Last updated 2026-06-12 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Year-round sun, safe master-planned suburbs, and strong schools with room to grow.
1. Gilbert: Best overall
2. Chandler: Best for tech-family balance
3. Scottsdale: Best upscale family pick
4. Peoria: Best northwest family pick
5. Queen Creek: Best for space
6. Surprise: Best value
7. Goodyear: Best west-Valley pick
8. Mesa: Best East Valley value
Arizona families cluster in the East Valley suburbs of the Phoenix metro, where master-planned communities pair very low crime with strong schools, parks, and newer construction. Here are the 8 best places to raise a family in Arizona, ranked for schools, safety, and cost, with a reminder to move outside the summer heat.