Arizona's Most Prosperous Communities: Where Wealth Concentrates in Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler and Tucson

Arizona’s wealthiest neighborhoods tell an interesting story about regional prosperity. By analyzing U.S. Census data and Zillow property valuations, a clear pattern emerges: affluence concentrates heavily in just two metropolitan areas. The Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler region dominates with 14 of the top 20 highest-income communities, while Tucson claims the remaining six positions, including the state’s richest suburb by average household income.

The Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler Wealth Corridor

The Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metropolitan area stands as Arizona’s primary wealth hub, anchoring 14 of the state’s most prosperous suburbs. This expansive region stretches across Maricopa County, encompassing diverse communities that range from established affluent areas to rapidly developing neighborhoods.

The Top Earners in the Phoenix Metro Area:

Scottsdale leads the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler suburbs with an average household income of $168,679 and median home values reaching $938,118. This historic desert community has long been synonymous with luxury living. Queen Creek follows closely with $162,363 in average household income and $640,576 typical home values, representing newer affluent development. New River, positioned at the metro’s northern edge, generates $159,599 average household income with home values at $766,561.

Additional high-performing Phoenix-area communities include Gilbert ($145,526 income, $581,829 homes), Anthem ($143,659 income, $577,257 homes), and Fountain Hills ($140,542 income, $753,411 homes). Mid-tier Phoenix suburbs in the ranking include Chandler ($134,123 income, $542,177 homes), Oro Valley’s Phoenix counterparts, Goodyear ($121,426 income, $478,411 homes), and Peoria ($119,995 income, $499,551 homes).

Gold Canyon ($119,660 income, $495,631 homes), Buckeye ($113,682 income, $404,585 homes), Sun City Valley ($108,603 income, $407,834 homes), Maricopa ($108,500 income, $359,461 homes), and Surprise ($107,511 income, $432,562 homes) complete the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler representation, each offering distinct lifestyle and investment characteristics.

Tucson’s Elite Communities

Tucson’s six entries into Arizona’s top 20 wealthy suburbs showcase the state’s secondary prosperity center. Catalina Foothills claims the #1 position statewide with $170,897 average household income and $761,048 typical home values—surpassing even Scottsdale in per-household earnings, though with slightly lower property valuations.

Tanque Verde, Tucson’s second representative, maintains $157,326 average household income alongside $679,407 home values. The Oro Valley area (not to be confused with Phoenix-metro developments) generates $133,439 income with $531,670 property values. Marana contributes $130,659 average income and $444,345 homes, while Vail provides $130,479 income with $421,260 home values. Sahuarita rounds out Tucson’s entries with $117,690 household income and $365,404 typical home values.

Investment and Lifestyle Considerations

The wealth distribution across these Arizona communities reflects both established prestige and emerging opportunity. Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler’s dominance stems from its large population base and diversified economic engines, while Tucson’s top earners concentrate in historically exclusive communities like Catalina Foothills. Home values range dramatically from $359,461 in Maricopa to over $938,000 in Scottsdale, offering varied entry points for different investment profiles.

Data Source: Rankings based on 2023 U.S. Census American Community Survey data for Arizona communities with 5,000+ households. Home value data from Zillow as of August 2025.