Aerial view of a master planned lake community in Tempe, AZ, one of the best places to live in the U.S. in 2023.
iStock/DougBennett

Tempe, AZBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Tempe’s year-round sunshine and location in the heart of the Sonoran Desert give this Arizona city a sunny disposition. Top-notch universities, a robust job market and a lively downtown district create an oasis of opportunity, culture and outdoor adventure.

Tempe, AZ, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

While Tempe, AZ, is home to Arizona State University, don’t be fooled into thinking that this is just a college town. ASU brings innovation, jobs and a perpetual buzz to the city. Still, that isn’t all that makes Tempe one of the best places to live in the U.S. 

Amazing recreation, a thriving economy and excellent access to health care all helped Tempe score high on our index. Tempe residents love to live outside and take advantage of nearby mountains for hiking and local lakes and public pools to cool off. There’s a great brewery scene, as well as a wide variety of delicious restaurants and cool bars with great patios to enjoy the temperate weather most of the year. Areas like the more family-friendly neighborhoods of North Tempe and the perfect scene for younger professionals in Tempe Town Lake each fulfill a distinct niche in the area, making Tempe feel like a smaller community and an urban center at the same time. 

There is always something going on here, with consistent athletic competitions and arts performances on campus and a bustling events calendar full of events, including Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden, the Festival of the Arts and Second Sundays on Mill

Tempe, AZ Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 771

Tempe, AZ Top Categories

  • Economy

  • Transportation

  • Amenities

Tempe ranks highest for economy, transportation and amenities.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Tempe, AZ

What is the weather like in Tempe?

Temperatures rarely drop below freezing, but summers tend to be in the triple digits. The area is dry, with little humidity and mild rainfall. The average highs and lows are 104°F and 71°F (summer) and 68°F and 38°F (winter). 

Does Tempe get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Tempe is 0 inches. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during winter, snowfall is extremely rare. 

Does Tempe get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Tempe is under 10 inches and can be influenced by factors such as the El Niño or La Niña weather patterns. 

How many sunny days does Tempe get?

Tempe averages 299 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Tempe?

The city of Tempe has maps for self-guided history and public art walking tours that are a great way to get comfortable in the city while learning more about it. And since they’re self-guided, no one will mind when you want to stop for a drink or snack. 

Things To Do in Tempe, AZ

What are some free things to do in Tempe?

Tempe is a college town, and since ASU is a state university, a lot of its campus amenities are free to the public. The ASU Art Museum, Ceramic Research Center, Lunar Exploration Museum & NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera Operations Center Visitor Gallery, Mars Space Flight Facility, plus galleries for students in design, art and more, are all great places to explore. 

What are some fun things to do with kids in Tempe?

Arizona SeaLife Aquarium and Legoland are right next to each other, and each sells a combined ticket that gets you into both attractions. Both will let your kids’ imaginations run wild while still keeping the adults plenty entertained. 

Where should you take a date in Tempe? 

The ambiance at Pier 54 is absolutely perfect. You’re outside on the water, and the sunset views are breathtaking. The menu is great for sharing, and they have an excellent dinner-for-two special that includes a complimentary bottle of wine. 

What is the best coffee shop in Tempe?

The folks at Infusion Coffee and Tea Crafters are serious about their coffee. They have an onsite coffee lab, a barista academy, and more than 70 varieties of coffee beans and teas. Come hungry and try the Boozy Sweet or Savory Waffle.

The Palm Walk at Arizona State University campus in Tempe, AZ. Tempe is more than just a college town, though — it also has a thriving economy, a great brewery scene and loads of outdoor recreation opportunities.
iStock/yongyuan
The Palm Walk at the Arizona State University campus in Tempe, AZ. Tempe is more than just a college town, though — it also boasts a thriving economy, a great brewery scene and loads of outdoor recreation opportunities.

The Local and State Economy in Tempe, AZ

What are the three largest industries in Tempe?

Tempe has a diverse economy with several major industries contributing to its development, including technology, education and advanced manufacturing. Some of the largest employers include Arizona State University, State Farm Insurance and Wells Fargo. 

What is the sales tax rate in Tempe?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Tempe is 8.1%. 

Does Arizona have a state income tax?

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Tempe?

Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital is a full-service acute care facility with a Level III Trauma Center and comprehensive medical services.

What colleges and universities are in Tempe?

There are several colleges and universities in Tempe, AZ, including Arizona State University, Rio Salado College and the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine & Health Sciences. 

Quick Facts About Tempe, AZ

Median Household Income
$65,311
iStock/yongyuan
Median Home Value
$382,464
iStock/yongyuan
Average State Property Tax
$1,648
iStock/yongyuan
Total Population
186,534
iStock/yongyuan
Median Rent/Mo.
$1,242
iStock/yongyuan
Average Commute
19.59 minutes
iStock/yongyuan

Tempe’s thriving economy and excellent access to health care helped earn its best-place recognition. Tempe also outperformed other Arizona cities in transportation. Read more about Tempe and other great places to live in Arizona. Another great way to learn about a city is to visit before you move there.

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

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