Neighborhood Information
The Greater Phoenix area is made up of more than 25 cities and towns, depending on how you define it. It is often easiest to think of Greater Phoenix to be the same as Maricopa County, although I will include some areas that are actually in Pinal County, because the people who live in those areas often work, play and shop in Maricopa County. For at least a decade the metro Phoenix area has been one of the fastest growing in the country, and it's a lot of area to cover! So, lets get to know our cities and towns.
Phoenix
Although many people tend to refer to the entire Greater Phoenix area as simply 'Phoenix,' the City of Phoenix is the hub of it all. Phoenix is the state capital, and the non-agricultural history of the area is concentrated right here. Phoenix is also the 5th largest city in the country.
Mesa
Mesa is one of Arizona's largest cities in terms of both area and population. It is located in what is often referred to as the East Valley--the southeast portion of the Greater Phoenix area.
Chandler
The Chandler Fashion Center and other premier shopping destinations draw visitors to this upscale gem. A vast selection of restaurants brings out the foodies, too. Plan a memorable date with a stop at Chandler's impressive performance venue, the Center for the Arts.
Tempe
Tempe is located in the southeast part of the Greater Phoenix area. It is one of the cities that is included an area often referred to as the East Valley. One of Tempe's claim to fame is that it is the primary location of Arizona State University.
Scottsdale
The City of Scottsdale is often thought of as Arizona's playground for the rich and famous. You'll find quite a concentration of high end shopping, luxury resorts, fine dining and country club living in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Glendale
Glendale, Arizona is in the northwest portion of the Greater Phoenix area. In recent years, Glendale has seen major growth in both residential and commercial development. Two major stadiums now have a Glendale, Arizona address, and the city is building toward more development as a tourism and entertainment destination.
Surprise
Surprise, Arizona was named for Surprise, Nebraska. The community incorporated in 1960. In the past decade Surprise, AZ has grown from a town of about 2,000 homes to a bustling community for both families and retirees, with the population more than tripling in that time. The adult living community of Sun City Grand is actually within the Surprise city limits.
Peoria
Peoria, Arizona is located northwest of the city of Phoenix, and is considered part of the greater Phoenix area. It was founded in 1886 by settlers from Peoria, Illinois.
Avondale and Goodyear
Avondale was incorporated in 1946, and is probably best known as the location of Phoenix International Raceway, where NASCAR events are held. Goodyear was also incorporated in November 1946 and was originally known for its agricultural success, especially with respect to cotton.
Litchfield Park
The City of Litchfield Park was incorporated in 1987. It the home of Luke Air Force Base.
Sun City
Sun City and Sun City West are both large communities in the northwest portion of the Greater Phoenix area. Sun City began in 1960 and was the first master-planned "active adult retirement community" in the United states. Sun City West began in 1978 two miles west of the original Sun City. Their popularity and national attention is the biggest reason that some people think of the Phoenix area as a community of retirees! By the way--Sun City Grand is actually part of Surprise.
Other North and Northeast Valley Cities and Towns
The Towns of Carefree and Cave Creek are north of East Phoenix and Scottsdale, and are often mentioned together, as sister towns. Fountain Hills is northeast of Scottsdale. They are all generally considered upscale communities.
Other Southeast Valley Cities and Towns
Queen Creek and Apache Junction are located in the southeast part of the Greater Phoenix area and have experienced significant growth as people look for more affordable alternatives and lifestyles. Gold Canyon is an unincorporated community in the area. The Superstition Mountains are the backdrop for these southeastern communities.