South Tempe has become one of the most sought-after locations in the Valley, strictly for the lifestyle it offers. Homeowners in this area fall in love with the perfect blend of slow-speed (similar to Mesa) meets flashy (similar to Scottsdale). A private, small-town feel with niche communities featuring large, custom estates. This also offers a unique opportunity for horse lovers to live close to amenities. Most horse properties are located in the far stretches of communities like Cave Creek. But here, lots are zoned for and large enough for multiple horses, while giving you immediate access to the benefits of the city. The most notable equestrian community is Buena Vista Ranchos, a stunning neighborhood located at the Northeast corner of Rural Road and Warner Road. Horse owners here take advantage of the well-maintained riding trails that line the spaces between properties.

Tempe offers opportunities for all kinds of indoor and outdoor recreation and entertainment. Tempe alone has six public pools, 40 public parks, multiple golf courses, and a variety of sports facilities and arenas. Furthermore, this excellent location gives homeowners easy access to the extensive Phoenix freeway system, including the nearby I-10, Loop 101 and Loop 202, making it only minutes away from virtually anywhere in the valley.

It goes without saying that the crown jewel of education in Tempe is Arizona State University. For three consecutive years ASU has been ranked #1 for innovation in the country, beating out schools like Harvard and MIT. Under the direction of school president Michael Crow, the colleges of ASU have completely shed their infamous party-school image and become one of the most prominent higher-education universities worldwide.

For younger students, South Tempe is in the award-winning Kyrene School District. Kyrene features 25 schools, with 17 preschool programs, 19 elementary, and 6 middle schools. The district’s boundaries encompass all of Ahwatukee, as well as parts of Chandler, Guadalupe, Tempe, and the Gila River Indian Reservation. Notably, Kyrene School District has won a number of awards, including Arizona’s prominent A+ Schools of Excellence.

Tempe is home to several multi-billion dollar businesses, a major research institution, and, of course, all the executives that come with those industries. But beyond this, a thriving city this large also needs an ever-expanding workforce of sales, hospitality, and office professionals. Over 60% of Tempe’s populace has completed a bachelor’s degree or higher, making it the most highly educated city in the Valley. Additionally, 26% of South Tempe residents work in education or healthcare, making it the single largest employment industry in the area. Nearly 40% of South Tempe households have a combined annual income of over $150,000 and a whopping 75% earn over $100,000. Homeowners are often drawn to the southern borders of Tempe as it offers an upscale and private lifestyle, while still having quick access to the offices and amenities to the north of the city.

South Tempe largely caters to those looking for quiet nights in, but when inspiration strikes, you’re only minutes from virtually any kind of entertainment you could think of – day or night. Residents of South Tempe enjoy easy access to theaters, shopping malls, dining, and more. And just few miles north, Downtown Tempe is famous for its round-the-clock activity.

Tempe Town Lake runs along the Northern border of the city, following Rio Salado Parkway. Residents enjoy jogging, bicycling, boating, and even fishing at Tempe Town Lake’s Beach Park, and the complex is widely considered to be the East Valley’s finest special event space. Directly to the south, the historic Mill Avenue district, a roughly one-mile stretch lined with more than 200 exciting nightclubs, dive bars, eateries, local shops, and more, simultaneously offers quintessential Downtown Tempe, Arizona State University, and night life experiences.