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El Mirage

El Mirage

Located in Maricopa County

$361,454 Average Value
$193 Average Price per Sq Ft
7 Homes For Sale

Desert suburbs and retirement communities in the Phoenix metro area

Set about 25 miles northwest of Phoenix, the city of El Mirage has a comparatively small-town appeal, with lower-priced homes, a slower pace of life and less urban sprawl. However, El Mirage's roughly 35,000 residents still enjoy easy access to big-city conveniences around the Phoenix metro area. “El Mirage is often overlooked because it’s mostly residential, but the homes are really nice,” says Cindy Freitas, Realtor with West USA Realty, who’s lived in El Mirage for 13 years. Homes here are generally set in planned subdivisions, and the city’s popular with retired folks, offering a handful of 55-plus communities. “It’s great for retirement, but you don’t have to be retired,” says Josiah Miller, a Realtor with Josiah Miller Homes who’s lived in the area for 20 years.

Construction and manufacturing are major local industries, and many locals work at LogistiCenter at Copperwing, a business park with offices for companies like Microsoft, Tippmann Innovation and Cives Steel. Luke Air Force Base is 7 miles away, and residents may hear occasional air traffic. “That’s where they train pilots on the F35,” Miller says. “You’re probably going to hear jets flying over.”

El Mirage is a vibrant area that offers a great quality of life with plenty of amenities.
El Mirage is a vibrant area that offers a great quality of life with plenty of amenities.
El Mirage residents travel with ease along the bustling and scenic Highway 60.
El Mirage residents travel with ease along the bustling and scenic Highway 60.
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Home prices lower than neighboring cities

“People get more bang for their buck here,” Freitas says. “The same house in Surprise costs less in El Mirage.” The median home price in El Mirage is about $360,000, compared to $430,000 in Surprise and $450,000 in Phoenix. Most homes here were built during the late 20th century through today and are set in planned, sidewalk-lined subdivisions; new traditional Spanish-inspired homes with desert-colored stucco exteriors and clay-tiled roofs are typical. There are also several 55-plus neighborhoods in the city, including Pueblo El Mirage, a golf course community with one- to two-bedroom manufactured and ranch-style homes, as well as shared access to a fitness center, pool and other private amenities.

Experience the low-maintenance living and durability of Spanish homes in El Mirage.
Experience the low-maintenance living and durability of Spanish homes in El Mirage.
El Mirage offers the perfect balance of modern conveniences and natural beauty.
El Mirage offers the perfect balance of modern conveniences and natural beauty.
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Over a dozen local parks and shared spaces

Spread over more than 50 acres of public land, El Mirage offers about a dozen parks and shared spaces, including the El Mirage Community Garden where locals grow veggies and flowers. The 13-acre Gateway Park is the city’s largest park, and it’s a favorite for its playgrounds, playing fields, skate park and dog park. Next door at the Northwest Valley YMCA, locals can cool off in the pool on hot summer days. Golfers can hit the links at the nearby, semi-private, 18-hole Pueblo El Mirage Golf Course, and Pueblo El Mirage residents can enjoy the community’s clubhouse, pools and pickleball courts. For desert mountain views, Estrella Mountain Regional Park is about 20 miles away, with over 30 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails.

Discover endless fun for kids of all ages at Gateway Park's playground near El Mirage.
Discover endless fun for kids of all ages at Gateway Park's playground near El Mirage.
Gateway Park's natural beauty and amenities are a highlight of El Mirage.
Gateway Park's natural beauty and amenities are a highlight of El Mirage.
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Dysart Unified School District receives high marks from Niche

El Mirage is part of the Dysart Unified School District, which serves about 24,000 students and earns an overall B-plus from Niche. The district partners with Rio Salado College to offer dual-enrollment courses for high school students. At the B-rated Dysart High, students may also take career and technical education courses in fields like graphic design and marketing.

Dysart Middle School in El Mirage is an academic hub of the city.
Dysart Middle School in El Mirage is an academic hub of the city.
Dysart High in El Mirage is a top-rated institution that provides academic excellence.
Dysart High in El Mirage is a top-rated institution that provides academic excellence.
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Lots of authentic Mexican restaurants

The city doesn’t have a traditional downtown, but most of El Mirage’s shopping and dining scene is clustered in the city’s north end. Grocery stores here include Walmart and Food City, and there are a handful of fast-food eateries. Thunderbird Road is lined with locally owned restaurants, including La Bamba Mexican Grill—popular for its homemade tortillas and street tacos. “I would say that’s probably El Mirage’s strongest suit: a lot of Mexican restaurants—the authentic ones, not the chains,” Miller says. Nearby, Humberto’s is known for their rolled tacos, and Mariscos El Sinaloco specializes in authentic Sinaloa-style seafood. “You’re also close to lots of restaurants in surrounding areas, like Surprise, Rio Mirage Cafe, and Sun City,” Miller says.

Experience the warm and inviting ambiance of Rio Mirage Cafe near El Mirage.
Experience the warm and inviting ambiance of Rio Mirage Cafe near El Mirage.
Savor the bold and flavorful Mexican cuisine at Humberto's in El Mirage.
Savor the bold and flavorful Mexican cuisine at Humberto's in El Mirage.
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Local events with artisans and musicians

Community events are often held at Bill Gentry Park, found north along Thunderbird Road. The monthly Music in the Park concert series features a wide range of local artists and musical genres, from country to Japanese Taiko drumming. In April, the Spring Faire offers food, games and the Children's Entrepreneur Market, where kids show off their talents and sell their creations, like snacks and stickers. September’s Fiesta de la Gente is a celebration of the community’s Hispanic culture and includes traditions like live mariachi music and Lucha Libre wrestling. Other annual events include the Fall Harvest Festival in October and December’s Winterfest, which includes photo-ops with Santa and a parade.

Getting around from El Mirage

Locals can hop on Highway 60 for a 10-mile drive to Glendale or a 25-mile drive to Phoenix. “Less commuters live out here because it’s kind of a pain during rush hour, but there are people who do it every day,” Miller says. Most streets here are sidewalk-lined and bikeable, though only major thoroughfares, like Thunderbird Road, have dedicated bike lanes; Valley Metro buses also stop in the city and travel the Phoenix metro area. St. Joseph's Westgate Medical Center is about 8 miles away in Glendale, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 30 miles away.

Crime and environmental factors

According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, El Mirage's rates of property crime decreased by about 50% between 2013 and 2023. Local rates of both property and violent crime are generally lower than those in Arizona and the nation.

Extreme heat and the risk of wildfires are ongoing environmental concerns here. Summer temperatures regularly top 100 degrees, and community pools are a popular way to beat the heat. There haven’t been any recent wildfires in El Mirage, but the El Mirage Fire Department responds to local emergencies.

Travis Rocha
Written By
Travis Rocha
John Williams
Photography Contributed By
John Williams
Peter Medawar
Video By
Peter Medawar

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Ellie Herrera, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
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

El Mirage Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$254,000
Median Sale Price
$220,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$230,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
6%
Last 12 months Home Sales
45
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-42%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$193

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
9,352
Number of Homes for Sale
7
Median Year Built
2001
Months of Supply
1.90
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,634
Below the national average
1,924
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
5,662

Open Houses

  • 12106 N 128th Ave, El Mirage, AZ 85335

    $385,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,385 Sq Ft
    • 12106 N 128th Ave
    • New 28 days ago

    Charming 2-story home in the desirable Sundial Community! Situated in a peaceful cul-de-sac, offering 3 bedrooms plus loft, 2.5 bathrooms, RV gates, and a 2-car garage! Discover the delightful interior, featuring bright living areas with tile flooring, tons of natural light, and neutral colors. Cook delicious meals in the impeccable kitchen, displaying abundant cabinetry, a spacious peninsula, a

    Agent Photo
    Rebecca Kennard
    My Home Group Real Estate
    (855) 572-2521
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  • 11921 W Flores Dr Unit II, El Mirage, AZ 85335

    $328,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,238 Sq Ft
    • 11921 W Flores Dr
    • Unit II

    Welcome to this home offering curb appeal with a freshly painted exterior, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms! The kitchen has vaulted ceilings and plenty of cabinet space. The primary room has an ensuite and 2 closets. Enjoy easy care landscape, covered patio, and a large private backyard! SunDial community is close to entertainment, amenities, and freeway for an easier commute or to entertainment! Do

    Agent Photo
    Beth Rider
    Keller Williams Arizona Realty
    (623) 280-2239
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  • 13165 W Ventura St, Surprise, AZ 85379

    $450,000

    • 5 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,847 Sq Ft
    • 13165 W Ventura St

    MOTIVATED SELLER BRING ALL OFFERS!! What a fabulous energy-efficient 4-bedroom home in Surprise! Discover a delightful interior featuring an inviting living room paired with double-height ceilings, picture windows, and a neutral palette. The kitchen offers plenty of honey oak cabinets, built-in appliances, and a dining area with plantation shutters. Check out the HUGE loft adorned with pre-wired

    Agent Photo
    Brandon Alsayed
    DeLex Realty
    (623) 404-9161
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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

El Mirage Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
34,874
Median Age
31
Population Density
173 ppl/acre
Population under 18
31.9%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
8.6%
Below the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$69,610
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$77,558

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
78.5%
Below the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
14.1%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
4.7%
% Population in Labor Force
73.2%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
8''
Average Winter Low Temperature
42°F
Average Summer High Temperature
107°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

36 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

6 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

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.
El Mirage