Living in Buckeye Arizona - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Buckeye Arizona Like?
Buckeye, Arizona, located in Maricopa County, is home to approximately 119,000 people. Living in Buckeye, Arizona, gives you a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Situated west of Phoenix, Buckeye provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and off-roading. The city is conveniently located near Interstate 10, allowing for convenient travel to other cities and attractions in the area. Buckeye showcases the beauty of the desert landscape with its vast open spaces, stunning sunsets, and panoramic mountain views. Residents and visitors can enjoy recreational activities like boating, fishing, and exploring the nearby Buckeye Hills Regional Park. The Best of Buckeye includes a historic downtown area, vibrant shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert.
One of the main attractions in Buckeye, Arizona, is Skyline Regional Park, which offers hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Buckeye also has several other parks, including Sundance Park and Earl Edgar Recreational Facility. These parks offer amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
There are several large employers in and around Buckeye, Arizona, including Amazon, which has a large fulfillment center in nearby Phoenix, and the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, which is one of the largest nuclear power plants in the United States and provides significant employment opportunities in the area.
The cost of living in Buckeye, Arizona, is lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in the Southwest. Today, the average home value in Buckeye stands around $400,000, making homeownership accessible for many individuals and families living in Buckeye, Arizona. If you want to rent, you'll find the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Buckeye is around $1000 monthly. There are various housing options available for Buckeye residents to choose from, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments.
If you're looking for a medium-sized town with easy access to bigger cities, a charming downtown, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Buckeye, Arizona, would be the perfect place for you! Keep reading to learn more about what it's like to live in Buckeye, Arizona, including details about Buckeye neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in this amazing city. This information should help you determine whether living in Buckeye, Arizona, is the right choice for you.
Are You Thinking About Buying a Home in Buckeye Arizona?
Would you like to buy a home in Buckeye, Arizona? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Buckeye area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Buckeye, Arizona, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Buckeye, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
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The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Buckeye Arizona?
If you're exploring a move to Buckeye, Arizona, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Buckeye, Arizona, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Buckeye, Arizona, and rent, you would need to make $45,000 a year. To live in Buckeye, Arizona, and buy a home, you would need to make $62,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Buckeye Arizona Tips/Info/Blog Posts
23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE
18 MORTGAGE FAQs > CLICK HERE
NEW BLOG ALERT SIGN UP > CLICK HERE
WANT TO KNOW WHEN A HOME MATCHING YOUR CRITERIA GETS LISTED? SIGN UP FOR LISTING ALERT > CLICK HERE
MORTGAGE INFO > CLICK HERE
FREE HOME OWNERSHIP GUIDE > CLICK HERE
Top Neighborhoods in Buckeye Arizona
Discover the diverse and welcoming neighborhoods of Buckeye, Arizona, where modern living meets a sense of community and natural beauty. From the charming streets of Verrado to the family-oriented atmosphere of Sundance, each neighborhood offers unique characteristics, housing options, and local amenities to cater to a variety of lifestyles.
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Verrado: Verrado is a master-planned community known for its charming small-town feel and unique architecture. The neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and custom residences, often showcasing Craftsman and Spanish architectural styles. Verrado emphasizes walkability with tree-lined streets, front porches, and numerous parks. The Main Street District offers restaurants, shops, and community events. The community boasts the Founders Park with sports fields and playgrounds, while the Verrado Golf Club appeals to golf enthusiasts. The White Tank Mountain Regional Park nearby provides hiking and outdoor activities.
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Sundance: Sundance is a family-oriented community with a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and active adult neighborhoods. The neighborhood's well-maintained streets and green spaces make it ideal for families. Sundance Park offers playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The Sundance Golf Club is a local attraction for golf lovers. Residents can explore nearby trails in the Skyline Regional Park. Dining options and retail stores are conveniently located along Watson Road.
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Tartesso: Tartesso is a newer community known for its spacious homesites and affordable housing options. The neighborhood primarily features single-family homes with modern designs. Tartesso Park offers playgrounds, splash pads, and sports courts for residents. The Desert Sky Park provides hiking trails and scenic views. While there might be fewer nearby restaurants and attractions, the neighborhood's tranquility and affordability are appealing to many.
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Blue Horizons: Blue Horizons is a growing community with a range of single-family homes and newer developments. The neighborhood's focus on green spaces and parks provides a family-friendly environment. Blue Horizons Park features open fields, playgrounds, and ramadas. The neighborhood's proximity to the Estrella Mountain Regional Park offers outdoor activities and hiking trails. While it might be more residential, nearby commercial areas provide essential services and retail options.
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Sienna Hills: Sienna Hills is a community designed for families with a mix of single-family homes and amenities. The neighborhood's architectural styles often highlight Spanish and Mediterranean influences. Sienna Hills Park offers playgrounds, sports facilities, and a splash pad. The nearby Skyline Park provides hiking and biking trails. While Sienna Hills has a quieter atmosphere, the Verrado Village shopping center and other businesses offer local services.
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Windmill Village: Windmill Village is an active adult community catering to residents aged 55 and older. The neighborhood features a variety of single-family homes and attached residences. The community emphasizes a relaxed lifestyle with amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness center, and social events. While there might be fewer parks in the immediate area, residents can access nearby golf courses and the Estrella Mountain Regional Park for outdoor activities. Local dining and shopping options are conveniently located along Yuma Road.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Buckeye Arizona
Living in Buckeye Arizona Pros​
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Affordable Housing: Buckeye offers a more affordable cost of living and housing compared to many other parts of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
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Family-Friendly Environment: Many neighborhoods in Buckeye are designed with families in mind, providing excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities.
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Outdoor Activities: The proximity to the White Tank Mountain Regional Park and other natural areas offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
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Growing Community: Buckeye is experiencing rapid growth, bringing new amenities, services, and opportunities for residents.
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Small-Town Charm: Despite growth, Buckeye retains a sense of small-town charm, offering a close-knit community atmosphere.
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Newer Developments: As a growing area, Buckeye features newer developments with modern amenities and designs.
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Scenic Landscapes: The desert landscapes and mountain views contribute to the picturesque setting of Buckeye.
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Low Crime Rates: Buckeye generally has lower crime rates compared to larger cities, contributing to a safer living environment.
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Easy Access to Phoenix: Buckeye's proximity to Phoenix allows residents to access urban amenities and employment opportunities while enjoying a more relaxed suburban lifestyle.
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Affordable Golf: Buckeye offers several golf courses with affordable rates, making it an attractive destination for golf enthusiasts.
​Living in Buckeye Arizona Cons
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Distance from Urban Amenities: While Buckeye offers a suburban lifestyle, it's a ways from the urban amenities and cultural attractions of downtown Phoenix.
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Extreme Heat: The desert climate brings hot temperatures during the summer months, which can be uncomfortable for some residents.
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Limited Employment Opportunities: While the area is growing, the job market might not offer as many diverse employment opportunities as larger cities.
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Water Scarcity: As with much of the desert Southwest, Buckeye faces water scarcity concerns, which can lead to water conservation efforts and potentially higher water costs.
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Limited Shopping: While there are shopping centers, the variety of retail options is more limited compared to larger cities.
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Traffic Congestion: While not as severe as in some larger cities, traffic congestion can still be an issue during peak hours.
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Isolation for Some: While some enjoy the suburban feel, others might feel isolated due to the distance from urban centers.
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Dust and Sandstorms: The desert climate can lead to occasional dust and sandstorms, which might affect air quality and visibility.
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Wildlife Encounters: Living in a desert environment means encountering wildlife like scorpions and snakes, which can be unsettling for some people.
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Limited Public Services on the Outskirts: Those living on the outskirts of Buckeye might have limited access to certain public services and amenities.
FAQs About Living in Buckeye Arizona
What is Buckeye Arizona known for?
Buckeye, Arizona, is most known for its annual Buckeye Air Fair, which takes place every February and celebrates the world of aviation. The fair attracts visitors from all over the state and features various events and activities such as air shows, aircraft displays, helicopter rides, and a car show. The thrilling displays of aerial acrobatics and the opportunity to get up close to different types of aircraft make the Buckeye Air Fair a must-visit event in the region.
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What cities and attractions is Buckeye close to?
Buckeye, Arizona, is situated in Maricopa County, in the southwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 30 miles west of Phoenix and 35 miles east of the California border. Buckeye is in close proximity to several other cities in the area, including Goodyear, about 10 miles to the east, and Avondale, about 15 miles to the northeast. The city is also conveniently located near popular destinations in the region, such as the White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Estrella Mountain Regional Park, and the Sonoran Desert National Monument. Buckeye's central location in Maricopa County makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
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What is the weather like in Buckeye Arizona?
Living in Buckeye, Arizona, you can expect hot weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 65°F to 70°F, and the average low temperatures range from 40°F to 45°F. The city rarely experiences any snowfall during the winter. Summers in Buckeye are scorching, with average high temperatures ranging from 100°F to 105°F and occasional heatwaves reaching temperatures in the 110s. The city receives very little rainfall, with an average of only 9 inches of precipitation annually, mostly occurring in the monsoon season during the summer months.
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Does Buckeye Arizona have good public schools?
There are several school districts serving students who live in Buckeye, Arizona. Two of the larger ones are Buckeye Union High School District, serving grades 9-12, and Litchfield Elementary School District, serving grades K-8. For the school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks both districts highly. Buckeye Union High School District was the 30th-ranked district in the state and rated a B+. Litchfield Elementary School District is rated an A-. The district boasts a diverse student population and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Families residing in Buckeye, Arizona, can have confidence in the public school system's ability to deliver a high-quality education for their children.
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Is Buckeye Arizona safe?
Living in Buckeye, Arizona, you'll find it a pretty safe place. Property crime rates in Buckeye are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. NeighborhoodScout.com states Buckeye has a crime rate lower than 68% of all US cities. Buckeye, Arizona, residents should feel relatively safe in their daily lives.
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What is there to do living in Buckeye Arizona?
Living in Buckeye, Arizona, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the White Tank Mountains and the Sonoran Desert, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Buckeye boasts several parks, including Sundance Park and Earl Edgar Recreational Facility, which feature playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Buckeye Air Fair, which showcases aviation displays and performances, and the Buckeye Days Festival, offering live music, food vendors, and a parade. If you're looking for a day trip, Buckeye is located near attractions like the Estrella Mountain Regional Park and the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Buckeye, Arizona.
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Who are the large employers in Buckeye Arizona?
If living in Buckeye, Arizona, some of the top employers include the school districts in Buckeye, which employ many workers and the City of Buckeye, which employs over 800 people. Other notable employers in Buckeye include the Buckeye Fire Department, Sundance Golf Club, and various agricultural companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Buckeye can find opportunities in education, government, public safety, and more.
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How is the healthcare in Buckeye Arizona?
Living in Buckeye, Arizona, puts you near the Abrazo West Campus, which is a level III trauma center and has 188 beds. This hospital would likely be able to provide you with most of your medical needs. If looking for a specialist and can't find them in the Buckeye area, you're around 30 miles away from Phoenix and many of the largest hospitals in the state. You'll have no issue finding a specialist in the Phoenix area.
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Is living in Buckeye Arizona good for retirees?
If you're retired or thinking of retiring, Buckeye, Arizona, can be a good choice for many reasons. The weather in Buckeye is one of its primary attractions, with its warm, sunny climate providing an inviting environment for retirees seeking to escape colder regions. The abundance of outdoor activities, such as golfing, hiking, and exploring nearby natural wonders like the White Tank Mountains, ensures retirees can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Taxes can be a big consideration, especially in retirement. Arizona does not tax Social Security benefits, the state's income tax rates are relatively moderate, and the sales tax isn't high, providing some financial relief for retirees. Property taxes can vary depending on the specific location within Buckeye, but overall, property taxes in Arizona are fairly low. Buckeye's pleasant weather, diverse recreational activities, and affordable tax policies make it an appealing destination for retirees seeking a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
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Is Buckeye Arizona a good place to live?
Buckeye, Arizona is a great place to live because of its affordable cost of living and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Additionally, the city offers a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a growing economy.
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I want to relocate to Buckeye Arizona. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Buckeye, Arizona. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Arizona where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Buckeye area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Buckeye, Arizona, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.