Living in Tempe, Arizona

What It's Actually Like Living in Tempe, AZ

Tempe's identity is shaped heavily by Arizona State University, whose main campus sits right in the middle of the city. That brings a younger, more transient population than most Valley suburbs, along with a genuinely walkable downtown centered on Mill Avenue and Tempe Town Lake. It's one of the few places in the Valley where you can reasonably live without a car if you choose the right neighborhood.

Outside the immediate downtown and campus area, Tempe has established, family-oriented neighborhoods too, particularly south of the university toward Guadalupe Road. Housing stock ranges from mid-century homes to newer infill development and high-rise condos near the lake.

Moving to Tempe Arizona tends to appeal to buyers who want walkability, proximity to Sky Harbor Airport, and easy access to both Phoenix and the East Valley, along with the energy that comes with a major university being right in town.