Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Southwest
The Southwest region of the United States is a captivating and diverse area. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and blend of traditions, this vast region offers many experiences and is an ideal place to live. Culturally, the Southwest is influenced by Native American and Hispanic traditions. The region’s cuisine, art and architecture reflect this, with dishes like New Mexican green chili stew and adobe-style buildings standing as testaments to its unique heritage.
One of the Southwest’s most iconic features is its breathtaking natural beauty. The Grand Canyon, Santa Fe National Forest and Monument Valley are just a few of the awe-inspiring natural wonders that draw visitors worldwide. The Sonoran and Mojave’s arid deserts starkly contrast with the lush forests and mountains found in some areas.
Natural beauty aside, these Southwest cities offer thriving economies, an affordable cost of living and rich culture, with plenty of arts, entertainment and dining options. Read on to discover the top 25 best cities in the Southwest that offer an exceptional quality of life.
In This Article
1. Flower Mound, Texas
There are no secrets here; Flower Mound, TX, is known for its wildflowers, just as its name promises! Flower Mound — which sits 650 feet above sea level and is perched over the countryside — probably got its name because of the wildflowers that carpet the elevated mound in the town center, from the iconic Texas bluebonnets to pansies and the Indian blankets that look like daisies but have yellow tips, the prolific wildflowers make this Dallas-Fort Worth suburb a pretty place to live.
Beyond the beauty and blooms, Flower Mound has safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, low property taxes, great medical care and a section of the town that borders Grapevine Lake, all of which contribute to its ranking as one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Flower Mound residents (and their pets) have all kinds of fun ways to enjoy the great outdoors thanks to 1,000 acres of parkland. Heritage Park is a local favorite with amenities galore — including a splash pad, a playground, a performance pavilion, an 18-hole disc golf course and bronze statues of animals native to the area. On top of all that, there’s a boardwalk, a waterfall and a 5-acre dog park. Golfers can hit the greens close to home at award-winning golf courses year-round, snagging tee times at Bridlewood and Tour 18. There are also equestrian centers and 12 miles of trails for horse riding throughout the town.
2. Sugar Land, Texas
Life is sweet in Sugar Land, TX! Everything is bigger in Texas, including the opportunities for work and play, which are just some of the reasons it’s one of the best cities in the Southwest. The city comes by its name honestly because it was once — you guessed it — a significant sugar producer!
But what makes life here particularly appealing is a low cost of living, a highly educated workforce, a business-friendly environment and excellent medical care. Sugar Land offers residents several master-planned communities that attract families who want to put down roots in a safe and friendly community. Plus, its location, just 20 minutes from downtown Houston, makes it a great place to work or commute. With 118,143 people, the city has its share of prosperous biotech, insurance and manufacturing companies.
Amenities include more than 50 miles of walking, running and biking trails, greenways, golf clubs, lakes, a lively town square with restaurants and shops, and copious festivals, concerts and markets. Families enjoy attractions like Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, Kidtropolis — yes, a kid-run city — and more. Entertainment is within reach at places like the Smart Financial Center, a state-of-the-art performance venue hosting up to 6,400 people. Into sports? Visit Constellation Field, where you can w
3. Plano, Texas
Life in Plano, TX, keeps getting better and better — but you don’t have to take our word for it. This buzzing suburb, nestled just 20 miles north of Dallas, continues to grow with more than 293,000 residents and many major players in the business industry. We’re talking several Fortune 1000 companies, more than 10,000 businesses and a booming job market. There are ample business opportunities in various sectors, and the economic climate is poised to support and encourage innovation among entrepreneurs in tech startups and beyond. Tack on the high-quality schools, affordable real estate and safe neighborhoods, and you can see why everyone from young professionals and growing families to soon-to-be retirees are itching to make their home in the beautiful and bustling city of Plano.
Securing a stable career is important, as is knowing you live somewhere safe, but what about quality of life? We’re pleased to report that you’ll find no shortage of great food and many activities happening here. Window shoppers can delight in local boutiques like Apricot Lane Willow Bend and The Feathered Nest, while art enthusiasts can explore regional and national art at SKYPONY GALLERY or catch a show at The Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall. Those who would rather soak up the sun can explore as much of the 4,000 acres of parks as possible, on foot or bike, and the foodies can spend their days sampling local favorites.
And if that isn’t enough, don’t worry. The local social calendar will send you scrambling for a pen with highlights like the renowned Plano Balloon Festival, an end-of-September event that has been running for nearly 50 years and showcases everything from colorful hot air balloons to skydivers and artisans galore. With its stable job market, solid housing options, entertaining pastimes and rich cultural attractions, there is no argument that there’s something for everyone in Plano.
4. Frisco, Texas
Picture this: Endless blue skies, warm Texas hospitality, and a community that feels like family — yes, the residents of Frisco are living the good life. If you’re a sports lover, Frisco might be the perfect fit. Frisco is a hub for professional and collegiate sports. In 2022, the city welcomed the PGA of America to the North Texas region with a brand-new, mixed-use development with top-notch courses (including some lighted ones for p.m. tee times).
Frisco is one of the top cities in the Southwest (and in Texas!) for several reasons. From premier schools and hospitals and a booming economy, residents can have it all. Locals can find jobs across different industries, from professional sports management to biotech and eSports. And because Frisco is one of the best suburban spots to settle in outside of Dallas, several well-known companies have a presence in the city, including T-Mobile, Keurig Dr Pepper and McAfee. Frisco is also home to the Ford Center, home turf for the Dallas Cowboys. In addition to golf courses and a lazy river overlooking a ballpark, Frisco is a destination for arts and culture. Its unique museums focus on everything from railroads and locomotives to video games.
5. Round Rock, Texas
Central Texas is one of the best places to live in the Southwest, and here’s why. Round Rock, TX, lures residents with its safe neighborhoods, award-winning park system, cute downtown district, top-notch health care options and plenty of job opportunities. Plus, the living and housing costs are lower than many of its neighbors, including nearby Austin — about 18 miles away.
Some larger employers include Emerson Automation Solutions, Toppan Photomasks and Dell Technologies, with growing sections such as life sciences, technology and manufacturing, so young professionals have plenty of opportunities to develop their careers. As far as health care goes, Ascension Seton Williamson Hospital serves Williamson County alongside more than 8,400 health care practitioners working in both doctors’ offices and trauma care centers.
There are more than three dozen parks for the city’s more than 128,000 residents to enjoy, including a Play for All Abilities Park featuring a sensory pod sandbox and an all-abilities treehouse. Plus, there’s a dog park, a skate park, and an assortment of centers and pavilions available for rent for family get-togethers. Downtown Round Rock is a gathering place for dining, shopping, nightlife and events ranging from Music on Main to Beaujolais Nights.
6. Gilbert, Arizona
Gilbert, AZ, is one of America’s fastest-growing communities, increasing from some 6,000 people in 1980 to nearly 280,000 today! Along with that growth comes a booming economy, fabulous health care facilities, safe neighborhoods and highly-ranked schools. What more could you ask for, you say? This Phoenix suburb also offers a creative arts scene (check out the city’s colorful murals) and restaurants, coffee shops and bars to discover. It’s no wonder Gilbert is one of the best cities in the Southwest.
Clean technology, aerospace and aviation, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy all fire Gilbert’s economic engine, and there’s a strong talent pipeline, too. Life sciences are also taking hold, with innovative stem-cell therapies and regenerative medicine leading the way — health care companies like Banner Health Center, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Dignity Health are known names here, and Gilbert has more than 2 million square feet of hospital and clinical research facilities.
The University of Arizona has a campus here, offering an opportunity for students to stay close to home while learning a sought-after skill and feeding into the high number of residents with graduate and professional degrees. More sunny days mean more time to enjoy more than 600 acres of open space and over 50 parks. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a 110-acre wildlife sanctuary where residents can unwind amid serene surroundings.
7. Edmond, Oklahoma
Once considered a sleepy suburb of Oklahoma City, it’s clear that Edmond, OK, is carving its own unique path — rightfully earning its spot as one of the top cities in the Southwest. Edmond has a growing and adorable downtown scene and a strong economy separate from the city. Unsurprisingly, health care and education are among the top industries, with the University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma Christian University within city limits.
Adding to its big-city amenities are thriving health care facilities, which include two hospitals, a surgical center and many physicians’ offices. These facilities have created 1,000-plus jobs, generating about $400 million since 2010. Of course, this investment in health care has translated into a healthier community and a longer life expectancy in Edmond compared to the rest of the state.
But beyond the economy, Edmond is a great place to live for many other reasons, including its excellent schools, family-friendly vibe and unmatched quality of life. In addition, the city is home to several parks and places to get out and about to explore, like Arcadia Lake and the Arcadia Lake Trail. Edmond also has a thriving arts and culture scene and is home to several museums, galleries and performing arts venues. For example, the Armstrong Auditorium is a world-class performing arts center hosting the best classical, folk and jazz artists.
8. New Braunfels, Texas
The secret’s out about New Braunfels, TX. Located in the heart of the San Antonio-Austin corridor, this community is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, yet maintains its small-town charm and German roots.
Those moving to New Braunfels, which has a population of just under 102,000, appreciate the blend of small-town charm and big-city access. Nestled in the gorgeous Texas Hill Country and at the confluence of the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, the city ranks highly in the environment category, thanks to factors like air quality and climate suitability.
New Braunfels was founded by a German prince in 1845, and “Ist das Leben schön” — life is beautiful — has been the city’s motto ever since. History is on every corner, and New Braunfels is home to some of Texas’ oldest churches. Naeglin’s Bakery, the state’s oldest continuously operating bakery, and Gruene Hall, a legendary dance hall, are also both located here. The city celebrates its German heritage at Wurstfest, the annual “10-day Salute to Sausage” that draws thousands of visitors to the banks of the Comal River for polka, German beer and, you guessed it, sausage. Residents honor the city’s large Hispanic population, coming together for celebrations like Dia de los Muertos.
People who live here appreciate the natural beauty in a number of ways, from strolling among the oak trees at the 51-acre Landa Park to enjoying floats along the river and slipping away to Canyon Lake, which beckons with its 80 miles of shoreline and is known as “the jewel of Texas Hill Country.” As the New Braunfels grows, there are also new and exciting projects in the pipeline, like the Zipp Family Sports Park, which is being built on a 153-acre ranch that the family donated, as well as a new surf park scheduled to open this summer at the Texas Ski Ranch.
9. Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Broken Arrow, OK, strikes an elusive balance: It has big-city amenities and a robust economy yet retains and maintains small-town charm. With more than 122,000 residents, this Oklahoma suburb outside Tulsa is one of the best places to live in the Southwest. It is a city reaping the benefits of its investments, like a $6 million jobs creation package that helped Flight Safe International build a state-of-the-art flight simulator facility. Broken Arrow also has plans for a 90-acre mixed-use Innovation District with residences, businesses and education components to strengthen the talent pipeline for the area’s high-tech industry.
Broken Arrow residents have a revitalized and vibrant downtown area known as the Rose District, which hosts farmers’ markets and has an interactive water feature for kids to splash around on hot summer days. There are also many locally owned shops, plus great restaurants serving everything from pizza to local beer, sushi and California-influenced Mexican dishes. There are plenty of things to do in Broken Arrow, and residents love the tight-knit community with an affordable cost of living.
With safe neighborhoods, affordable homes and community gems like the 1,500-seat Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center, it’s easy to see why this fast-growing city is such a draw for young families, retirees, veterans and more.
10. Chandler, Arizona
Known as the “Community of Innovation” due to its status as a fast-growing tech hub, Chandler, AZ, is delving into inspiring research and development for things like space technology and self-driving cars. This translates into high wages for workers. Furthermore, Chandler attracts new college grads, established entrepreneurs, and others who want to take advantage of this thriving community.
This sprawling city also scores high for outdoor amenities, such as well-known golf courses, more than 60 parks and other areas where residents can enjoy Chandler’s sunny skies.
Chandler is a best place to live in the Southwest thanks to its top-notch health care facilities, jobs aplenty, excellent schools (with a 90% graduation rate) and a walkable downtown that includes tasty dining spots and breweries, local shops and public art. The community comes together for a great lineup of annual events, such as the Downtown Chandler Fine Art and Wine Festival, the Chandler Jazz Festival, the Ostrich Festival and the Southwest Cajun Festival, to name just a few. Although Chandler is one of the biggest cities in the state, it still has an irresistible charm and attracts families, young professionals and even retirees (what’s not to love?!) who delight in all of Chandler’s many amenities.
11. Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Enchanting comes naturally to Rio Rancho, NM. After all, this growing Southwest city — with a current population of approximately 107,705 — is in the Land of Enchantment, surrounded by mountainous deserts and impressive mesas under a bright blue sky with never-ending sunshine.
Scoring high in the environmental category means residents take care of all those beautiful outdoor amenities, which include walking trails, biking paths, open areas and more than 50 parks. Significant New Mexico sites such as Bandelier National Monument, which is full of interesting ruins and petroglyphs, and Route 66 are very accessible, as are Albuquerque and its big-city assets and Santa Fe, which is easily accessible in less than an hour.
Some of the larger employers include Intel, Hewlett-Packard and the excellent public school system. This makes Rio Rancho a terrific place for families and young professionals to live, work and play.
Your dollar goes further in Rio Rancho, too. This city provides a relatively low cost of living and affordable housing in attractive neighborhoods, which is why it is great place to live in the Southwest. There’s a strong sense of community here, evident in the support for the New Mexico Runners, a professional arena soccer team, and the Duke City Gladiators, an indoor football team, both of which play at the Rio Rancho Events Center, and the many festivals and events that are on the docket.
12. Midland, Texas
You simply can’t miss the city skyline of Midland, TX, which sticks out against the flat, western prairie that seemingly goes on forever. Though the city was famous for striking oil in the 19th century, Midland has made moves to diversify its economy further into the aerospace, distribution and education sectors. Midland is also home to Midland College and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Permian Basin Campus.
Midland stands out as one of the best places to live in the Southwest because even with all this economic success, it’s still an affordable place to live and buy a house. With a median housing value of about $291,451 (the median home price in the U.S. is nearly double), homeownership dreams don’t seem completely unobtainable (especially if you dream of owning a southwestern ranch-style house, of which there are plenty).
Midland is also located near several parks and recreational areas where residents can get out and explore. And, if you’re looking for culture, Midland’s got that, too. The Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts and shows. Plus, the city has several galleries and museums waiting to be explored.
13. Norman, Oklahoma
Norman, OK, combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of much larger Southwest cities. Scoring high in housing, with a median price of just $248,548, Norman is home to the University of Oklahoma, is easy to navigate and offers excellent health care options, which all helped make Norman one of the top cities in the Southwest. The largest meteorological school in the country is in Norman, and the National Weather Service has an office that employs a wide array of brilliant folks. Forward-thinking isn’t just happening on campus; the city has a reputation as an excellent place for entrepreneurs who are driving higher-paying jobs and economic growth citywide. Though the University — and its perpetually talented football and gymnastics teams — are what Norman is known for, it’s more than just a college town.
Great museums, an excellent performing arts scene and tons of live music — including the free Norman Music Festival — mean there’s no excuse to be bored here. Downtown has been revitalized and is a great place to stroll shops and find great bites to eat. The area is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes for residents to explore when they need fresh air, but there are also several great parks within the city for picnics, studying and hiking.
14. College Station, Texas
While College Station, TX, is most notably home to Texas A&M University, that doesn’t mean it’s just a college town. Texas A&M brings innovation, jobs and a vibrant vibe to the city. Still, that isn’t all that makes College Station one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
There’s a lot for everyone at this East Texas gem in the heart of Brazos Valley, from retirees to children. Access to great schools, a thriving economy and excellent health care helped College Station score high on our index. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the city’s 523-acre Lick Creek Park, which features 5 miles of meadow and woodland trails and the Gary Halter Nature Center, whose offerings include adult and youth recreational programs, native plant displays and a monarch butterfly garden. Kids of all ages can frolic year-round at the Fun for All Playground. Built for folks with different physical and cognitive abilities, it’s the area’s first all-access playground. And dog parents and their pooches will have a blast exploring the area’s 54 dog-friendly parks. There’s a solid brewery scene and various delicious restaurants and cool bars with great patios.
Also noteworthy? College Station is centrally located, meaning it’s close to other major urban centers in the state, including Houston (~80 miles), Austin (~100 miles), San Antonio (~170 miles) and Dallas (~180 miles). Residents benefit greatly from the city’s convenient proximity to several big Southwest cities, events, tourist destinations, universities and businesses. No wonder College Station is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.
15. Lubbock, Texas
Great jobs in rising industries are plentiful in Lubbock, TX, which is one of the reasons why it’s one of the top places to live in the Southwest. Lubbock is nicknamed “Hub City” because it’s an epicenter for the West Texas region’s education, health care, agriculture and technology industries.
The median age in Lubbock is 31, and it’s easy to see why young professionals love Lubbock for its job opportunities and the city’s quality of life. The city has invested in bike lanes and dog parks, too. Lubbock is also a top wine region. Get a taste of local wine at McPherson Cellars or English Newsom Cellars. If beer is more your speed, experience local brews and IPAs at Two Docs Brewing Co. Also, Buddy Holly was born and raised in Lubbock, so you bet the region has one heck of a music scene. You can learn about the “That’ll Be the Day” singer’s legacy at the newly built Buddy Holly Center.
Lubbock is also a great spot to raise kids. Raising a family here is ideal because the cost of living is lower than the national average, there are tons of fun parks (including one with cute prairie dogs!), and there are plenty of ways to keep kiddos entertained – you can see dinos at The Museum of Texas Tech University.
16. Tempe, Arizona
Abundant amenities — including year-round sunshine — in this city of nearly 185,000 is just one of the reasons Tempe, AZ, is one of the best places to live in the Southwest. Add a robust economy, excellent access to medical care, fabulous outdoor opportunities, a lively downtown district and family-friendly neighborhoods, and you can see why so many are calling Tempe home.
Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tempe residents take advantage of the blue skies to explore nearby mountains, local lakes and hiking trails. Some of those residents include students who attend Arizona State University, which adds that college-town vibe to the city, not to mention jobs and innovation. Jobs are plentiful, with opportunities in the education, technology and advanced manufacturing industries and large companies such as ASU, State Farm Insurance and Wells Fargo.
For fun, locals can choose from brew pubs and hip bars to tasty eateries that offer patio dining most of the year. The university also provides a calendar of events open to the community, including sporting events, art openings, theater performances and more. The city also puts on a variety of fun festivals, including 2nd Sundays on Mill, the Festival of the Arts and a holiday boat parade with more than 50 decorated boats every year on Town Lake.
17. Tyler, Texas
Located in Eastern Texas, Tyler is one of the top places to live in the Southwest. for several reasons, including the affordable cost of living. Not only are median home and rent prices lower in Tyler than in other parts of the country, but homeowners enjoy some of the lowest city property taxes in the state.
Tyler is a hub for higher education, too. The city is home to three higher education institutions, including the University of Texas at Tyler, which recently opened the first medical school in East Texas. Some quality-of-life perks enjoyed by Tyler residents include a walkable downtown, locally owned restaurants, standout parks and a newly renovated zoo. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate this growing town’s scenic lakes, campgrounds and golf courses. At the same time, young families are eager to invest in a place with a thriving economy and small-town charm.
Living in the “Rose Capital of America” is just as idyllic as it sounds. The city is home to a free rose garden, where more than 300 varieties of colorful roses are planted. The best time to stop and smell the roses is during peak bloom, which happens in October and then again in mid-to-late May.
18. Abilene, Texas
Warm weather, short commutes, a low cost of living and an abundance of outdoor space make Abilene, TX, one of the best places to live in the Southwest. Those who love the outdoors will feel at home since Abilene State Park is an excellent outpost for hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping and stargazing.
This West Texas city is also a magical spot for families with young children: Abilene is known as the “Storybook Capital of America,” thanks in part to the whimsical sculptures throughout town starring book characters, including several from Dr. Seuss’s books. The city is also home to the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, the first museum of its kind to showcase the artwork of children’s books. Plus, there’s an incredible zoo, splash pads and a state-of-the-art Dodge Jones Youth Sports Center. It also has a thriving culinary scene — determining which local barbecue establishment is your favorite is a rite of passage.
Abilene means business. Young professionals are finding that the city is a great place for startups to thrive and has a variety of growing industries in nearly every sector. The regional workforce of more than 140,000 people generates almost $7 billion in gross domestic output annually. Located just 15 minutes from Dyess Air Force Base, Abilene is a great place for military families.
19. Tulsa, Oklahoma
The past and present blend beautifully in Tulsa, OK. Known for its cowboy and Native American culture, Art Deco architecture and a thriving remote workforce, Oklahoma’s second-largest city boasts a low cost of living, world-class museums, stellar arts and is a bona fide foodie destination. Located along the edge of the Great Plains and the foot of the Ozark Mountains in a lush region of the state known as “Green Country,” Tulsa is known for its friendly residents and warm hospitality, which makes it easy to see how it’s one of the top cities in the Southwest.
Tulsa’s magnificent natural surroundings mean there’s a plethora of opportunities for outdoor recreation. River Parks’ bike and walking trail system connects more than 100 miles of city and mountain bike trails, and the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness is located on more than 600 untamed acres, features native trees, trails, ponds and rugged boulders ideal for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Disc golfers will delight that Tulsa has one of the country’s best disc golf scenes, with nearly two dozen spots across town. Residents will enjoy the 66.5-acre Gathering Place, one of the country’s most incredible city parks, located along the Arkansas River and designed for folks of all ages. Kids will love the park’s towers, slides, climbing features and various water features like splash pads and interactive water fountains. Adults can enjoy free fitness classes, basketball and volleyball courts and Skate Park and BMX tracks.
When it comes to industries, Tulsa is famous for its oil history and was once known as the Oil Capital of the World. In that vein, don’t miss the 75-foot-tall Golden Driller statue. A beloved landmark since 1966, the nod to Tulsa’s petroleum past depicts an oil worker. It is the sixth tallest statue in the U.S. Today, Tulsa enjoys growth and job creation potential in aerospace, energy, health care, technology and manufacturing. The city is an excellent place for entrepreneurs to launch businesses and offers a variety of programs to help welcome newcomers.
20. Santa Fe, New Mexico
With earthy adobe buildings, ristras (strings of chile peppers) hanging on porches and storefronts, plus unique traditions like tailgating at the Santa Fe Opera in cowboy boots and turquoise jewelry, this great New Mexico city can’t be compared to any other place in the U.S. That’s precisely why it’s nicknamed “The City Different” and also one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Santa Fe, NM, locals and civic leaders know just how special their city is, and they’ve got several protocols in place to preserve its natural resources, which is why the city scored high in the environment category. Community plans include carbon neutrality in 2040 and continuing to encourage public transportation, like the Santa Fe Trails bus system that transports 1 million riders a year.
Considered New Mexico’s artistic capital, Santa Fe is home to hundreds of art galleries, many on Canyon Road, and the city has A+ museums, which range from the original Meow Wolf, a mind-bending sci-fi spot, to painter Georgia O’Keefe’s museum. Check out the Native American Artisans Portal Program, where you can meet artists selling their handcrafted works like pottery, textiles and jewelry. Plus, tons of art markets and festivals like the International Folk Art Market bring makers from 50 countries to Santa Fe.
Some other traditions that make Santa Fe special include the farolitos lining adobe buildings during the holiday season and a Margarita Trail with fantastic agave cocktails. You won’t find much to do in Santa Fe after 9 p.m. or so, but that’s OK because there are good reasons to wake up early, including being first in line when the lifts open at Ski Santa Fe or hiking and seeing petroglyphs at Bandelier National Monument.
21. Richardson, Texas
Is Richardson on your radar? Well, it should be! Nestled just north of Dallas and conveniently located in the middle of two major airports (we’re looking at you, DFW and Love Field), life here places you right in the center of everything northern Texas offers. You’ll find award-winning festivals, parades and celebrations, countless local shops and boutiques, a lengthy list of outdoor concerts and enough indoor fun to keep you laughing and smiling even in the peak heat of those iconic Texas summers. And if you do happen to run out of things to do, which would be quite an achievement given the amenities available right outside your door, you can always take a quick drive to nearby cities like Dallas, Allen or Frisco to indulge in a whole new itinerary of food, fun and adventure.
Speaking of food, we can’t skip over the fact that this growing town earned the proud title of “Best Foodie City in Texas.” The Dallas suburb boasts an impressive number of family-owned restaurants and has a reputation among locals for its rich culinary diversity. Whether you want to fill up on ramen, dive into a spicy Cajun entree or hit up the local Lebanese bakery for some mouthwatering desserts, we promise you won’t be disappointed in the food quality in this burgeoning town.
You can certainly live, work and play in Richardson, given its major employers include everything from Lennox International and RealPage to Fossil and Reliant Hospital Partners. Alternatively, you can make the short commute to nearby Dallas and leave work behind when five o’clock rolls around. There are several public, private and alternative schools in Richardson, and the median home listing hovers around $400,000, making it a solid contender for both families and professionals. It’s easy to see why Richardson is one of the best cities to live in the Southwest.
22. Arlington, Texas
Everything is bigger in the Lone Star State, including the attractions, job market and outdoor recreation, and Arlington is no exception. This booming Southwest city of just under 400,000 residents is strategically located between Dallas and Fort Worth, and while Arlington locals occasionally commute between cities, this wonder-filled town stands proudly on its own two feet with a thriving economy, affordable housing and plenty of opportunities to play — indoors and out.
Many people move around the country because of work, whether that means a job transfer or a chance to launch a new career in a different industry. Arlington boasts a lower-than-average unemployment rate and diverse opportunities in education, healthcare, government and engineering sectors. The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) enrolls more than 40,000 students (split between undergraduate and graduate) and is a significant employer within city limits. Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital and various tech and engineering industries contribute to the growing local economy. And, if the need arises, the markets in neighboring Dallas and Fort Worth are only about a half-hour drive in each direction.
As far as play is concerned, you won’t run out of things to do here. Arlington boasts several retail centers, restaurants and entertainment venues, including the iconic Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor. But you can also take advantage of Texas Ranger games, old-school entertainment at Black Dog Retro Arcade or outdoor must-sees like River Legacy Nature Center with its expansive atrium and eight miles of biking, walking and hiking trails. Suppose you’re interested in something a little more niche. In that case, you might be surprised to discover the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame in the heart of the city, as well as several delicious restaurants like J Gillian’s Bar & Grill, all of which caught the attention of Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. It’s easy to see why Arlington is one of the best places in the Southwest.
23. Peoria, Arizona
The living is easy in Peoria, AZ. Nestled half an hour north of the state capitol, this vibrant city with just under 200,000 residents is a strong contender for anyone hoping to put down roots in a place that boasts a warm year-round climate and plenty of job opportunities, outdoor activities and arts and culture. Employment rates have steadily increased in Peoria over the years, with major employers like Peoria Unified School District, Luke Air Force Base, American Express and USAA topping the charts, and nearby Phoenix gives residents access to even more opportunities. Paired with top-ranking K-12 schools and beautiful neighborhoods like Foxwood, Cottonwood Ranch and Deer Valley Estates, it is a no-brainer that Peoria is a best place to live in the Southwest.
Weather is a significant contributing factor in most people’s decision to transplant to Arizona. This warm, dry climate is notoriously grand for summer activities like golfing, hiking, biking and getting on the water. In fact, there are six golf courses to choose from within the city, and you’ll find another 94 within about a 20-mile drive. Or if you would rather spend your time fishing, kayaking, boating or water skiing, Lake Pleasant is referred to as a “water enthusiast’s dream” with more than 23,000 acres of water and stunning landscapes. You’ll even find more than 550 acres of green space within the city and around 60 miles of trails waiting to be explored.
If the heat becomes a bit much in the peak of summer, you can always turn to the city’s top arts and culture destinations. From fine art galleries and historical museums to vibrant theatrical productions and festivals galore, there will never be a shortage of things to do and people to see. Peoria’s historic Old Town is developing a reputation for its association with public art and serving as home to places like Driftwood Coffee Co. and Osuna Park (dating back to the early 1900s). You’ll also find Peoria Community Center in the heart of downtown, wher
24. Glendale, Arizona
Sunshine, sports and culture are the names of the game in Glendale, AZ. This charming Southwest city has a reputation for being a wonderful place to live, work and play, so it’s no surprise that Glendale is one of the top cities in the Southwest. Affordable housing and outdoor recreation play significant roles in the lives of the locals. Add on annual events like the Glendale Folk and Heritage Festival or Glendale Glitters Spectacular Weekend, and before you know it, you will wonder why you haven’t moved to this vibrant town in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Whether you’re fresh out of college and hoping to launch your career in a place that affords you a comfortable quality of life, or you’re a family looking to make memories in a safe and welcoming place, Glendale deserves a spot on the shortlist. The cost of living here is much more affordable than that of neighboring Southwest cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale, which are within a comfortable day’s drive. The diversity of local communities and neighborhoods affords you a choice between historic districts and modern townhomes, and the solid economic base means you can find job opportunities in everything from aerospace and defense to entertainment and healthcare with major employers that include Honeywell, Delta Dental, AAA and Coca-Cola, among others.
When you want to escape the heat, the indoor options are equally bountiful. The city has poured $400 million into its infrastructure over the last 20 years, making it a breeze to navigate the downtown historic district with its multitude of antique shops, art galleries and local cafes. Touring the interactive exhibits at the Arizona Science Center, watching a show at the Arizona Broadway Theatre or challenging friends to a friendly competition at Carousel Arcade Bar are just a few ways to pass the time in the peak of summer.
25. Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff, AZ, offers an elevated desert experience — literally. The scenic mountain city sits at an elevation of 6,910 feet and includes the Grand Canyon State’s quintessential features like deserts, rich history and diversity. Flagstaff is also surrounded by the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forests, Native American reservations and Northern Arizona University, so it has an artistic and laid-back vibe. Abundant outdoor activities, moderate summer temperatures, good schools and friendly residents make Flagstaff one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Flagstaff is an International Dark Skies Community; it was the world’s first city to be recognized for its important work combatting light pollution. As a result, it’s a great place to see celestial bodies without a telescope. There’s also the Lowell Observatory for folks who want to step up their stargazing game. Outdoor-loving locals can access the Lava River Cave, an ancient mile-long lava tube cave. The Rim Trail at Walnut Canyon offers breathtaking panoramic views of the area, and the 215-acre Buffalo Park boasts a two-mile hiking loop trail and picnicking space, plus wildlife and scenic mountain vistas. And, of course, there’s the Grand Canyon itself, considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, which is only 80 miles northwest of Flagstaff. For even more recreational opportunities, there’s the Flagstaff Aquaplex. The multi-generational rec center offers swimming lessons, an indoor climbing wall, and more. Also impressive? Flagstaff’s 14 disc golf courses. No wonder it’s the number one disc golf destination in the Cactus State.