Surprise, AZ, is a growing city in the Phoenix area. If you’re considering living in Surprise, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to see if it fits your lifestyle. The city offers plenty of amenities, job opportunities, and a relaxed atmosphere, but like any place, it has its drawbacks. Here’s what you need to know before making your move to Surprise.
Surprise at a glance
Walk Score: 21 | Bike Score: 46
Median Sale Price: $432,000
Houses for rent in Surprise | Apartments for rent in Surprise | Homes for sale in Surprise
1. Pro: Affordable housing
Surprise offers relatively affordable housing compared to other Phoenix suburbs. The average home price remains lower than cities like Scottsdale. Renters can find spacious apartments and homes for reasonable prices, making it a great option for families.
2. Con: Limited public transportation
Public transportation options are limited in Surprise. If you don’t own a car, getting around can be challenging. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, and the lack of extensive public transit can be inconvenient for commuters.
3. Pro: Growing job market
The job market in Surprise is steadily growing, particularly in healthcare, retail, and education. Banner Health and Dysart Unified School District are among the top employers in the city. The nearby Phoenix area also offers additional employment opportunities for commuters.
4. Con: Hot summers
Like much of Arizona, Surprise experiences scorching summer temperatures, often exceeding 100°F. While the dry heat might be easier to handle than humidity, the extreme temperatures can be tough for those not accustomed to desert climates.
5. Pro: Family-friendly amenities
Surprise is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a variety of parks, playgrounds, and community events. The Surprise Recreation Campus is home to sports facilities, including a spring training stadium for the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers.
6. Con: Minimal nightlife
Surprise is not known for its nightlife. If you enjoy wild nights out on the town, you may find the city’s options limited. Most nightlife and entertainment activities are found in nearby Phoenix or Scottsdale.
7. Pro: The great outdoors
For nature lovers, Surprise has plenty to offer. White Tank Mountain Regional Park is just a short drive away, providing hiking, biking, and camping opportunities. Local golf courses and Lake Pleasant offer additional outdoor activities.
8. Con: Limited higher education options
Surprise doesn’t have many higher education institutions within city limits. While Ottawa University has a campus here, students seeking a broader range of degree programs may need to commute to Phoenix or enroll in online programs. This fact places Surprise in the bottom tier of Arizona college towns.
9. Pro: Excellent senior living
Surprise is home to several top-rated retirement communities. The city has become a popular destination for retirees, with many senior-specific amenities like recreation centers, golf courses, and healthcare facilities.
10. Con: Traffic congestion
As Surprise continues to grow, so does its traffic. During rush hours, congestion can become an issue, especially along major roads like Bell Road and Grand Avenue. Commuters might experience longer travel times than expected for a small city during peak hours.
11. Pro: Solid shopping options
Surprise is home to a handful of shopping centers, from national retailers to local boutiques. The Prasada District is a growing commercial area that has restaurants, stores, and entertainment options, giving residents plenty of nearby conveniences.
12. Con: Slower pace of life
For some, the slower pace of life in Surprise may be a con. While the relaxed atmosphere appeals to many, others might prefer the faster-paced vibe of living in Phoenix or Scottsdale. The quiet, suburban vibe might not be ideal for those seeking constant excitement.
