10 Feb 4 Best Cities in Arizona to Raise a Family

Looking for a new neighborhood in the Phoenix area? Planning a move to Arizona? If you have kids, you’re probably wondering which cities are best for families. From amenities to school districts to neighborhood safety, there’s a lot to consider. Let us handle some of that research for you! Here’s why Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Surprise are all great cities for families.

1: Chandler

If you love the city life, but don’t want to live right in the heart of Phoenix, then Chandler is a good compromise. With its higher population, downtown area, museums, and fine dining, it has all you need to feel like you’re still in a big city!

Schools: Chandler Unified School District was ranked the number 1 best school district in Arizona, with a graduation rate of 91%!

Crime: Chandler’s crime rates are lower than national averages, with law enforcement working diligently to lower rates across the board. The Chandler police department is transparent with its efforts, posting its yearly statistics for accountability. 

2: Scottsdale

Spas, golf courses, hiking trails, and a historic downtown. If it sounds like an ideal vacation spot, well, you’re not wrong. But Scottsdale is also a wonderful place to settle down if you are looking to enjoy the finer things in life while raising your family. 

Schools: Scottsdale Unified School District typically ranks around the number 5 as the best school district in the state. There are over 30 schools in the district, and all of them are highly involved in the local community. 

Crime: Scottsdale ranks as one of the safest cities in the U.S., with crime rates well below the national average. 

3: Mesa

Home to many families and young professionals, this densely packed city is on the rise as a wonderful place to live. Due to its large population, there is plenty to do, and the city is littered with amazing shops, cafes, and green spaces. 

Schools: Mesa Unified School District is home to several top-rated elementary and middle schools. They also have a large variety of charter schools if that is the type of education you prefer. 

Crime: Because of its larger population, its crime rates are on the higher side compared to other cities on our list, but the police presence is visible and responsive.

4: Surprise 

Love sports? Well, SURPRISE! This city is where the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers do their spring training. Plus, the city puts a lot of effort into providing kids and teens with ways to stay active and get involved in the community. 

Schools: Dysart Unified School District is dedicated to academic success and has one of the lowest dropout rates in Arizona. It is also home to several district-run preschool programs, ensuring that even the youngest residents of Surprise have access to education. 

Crime: Like Scottsdale, Surprise also has one of the lowest crime rates in the country. 

Stress-Free Estate Planning

Finding the best place to raise your family can be hard, but protecting your family’s future doesn’t have to be. Here at Phelps LaClair, we can make sure your estate is in order if the worst were ever to happen. Estate planning gives you peace of mind, so you can enjoy raising your family without worrying about the what-ifs. 

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation in Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa, or Surprise.

Photo by Matthew Hamilton on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 2/10/26.