The West Valley of Phoenix — Buckeye, Goodyear, Avondale, Litchfield Park, Surprise, and Glendale, among others — has become one of the fastest-growing corridors in the Phoenix metro. If you're relocating from out of state, here's a practical starting point.
Climate: What to Actually Expect
Summers are hot — daytime highs regularly exceed 100°F from June through September, with the peak of summer often pushing past 110°F. Most homes and daily life are built around that reality: pools, covered patios, and air-conditioned everything. Winters, by contrast, are mild — daytime highs typically in the 60s and 70s, which is exactly why so many people relocate here from colder climates.
Getting Around
The West Valley is car-dependent, and commute planning matters more here than in a lot of other metros. Interstate 10 is the primary east-west spine connecting Buckeye and Goodyear to downtown Phoenix, and Loop 303 provides a north-south connector through the West Valley. Luke Air Force Base, near Glendale and Litchfield Park, is also a major factor in the local economy and housing pattern for military families.
HOAs Are the Norm, Not the Exception
Most newer communities in the West Valley — and many established ones — are governed by a homeowners association, and some newer master-planned communities also carry a Community Facilities District (CFD) assessment on top of standard HOA dues, which funds shared infrastructure like parks and trails. Reading the HOA's governing documents and understanding the full carrying cost of a home, not just the mortgage payment, is an important step before buying.
Choosing a Neighborhood
Buckeye and Goodyear offer some of the best value and newest construction, with communities like Verrado standing out for walkability and amenities. Litchfield Park offers an established, tree-lined, small-town feel with a higher price floor. Surprise and the northwest valley lean toward a mix of active-adult and family communities. The right fit really depends on commute tolerance, budget, and lifestyle — which is worth talking through before narrowing in on a specific area.
Relocating from out of state? I work with buyers regularly on remote and fly-in home searches — happy to build you a shortlist before you ever set foot in Arizona.
Reach Out With What You're Looking ForFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best West Valley of Phoenix city for families relocating from out of state?
It depends on priorities, but Buckeye's Verrado, Litchfield Park, and parts of Surprise are commonly recommended for families due to schools, amenities, and community programming. A conversation about budget and commute tolerance narrows it down quickly.
Do I need a car in the West Valley of Phoenix?
Yes — the West Valley is largely car-dependent, with limited public transit compared to denser metro areas.
How hot does it get in the summer?
Daytime highs regularly exceed 100°F from June through September, with peak summer often exceeding 110°F. Winters are mild, typically in the 60s and 70s.
Curious what your current home might be worth?
Get a Free Home ValuationSources: National Weather Service — Phoenix. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Faith Vance, REALTOR® | 3rd Base Realty Group, LLC | AZ License SA633174000 | ARMLS Member. Equal Housing Opportunity.
