Part of the Phoenix Metro Area, Glendale is about 10 miles northwest of Arizona’s capital city and offers affordable housing, frequent sunny skies and warm weather, and no shortage of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It also hosts fun festivals, a water park, and the home venues for both the NFL Cardinals and NHL Coyotes.

So what’s the best neighborhood to live in Glendale for 2021? According to the most recent census data, Bethany Heights looks to be the best Glendale neighborhood to live in.

Read on to see how we determined the places around Glendale that deserve a little bragging rights or maybe you’re interested in the worst neighborhoods in Glendale.

Once you’re done, you can look at the bottom of the story for a complete chart of every neighborhood we looked at from best to worst.

One of the most popular suburbs of Phoenix, the cost of living is lower than the national average with home prices averaging under $200,000, yet the job market is strong. Even if you can’t find a job right in Glendale, you’ll be just a short commute from many opportunities in the capital. The question isn’t whether to move to Glendale, it’s which neighborhood, whether you’re considering one of the Glendale apartments or purchasing a home. This town has many, from downtown to the nearly 200 registered HOAs.

Historic Downtown Glendale

Downtown is especially ideal for younger people who want to be able to walk to shop or dine and take advantage of the buzzing nightlife. Made up of 10 easily walkable blocks, it’s a vision of characteristic homes with white picket fences and tree-lined streets. There are a wide range of tasty eateries, unique boutiques, and antique stores too. At the center of it all is Promenade at Palmaire which is home to the Glendale Visitor Center.

Families who want to be in this area might consider the planned communities of Arrowhead Lakes and Arrowhead Ranch, the latter of which is known for its access to highly rated schools. It’s one of the most sought-after communities in the West Valley, with golf courses, a country club, and million-dollar homes. There’s a big shopping center and a hospital here too.

Westgate

If you want to live in the heart of the sports and entertainment district, consider Westgate. It’s anchored by the Gila River Arena and State Farm Stadium, and offers a wealth of shopping, dining, and nightlife, being one of the largest mixed-use developments in the country. There are also loft-style apartments and homes where you might just find that new perfect place.

Thunderbird Estates

Often named among Glendale’s top neighborhoods, Thunderbird Estates is in north Glendale, known for its affluent communities close to job hubs, parks, and shopping. It’s popular among families, pro athletes, and business executives alike, providing easy access to the freeway for a faster commute. It lies adjacent to the West Campus of Arizona State University and is home to the Thunderbird School of Global Management. Houses tend to be large, with many constructed in the 1970s and ’80s.

Hillcrest Ranch

Nestled between two large preserve areas, the homes in Hillcrest Ranch tend to be on large lots, providing more space with serene, quiet streets. It’s the type of place where neighbors often know each other, with 80 percent owner-occupied.

For growing families, it’s a great choice, with many excellent schools rated A or A+. There are several parks and playgrounds, like Fletcher Heights and Fletcher Heights North parks that provide opportunities for recreational activities for kids and adults alike as well as picnics with shade for trees and trails to walk the dog.

What is the weather like in Glendale, AZ?

Glendale, Arizona is a dry and hot city, and it only gets 9” of rain each year. You can find blue skies and warm weather all year as Glendale residents enjoy 294 days of sun each year. Glendale, AZ doesn’t get any snow, and it rarely gets below 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter.

What is Glendale, Arizona is known for?

Glendale, AZ is known for the many outdoor wildlife attractions in and around the city. Destinations like the Deer Valley Petroglyph Reserve and Sahuaro Ranch Parks display the natural charm Glendale is known for. Glendale is also known for the State Farm Stadium where the Arizona Cardinals play.

There is no shortage of attractions and entertainment in Glendale, AZ, and that includes the State Farm Stadium. You can choose between 55 neighborhoods in Glendale, and the city is spread out. Glendale, AZ is a great place to live, and it is easy to get comfortable in this city.