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urprise, Arizona stands out as a top destination for first-time homebuyers, according to a WalletHub study. The city ranked number one in its real estate market, indicating rising home values and strong demand. Gilbert and Chandler also performed well in the rankings.

    For those looking to buy their first home in metro Phoenix, Surprise offers an attractive option. It placed fourth among 300 cities nationwide in WalletHub's 2025 ranking, which considered factors like housing affordability, real estate market strength, and quality of life. While Surprise ranked fourth overall, its strong real estate market earned it the top spot.

    A growing population and new developments are contributing to Surprise's appeal. The city is seeing significant growth, with a location of popular grocery store ALDI among several major shopping projects underway in the West Valley. New homes in the southern part of Surprise also help keep prices affordable, according to local broker Walt Baydo.

    "The affordability of the homes, combined with low crime rates, great locations, and excellent schools, make Surprise an attractive choice for first-time homebuyers," Baydo said.

    In Arizona, other cities that ranked well for first-time homebuyers include Gilbert (sixth), Chandler (11th), Peoria (13th), Scottsdale (21st), Yuma (27th), Mesa (34th), Phoenix (53rd), Glendale (63rd), Tempe (76th), and Tucson (86th).

    WalletHub's study analyzed 300 cities across the US, using three categories: affordability, real estate market strength, and quality of life. Affordability was measured by factors like median housing prices and cost of living, while the real estate market was evaluated based on metrics such as days a home stays on the market and foreclosure rates. Quality of life relied on other WalletHub city rankings, including weather, job markets, and school systems.