9 Richest Cities in Arizona
- Paradise Valey
- Queen Creek
- Gilbert
- Catalina Foothills
- Scottsdale
- Marana
- Litchfield Park
- Oro Valley
- Goodyear
1. Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley is the richest city in Arizona. Located in the northeastern Phoenix metropolitan area, this city is known for its close proximity to the heart of the state capitol – about ten miles from downtown. It is home to roughly 13,000 people, all of whom prefer the area for its wide range of urban amenities, such as luxury resorts, high-end retailers, and stunning desert landscapes. With a median household income of $204k and average home prices of $2.96 million, Paradise Valley is the most expensive place to live in Arizona.
2. Queen Creek
The second-richest city in Arizona is Queen Creek. Located roughly 39 miles southeast of downtown Phoenix, this city covers an area of approximately 28 square miles and is home to a thriving population of about 66,000 people. Despite its rapidly growing urban atmosphere, the city still maintains a predominantly small-town feel. Those who live in Queen Creek appreciate its defining rural characteristics, which include an abundance of farms, ranches, and a wide range of outdoor recreation. With the second-highest median income in the state, Queen Creek is the second wealthiest city in Arizona.
3. Gilbert
Gilbert, another of Arizona's richest cities, is located in the southeast part of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Home to an enormous population of roughly 273,000 people, Gilbert is a fast-growing community with plenty to offer. Residents here can benefit from the city’s vibrant local economy, excellent school systems, and ample entertainment opportunities. Local attractions include Freestone Park, the Arizona State University Polytechnic Campus, and the city’s bustling downtown district, with restaurants, shops, and assorted entertainment venues. Household incomes in Gilbert average $106k, making Gilbert an excellent option for those interested in an area with high-yield potential.
4. Catalina Foothills
Catalina Foothills is one of the most expensive places to live in Arizona. Situated only 8.2 miles from downtown Tuscon, this suburban city is nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains and is considered part of the Tucson metropolitan area. It has a growing population of roughly 50,000 people who admire the area for its picturesque desert scenery, upscale neighborhoods, and world-class amenities. Additionally, this city is home to several highly-acclaimed school systems and boasts a crime rate 54% below the state average. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Catalina Foothills is another go-to area for the wealthiest Arizonans.
5. Scottsdale
Scottsdale is another expensive city in Arizona. This rich city is located in the northeastern part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, just 12 miles from downtown. Scottsdale is extremely popular among Arizona residents, which can be seen in its colossal population of roughly 250,000 people. The area’s most defining feature is its stunning natural scenery, which includes views of the McDowell Mountains and the Sonoran Desert. Other draws to the area include its many upscale shopping centers, art galleries, museums, and cultural events, such as the Scottsdale Art Festival. The median household income in Scottsdale falls close to $97k, keeping this area a top choice among the state’s wealthiest individuals.
6. Marana
Marana is one of the richest cities in Arizona for history buffs and business professionals. Situated in the northwestern region of the Tucson metropolitan area, this city is known for its rugged desert backdrop, thriving economy, and ample historical significance. In addition to its bustling population of nearly 55,000 people, the city is also home to several historic sites, such as the Marana Heritage River Park and the Arizona Pavilions. Additionally, it has attracted many major employers in recent years, including several high-tech companies like Raytheon. With a stable local job market keeping the local median income close to $95k, Marana is certain to impress those who prefer a more upscale lifestyle.
7. Litchfield Park
In addition to being one of Arizona’s richest cities, Litchfield Park is also one of the most exclusive. Located in the western region of the Phoenix metropolitan area, this city is home to only 7,000 people and offers a peaceful, relaxed respite from the bustle of city life. It is particularly known for its small-town charm, numerous local parks, and historic architecture, all of which add to the area’s family-friendly atmosphere. Other attractive amenities in this city include several resorts, golf courses, highly-ranked schools, and year-round events, such as the Litchfield Park Art and Wine Festival. The median household income of this area is $95k, making it a perfect destination for those who prefer a quiet area close to the big city.
8. Oro Valley
Situated roughly 15 miles north of Tucson in Oro Valley, a city known for affluence. Defined by its breathtaking desert skyline, vibrant cultural scene, and close proximity to everything Tucson has to offer, this city is an ideal spot for commuters and nature lovers alike. It is home to roughly 47,000 people who appreciate the area’s artistic spirit and bohemian flair. In addition to its many green spaces, museums, and art galleries, Oro Valley is also home to several large corporations – particularly those in the technology and research industries. These corporations help keep unemployment rates low and median household incomes high, making Oro Valley a highly-desirable Arizona city.
9. Goodyear
Another northern suburb of Phoenix, Goodyear is a fast-growing addition to Arizona’s richest cities. Located about 19 miles from downtown, this city is known for its local abundance of shopping, dining, and family-friendly entertainment, all of which add to the area’s growing popularity. In addition to a large population of roughly 102,000 people, the city also possesses many parks and natural attractions, such as the Goodyear Community Park, White Tank Mountains, and Estrella Mountains. Major employers in this area include Amazon, the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, and the Lockheed Martin Corporation, all of which help keep the local median household income close to $91k. Overall, Goodyear is a well-rounded option for upscale Arizona living.