks and attractions, including the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, the Gilbert Historical Museum, the Hale Centre Theatre, and the Gilbert Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
There are many great ways to spend your time in the city. The Hale Centre Theatre and Higley Center for the Performing Arts are excellent for those who enjoy local art. Freestone Park, Cosmo Dog Park, and Islands Community Park are perfect for spending time outdoors. Plus, Salerno’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, Farm House Restaurant, and Great Wall Chinese Restaurant are just a few of the many great restaurants and cafes in Gilbert. There’s something for everyone living in Gilbert.
Homes for sale in Gilbert, AZ
Apartments for rent in Gilbert, AZ
#6: Chandler, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 19
Population: 257,000
Median home sale price: $535,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,649
Walk Score: 35
Bike Score: 24
Transit Score: 55
Chandler is one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona and is just 19 miles south of Scottsdale. The city is known for its annual Ostrich Festival, as well as being the home of many high-tech companies.
Some things that residents can do in Chandler, Arizona, include: going to Desert Breeze Park, visiting the Arizona Railway Museum, and hiking at Chandler Heights. Downtown Chandler’s historic district is a great place to stroll, shop, and eat. The district has modern cafes and eateries, as well as the Center for the Arts and iconic shops like Saba’s Western Wear. The district also hosts annual events, from farmers’ markets to yoga in the park.
Homes for sale in Chandler, AZ
Apartments for rent in Chandler, AZ
#7: Peoria, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 30
Population: 113,000
Median home sale price: $512,500
Average 1-bed rent: $1,520
Walk Score: 30
Bike Score: 19
Transit Score: 47
Peoria is a great city to call home. The city is home to the Peoria Sports Complex and which is the spring training home of the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners.
Peoria is also home to several museums, including the Peoria Central School Museum, the West Valley Art Museum, and the Peoria Arizona Historical Society. Other attractions in Peoria include the Arizona Broadway Theatre and the Theater Works, as well as many parks and green spaces, such as the Rio Vista Community Park and the Pioneer Community Park. There is something for everyone living in Peoria.
Homes for sale in Peoria, AZ
Apartments for rent in Peoria, AZ
#8: Goodyear, AZ
Miles from Scottsdale: 30
Population: 84,000
Median home sale price: $500,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,736
Walk Score: 17
Transit Score: 42
Goodyear is an excellent place to consider moving to. The city is best known for its professional sporting venues, including the famed Goodyear Ballpark and the spring training facility for the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians major league baseball teams. Some other popular attractions for residents of Goodyear include the Arizona Renaissance Festival and the Wildlife World Zoo.
Homes for sale in Goodyear, AZ
Apartments for rent in Goodyear, AZ
Methodology: All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Scottsdale. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
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