Nine Arizona cities, including Gilbert and Chandler, received recognition among the '250 Best Places to Live in the U.S.' for 2026–2027 by U.S. News & World Report. Seven of these Arizona cities also ranked among the nation's top 50 boomtowns, according to AZ Big Media. Marana, AZ also appeared on the list of top places to live in Arizona for 2026-2027, as reported by U.S. News Real Estate, underscoring the state's appeal to new residents seeking quality living and economic opportunity.

Arizona boasts numerous cities on national 'best places to live' and 'boomtown' lists. However, Florida and Texas currently lead in the total number of recognized boomtowns. This creates a competitive environment for growth in the Sun Belt region.

Arizona's growth is robust and nationally recognized, but it operates within a highly competitive landscape where other Sun Belt states are also experiencing significant expansion.

Arizona's Ascent: Livability and Economic Drivers

  • Gilbert ranked 57th nationally, Chandler 78th, Queen Creek 103rd, Marana 111th, Sierra Vista 135th, Peoria 146th, Scottsdale 149th, Surprise 223rd, and Goodyear 245th on the U.S. News & World Report's 2026–2027 '250 Best Places to Live in the U.S.' list, according to Azcentral.
  • SmartAsset's 'America's New Boomtowns' study evaluated 400 U.S. cities.
  • Cities were ranked based on five-year growth in labor force size, housing inventory, and GDP.
  • Florida has the most boomtowns with 19 cities, followed by Texas with 18.

These detailed rankings confirm Arizona's growth is driven by tangible economic and demographic factors. The state competes with other rapidly expanding regions for residents and businesses.

A surprising finding indicates that 7 of the 9 Arizona cities recognized among the '250 Best Places to Live in the U.S.' are also simultaneously ranked among the nation's top 50 boomtowns. This unusually strong correlation links quality of life directly with economic dynamism within Arizona's growing urban centers. This suggests Arizona is not just attracting new residents, but also retaining them by fostering environments where quality of life and opportunity are deeply intertwined.