1505 E Southern Avenue, Tempe
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Explore Tempe: Homes for Sale | Neighborhoods | Cost of Living | Schools | Things to Do | FAQs
Homes for Sale in Tempe AZ
Is Tempe, AZ a Good Place to Live?
Tempe, Arizona is one of the most vibrant and walkable cities in the entire Phoenix metro — and it consistently ranks among the best places to live in the Southwest. Bordered by Scottsdale to the north, Mesa to the east, Phoenix to the west, and Chandler to the south, Tempe sits at the geographic heart of the East Valley. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a professional relocating for work, or an investor looking for strong rental demand near Arizona State University, Tempe delivers a lifestyle that few Arizona cities can match.
The city blends the energy of a college town with the stability of established residential neighborhoods. Tempe Town Lake, Mill Avenue, and dozens of parks and trails give residents abundant places to explore, while the proximity to the Loop 101, I-10, and SR-60 make it one of the most commuter-friendly cities in the metro.
Cost of Living in Tempe AZ
Tempe's cost of living sits slightly above the Phoenix metro average, driven primarily by housing demand near ASU and the urban core. However, compared to Scottsdale or Phoenix's luxury submarkets, Tempe remains accessible — especially in its established neighborhoods away from the university district.
The median home price in Tempe hovers in the $430,000–$550,000 range depending on the neighborhood, with condos and townhomes starting in the $280,000s and single-family homes in popular areas like Maple Lawn and Ranch Circle reaching $650,000+. Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs track closely with Phoenix metro averages, making Tempe a competitive choice for buyers who want urban amenities without Scottsdale prices.
Community and Lifestyle in Tempe AZ
Tempe is famously walkable and bikeable — particularly around Tempe Town Lake, Mill Avenue, and the ASU campus. The city hosts major events year-round including the Tempe Festival of the Arts, Fourth of July Fireworks at the lake, and Ironman Arizona. With over 50 parks, miles of canal trails, and the 224-acre Tempe Beach Park, outdoor recreation is part of everyday life here.
The Mill Avenue District is the cultural hub: restaurants, rooftop bars, live music venues, boutique shops, and the Tempe Center for the Arts. Locals also enjoy quick access to Scottsdale's Old Town, the Desert Botanical Garden, and Sky Harbor International Airport — just 10 minutes away. Tempe attracts a diverse mix of professionals, young families, retirees, and students, creating an unusually lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere for a city its size.
Schools and Education in Tempe AZ
Tempe is served by several school districts. The Tempe Elementary School District covers K-8, while Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) serves grades 9-12 with well-regarded schools like Marcos de Niza, McClintock, and Desert Vista High Schools. The Kyrene Elementary School District also covers portions of Tempe and is consistently rated among Arizona's best.
At the higher education level, Arizona State University — the largest public university in the United States — calls Tempe home. Its presence drives strong employment, cultural programming, and research activity throughout the city. Several community colleges and continuing education programs also operate in and around Tempe.
Healthcare Access in Tempe AZ
Tempe residents have excellent access to healthcare through several major systems. Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center and Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa are both within 10–15 minutes. Valleywise Health Medical Center and Banner University Medical Center Phoenix are also easily accessible via I-10. Numerous urgent care clinics, specialty practices, and ASU Health services are located throughout the city.
Job Market and Commute in Tempe AZ
Tempe is one of the Phoenix metro's strongest employment centers. Major employers include Arizona State University, State Farm (regional headquarters), Insight Direct, Vanguard, GoDaddy, and numerous tech startups drawn to the ASU innovation ecosystem. The city is also a hub for healthcare, finance, and professional services firms.
Commuting from Tempe is exceptionally easy. The Valley Metro Rail light rail runs through the heart of the city connecting to Phoenix and Mesa. The Loop 101, I-10, and US-60 provide fast freeway access throughout the entire metro. Sky Harbor Airport is a 10-minute drive, making Tempe particularly attractive for frequent travelers and remote professionals.
Safety and Crime in Tempe AZ
Tempe's safety profile varies significantly by neighborhood. The areas closest to ASU and downtown tend to have higher property crime rates, while established residential neighborhoods like Ranch Circle, Maple Lawn, and the Kyrene Corridor are considerably safer and family-oriented. The Tempe Police Department is well-staffed and proactive, and community policing programs have improved safety metrics across the city. As with any metro area, doing neighborhood-level research before purchasing is wise — your agent can provide detailed comparisons.
Things to Do in Tempe AZ
Tempe punches above its weight when it comes to entertainment and activities. Highlights include:
- Tempe Town Lake — kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and lakeside dining
- Mill Avenue District — dining, nightlife, shopping, and live music
- Tempe Center for the Arts — world-class performances and art exhibitions
- ASU Sun Devil Stadium & Desert Financial Arena — Pac-12 sports events
- Papago Park — hiking, the Phoenix Zoo, and Desert Botanical Garden (minutes away)
- Kiwanis Park — lake, wave pool, sports fields, and tennis courts
- Ironman Arizona & Tempe Festival of the Arts — premier annual events
Why People Are Moving to Tempe AZ
Tempe draws buyers for several compelling reasons. Its central location gives unbeatable access to every corner of the Phoenix metro. The urban, walkable lifestyle — rare in the Valley — is a major draw for professionals and downsizers tired of suburban sprawl. Strong rental demand near ASU makes it an excellent investor market. And for buyers relocating from major coastal cities, Tempe offers a vibrant urban culture at a fraction of the cost of Los Angeles, Seattle, or San Francisco.
The continued growth of the ASU innovation corridor, major corporate relocations, and ongoing light rail expansion have all contributed to sustained property appreciation in Tempe's strongest neighborhoods.
Best Neighborhoods in Tempe AZ
Tempe's residential neighborhoods each have a distinct personality:
- Ranch Circle — Established mid-century homes, quiet streets, great schools, no HOA
- Maple Lawn — Tree-lined streets, larger lots, family-friendly, close to parks
- Kyrene Corridor — Near top-rated Kyrene schools, newer construction, suburban feel
- South Tempe — Larger lots, upscale homes, Desert Vista HS boundary, Ahwatukee adjacent
- Rural/Southern — The Groves, Warner Ranch — established neighborhoods with strong values
- Downtown/University — High-density condos and townhomes, walkable, investment-focused
Browse Homes for Sale in Tempe AZ
Use the search below to explore active listings in Tempe, Arizona. Whether you're looking for a single-family home near top schools, a condo steps from Mill Avenue, or an investment property near ASU, we can help you find exactly what you're looking for.
Questions about a specific Tempe neighborhood or home? Call or text Megan & Jason Williams at 480-618-1890 — we're local East Valley experts who know Tempe's market inside and out.
Selling a Home in Tempe AZ
If you're considering selling your Tempe home, the current market rewards sellers who price strategically and present well. Tempe properties near the lake, in the Kyrene Corridor, and in South Tempe's larger-lot neighborhoods consistently command strong prices. We offer professional photography, targeted digital marketing, and deep local buyer network access to maximize your sale price and minimize days on market. Contact us for a free, no-obligation home value assessment.
Retirement and Downsizing in Tempe AZ
Tempe is an increasingly popular choice for active retirees who want walkability, arts and culture, and medical access without the isolation of a retirement community. The lakefront lifestyle, abundant restaurants and entertainment, and proximity to world-class healthcare make it a strong option. Low-maintenance condos and patio homes near Tempe Town Lake or Mill Avenue are particularly popular with downsizers. Several 55+ communities also operate in and around Tempe for those seeking age-targeted amenities.
Tempe AZ FAQs
What is the average home price in Tempe AZ?
The median home price in Tempe is approximately $460,000–$530,000, though prices range widely from around $280,000 for condos to $700,000+ for larger single-family homes in South Tempe.
Is Tempe AZ a good place to raise a family?
Yes — particularly in South Tempe and the Kyrene Corridor, which offer excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods well away from the university district.
What school district is Tempe AZ in?
Tempe is served by Tempe Elementary School District (K-8), Tempe Union High School District (9-12), and the Kyrene Elementary School District in southern portions of the city.
Is Tempe walkable?
Tempe is one of the most walkable cities in Arizona — especially the downtown, Mill Avenue, and Tempe Town Lake areas. Valley Metro light rail also provides excellent transit connectivity.
How far is Tempe from Phoenix?
Tempe borders Phoenix to the west — most destinations in central Phoenix are 15–25 minutes by car. Sky Harbor Airport is just 10 minutes from most of Tempe.
What is Tempe AZ known for?
Tempe is known for Arizona State University, Tempe Town Lake, the Mill Avenue entertainment district, its walkable urban lifestyle, and being a major employment and innovation hub in the Phoenix metro.