Market Trends, Neighborhoods & Living Guide

Tempe AZ Real Estate

Tempe, Arizona is more than just a suburb of Phoenix. It is a fast-growing city with a strong housing market, walkable neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown, and easy access to top schools, employers and is home to Arizona State University. Whether you are buying your first home or looking to invest in rental property, Tempe offers a smart mix of lifestyle and opportunity.

Tempe Housing Market Overview

The 2025 housing market in Tempe remains active and relatively balanced. Inventory has improved slightly, while buyer interest is steady.

Key Stats for Tempe, AZ

  1. Median home price is around $495,000 
  2. Average price per square foot is approximately $328
  3. Homes stay on the market for about 34 days
  4. Prices are up roughly 2.7% compared to last year

Condos near downtown are popular among first-time buyers and investors. Families are looking toward larger homes in South Tempe. Townhomes are gaining traction for buyers seeking low-maintenance living with more space.

186,000

Total Population

29.2

Median Age

$72,693

Median Income

$495,000

Median Home Value

PROPERTY LISTINGS

Price
Beds
Baths
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Featured Properties

PENDING

$929,900

1450 S. Los Altos Chandler AZ 85248

SOLD

$3,850,000

611 N. Tamarisk St. Chandler, AZ 85224

SOLD

$1,200,000

5236 E Barwick Dr. Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Popular Neighborhoods in Tempe

Tempe has something for everyone. Here are the most searched areas:

Downtown Mill Avenue

Urban and walkable with condos, lofts, and access to shopping, dining, and nightlife.

North Tempe

Close to Tempe Town Lake and the 202 freeway. This area has newer builds and luxury apartments.

South Tempe

Family-friendly with larger single-family homes, parks, and top schools.

Culdesac Tempe

A unique car-free community focused on walkability, sustainability, and tech-enabled housing.

Each neighborhood has a different lifestyle, price point, and housing style. That makes it easy to match your budget and preferences.

Living in Tempe

Tempe offers an active lifestyle with plenty to do and see.

  1. Tempe Town Lake is perfect for kayaking, biking, and weekend events
  2. Tempe Center for the Arts hosts concerts, plays, and art exhibitions
  3. Mill Avenue is packed with restaurants, bars, and local boutiques
  4. The Arizona State University campus adds energy, culture, and education options

Tempe is known for its mix of city energy and suburban comfort, making it ideal for young professionals, families, and investors.

Living in Tempe
Transportation and Commute in Tempe

Transportation and Commute

Tempe is one of the most transit-friendly cities in Arizona. You can easily live here without a car.

  1. The Valley Metro Streetcar opened in 2022 and runs through downtown and the ASU campus. It is free to ride until August 2025
  2. Orbit neighborhood shuttles are free and connect residential areas to business hubs
  3. Tempe has high walkability and bike scores compared to nearby cities
  4. Major highways like Loop 101 and 202 make it easy to reach Phoenix, Mesa, and Scottsdale

Schools and Demographics

Tempe has a strong education system and a young, diverse population.

  • Population is about 186,000

  • Median age is around 29

  • Median household income is approximately $72,000

  • Schools are served by the Tempe Union High School District and the Kyrene School District

  • Access to Arizona State University and multiple charter schools

Families benefit from both public and private school options, while students and faculty contribute to a stable rental market.

Schools and Demographics in tempe

Investment and Rental Market Insights

Tempe is a strong market for long-term investors. It consistently ranks as one of the best cities in Arizona for rental demand.

  • ASU creates a high need for student housing

  • North Tempe and University Heights show strong rental yields

  • Home values have appreciated steadily over the past five years

  • New developments continue to support population growth

Whether you plan to rent out your property or hold for appreciation, Tempe is a solid investment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Tempe is considered one of the most livable cities in the phoenix area, offering a mix of walkable neighborhoods, great dining, access to jobs, and a vibrant university scene. It appeals to families, professionals, and investors alike.

Currently, the average home price in Tempe is around $495,000. Condos near downtown or ASU can start in the low 300s, while single-family homes range from $500,000 to $750,000 depending on the neighborhood.

The market is steady and competitive. Homes that are priced correctly and located near downtown or high-demand areas typically sell within two to three weeks.

Yes. South Tempe is especially popular with families thanks to its larger homes, good school districts, parks, and quiet, residential feel.

Absolutely. Tempe's combination of rental demand from students and professionals, steady appreciation, and central location make it one of the best cities in the Valley for long-term property investment.

Why Choose Phoenix Homes for Tempe Real Estate

At Phoenix Homes, we offer local insight, market data, and a hands-on approach. Our team lives and works in the Phoenix and surrounding areas.

  • We offer curated listings and personal guidance

  • You get honest advice and clear communication

  • Buyers and sellers continue to trust us for successful results 

From our initial consultation and first showing, to the final signature at closing, we will help guide you through the buying or selling process to make good sound real estate decisions.

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Bryan Staley

With over 30 years in Arizona real estate, Bryan Staley has guided buyers and sellers through every market cycle since 1992. Recognized among the top 1% of agents nationwide, he combines deep local knowledge of Gilbert neighborhoods with strong relationships built over decades with homebuilders, contractors, and fellow realtors. As an Associate Broker with CRS, GRI, and ABR designations—a distinction held by just 4% of realtors—Bryan’s approach is rooted in listening first, acting with integrity, and putting his clients’ best interests above all else.

Considering a move to Tempe AZ?

At Phoenix Homes we are ready to help you explore neighborhoods, compare listings, negotiate on your behalf and assist you in making good confident real estate decisions.

Contact us today to get started!

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Get In Touch

Phone

(480) 731-4663

Email

bryan@phoenixhomes.com

Address

HomeSmart Elite Group 10601 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently reviewed and verified.

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