Set about 40 miles west of Phoenix, Buckeye is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. It began as a small desert town of farmers and pioneers in the early 19th century but surged in the 21st century as the Phoenix metro area’s housing and job markets expanded. From 2000 to 2024, the population grew from about 6,500 to 114,000. “We’re an up-and-coming city; it’s a very attractive place to be for young families,” says John O’Halloran, Buckeye’s deputy director of communications. Despite the huge influx of residents and construction, only 15% of Buckeye’s 640 square miles is built out; the city estimates its population could reach 1.1 million when fully developed.
In 2023, about 2,000 housing permits were approved by the city. “They’re actively building 12 different subdivisions in Buckeye, and I think that helps bring people in because when you’re working with a new build, you get lower interest rates,” says Carmen Lance, a Realtor with Realty One Group and over 10 years of local experience. The 260-acre Buckeye Industrial Rail Park is actively drawing in distribution centers and manufacturing plants, like Rehrig Pacific Company, which are providing new jobs for Buckeye; new retailers continue to pop up around the city as well. “Companies are seeing the growth in Buckeye. It was the fastest-growing city in the nation from 2020 to 2021. So, there are a lot more companies willing to come out here now. We just got a Costco,” Lance says.
Most locals commute outside Buckeye for work, but the city is trying to change that. “We do actively work with employers in the area to keep our residents here in the city and make it a place where you can live, play and work. We have the Reduce the Commute Job Fair twice a year; it’s focused on West Valley employers hiring West Valley residents,” O’Halloran says. Buckeye’s leading industries are advanced manufacturing and energy, and top employers include KORE Power, Canam Steel and Walmart. O’Halloran says the healthcare industry is also taking off here, and healthcare companies like Abrazo and Banner have plans to build hospitals in the city.
The sunsets are often beautiful in Buckeye with mountains in the background.
Buckeye is a changing city on the outskirts of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.
Parents can enjoy quality time playing with their kids at Sundance Park in Buckeye.
Walmart provides residents another option for groceries in Buckeye.
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Master-planned communities with newly constructed houses
Most of Buckeye's homes were built over the past 20 years, many set in master-planned neighborhoods, like Verrado, with its own Main Street, parks and healthcare in northeast Buckeye. Retirement communities, such as Sundance, are also popular draws. New traditional homes with ranch-, Mediterranean- or Craftsman-inspired designs are all typical here, and the average home price is about $475,000.
Victory is a 55+ community tucked into the White Tank Mountains, in Buckeye.
Embrace outdoor adventures and community events for an active lifestyle in Verrado.
Homes in Sun City Festival showcase architectural details that help your home to stand out.
People can find many mediterranean styles sitting on grassy lots.
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Growing shopping and dining scene
Shopping and dining are currently limited in Buckeye, but folks can still easily pick up groceries, try local restaurants and shop in the city. In Old Town, small businesses, including cafes, boutiques and authentic Mexican restaurants, dot Monroe Avenue, many with warm-colored facades and southwestern-inspired stylings, like saloon- or Pueblo-inspired storefronts. Old Town’s mascot is the Hobo Joe Statue, which stands watch over the city, greeting passersby. There are a couple of bars throughout Buckeye, but most nightlife takes place in other communities, like Goodyear or Phoenix, which are 15 and 40 miles west, respectively. The Imagine Buckeye 2040 General Plan aims to transform Old Town into a proper downtown by adding more entertainment options and gathering spaces. To support new small businesses, the Catalyst Program offers reimbursement for eligible investors looking to revitalize existing commercial properties in Buckeye.
Folks also shop around Verrado, where there’s a mix of national chains and small businesses. “There’s a lot of commercial development; we’re starting to build up our retail and restaurants,” O’Halloran says. The 500,000-square-foot Verrado Marketplace is being built off the intersection of North Verrado Way and Interstate 10. “It’s going to have those date-night restaurants, entertainment with a movie theater, an outdoor shopping area, splash pad and a stage for outdoor concerts and things like that,” O’Halloran says.
Enjoy a midday break with lunch from Verrado's restaurants, adding flavor to your work routine.
La Fiesta market has a wonderful butcher for all your meats in Buckeye.
Experience the ultimate comfort food experience at Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers in Verrado.
Discover your new favorite spot for coffee and conversation at ANTHEM in Verrado.
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Public and private school options nearby
Students in kindergarten through Grade 8 may attend public school in the Buckeye Elementary School District, rated C-plus overall by Niche. Teens may attend schools in the B-rated Buckeye High School District, which averages a 94% graduation rate. Grace Fellowship Academy, a private elementary and middle school, is also in Buckeye, but the closest private high schools are 15 miles east in Avondale.
Buckeye Union High School where the hawks soar to new athletic heights has in Buckeye.
Sundance Elementary School in Buckeye receives a C rating from Niche.
Bales Elementary School is passionate about student success.
Buckeye Elementary School gets a rating of 2/10 from GreatSchools.com.
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Getting outside and exploring the White Tank Mountains
The 8,700-acre Skyline Regional Park offers an extensive trail system through the scenic White Tank Mountains. “It has about 30 miles of trails," O’Halloran says. "If you’re into the outdoors, it’s great to go in the cooler months for horseback riding and camping." In 2023, the city expanded Sundance Park over 40 acres to include a splash pad, basketball courts and a stocked fishing lake. “It was a multi-year project that had a lot of community involvement. The park’s great for everything from city events to renting ramadas for birthday parties,” O’Halloran says. Other community highlights include Town Park’s aquatic center and outdoor skate park, as well as Earl Edgar Recreational Facility’s baseball diamonds, playing fields and shaded playground. Neighborhoods like Verrado include their own recreation, from pocket parks to golf courses.
In 2024, Buckeye began reaching out to residents and hosting town hall-style meetings to hear ideas for creating a Parks and Recreation Master Plan to guide further expansion. Folks voted on priorities, like public art, aquatic facilities or new park development, and the city aims to approve a final plan by the end of the year.
Soaring high above Buckeye's Skyline Regional Park with Rainbow Ryders.
Experience the tranquility of the desert landscape at Skyline Regional Park in Verrado.
Buckeye’s Sundance Park has many amenities for residents, including a fishing pond.
Discover a vibrant dog community in Verrado, where wagging tails and furry friends abound.
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Annual events and a new arts initiative
“We just started our own arts and culture program with the city. We’re starting out small with things like mural programs and trying to incorporate arts and culture into our events,” O’Halloran says. In the fall of 2024, Buckeye asked local artists to submit designs for the city’s traffic control boxes along Yuma Road.
The city’s annual events include Buckeye Days in January, which celebrates the city’s pioneer past with food, live music and a cattle parade. In February, there’s also the Buckeye Air Fair that lets folks get up close with military and vintage aircraft before watching talented pilots take to the skies for an exciting aerobatics display. The city also hosts smaller events like concerts and movies in the park throughout the year.
Getting around from Buckeye
Buckeye is about 40 miles west of Phoenix, a 40- to 55-minute drive during rush hour. Interstate 10 leads toward Phoenix, while Route 85 leads 115 miles south to the U.S./Mexico border in Lukeville. Public transportation is limited, but Valley Metro buses stop in the city; streets are generally lined with sidewalks and bike lanes. Abrazo Buckeye Emergency Center and Buckeye Municipal Airport are located in the city, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 43 miles east.
Crime and environmental concerns
According to the FBI statistics, Buckeye's total number of reported crimes decreased from 1,400 in 2013 to 1,200 in 2023. Overall, the crime rate in 2023 was 16 incidents per 1,000 people, lower than the national crime rate of about 23 incidents per 1,000 people. To help combat crime, the Buckeye Police Department sponsors programs like Block Watch and Citizens on Patrol, which let local volunteers monitor the city and assess any rising trends in crime.
Extreme heat and wildfires are the main environmental concerns for Buckeye residents. Summer temperatures regularly top 100 degrees, so folks often stay cool inside or visit the Buckeye Aquatic Center to beat the heat. In 2024, the Robbins Fire burned about 30 acres in Buckeye Hills Regional Park; there was no harm to people or structures. There are seven Buckeye fire stations that respond to local emergencies, and folks can sign up for public safety alerts on the city’s website.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
John Williams
Video By
Jaried Frogosa
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Buckeye, AZ sell after 358 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Buckeye, AZ over the last 12 months is $405,032, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
*$7,500 towards interest rate reduction or closing costs through preferred lender. (No income limits and not restricted to first time buyers). Reach out for information* Welcome to beautiful Buckeye where comfort and Arizona views come together. This stunning single-level home offers 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with a highly desirable split floor plan, providing both privacy and
The Ultimate Retreat perched elegantly above the 2nd green of the Vista 9 at Copper Canyon awaits. This bespoke Endeavor home offers a masterclass in resort-style living. The majestic White Tank Mountains serve as your daily backdrop, framing unobstructed fairway views that stretch toward the horizon. Imagine golden sunrises over the greens & tranquil, shaded afternoons on an expansive terrace
Positioned on a premium corner lot along a picturesque, tree-lined street in Verrado's coveted Main Street District, this exceptional residence offers an elevated lifestyle. This home is walking distance to the community pool, fitness center, and the energy of Main Street and Sunrise Marketplace, offering dining, live music, farmer's markets, pilates, coffee shops and more! Beautifully refreshed
Former Onyx Model Home ''Highly upgraded'' now available! Single-level 4 bed + study, 3 bath with split floor plan and no interior steps. Features include white staggered cabinets, granite counters, kitchen island, walk-in pantry, wood plank tile, and ENERGY STAR appliances. Efficient comfort with Central Air, programmable thermostat, ceiling fans, and ENERGY STAR HVAC (SEER 14), plus natural gas
HORSE LOVERS, THIS IS THE ONE! Situated on a sprawling 50k sq ft lot in one of Buckeye's most desirable areas, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers space, privacy and freedom- with no HOA restrictions.The mature trees add charm and natural shade, while the expansive lot provides room for horses, stalls, arenas, or additional structures. Whether you're looking to create your own ranch-style
Home located in the highly desirable Sundance community! This move-in ready single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers comfortable living in a prime Buckeye location--just minutes from Skyline Regional Park, Sundance Golf Club, and the growing Verrado Marketplace with dining, entertainment, and an upcoming movie theater. Featuring functional floorplan and comfortable living space. The kitchen has
This property qualifies for a $5000 Homebuyer grant that can be used to reduce the cost of your Mortgage!! Come view this beautiful Move-in ready Santarra Gem featuring fresh paint, new flooring, new HVAC system and new A/C unit. This is a great home with lots of room for the family. 5 Bedroom 3.0 bathroom, with all new additions making it a 3616 sq ft added loft, game room. This is a must see!!
Well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in the Tartesso community of Buckeye. This property offers a functional split floor plan with an open-concept layout designed for everyday living. The kitchen features ample cabinetry, granite countertops, and a walk-in pantry, providing both storage and workspace. Also a New Dishwasher and microwave! The backyard is finished with low-maintenance
SPECTACULAR FIESTA MODEL WITH POOL, 3 CAR GARAGE AND 2025 HVAC! The charming front courtyard leads you to an open concept floorplan with neutral tile, window treatments & contemporary lighting features throughout. Upgraded kitchen cabinets w/ pullouts, newer Refrigerator, Huge Center Island & Cafe dining. The Inviting living space offers plenty of room for Dining and Entertainment. Unwind in the
A fully insulated air-conditioned garage with Epoxy floors sets a luxury tone from the moment you arrive, elevating this home far beyond the ordinary. The residence opens into a beautifully flowing interior, where a chef-inspired kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, an island, and upgraded cabinetry. The great room expands through double sliding doors into a refined
Amazing mountain views in this like-new two-story home designed for effortless living. An open, light-filled layout with soaring vaulted ceilings creates a spacious, welcoming feel the moment you step inside. The chef-inspired kitchen features granite countertops, 42'' upper cabinets, and abundant storage, perfect for everyday life or entertaining. Tile flooring throughout the main areas adds
Golden hour hits differently here. This 2023 home backs to breathtaking mountain views, anchored by a custom pergola and fire pit that make the backyard the heart of the property. Inside, a thoughtful open-concept layout offers a dedicated flex room and bonus space for work or wellness -- no compromises. Single-level neighbors deliver the privacy you've been searching for, and the sold-out floor
Beautiful single-story home in Buckeye featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a 2 car garage. Offering 1,920 sq ft of living space with granite counter tops, an open layout, and a large sliding glass door that fills the home with natural light and connects to the backyard-perfect for the everyday living and entertaining.
Toll Brothers Luxury in Verrado! Experience sophisticated living in this stunning ''Catalan'' model home by Toll Brothers, situated on a generous lot in the sought-after Verrado East District. Built in 2021, this meticulously maintained ranch-style home features 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 modern baths across 1,874 sq. ft. of open-concept living space. The gourmet kitchen serves as the heart of the
Live comfortably and confidently in this thoughtfully designed 3 bed, 2 bath home with a versatile den -- perfect for a home office, craft room, or guest retreat. Built for effortless everyday living, the home features an accessible roll-in shower, widened doorways and pathways, and an open floor plan that flows naturally from living to dining. The kitchen offers generous cabinet storage, and the
One Month Free. New remodeling, new paint, new tile flooring. Beautiful corner lot house in the popular Verrado community. Amazing use of space, 1531 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, great room floor plan, and a 2-car garage is located behind the house. This property is assigned to A rated school. Conveniently located, minutes from shopping, dining, parks, schools, close to 303, and I-10. A lovely
The Reserve at Westpark is conveniently located off I-10 and Miller Road. We offer 3, 4, and 5 bedroom homes for rent. Our floor plans are unmatched, with 3 car garages, wardrobe closets, and stainless steel appliances. Don't wait, make The Reserve at Westpark your new home today!
2024 build rental home with all appliances included ! This popular Abbot floor plan features 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. White shaker style cabinets, 18 x 18 -inch tile through main living areas, upgrade carpet in bedrooms only. Gourmet kitchen has stainless steel appliances, range/oven, microwave and dishwasher and fridge. Single basin sink with high arc faucet. Window blinds throughout with
Introducing Marketside Villas at Verrado, a brand-new and exclusive complex where sophistication meets comfort in a desert oasis. Industrial aesthetics, premium amenities, and spacious interiors offer the very definition of luxury living inside our houses for rent in Buckeye, AZ.Offering spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom single-family homes and duplexes, we have options that fit any
Highly desired 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with flex room is located in the heart of Victory at Verrado. This home offers beautiful curb appeal with a brick-paved driveway and inviting front porch--perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunset views. Ideally situated across from a community park, a wonderful spot to gather with neighbors and take in the charm of the Victory lifestyle. Step inside to
Yardly® at Verrado is an innovative community built by Taylor Morrison, featuring single-story apartment homes for rent. Each home comes with a landscaped, private backyard with turf that provides flexible living for you and your pet. We offer maintenance and repair services to our renters, which allows for a low-maintenance lifestyle. When you rent at a qualifying Yardly community, receive up to
This stunning, highly upgraded, energy-efficient Pulte home features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a single-story layout. The kitchen boasts matching black appliances, an electric cooktop, built-in microwave, and tile floors in the main living areas. Upgrades include a tankless water heater and elegant finishes throughout. Front and back yards are beautifully landscaped?see the pictures! No
Experience an effortless blend of elegance and tranquility at The Bungalows at Sundance. Nestled within an intimate, single-story community, our homes provide the perfect retreat for those seeking serenity and ease. With your own private backyard oasis, gourmet kitchen, and luxurious finishes, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to nurture your desire for both comfort and style. Picture
Highly upgraded, super energy efficient, quality built, Pulte, 4 bedroom, 3 bath, single story floor plan. Beautiful kitchen with matching black appliances, electric cook top range, built in microwave, tankless water heater, nicely upgraded everywhere you look!! Nicely landscaped front and back yard. We now offer a no-deposit option O.A.C. For a fee of 10% of the monthly rent, you can forgo a
Welcome to Main Street Lofts at VerradoFind a newly renovated studio, one, two, or three-bedroom apartment home at Main Street Lofts at Verrado. Walk into spacious and stylish updated floor plans featuring high-end finishes, like quartz countertops and glass-tile backsplashes. Our pet-friendly apartments in Verrado offer a modern lifestyle with endless amenities close at hand. Located in the
Reimagine what life looks like at Lanai. Here, brand-new apartment homes bring fresh energy to the wide-open beauty of Buckeye, Arizona. Surrounded by desert skies and peaceful neighborhood streets, Lanai offers a refreshing balance of modern comfort and relaxed desert living.Arrive home to a thoughtfully designed community where stylish interiors, inviting spaces, and resort-inspired
NOW OPEN! Solana Villas brings together the perfect blend of southwest tradition and contemporary design to apartment living. Solana is a Spanish name meaning sunshine fitting for a community located in Buckeye, AZ on the outskirts of Phoenix, a.k.a. the Valley of the Sun. The 200 apartments at Solana Villas will offer a mix of warm finishes and unique features to enhance your daily routine, and
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
