How is Tempe? (compared to other cities in AZ) (Phoenix: best cities, rent)

[betterweather14]

I was just wondering what it's like living in Tempe,AZ? and how does it compare to Chandler,Gilbert,Tucson,and Sierra Vista AZ? in your opinion,what are the best cities to live in in Arizona?

[observer53]

You've asked about cities both inside and outside the Phoenix area, so it's a bit of apples and oranges.

Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert are all southeast valley suburbs of Phoenix. They are similar in many ways; Tempe is smaller by area, and landlocked; it's a well-run city with lots of positive attributes. I'd say good things about Chandler and Gilbert as well. Gilbert is perhaps a bit more family oriented than the other two, but they are all nice places to raise a family.

Tucson is the other large metro area in AZ, much smaller than Phoenix. A bit, but not a lot, cooler. You should do some research and reading in the Tucson forum for Tucson, and in the Arizona forum for Sierra Vista, which is a small city in SE Arizona. If you have more questions about those cities, post them in the appropriate forum.

What is the "best place to live" in the Phoenix area (or anywhere else in AZ, but that is for a different forum here) is in the eye of the beholder. What works for someone else may not work for you. Without knowing what you are looking for in terms of a place to live, work, etc, it's hard to give advice.

[Java Jolt]

Of all the southeastern valley cities Tempe is the least suburban and has the best urban feel.

The northern part of Tempe is one area where a car isn't really needed, very walkable and transit-friendly.

It becomes much more suburban south of Southern Avenue or the US 60.

Tucson and Sierra Vista shouldn't even be compared to Tempe, both are separate towns and aren't even associated with the southeast valley or metropolitan Phoenix.

[MommaKD]

I've lived in both Gilbert and Tempe and I'll agree that Gilbert is more family friendly. I live in South Tempe now and it's more suburban here compared to North Tempe and rent tends to be a little higher because you're getting an actual family home with a yard instead of a student rental. Tempe is a better central location to other parts of the valley, which is why I prefer Tempe to Gilbert. Which ranks best is going to largely depend on a lot of really subjective factors. I lived in SV almost 6 years ago (and getting ready to move back there short term in the Fall) and it doesn't really compare to living in the valley. I will miss the valley, that's for sure