The vibrant city of Phoenix, AZ, is home to picturesque neighborhoods and stunning landscapes. With an average rent of $1,299 for a one-bedroom apartment, Phoenix offers a variety of neighborhoods to explore. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Phoenix, you’ll find a range of options. ApartmentGuide has compiled a list of the most expensive Phoenix neighborhoods to help renters find their ideal home.
13 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Phoenix
From the luxurious Paradise Valley to the trendy streets of Arcadia Lite, there are plenty of popular neighborhoods in Phoenix. Whether you’re looking for an adobe home to rent in Phoenix or wondering where to live in the city, read on to find out what neighborhoods made the list.
1. Evans-Churchill
2. Downtown
3. Desert Ridge
4. Deer Valley
5. Paradise Valley
6. Desert View
7. Central Avenue Corridor
8. Ahwatukee Foothills
9. Arcadia Lite
10. South Phoenix
11. Central City
12. Pierson Place
13. North Gateway
Let’s jump in and see what these neighborhoods have to offer.
1. Evans-Churchill
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,866
Apartments for rent in Evans-Churchill
Evans-Churchill is the most expensive neighborhood in Phoenix, as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $1,866. There are plenty of reasons why this neighborhood draws residents. Evans-Churchill is near attractions like the Phoenix Art Museum and the Arizona Science Center, making it a prime location to explore the city. The area is home to a variety of shopping venues, including The Churchill, a trendy marketplace featuring local vendors and pop-up shops. Dining options abound, with popular spots like Cibo, known for its artisanal pizzas, and The Vig Fillmore, offering a vibrant social scene and upscale pub fare. Renters will enjoy Hance Park, a nearby urban park that hosts cultural events, festivals, and offers green spaces for recreation.
2. Downtown
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,856
Apartments for rent in Downtown
Downtown is home to many of Phoenix’ top attractions such as the Phoenix Convention Center and Chase Field. Downtown is well-known for its green spaces like Margaret T. Hance Park and the charming shops and cafes along Central Avenue. The average rent for one-bedroom apartments is $1,856, which is about $550 above the city’s average, making it a pricier neighborhood. However, Downtown’s charm and amenities are well worth it. The area offers a variety of shopping experiences, including the CityScape Phoenix complex, which features numerous retail stores and entertainment options. Dining in downtown Phoenix is diverse, with popular spots like The Arrogant Butcher serving American cuisine. Architecturally, downtown Phoenix combines sleek, modern high-rise apartments with charming historic buildings, providing a range of housing options to suit different tastes and lifestyles.
3. Desert Ridge
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,805
Apartments for rent in Desert Ridge
With an average one-bedroom rent of $1,805, Desert Ridge is the third most expensive neighborhood in Phoenix. This neighborhood has plenty of historic homes in the Spanish Colonial and Ranch styles. Desert Ridge is also near Highway 101, making it a convenient location for commuters. The neighborhood is home to Desert Ridge Marketplace, a premier shopping destination with a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Dining in Desert Ridge is diverse, with popular spots like The Keg Steakhouse and Yard House offering a range of culinary experiences. Renters will appreciate the numerous parks, including Cashman Park and Reach 11 Sports Complex, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and sports activities.
4. Deer Valley
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,716
Apartments for rent in Deer Valley
Deer Valley is the next most expensive neighborhood in Phoenix. This neighborhood is known for its central location near the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve and Adobe Dam Regional Park. One of Phoenix’s oldest neighborhoods, it’s no wonder this is a popular location. The area offers convenient shopping options, with the Deer Valley Towne Center featuring popular retail stores and dining establishments. Residents can enjoy diverse dining experiences at local favorites like The Vig, known for its relaxed atmosphere and American fare, and Oregano’s Pizza Bistro, famous for its hearty Italian dishes. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous parks, such as Deer Valley Park, which offers sports facilities, playgrounds, and scenic walking trails.
5. Paradise Valley
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,710
Apartments for rent in Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley in Phoenix is known for its upscale ambiance and luxurious living, making it an attractive option for renters seeking a high-end lifestyle. The neighborhood offers premium shopping experiences at nearby destinations like Scottsdale Fashion Square, featuring a variety of high-end retailers and designer boutiques. Dining in Paradise Valley is top-notch, with renowned restaurants such as El Chorro, known for its Southwestern cuisine and breathtaking views, and Elements, offering gourmet dishes in an elegant setting. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Camelback Mountain and Echo Canyon Park, which provide excellent hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes. Architecturally, Paradise Valley showcases sprawling estates, modern luxury apartments, and elegant townhomes, catering to those who appreciate both style and comfort.
6. Desert View
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,659
Apartments for rent in Desert View
Next up is Desert View, the sixth most expensive neighborhood in Phoenix. This neighborhood is known for its stunning desert landscapes and upscale amenities, making it an appealing choice for renters. The neighborhood offers a variety of shopping options, including Desert Ridge Marketplace, which features numerous retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Dining in Desert View is diverse and high-quality, with popular spots like Mastro’s Steakhouse serving up delectable dishes. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to parks such as Reach 11 Recreation Area, offering extensive trails and beautiful natural scenery.
7. Central Avenue Corridor
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,611
Apartments for rent in Central Avenue Corridor
Located north of downtown, Central Avenue Corridor has a friendly atmosphere and community-feeling, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants along Central Avenue, such as The Newton and Pane Bianco. The area also offers a variety of shopping experiences, with the nearby Biltmore Fashion Park providing upscale retail stores and eateries. Dining options abound, including popular spots like Durant’s for classic steakhouse fare. Renters will appreciate the proximity to beautiful parks such as Steele Indian School Park, which features serene walking paths, a dog park, and recreational facilities. Architecturally, the neighborhood showcases a mix of sleek modern apartments and well-preserved mid-century buildings, offering a diverse range of living options.
8. Ahwatukee Foothills
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,602
Apartments for rent in Ahwatukee Foothills
Ahwatukee Foothills takes the eighth spot on our list of most expensive neighborhoods in Phoenix. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $300 more than the city’s average. The area is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil suburban atmosphere, making it an attractive option for renters. The neighborhood offers excellent shopping options, including the Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center, which features a variety of retail stores and dining establishments. Dining in Ahwatukee Foothills is diverse, with popular spots like Hillside Spot Cafe for casual fare and Va Bene for Italian cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous parks and recreational areas, such as South Mountain Park, which provides extensive hiking and biking trails. Architecturally, the area features a mix of contemporary homes, stylish apartments, and spacious townhouses, catering to various rental preferences.
9. Arcadia Lite
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,571
Apartments for rent in Arcadia Lite
A well-loved Phoenix neighborhood, Arcadia Lite is the next area on our list. It’s known for its trendy vibe and central location, making it an attractive option for renters. The neighborhood offers diverse shopping experiences, including boutique stores and the bustling Biltmore Fashion Park nearby. Dining in Arcadia Lite is a highlight, with popular spots like La Grande Orange Grocery and Pizzeria for unique, locally-sourced dishes. Renters can enjoy outdoor activities at nearby parks such as Camelback Mountain and the Arizona Canal Trail, perfect for hiking and biking. Architecturally, Arcadia Lite features a mix of mid-century modern homes and contemporary apartments, providing a variety of stylish living options.
10. South Phoenix
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,570
Apartments for rent in South Phoenix
The tenth most expensive neighborhood is South Phoenix, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic desert landscapes. Dining in South Phoenix includes popular spots such as The Tamale Store, known for its handmade tamales, and Los Dos Molinos, offering flavorful New Mexican cuisine. Parks like South Mountain Park and Preserve provide residents with extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the city. Architecturally, South Phoenix showcases a mix of traditional Southwestern-style homes, modern apartments, and ranch-style houses, offering diverse living options for renters.
11. Central City
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,511
Apartments for rent in Central City
Number 11 on our list is Central City. This neighborhood is adjacent to downtown Phoenix. The area boasts a variety of shopping options, including the bustling Arizona Center, which features retail stores, entertainment venues, and dining establishments. Food enthusiasts will enjoy the diverse dining scene, with popular spots like The Arrogant Butcher offering contemporary American cuisine and Cibo serving artisanal pizzas. For outdoor activities, renters can explore Margaret T. Hance Park, which offers green spaces, playgrounds, and hosts cultural events. Architecturally, Central City showcases a mix of modern high-rise apartments, historic homes, and stylish condos, providing a range of housing options to suit different preferences.
12. Pierson Place
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,390
Apartments for rent in Pierson Place
Taking the 12th spot is Pierson Place. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment here is about $100 over the city’s average. Pierson Place is known for its charming mid-century architecture and convenient location, making it an attractive option for renters. The neighborhood is just a short distance from the bustling Uptown Plaza, which offers a variety of shopping options and popular dining spots like Flower Child and Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. Renters can enjoy the nearby Steele Indian School Park, which provides ample green space, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Pierson Place features a mix of well-preserved historic homes and modernized apartments, catering to diverse housing preferences. Additionally, its close proximity to the light rail makes commuting to downtown Phoenix and other parts of the city easy and convenient.
13. North Gateway
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,382
Apartments for rent in North Gateway
North Gateway is a popular area to consider living in in Phoenix. With attractions like the Musical Instrument Museum and the Cave Buttes Recreation Area, and an average one-bedroom rent of $1,382, there are many reasons this area may be for you. North Gateway is known for its serene desert landscapes and convenient suburban living. The area offers a variety of shopping options, including the nearby Shops at Norterra, which features numerous retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Dining in North Gateway includes popular spots like Pita Jungle, known for its healthy Mediterranean fare, and Ah-So Sushi & Steak, offering a delightful mix of Japanese cuisine and teppanyaki. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of parks, such as the expansive Reach 11 Sports Complex, which provides sports fields, trails, and picnic areas. Architecturally, North Gateway features modern single-family homes, stylish townhouses, and contemporary apartment complexes, catering to diverse rental preferences.
Methodology: Whether a neighborhood has an average 1-bedroom rent price over the city’s average. Average rental data from Rent.com in June 2024.