Metropolitan, upscale and outdoorsy city in the West Valley
Set about 14 miles northwest of Phoenix, the city of Peoria city offers natural beauty and an array of entertainment options. “Peoria is the most metropolitan and high-end area in the West Valley,” says Aaron Carlson, a Realtor with Weichert, Realtors-Home Pro Realty, who has over 10 years of experience. Originally a 19th-century railroad town, Peoria boomed in the late 20th century as the Phoenix metro area began to sprawl; today, the city's home to more than 190,000 people. Advanced manufacturing and healthcare are major industries here, and top employers include Valleywise Health, TYR Tactical and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company.
Peoria is locally known for being more outdoorsy than neighboring cities, including Phoenix. “It’s near Lake Pleasant — that’s a big draw. A lot of people like staying home with their families and going outdoors,” Carlson says. Southern Peoria features most of the city’s commercial districts, attractions and residential neighborhoods, while northern Peoria is mostly an open stretch of the Sonoran Desert.
Residents in Mesquite are never too far from shopping destinations.
Arrowhead Mall is the premier shopping destination for Mesquite residents.
Lake Pleasant, near Mesquite, offers a spacious lake perfect for boating.
Camping near Lake Pleasant is a quick and attractive getaway for Mesquite residents.
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Over 30 local parks to explore
“Nature is a big part of the culture here,” says Nicholas Monaco, Realtor with West USA Realty and Peoria local. Peoria has 30 city parks, and the largest is 85-acre Paloma Community Park, with a lighted dog park, a splash pad and sports like pickleball and baseball. At the 52-acre Rio Vista Community Park, locals may play racquetball, hit the gym or take group fitness classes at the park’s rec center.
There are several public pools open in the summer, but Lake Pleasant is the local go-to for a dip. Set within the 23,000-acre Lake Pleasant Regional Park, the lake is a desert oasis, where locals may go boating, scuba diving or fishing for largemouth bass and catfish. The park itself is popular for camping and hiking, offering dirt-packed hiking trails for all skill levels. The city also has several golf courses, but the Blackstone Country Club’s private 18-hole course is ranked among Arizona's best for its well-maintained greens and scenic views.
Paloma Community Park is a peaceful oasis with a lake for fishing enthusiasts.
As a 55+ community, Trilogy in Vistancia caters to active adults.
CrossFit Incendia brings together fitness-minded residents in North Peoria.
Enjoy a perfect day on the green at Trilogy Golf Club in Peoria.
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Spring training at the Peoria Sports Complex
From February through March, the Peoria Sports Complex is the spring training home of the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners, attracting tens of thousands of baseball fans. During the rest of the year, the complex is a major venue for local and touring events, including the Vans Warped Tour in the summer. Seasonal celebrations at the complex include the Dolly Sanchez Easter Celebration, the July 4th All-American Festival and the Halloween Monster Bash, which features a costume parade, trick-or-treating and lots of carnival food and games. The Peoria Center for the Arts is the local hub for arts and entertainment, featuring a year-round schedule of performances and concerts, as well as workshops in topics like tap dance, monologue prep and comedy.
Shopping districts and Old Town Peoria
Commercial plazas with grocery stores, retailers and fast-food restaurants are found throughout the city, especially around Route 101. Set outdoors and lined with palm trees, the Park West district is a one-stop-shop for date night restaurants, family entertainment and department store shopping. Nearby, Old Town Peoria offers a handful of locally owned businesses, including coffee shops and clothing boutiques; this historic area is dotted with Spanish Mission and Gothic Revival buildings from the early 20th century. The P83 Entertainment District offers a large variety of eateries, from boba tea and all-you-can-eat sushi to fancy steakhouses and authentic Mexican cuisine; in 2023, three new restaurants were added here, and there are plans for more in the next few years.
Find affordable groceries at Fry’s Food in Mesquite.
Safeway in Vistancia helps keep your kitchen fully stocked.
Arrowhead Mall is the premier shopping destination for Mesquite residents.
Relax and unwind at Cross Eyed Cricket in Vistancia.
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Single-family homes built from the late 20th century through today
The average home price in Peoria is $600,000, compared to $470,000 in Glendale and $630,000 in Phoenix. “There’s a lot of beautiful homes with mountain views,” Carlson says. Most homes here were built between the late 20th century and today, typically set in master-planned, sidewalk-lined communities. “There are some non-HOA, custom-home neighborhoods, but for the most part, the city’s been developed by builders,” Carlson says.
Most homes in Peoria are 20th- and 21st-century new traditional Spanish-style homes with clay-tiled roofs, but late 20th-century ranch-style homes are also common. In northern Peoria, 21st-century custom homes often have special features like heated spas or pools, roughly 1-acre lots, and gated entrances. “Everybody builds these nice houses with nice backyards and has a permanent staycation," Carlson says. "Peoria is the epitome of that.”
The Vistancia neighborhood is one of a handful that offer shared amenities like pools and tennis courts, and also includes Trilogy at Vistancia, a sought-after 55-plus community. “It’s probably the nicest retirement community in all of Arizona,” Carlson says. “The clubhouse is over 55,000 square feet. There’s an Olympic-sized swimming pool, three championship golf courses and a restaurant with an amazing menu. It’s awesome, honestly.”
Embrace the charm of Vistancia’s Spanish-inspired homes featuring tiled roofs.
Mesquite residents often choose drought-resistant yards.
There are many Spanish-style homes in Mesquite.
Modern architecture defines some of the newer neighborhoods in North Peoria.
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Getting around Peoria
Peoria is crossed by four major highways: Routes 60, 101, 303 and 74. “You use your car to get around here, and traffic is always a bit of a beast,” Carlson says. Route 60 leads 14 miles to the heart of Phoenix; during rush hour, this drive takes 30 to 50 minutes. Route 101 leads 24 miles to Scottsdale and 30 miles to Mesa. Valley Metro buses stop in Peoria, and local streets are generally bikeable and pedestrian friendly. Abrazo Peoria Emergency Center is located within the city, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is 18 miles away.
Peoria Unified School District receives high marks
The Peoria Unified School District serves about 36,500 students and receives an overall A rating from Niche. At the B-rated Santa Fe Elementary, students in kindergarten through Grade 8 may enroll in the Spanish Immersion program, where their days are split evenly between Spanish and English-language instruction. High schools in the district offer dual-enrollment courses for college credit at Glendale Community College. There are also several private schools in the city, including Cross of Glory Lutheran School and Primrose School of Arrowhead, which have not yet been rated by Niche or Great Schools.
Play football or join in other sports at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale.
Hillcrest Middle School in Peoria has received an A rating from Niche.
Liberty High School in Peoria receives an A- rating from Niche.
Apache Elementary School in Peoria receives an A- rating from Niche.
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Crime and environmental factors
According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, the number of violent and property-related crimes reported in Peoria decreased by 25% between 2013 and 2023. The community gets involved with the Peoria Police Department through programs like Citizens’ Police Academy, where locals learn the ins and outs of day-to-day police operations over a 10-week course.
Extreme heat and wildfires are ongoing environmental concerns in Peoria. Temperatures regularly top 100 degrees from June through August, so air-conditioned days inside and trips to local splash pads are standard summer protocol. In 2024, a brush fire caught flame near 75th and Grand Avenues; no property damage or injuries were reported. There are eight fire stations in Peoria, and locals may sign up for emergency alerts on the city’s website.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
John Williams
Video By
Pasha Chichagov
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Robert Linkey,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Peoria, AZ sell after 140 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Peoria, AZ over the last 12 months is $520,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
OWNED SOLAR! SPARKLING POOL! WE HAVE IT ALL! Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and energy efficiency! This spacious floor plan features a full bedroom and full bathroom downstairs, soaring vaulted ceilings, a huge loft, and a formal dining room. Rich wood flooring, including the staircase, pairs beautifully with plantation
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Parkridge that shows like a model! Prime location within walking distance to Parkridge Elementary and nearby parks, with easy access to Loop 101 and Arrowhead amenities. Open floor plan features vaulted ceilings, formal living and dining areas, and a spacious island kitchen that flows into the family room. Oversized primary suite includes a walk-in
$50K PRICE DROP!! Exquisitely sited, this DISTINCTIVELY BEAUTIFUL LAKE FRONT GOLF COURSE VIEW LOT is one of thefinest in all of Trilogy. This home strategically sits behind the lake and overlooks the 14th green and the 15th fairway and is positioned perfectly for outdoor entertaining or luxurious everyday living, this pergola covered extended patio has a large seating area, misters for
Not just a home, a lifestyle upgrade!Welcome to Pleasant View Estates--one of Peoria's most desirable pockets offering the perfect blend of a quiet, upscale feel, larger lots, privacy, and stunning desert beauty with mountain views. This is where everyday living feels elevated and every detail invites you to slow down and enjoy.Step inside to fresh interior paint and timeless touches like
GATED PEORIA LIVING WITH A PRIVATE BACKYARD & OPEN FLOOR PLAN! This move-in ready townhome offers an open-concept first floor filled with natural light from numerous windows, creating a bright & inviting atmosphere. The spacious living room with direct access to the private backyard through a large sliding glass door, flows seamlessly into the dining area & kitchen, featuring granite countertops,
No HOA and a backyard designed for Arizona living! This updated single story home features a sparkling pool, RV gate, covered patio, lush grass area, and a large detached storage shed with plenty of space to relax, entertain, or store your toys. Inside, you'll find an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and a beautifully updated kitchen featuring white cabinetry, stainless
OWNED SOLAR! SPARKLING POOL! WE HAVE IT ALL! Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and energy efficiency! This spacious floor plan features a full bedroom and full bathroom downstairs, soaring vaulted ceilings, a huge loft, and a formal dining room. Rich wood flooring, including the staircase, pairs beautifully with plantation
Beautifully remodeled cul-de-sac gem near Westgate! This 3 bed, 2 bath home shines with all-new wood-look vinyl plank flooring and cozy carpet in the bedrooms, plus granite countertops and brand-new Samsung appliances. Modern upgrades throughout, spacious layout, and a resort-style backyard with an updated pool, new pump motor, and a year of weekly pool service included. Furniture available for
Welcome home to the friendly streets of Country Meadows, where this enchanting 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers each room its own peaceful corner of the world. A large, fully tiled Arizona Room with a built-in tiled bar extends the living space outdoors -- perfect for relaxing evenings or entertaining year-round. Updates include: HVAC (2024), roof (2023), water heater (2023), baths (2009), garage
ON LEASED LAND: Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath split floor plan. Open concept front room and kitchen. Laminate flooring , tile and carpet. All appliances convey including washer and dryer. 2 Spacious storage sheds and a screened in porch. Large carport. Ac replaced 2024, new hot water heater. Jadestone is a gated active community. Community has pickleball courts, pool, spa, lots of activities.
ON LEASED LAND:PRICED FOR IMMEDIATE SALE Dont miss out on this absolutely stunning complete remodel. 2 bedroom 2 bath split floor plan. Both bedrooms have their own bath and walk in closets. Bathrooms have a stunning walk in shower. Kitchen has been fully updated with brand new cabinets, stunning granite counter tops, roomy kitchen island, tons of storage. Separate laundry inside. Storage
Resort-Style Living in Trilogy at Vistancia! Enter through the foyer into a spacious formal living or dining area filled with natural light from oversized windows, flowing seamlessly into the kitchen featuring a center island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, abundant cabinetry & an eat-in area. The family room is anchored by a cozy tile fireplace & large picture windows. The
Come Check me out!! Beautiful 2 story home in Northwest Peoria's Coldwater Ranch. This home has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a wonderfully finished back yard with artificial grass and pavers. 42'' cherry cabinets, tile that looks like wood everywhere downstairs and in laundry and bathrooms upstairs, stainless steel appliances including microwave and refrigerator, laundry room upstairs with included
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Parkridge that shows like a model! Prime location within walking distance to Parkridge Elementary and nearby parks, with easy access to Loop 101 and Arrowhead amenities. Open floor plan features vaulted ceilings, formal living and dining areas, and a spacious island kitchen that flows into the family room. Oversized primary suite includes a walk-in
Talk about turnkey! This beautifully updated home is loaded with upgrades, including a new roof, AC less than 2 years old, new water heater, and new water softener. Inside, you'll find granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring in the main living areas, and plush carpet in the bedrooms. All bathrooms have been tastefully remodeled with modern finishes. The garage
Welcome to The Fountains at Lake PleasantNestled in the vibrant North Peoria community we offer upgraded apartment homes for lease. Our location boasts an ideal place for work, rest and recreation plus an exceptional variety of amenities fit for your active life. Catch a concert at Gila River Arena, cheer on the Cardinals at State Farm Stadium, test your skills at Topgolf Glendale or try
Welcome home to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence located in a desirable gated community. This well-maintained home features NEW paint & carpet. The spacious eat-in kitchen features abundant cabinetry with tall upper cabinets, providing ample storage. Upstairs, you'll find a versatile loft area, perfect for a home office, playroom, or additional living space. The generous primary suite
Welcome to Eagle Ridge Luxury Apartments, a premier apartment community nestled in the heart of Peoria's highly sought-after Vistancia neighborhood. Offering thoughtfully designed apartment homes, exceptional amenities, and a vibrant community atmosphere, Eagle Ridge provides the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and modern living.Our brand new luxury apartment homes offer a
Fully FURNISHED, 3 bed/2.5 bath vacation rental in the sought after community of Casa Del Rey! This spacious home has a large living room, upgraded kitchen with SS appliances and a pantry, and a separate dining area. There are walk-in closets in ALL of the bedrooms for plenty of storage! Home is complete with a full laundry room, 2 car garage and a patio! Wonderful community amenities including
One of Glendale's most sought-after communities. Our prime location just north of Olive on 67th Avenue provides easy access to shopping, Glendale Community College, Arizona State University West Campus, excellent schools, and entertainment. Our community is designed to complement your personal lifestyle with luxurious amenities and spacious floor plans featuring high-end finishes. Visit us today
Beautifully newly constructed home in North Peoria offering 1,953 sq. ft. of modern living space with 4 bedrooms plus a den, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. The spacious full-size kitchen features upgraded cabinetry, ample storage, and an open-concept layout that flows seamlessly into the large dining and living areas, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The primary suite includes a
Located by major thoroughfares, nature trails, and shopping, dining, and entertainment options, our Peoria, AZ apartment community connects you to a world of opportunity in the heart of P83. Smart home technology and designer features like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances will make you proud to call any of our beautiful studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in Peoria,
Move-in ready with fresh paint and new carpet! This spacious townhome is located in a desirable gated community. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a versatile loft, and a downstairs den perfect for a home office or flex space, this home combines comfort and functionality. The large eat-in kitchen features a stylish tile backsplash and opens to the main living area, creating an inviting space
This property is managed by Beztak, 2026 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the seventh year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why!Welcome to Casa Del Rio, where you're moments from the action, yet set back in a relaxing, boutique environment. Located in Peoria, just 30 minutes northwest of downtown Phoenix, you'll discover a
SEASONAL RENTAL in 55+ community of Trilogy at Vistancia. This Home rents for $1900 /month & tenant pays all utilities for May thru October. Rate for Nov-Dec is $3000 and rate for Jan-April is $3400 and lanlord pays all tutilites in cluding TV and Internet. NO smoking & NO pets are allowed.An inviting gated front courtyard welcomes you to the entry where you will be amazed at all the light,
In Phoenix's expanding Peoria Heights neighborhood sits VLux, a new gated rental home community featuring spacious and charming Peoria apartments. It's all been designed for renters who value privacy, innovation, and edgy interior design. Our apartments in Peoria AZ possess a rich array of amenities and include smart home technology packages, top-notch kitchen appliances, and private backyards –
Immediate Move-In Available! This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome is located in a desirable gated community and offers the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. The open-concept floor plan features a bright great room that flows seamlessly into the kitchen, creating an ideal space for both everyday living and entertaining.Enjoy the privacy of your own backyard, a full two-car
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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.
