BUCKEYE

Housing

Overview

Buckeye, AZ can be considered a good place to live, particularly for those seeking affordability, a strong community, and access to outdoor activities. It offers a low cost of living, with housing generally less expensive than other Phoenix metro area cities. The city also has a small-town feel and a strong sense of community, with numerous events and gatherings.

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.

About 103,727 people live in Buckeye, and the median age here is 35.6.

The median household income in Buckeye is $97,986, and the average commute time is about 29.33 minutes. The unemployment rate here is 3.96%.

If you want to buy a house in Buckeye, the median home value is $429,097.

And if you're a renter, you can expect the median rent here to be $1,504.

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.

Discover the community

Overview

Buckeye is a city in Maricopa County and is Arizona's second-largest city by area, and it is the westernmost suburb in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

From its lower cost of living to its thriving tech sector and sustainability focus, this fast-growing city offers a refreshing change from Central Phoenix. Teravalis is excited to call Buckeye home, sharing its values of innovation, a sustainable future, and family-friendly community building.

Community

Affordability:
Buckeye is a relatively affordable place to live, especially regarding housing costs.

Strong Community:
The city boasts a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local events and activities.

Proximity to Phoenix:
Buckeye is located near major employment hubs in Phoenix, providing access to job opportunities and entertainment.

Outdoor Activities:
The city offers access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking, with nearby trails and parks.

Small-Town Vibe:
Despite its rapid growth, Buckeye still maintains a small-town feel, with a focus on community and neighborly relationships.

Growth:
Buckeye is considered an affordable housing market in the Phoenix metro area, and its population is rapidly increasing, according to Teravalis.

Natural Beauty:
The city's proximity to the Sonoran Desert and its diverse ecosystems, including regional parks like Skyline Regional Park, attracts outdoor enthusiasts.

Technology Sector:
A fast-growing technology sector is contributing to Buckeye's economic development, according to Teravalis.

Recreation and Parks:
Buckeye offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing in its parks and recreational areas, according to the Arizona Commerce Authority.

Historical Significance:
The city's name comes from the Buckeye Canal, built in 1885 by Malie M. Jackson, named after his native state of Ohio.

Sundance Towne Center:
A popular shopping and dining area with a mix of local and national retailers, according to the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Activities & Attractions

Regional Parks:
Buckeye is home to several regional parks offering outdoor recreation and scenic views. Skyline Regional Park, an 8,700-acre preserve in the southern White Tank Mountains, features trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as picnic and camping areas. White Tank Mountain Regional Park also provides hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.
Golf Courses:
Buckeye offers a variety of golf courses, including Verrado Golf Club, Copper Canyon Golf Club, and Sundance Golf Club.
Historical Landmarks:
The Gillespie Dam Bridge, spanning the Gila River, is a well-preserved landmark and a part of Arizona's early transportation history. The Buckeye Valley Museum, located in the 1925 Central School building, provides insight into the city's history. Other historic properties include the H.E. Kell and Co. General Merchandise Building, the Joslin Building, and the Old Courthouse and Jail.
Other Notable Attractions:
The Victory Steps at Verrado offer panoramic views, and the Buckeye Aquatics Center provides recreational swimming opportunities.