Where to Live Now
Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Southwest
Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Southwest
These 25 Southwestern cities each have something special to offer.
The Southwest portion of the United States is a captivating and diverse region known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and unique blend of traditions; this vast region offers a wide range of experiences. 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 testament to its unique heritage.
One of the most iconic features of the Southwest 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 from around the world. The Sonoran and Mojave’s arid deserts starkly contrast the lush forests and mountains found in some areas.
In This Article
1. Flower Mound, TX
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, there are 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 Flower Mound’s 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.
Summers get hot, but there are many places to beat the heat, including the swimming beaches at Grapevine Lake or the Flower Mound CAC Pool Outdoor Waterpark with slides, a lazy river and a 60-gallon dump bucket to cool you down instantly.
What’s more? Residents know how to have a good time, with neighbors coming together for community celebrations like an Easter Egg Scramble, summertime Chalk the Walk fest, and a Christmastime parade and tree lighting ceremony, which preserve the small-town spirit outside one of the country’s largest metroplexes. But one of the most unique events is the Halloween-time Glowing Pumpkin Plunge at the CAC indoor pool, decorated with black lights and neon pumpkins bobbing in the water.
2. Sugar Land, TX
It’s true; life is just sweeter in Sugar Land, TX. Once a significant producer of — you guessed it! — sugar, Sugar Land has made a name for itself with its safe neighborhoods, diverse residents, brilliantly designed master-planned communities, exceptional medical care and highly educated workforce. It’s easy to see why this Houston suburb is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Sugar Land’s business-friendly climate is attracting companies from a number of industries like biotech, insurance, manufacturing and more. But there are also many job opportunities and a close-knit community for entrepreneurs just 20 minutes away in Houston, one of the biggest U.S. cities.
Sugar Land’s well-planned communities are great for those looking to put down roots and raise families while working in the Houston metroplex. New residents have their pick of dozens of neighborhoods and communities, from Avalon, where you’ll find waterfront neighborhoods and 70 acres of lakes, to Italian-Renaissance-style townhomes with lake views in Lake Pointe Town Center, to Sugar Creek, which is known for its country clubs and golf courses.
While neighborhoods have tons of greenways and walking trails, there are also a couple of dozen public parks, more than 50 miles of walking, running and biking trails, a town square with shops and restaurants, plus all kinds of events like fitness meetups, festivals, concerts, markets and outdoor “date night” movies. Families have all sorts of fun things to do with kids in Sugar Land, too, like visiting the interactive Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, where kids can do science experiments, explore Gullah history and cultural heritage, and play with one another in the tot spot or Kidtropolis, a kid-run city.
Sugar Land residents can also catch concerts close to home at the Smart Financial Centre, a state-of-the-art performance venue with moveable walls that can expand and contract and host events for up to 6,400 people. In addition, baseball fans can cheer on the Space Cowboys minor league team at Constellation Field, which is an absolute blast. The ballpark has a simulated baseball experience called Moonshot Alley, which tracks your pitching and hitting metrics. Finally, at Karbach Cantina, baseball fans can enjoy a beer garden and rounds of cornhole.
3. Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert, AZ, is one of America’s fastest-growing communities, with a population skyrocketing from under 6,000 in 1980 to more than 277,000 today. And it’s easy to see why residents flock to this Phoenix suburb. Gilbert has a strong economy, fantastic health care options, competitive schools and safe neighborhoods, all of which help secure its spot as one of the best places to live in the Southwest. Also worth mentioning: The sun shines here nearly 300 days a year, and temperatures can get hot. Residents cool down at Frost, a local gelato and sorbet shop serving dozens of flavors to help beat the heat waves. (Get a scoop of the strawberry and champagne.)
As far as jobs go, several exciting industries fire Gilbert’s economic engine, including clean technology and renewable energy, aerospace and aviation, and advanced manufacturing. Gilbert is also advancing life sciences and is leading the way in stem-cell therapies and regenerative medicines. As a testament to the innovation that happens in Gilbert, the community nabs nearly 260 patents a year. Leading health care companies like Dignity Health, Banner health care and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center all have a presence in Gilbert, and the town has more than 2 million square feet of hospital and clinical research facilities.
One of the reasons so many employers are picking Gilbert to launch or grow their operations is because of the strong talent pipeline: A high concentration of residents have graduate and professional degrees, and 44% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is above the national average of 33.1%. In addition, at the University of Arizona’s Gilbert campus, students have close-to-home educational opportunities to learn a new skill at a coding boot camp or meet demand in the health care industry via a four-year bachelor’s degree program in nursing.
Gilbert residents also find plenty to do in their downtime, from Pure Esports, which has 50 gaming stations, to the Hale Center Theatre, where residents can catch a musical. And creativity flows out of Gilbert. The city has an impressive arts and culture scene, which is reflected in its Saturday Art Walks and colorful murals that brighten up the brick walls throughout town. Also, Gilbert has illuminated art benches that glow at night.
4. Round Rock, TX
A fast-growing suburb of Austin, Round Rock, TX, is home to 129,785 residents (and counting) who enjoy all types of livability perks, including an award-winning park system, safe neighborhoods, and ample career opportunities with industry-leading employers like Dell Technologies, Emerson Automation Solutions and Toppan Photomasks.
As one of the best places to live in the Southwest., Round Rock offers more than three dozen developed parks, including a Play for All Abilities Park, a treasure for central Texas with features like a sensory pod sandbox, a nature area and an all-abilities treehouse. Old Settlers Park is another community favorite with 640 acres of rolling countryside and a place where neighbors gather for festivals. Downtown Round Rock is adorable, too, with historical buildings, ice cream shops, Merry’s Mud Pottery House, PopUp Art Shows and a collection of restaurants serving everything from barbecue to shaved ice and brisket queso (yup, you’ll find it at Finley’s Kitchen and Bar).
Health care also scores high in Round Rock, as residents can access comprehensive care with doctors’ offices, trauma care centers at great hospitals like Ascension Seton Williamson Hospital and more than 8,400 health practitioners in Williamson County.
5. Chandler, AZ
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 Southwest. 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, nightlife scene and 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. Education is a top priority for residents, with a ratio of 18 students to 1 teacher and a 90% graduation rate. Excellent schools, job opportunities, and plenty of ways to have fun on the weekend and get outdoors make Chandler a great place to plant roots and raise a family.
6. Tempe, AZ
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 Southwest.
Fantastic 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 and 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.
7. Edmond, OK
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 best places to live in the Southwest. Edmond has a growing and adorable downtown scene and its own 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 — all creating 1,000-plus jobs that have generated 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 when 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. Also, Edmond 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. Broken Arrow, OK
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 115,000 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 plans 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.
9. Norman, OK
Norman, OK, combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of much larger cities. Scoring high in housing, with a median price of just $212,000, Norman is home to the University of Oklahoma, is easy to navigate and offers excellent health care options, which all helped make it one of the best places to live in the Southwest. The largest meteorological school in the country is in Norman, and the National Weather Service has an office here 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 awesome 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 some fresh air, but there are also several great parks within the city for picnics, studying and hiking.
10. Rio Rancho, NM
Rio Rancho, NM, residents get to bask in nearly 300 days of sunshine every year and have easy access to significant New Mexico sites like Route 66 and Bandelier National Monument, home to ruins and petroglyphs left behind by ancestral Puebloan people. As one of the best places to live in the Southwest and ranking high in the environmental category, Rio Rancho is flanked by mesas and mountainous deserts. Land of Enchantment is right!
Rio Rancho neighborhoods are near parks (more than 50!) and trails. The Willow Creek Bosque offers walking trails, dog-friendly areas and wildlife habitat viewing locations, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon outdoors.
Albuquerque and all of its bigger-city amenities are close by. Still, there’s plenty close to home in Rio Rancho, too, and residents can get their fill of pozole and green chile at Hot Tamales and cheer on the Duke City Gladiators, an indoor football team, at the Rio Rancho Events Center. In addition, the city offers residents a relatively low cost of living, ample job opportunities, and quality public and private schools, making it an excellent place for young families and young professionals to settle down.
11. Midland, TX
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 largely an affordable place to live and buy a house. With a median housing value of about $280,000 (the median home price in the U.S. is nearly double), the dream of homeownership doesn’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 just waiting to be explored.
12. Amarillo, TX
You can breathe easy in Amarillo, TX, where the altitude, combined with a consistent breeze, gives way to some of the cleanest air in the country. Located in the Texas Panhandle and full of sunny days and endless amenities, it’s no surprise that Amarillo is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Outdoor-loving locals have access to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which has the second-largest canyon in the United States, and arts and culture enthusiasts have plenty of museums to explore, including the admission-free Amarillo Museum of Art, which has a cool pop art exhibit, outdoor sculpture garden and more. And you betcha — there’s reason to brush off your cowboy boots (or buy a pair): The Amarillo Civic Center hosts the World Championship Ranch Rodeo.
Amarillo’s low cost of living and diversified economy also appeal to potential residents. Amarillo is an agricultural powerhouse with 14 million acres of farm and cropland. But industries like aerospace, biosciences and tech are also growing.
Finally, the friendly community in Amarillo will make you feel right at home. The city embraces a strong sense of community spirit, supports local businesses and hosts various community-focused events.
13. Avondale, AZ
There’s a lot to love about Avondale, AZ. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Sierra Estrella Mountains where the Agua Fria and Gila Rivers meet, this growing suburb of Phoenix is easy on the eyes with its blend of lush wilderness land and sprawling neighborhoods. Beyond its natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor fun, there are safe neighborhoods, low property taxes, a highly diverse population of residents and an array of dining, shopping and entertainment options, all of which make Avondale one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Also top-notch? Downtown Avondale’s historic corridor showcases several charming, independent businesses. We recommend a stop at Coldwater Coffeehouse and Bakery for a small-batch artisanal treat or two — like butter scones and naturally leavened sourdough bread and a caffeinated beverage like an iced coffee or tea with housemade peach syrup — before setting out on foot to take in the area’s vibrant street art. In the mood for something heartier? Check out the award-winning Laura’s Burgers and More just down the street.
Outdoor lovers will delight in wildlife watching, hiking, biking and trail running opportunities. With 10 parks located throughout the city, opportunities for fun abound. Families can make a splash at the brand-new Avondale Aquatic Center, which offers a recreational pool for families and a competition pool for local schools and swim leagues. Parents of human and four-legged children will especially like Friendship Park’s splash pads, ample picnic space, multiple playing fields and courts and two dog parks.
Got a need for speed? Avondale is home to the legendary Phoenix International Raceway and hosts two NASCAR races and other prestigious racing events each year. You can even experience the thrill of racing yourself with ISM Raceway’s Rusty Wallace Racing Experience.
If sports are your thing, you’re in luck: the seasonal home to the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds’ spring training baseball facilities is mere minutes away.
Avondale residents can also catch concerts close to home at the region’s largest venue, the open-air Ak-Chin Pavilion. Located between Phoenix and Avondale, this spot boasts a seating capacity of 8,000 within the pavilion and 12,000 on its lawn. Now that’s music to our ears.
14. Mission, TX
The small city of Mission, TX, has a big appeal. Situated along the sprawling Rio Grande River, Mission is not only one of the country’s most affordable places to live, but it also boasts a steadily growing job market, highly rated healthcare and schools and world-class outdoor attractions like the National Butterfly Center, the 764-acre Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park and the World Birding Center. No wonder it’s one of the fastest-growing communities in the nation. Add to that the fact that it has nearly perfect weather year-round, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
There’s limitless fun to be had here. You can explore the Rio Grande with a river cruise or venture out on your own boat. There are also numerous restaurants and businesses along the river — be sure to stop at Riverside Club on the River for traditional Texas fare, like the enormous fried tenderloin sandwiches. And there’s plenty of recreation for those wanting to stay on dry land. Golfers can hit the links on Mission’s seven golf courses, while Mission Hike and Bike Trail offers over 10 miles of hike and bike trails.
Long known as the “home of the grapefruit,” thanks to its rich citrus agricultural heritage, Mission holds a sweetly festive annual Citrus Parade. Since 1932, the popular event has featured citrus-decorated floats, pageants and more. Mission also holds the National Butterfly Festival annually, which showcases thousands of butterflies in their natural habitat. The family-friendly event also features bouncy houses and kids’ face painting.
While the Texas Citrus Exchange remains a significant employer, there are ample career opportunities with employers in the Mission metro area, including Mission Regional Medical Center, Duro Bag Manufacturing, Frito-Lay, Inc., H-E-B, Hi-Tech Plastics, Inc., Mission Paving, Mission Shippers, and T-Mobile USA.
15. Tulsa, OK
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 also 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 best places to live in the Southeast.
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 in the fact that Tulsa has one of the country’s best disc golf scenes, with 23 spots across town. Residents will enjoy the 66.5-acre Gathering Place, one of the country’s coolest 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 a great place for entrepreneurs to launch businesses and offers a variety of programs to help welcome newcomers.
16. San Angelo, TX
San Angelo, TX, epitomizes the saying, “great things come in small packages.” This charming West Texas spot is known for its low cost of living, excellent healthcare and strong and diverse economy — in fact, it’s consistently ranked among the country’s best small cities for business and employment. Add to that the fact that its cultural offerings are so vibrant. San Angelo has recently been dubbed the Visual Arts Capital of Texas, and it’s easy to see why San Angelo is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
More than 100,000 community members enjoy San Angelo’s high quality of life. Located along the Concho River, the city is home to a number of noteworthy cultural and recreational events, including the International Waterlily Collection, The San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo (one of the longest-running rodeos in the world) and the Wild West Fest fundraising concert. Stargazers and families alike will appreciate the Planetarium at Angelo State University, where folks can see more than 500 million stars and other celestial objects. At the same time, foodies can indulge in delectable eats at the San Angelo Food and Wine Festival and Concho Valley Food Truck Festival.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love San Angelo State Park’s 50 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The roughly four-mile San Angelo River Walk offers serene gardens, parks, water displays, outdoor art installations, golfing, fishing and an outdoor amphitheater for both public concerts and private events.
17. Tyler, TX
It’s all coming up roses in Tyler, TX. This East Texas gem, known as the “Rose Capital of America” due to being one of the country’s largest producers, combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of much larger cities. Friendly folks, a strong job market, a low cost of living, natural beauty and a growing restaurant scene all help make it one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
While Tyler’s known for its roses (in addition to the famous Texas Rose Festival, it also boasts the most extensive public collection of roses in the country), it’s also home to brilliant azaleas, dogwood, tulips, wisteria and more, all of which are on display during the annual Azalea & Spring Flower Trail, which features over ten miles of residential gardens and historic homes and sites dripping with colorful blooms.
Tyler residents have fun ways to enjoy the outdoors thanks to the city’s more than 1000 acres of parkland, including its crown jewel, Tyler State Park. Created out of a pine forest, the 985.5-acre park features a serene, 64-acre spring-fed lake, 100-foot tall trees, and opportunities to boat, bird watch, fish, hike, mountain bike, picnic and swim. Summers get hot, but folks can keep cool with four splash pads or enjoy a dip in the Fun Forest Pool. An especially sweet way to beat the heat? Stop into Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Store, which features more than 100 fabulous flavors.
18. Corpus Christi, TX
Corpus Christi, TX, may well be heaven on Earth. Bordering the Gulf of Mexico, this coastal city in South Texas — known as the “Sparkling City by the Sea”— boasts unrivaled natural beauty and beaches, endless options for outdoor recreation, a robust economy, a diverse population of residents and a low cost of living. Plus, there are world-class attractions, including The Bayfront Seawall, The Texas State Aquarium (the largest aquarium in Texas and one of the largest in the country), the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center and the Art Museum of South Texas, all of which combine to make it one of the best places to live in the Southwest. In addition to its nightlife scene, there are dozens of annual events in Corpus Christi, making it a challenge to be bored here. The Birdiest Festival in America, Buc Days Festival and the Texas Jazz Festival are just a few of the events keeping residents entertained throughout the year.
Its location along the Gulf has some fantastic perks, including nine beaches and more than 100 miles of shores, not to mention any number of beach activities like windsurfing, parasailing and kayaking. There’s also its thriving restaurant scene, which is brimming with fresh seafood and eclectic flavors. Families will enjoy its water park, Hurricane Alley, which includes a 12,000-square-foot wave pool and a 750-foot lazy river.
When it comes to weather in Corpus Christi, summers are typically hot, humid and rainy, and winters are mild. And surprisingly, Corpus Christi is the real windy city — sorry, Chicago! — which can help make temps more pleasant during the dog days of summer.
19. College Station, TX
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 a variety of 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 cities, events, tourist destinations, universities and businesses. No wonder College Station is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.
20. Abilene, TX
Abilene, TX, strikes an elusive balance: It has big-city amenities and a robust economy yet maintains small-town charm. With more than 125,000 residents, this West Texas city is one of the best places to live in the Southwest. Abilene is reaping the benefits of its investments, like expansion projects totaling $7.6 million to retain and create more than 700 jobs in manufacturing, research, development and healthcare.
Downtown Abilene is a charming, walkable space full of public art, local restaurants and breweries, educational museums and great shopping. Abilene got its nickname, “the Official Storybook Capital of America,” due to the fact that it has the most extensive public collection of sculptural storybook characters in Texas. Don’t trek downtown without snapping a selfie with sculptures of famous Dr. Seuss characters.
Abilene residents and their pets have all kinds of fun ways to enjoy the great outdoors, thanks to more than 1,000 acres of parkland. Redbud Park is locally beloved due to its 2,852-square-foot splash pad, fitness trails, athletic fields, playground and picnic areas. And if that weren’t enough, it also has a prairie dog preserve. With hospitable residents, affordable homes and community gems like the Abilene Zoo, it’s easy to see why this fast-growing city is such a draw for young professionals and families, retirees, veterans and more.
21. Santa Fe, NM
Nestled along the southern edge of the Rocky Mountains, Santa Fe, NM, offers stunning natural beauty, affordable housing, excellent schools and outstanding opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking, swimming, skiing and more. And that’s not all: New Mexico’s capital city is the country’s oldest capital city and the oldest European community west of the Mississippi. Its rich, multicultural history is preserved in historical sites throughout the city, adding to its beauty and cool vibes. And as the third largest art market in the country, you can expect to see some real eye-catching works regularly. Oh, and its food scene is one of the best and most unique in the nation. No wonder Santa Fe is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
The Cactus State boasts a dazzling array of natural beauty. Bordering the Santa Fe National Forest and Santa Fe River Watershed, residents can admire more than 180 species of birds at the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary throughout the year. Folks can also take in
unforgettable cone-shaped geological formations that are seven million years young at the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument just 20 minutes south of Santa Fe.
“The City Different,” as Santa Fe is known, is home to four distinct seasons featuring 320+ days of sunshine and blue skies, plus summer thunderstorms and mild winters. These pleasant temps are an excellent backdrop for Santa Fe’s popular annual markets and events, including the Indian Market, Spanish Market, the International Folk Art Market, the Burning of Zozobra and the Wine & Chile Festival.
22. Flagstaff, AZ
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’s got an artistic and laid-back vibe. Abundant outdoor activities, moderate summer temperatures, good schools and friendly residents make this 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.
23. Buckeye, AZ
Buckeye, AZ, is one of America’s fastest-growing communities, with a population skyrocketing from 6,537 in 2000 to 114,000 today. And no wonder folks are heading there: Buckeye boasts a thriving economy, safe neighborhoods, affordable cost of living, solid schools and breathtaking natural beauty. Being a suburb of Arizona’s capital city, Phoenix, means Buckeye residents can easily access big city amenities like theaters, concert halls and fascinating museums. It’s easy to see why this family-friendly city is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
One of Buckeye’s most beloved natural treasures is Skyline Regional Park. The 8700-acre mountain preserve features 16 miles of biking, hiking and horseback riding trails, plus seven camping sites are available to rent. Best of all, leashed dogs are permitted. Locals also love White Tank Mountain Regional Park — its almost 30,000 acres make it the largest regional park in Maricopa County.
Even as one of the biggest cities in the state, Buckeye retains its charming, walkable downtown full of public art, local restaurants 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. Buckeye’s reputation as a city of innovators has drawn companies of all sizes to the area and created a robust economy. The Odyssey Preparatory Academy, the City of Buckeye and Duncan & Son Lines are among the city’s biggest employers, and a new manufacturing and distribution plant is expected to bring plenty of jobs to the region. Excellent schools, job opportunities, and plenty of ways to have fun on the weekend and get outdoors make Buckeye a great place to plant roots and raise a family.
24. Las Cruces, NM
There’s a reason they call it “The Land of Enchantment.” Life in Las Cruces, NM, is full of breathtaking natural beauty, sunshiney days (nearly 350 per year!) and endless amenities. Plus, “The City of the Crosses,” as Las Cruces translates to in Spanish, boasts an affordable cost of living and a welcoming community. Unsurprisingly, Las Cruces is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
While Las Cruces is renowned for its rich agricultural history, the city has moved to diversify its economy further into aerospace, filmmaking and distribution. Las Cruces is also home to New Mexico State University (NMSU), making it an educational hub in the region. The low cost of living and diversified economy in Las Cruces also appeal to potential residents, and the friendly folks will make you feel right at home.
Outdoor-loving locals can access Dripping Springs Natural Area, which offers Instagram-worthy photo ops and over four miles of hiking trails. Plus, it has ample picnic sites and endless wildlife viewing opportunities. And just 45 miles east of Las Cruces, you can find the picturesque, otherworldly White Sands National Park, the world’s largest gypsum dune field. Arts and culture fans will delight in the Museum of Nature & Science and the Branigan Cultural Center, which offers rotating cultural exhibits and other special events, including educational programs and classes.
All that fun will make you work up an appetite, so you’ll want to check out the famed Las Cruces “Walk of Flame” Green Chile Trail. The city embraces a strong sense of community spirit, supports local businesses and hosts various community-focused events.
25. Yuma, AZ
Residents of Yuma, AZ, are living life like it’s golden. And that’s not just because it’s been dubbed the “Sunniest City on Earth” and boasts sunshine and warm weather at least 91% of the year, making it one of the best cities for those craving year-round sunshine. This fast-growing city is also home to Arizona Western College and The University of Arizona-Yuma, which contribute to Yuma’s reputation of offering residents a strong economy, low cost of living and ample job opportunities.
What makes Yuma stand out as one of the best places to live in the Southwest? Despite all this economic success, it’s still an affordable place to live and buy a house. With some homes at nearly half the nationwide average, the dream of homeownership doesn’t seem completely unobtainable.
Yuma residents take advantage of all the sunny days with outdoor adventures galore. The Colorado River and area lakes are great for boating, canoeing and tubing, and beating the heat. With its 10 acres, historic buildings and cool events, the Colorado River Historic State Park has something for everyone. And, if you’re looking for culture, Yuma’s got that, too. The Yuma Orchestra Association offers a variety of concerts and shows, and Ballet Yuma has been bringing the classic art of ballet to the community for 30 years. The Historic Yuma Theatre hosts both local and traveling exhibitions. And if that wasn’t enough, the city has multiple galleries and museums just waiting to be explored.
Best Places to Live in the Southwest Map
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