Looking for the best places to live in the Southwest? Check out this list of the eight best Southwestern cities in the U.S. based on job opportunities, crime rates, home prices, recreation, and other local amenities!
| Cities | Population | Median Purchase Price | Median Monthly Rent | Safer than % of U.S. Cities | Unemployment Rate |
| Edmond, OK | 93,101 | $253,500 | $1,092 | 54% | 2.3% |
| Gilbert, AZ | 248,349 | $348,000 | $1,580 | 69% | 2.9% |
| Henderson, NV | 309,955 | $341,100 | $1,360 | 35% | 4.2% |
| Las Cruces, NM | 102,950 | $161,100 | $805 | 6% | 4.4% |
| Peoria, AZ | 172,109 | $282,200 | $1,340 | 53% | 2.8% |
| Rio Rancho, NM | 97,976 | $200,800 | $1,157 | 24% | 4.0% |
| St. George, UT | 87,176 | $302,300 | $1,088 | 60% | 2.2% |
| Sugar Land, TX | 118,563 | $337,600 | $1,768 | 64% | 3.2% |
Edmond, OK
Located about 30 minutes outside of Oklahoma City, Edmond‘s growing downtown scene, quality of life, and strong economy make it a top living destination in the Southwest. Those looking to start or advance their career will find major employers in the healthcare and education industries, and the University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma Christian University offer convenient higher education in or near the city. There are also plenty of things to do in Edmond, from hiking the Arcadia Lake Trail to appreciating the arts at Armstrong Auditorium—not to mention the many golf courses in Edmond, providing you with more opportunities to get out and practice your swing!
Things to Do in Edmond
Learn about the area’s history by exploring exhibits like Total Eclipse of Oklahoma: Okies in Space, enrolling your kids in the Living History summer camp, or attending history trivia at the Edmond History Museum. Dance to live music, play a round of pool with friends, or sip drinks at Cee Gee’s Club, the city’s oldest dive bar. Play a round of volleyball, go for a walk on the trail, or go fishing at E.C. Hafer Park. Practice your golf swing on the driving range, sign up for golf lessons, or get your kids involved in the junior golf program at KickingBird Golf Club. Enjoy a hearty breakfast with dishes like the Pork Chop & Eggs, Breakfast Quesadilla, and Pig & Cheese Omelette at Around The Corner Restaurant. Experience traditional and unique sushi flavors like the Yellowtail (Hamachi) Roll, Squid (Ika) Roll, and Escolar (Butter Fish) Sushi at Cafe Icon Sushi & Grill. Try signature Mediterranean dishes like Chicken Shawarma, a Falafel Platter, and Homemade Baklava at Simply Falafel. Or get a taste of Indian and Pakistani cuisine with the Chicken Tandoori, Beef Nihari, or the Chappali Kabab at Tikka Craze.
Gilbert, AZ
Considering its rapid population growth and hot job market, it’s clear why Gilbert is one of the most popular places to live in the Southwest! As both the fifth-best mid-size city to buy a home—which includes styles ranging from Colonial to Adobe Revival—and one of the safest cities in the U.S., Gilbert is a great choice for anyone thinking of moving to Arizona. Families can take advantage of award-winning schools like Legacy Traditional School and Gilbert Classical Academy, and join young adults and retirees alike in access to an abundance of golf courses, parks, restaurants, shops, the Gilbert Farmers Market, and proximity to nearby Phoenix.
Things to Do in Gilbert
Listen to live music, eat street food from local vendors, and watch rodeo events during the annual Gilbert Days festival in November. Stroll through historical buildings that house a variety of modern breweries, shops, and restaurants in Gilbert’s Heritage District. Set your sights on the stars and gaze through the 16-inch-diameter telescope or enjoy a private viewing with friends at Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory. Experience tasty Mexican entrees like the Sidewalk Surfer Chilaquiles, Birria Breakfast Burrito, and the Chipotle Shrimp Taco at Joyride Taco House. Sit down with a draft beer while trying unique hot dogs like the Cowboy, Chili Idol, or the plant-based Impossible Brat at Dog Haus Biergarten. Sample the Gyros Platter, Chicken Kabob Wrap, or Greek Burger at Phoenicia Cafe. Or satisfy your seafood cravings with fresh Ceviche, Seaweed Salad, or Spicy Seafood Pasta at High Tide Seafood Bar & Grill.
Henderson, NV
There are many reasons why Henderson—Nevada’s second-largest city—is a great place to live in the Southwest. Chief among those reasons include its booming restaurant scene, abundant recreation, and affordable housing in Italian Villa and Adobe Revival-styles. The city’s job market is another perk, as its pro-business climate helps top industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and technology thrive—not to mention you’re just 20 minutes from Las Vegas, where additional employment and recreational opportunities await! Henderson is also a good choice for those moving to the Southwest in search of higher education. Students can choose from institutions like College of Southern Nevada, the state’s largest and most diverse college, and Nevada State College, which specializes in arts and science degrees like nursing and education.
Things to Do in Henderson
Step back in time to see collections of motorhomes, locomotives, and historic buildings at the 30-acre Clark County Heritage Museum. Marvel at the various cacti, succulents, and desert trees at the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden. Gaze upon millennia-old petroglyphs and rock carvings, or hike along the Petroglyph Trail at the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. Go on high-energy rides like the Beach Blanket Banzai, rest at the cabanas, or cruise along the relaxing lazy river at Cowabunga Bay Water Park. Sip on a Bourbon Bacon Bloody Mary as you enjoy a Brisket Potato Hash, Smoked Tri Tip Bennie, or Chopped Hog Sandwich at Biscuits & Bourbon. Enjoy a hot plate of Ham Steak & Eggs, an Island Breakfast, or a Bourbon Burger at Pacific Diner. Taste noodle dishes like Miso Ramen, Beef Ramen, and Tan Tan Men at Ohjah Noodle House. Or savor Risotto al Pesto, Lobster Ravioli, and House Pan Roast at Il Chianti Italian.
Las Cruces, NM
Las Cruces has become a premier place to live in the Southwest and a fast-growing metro in New Mexico! Home to Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park and near the Organ Mountains, residents can enjoy beautiful views, trails, and wildlife year-round. Students moving to the area have a variety of higher education options like New Mexico State University and Dona Ana Community College in and near the city to choose from. Residents can also enjoy a steady job market, as the area shares major industries—including agriculture, manufacturing, and common defense—with its neighbors, El Paso, TX, and Juarez, Mexico. In particular, the White Sands Missile Range is a hub for research efforts.
Things to Do in Las Cruces, NM
Learn about the state’s farm and ranch history with exhibits like The Dairy Spot, Beyond the Farm, and Wheels & Gears at the New Mexico Farm & Heritage Museum. Expand your scientific knowledge by visiting exhibits like Desert Life, Light and Space, and Permian Trackways at the Museum of Nature & Science. Take your kids to the playground, go fishing, or have a picnic at Young Park. Enjoy live music, dance with friends, or sip a Cosmopolitan at Amador LIVE. Start your day off right with Chile con Carne & Eggs, Huevos Rancheros, or Chorizo and Eggs at La Nueva Casita Cafe. Enjoy a Burrito Plate, Chicken Quesadilla, or Tostada Compuestas at Dick’s Cafe. Try authentic Mexican dishes like a Gordita Plate, Chile Relleno Burrito, or Red Enchilada at Miguel’s Restaurant. Or experience unique sandwiches like the California Chicken Club, Big Belly BLT, or Crispy Green Chile Chicken Sandwich at Weck’s.
Peoria, AZ
Outdoor fun, a diverse restaurant scene, and a variety of arts and entertainment await you in the City of Peoria, one of the best places to live in the Southwest. Top local schools like Parkridge Elementary and Glendale Preparatory Academy make living in Peoria a great option for families—and the city’s strong job market’s support from major industries like healthcare and manufacturing make it a fantastic place to start a career. Although it’s smaller than the capital city of Phoenix—which is just a 28-minute drive away—there are plenty of things to do in Peoria. Take advantage of the city’s warm climate and enjoy the outdoors all year long at reserves and regional parks like Lake Pleasant Regional Park.
Things to Do in Peoria
Tee off on the 18-hole green, catch a horse race, or enroll your kids in a summer camp at Peoria Pines Golf Course. Shop for fresh produce, browse artisan goods, and get a feel for local culture every Saturday at Arrowhead Farmers Market. Get tickets to comedies, dramas, musicals, and other local performances at Arizona Broadway Theatre. Catch a youth baseball game, support minor league teams, or watch the San Diego Padres (MLB) and the Seattle Mariners (MLB) during Spring Training at the Peoria Sports Complex. Enjoy brunch favorites like Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes, the Social Benedict, or the Garden Burrito at The Social on 83rd. Start with a hand-crafted Cured Meat & Cheese Board, then enjoy the Baked Gnocchi or Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich for dinner at The Sicilian Butcher. Savor the Prime Rib, Chilean Sea Bass, and Pan Seared Scallops at Nineteen 86 Steakhouse. Or order an Espresso, Nitro Cold Brew, or a specialty drink like the Honey Lavender Latte at Driftwood Coffee.
Rio Rancho, NM
The Albuquerque suburb of Rio Rancho—also known as the City of Vision—is a Southwestern city to consider if you’re moving to the region. Rio Rancho has beautiful Pueblo Revival and ranch homes at affordable prices, a low cost of living, sunny climate, and well-rated public school system—making it a top place to live in the Southwest! Families in Rio Rancho in particular appreciate being able to send their children to top schools in the area, like Sandia Vista Elementary School, Mountain View Middle School, and Rio Rancho High School. And the numerous parks and natural wonders nearby attract anyone as great spots for hiking and exploring, including the Sandia Mountains and Petroglyph National Monument.
Things to Do in Rio Rancho
Play with your pup in the dog park, practice rollerblading, perfect your swing, or play a round of tennis at Rio Rancho Sports Complex. Go swimming, toss the football with family, or have a picnic at Cabezon Park. See indigenous art preserved in the rocks of Rinconada Canyon, Boca Negra Canyon, or Piedras Marcadas Canyon at Petroglyph National Monument. Grab your hiking boots to see New Mexico’s natural beauty from the Willow Creek Bosque Trailhead. Quench your thirst with brews like the Wooden Teeth American Lager, Red Rye Redux, and the Hopshell IPA at Turtle Mountain Brewing. Satisfy your Italian food cravings with dishes like Baked Ravioli, Eggplant Parmigiana, and Joe’s Carbonara at Joe’s Pasta House. Get hearty comfort food like Jambalaya, Etouffee, and Fried Green Tomatoes from K’Lynn’s Southern & Cajun Fusion. Or enjoy mouthwatering Indian fare like Saag Paneer, Spinach Pakora, or Chicken Korma at Namaste.
St. George, UT
People love living in St. George for its temperate year-round climate, breathtaking red cliffs, and vibrant downtown area. Schools in St. George have high test scores and good state rankings, so families can be confident in the education their children will receive at institutions like Crimson View Elementary, George Washington Academy, and Desert Hills High School. Adults seeking higher education can pursue a degree or certificate through one of the 275+ academic programs available at Utah Tech University. St. George also has a low crime rate and low unemployment. Whether you’re moving to the Southwest to soak in the region’s natural wonders or to pursue life goals, St. George is a good place to plant roots!
Things to Do in St. George
Marvel at the impressive architecture and gleaming white exterior of the St. George Utah Temple. Learn about military history and aviation, and see real mid-20th century aircrafts at Western Sky Aviation Warbird Museum. Explore the St. George Narrows, go on a hike, or go climbing at Pioneer Park. See 5,000 species of water-efficient plants, a replica slot canyon, and 200 million-year-old fossilized dinosaur tracks at the Red Hills Desert Garden. Enjoy Popeye Eggs, Gluten Free Pancakes, or Irish Steel Cut Oatmeal at George’s Corner Restaurant & Pub. Explore bold flavors like Chicken Satay, Tom Yum, or Green Curry at Benja Thai & Sushi. Take your tastebuds on a trip to the Hawaiian islands with an authentic Kalua Pork Bowl at Hawaiian Poke Bowl. Or enjoy a creative culinary experience with dishes like Bacon Wrapped Duck, Seared Sea Bass, and Carrot Jalapeno Soup at the Painted Pony Restaurant.
Sugar Land, TX
With its low cost of living, prosperous workforce, and business-friendly environment, it’s no wonder why Sugar Land, TX is one of the best places to live in the American Southwest. The city is just 20 minutes from Downtown Houston, making it an ideal city for commuters. With major industries like energy, healthcare, biotech, insurance, and manufacturing, there’s an abundance of job opportunities for new and experienced workers in many fields. Families living in Sugar Land have a variety of schools in and near the area to enroll their kids in, like Harmony Science Academy Sugar Land, Fort Bend Christian Academy, and Cornerstone Elementary School. Residents can enjoy walking, running, or biking along the city’s various trails year-round. And with an abundance of restaurants, shops, markets like the Imperial Farmers Market Sugar Land, and festivals like the International Art & Kite Festival, you’ll never run out of things to do in Sugar Land!
Things to Do in Sugar Land
Explore exhibits like Paper Playground, Dragons and Fairies, and Kidtropolis, USA with the whole family at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center. Enjoy a night out with friends to see shows like Dirty Dancing in Concert, Naruto: The Symphonic Experience, and Dancing With The Stars Live! at the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. Have a picnic with friends, explore the rose garden, or hike along the three-mile trail at Oyster Creek Park. Cheer on the Sugar Land Space Cowboys (MiLB), play a simulated game of baseball at Moonshot Alley, or attend the annual Sugar Land Holiday Lights event at Constellation Field. Enjoy hearty Southern-inspired food like the Fish Po’Boy, Chicken Fried Steak, or Chili Cheese Dog at Live Oak Grill. Try authentic Latin dishes like Cordero, Carne Asada, and Pollo Marsala at Fernando’s. Get a taste of New Orleans with dishes like the Zydeco Chicken, Oyster Po’Boy, and Seafood & Sausage Gumbo at The Rouxpour. Or experience Vietnamese culture with dishes like Bun Bo Nuong Sa, Banh Mi Thit Nuong, and Pho Dac Biet at Pho Ben.
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City statistics from AreaVibes
