Chandler, AZBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Set against the backdrop of the Sonoran Desert, Chandler beckons with its blend of modernity and tranquility. The city has a robust economy, excellent schools, tons of outdoor activities and a downtown full of delicious restaurants, creating a tight-knit community.
Chandler, AZ, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
A sprawling and vibrant city, Chandler, AZ, ranks high in nearly every category measured, making it easy to see why it’s one of the best places to live in the U.S. Arizona might be a great place to retire, but families and young professionals continue to discover that Chandler isn’t a sleepy town. With a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene as well as dozens of annual events, it’s challenging to be bored here. The Ostrich Festival, the Downtown Chandler Fine Art and Wine Festival, the Southwest Cajun Fest and the Chandler Jazz Festival are just some of the events keeping Chandler residents entertained throughout the year.
Because Arizona is known for its sunny disposition, world-class golf courses and parks are abundant in Chandler. Even as one of the biggest cities in the state, Chandler retains its charming, walkable downtown full of public art, local restaurants and breweries, and great shopping. And the area’s high health care ranking isn’t just a result of plenty of outdoor spaces — great hospitals and doctors keep residents in good health.
The city also ranks highly in the economics category. Chandler’s reputation as a city full of forward-thinkers and innovation has drawn companies of all sizes to the area and created a robust economic environment. And with a ratio of 18 students to 1 teacher and a 90% graduation rate, education is a top priority for residents. Excellent schools and job opportunities combined with plenty of ways to have fun on the weekend and get outdoors make Chandler a great place to plant roots and raise a family.
Chandler, AZ Quality of Life LivScore
Chandler, AZ Top Categories
Economy
Transportation
Amenities
Chandler ranks highest for economy, transportation and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Chandler, AZ
Chandler has a hot desert climate characterized by long summers and mild winters. Summers can be stifling, with average highs and lows of 104°F and 78°F. But winters are much milder, with averages of 68°F and 42°F.
The average annual snowfall in Chandler is 0 inches. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during winter, snowfall is extremely rare.
The average annual rainfall in Chandler is under 10 inches and can be influenced by factors such as the El Niño or La Niña weather patterns.
Chandler averages 299 sunny days a year.
Not only are there six different pools and aquatic centers, but also three splash pads operated by the city of Chandler. Admission is just $1 for children and $2.25 for adults. Beyond a day of fun in the sun, they offer swim lessons, water aerobics, diving programs and more.
Things To Do in Chandler, AZ
Learn about the area’s history at the Chandler Museum or explore the country’s largest privately owned collection of contemporary Western American art at the Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery of Western American and American Indian Art.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the largest candy store in Arizona, Sweeties, has 13,000 square feet of every kind of candy imaginable. If it’s in production, they stock it. To wear off some of the sugar high, head to YoYo Factory, the world’s largest manufacturer and designer of yo-yos.
Home to 250 merchants under one roof, leaving Merchant Square empty-handed is nearly impossible. From antique furniture to vintage records and everything in between, this massive space is where Chandler residents shop for unique pieces. Plus, the on-site restaurant serves some of the best barbecue around.
With two menu pages full of food and drink specials served daily from 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close, you can’t beat Hop Social Tavern for happy hour. There are 52 beers on tap, and a sampler of five during happy hours is just $12, but don’t sleep on the fresh fruit puree cocktails, either.
The Local and State Economy in Chandler, AZ
Chandler is home to a diverse mix of industries, but there is a particular emphasis on technology, manufacturing, and aviation and aerospace. Intel has manufacturing and research facilities in the city, and Microchip Technology, the leading provider of microcontrollers and analog semiconductors, is headquartered in Chandler.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Chandler is 7.8%.
Yes, Arizona has a state income tax.
Chandler Regional Medical Center consistently ranks high in more than half a dozen adult procedures and conditions. The hospital also provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery and cancer treatment.
There are several colleges and universities in Chandler, AZ, including Chandler-Gilbert Community College and International Baptist College.
Quick Facts About Chandler, AZ
- Median Household Income
- $90,238
- Median Home Value
- $399,473
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,648
- Total Population
- 283,117
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,293
- Average Commute
- 21.22 minutes
Chandler ranks highly in nearly every category measured, especially health and economy, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. Read more about Chandler and other great places to live in Arizona. Once you choose your next city, consider these moving tips from others who have recently relocated.
