The Best Places to Live in Arizona if You’re a Runner

The Best Places to Live in Arizona if You’re a Runner

Arizona is a dream for runners. Endless sunshine, mild winters, and some of the best trail and road running in the country. If you’re thinking about moving here and want a lifestyle where you can walk out the door and be on a trail or a perfect stretch of road within minutes, this guide will help you narrow it down.

As a realtor and an ultra runner, these are the areas I recommend the most.

1. North Scottsdale — A Runner’s Paradise

If you love trails, this is the place. North Scottsdale is surrounded by the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which gives you access to world-class trail systems right from your neighborhood.

Top Trails Nearby:
• Gateway Loop
• Tom’s Thumb
• Brown’s Ranch
• Pima/Dynamite
• Pinnacle Peak

Why runners love it:
• Huge variety of distances and terrain
• Technical, rocky climbs for strength
• Smooth desert trails for longer days
• Safe neighborhoods for road miles
• Incredible sunrises and sunsets

Why homeowners love it:
• Clean, well-kept communities
• Great schools
• Newer builds and luxury homes
• Easy access to the 101

If you want views, trails, and a slower pace with a high-end feel, North Scottsdale checks every box.

2. Phoenix (Arcadia, Biltmore, and North Phoenix)

Phoenix is packed with road running routes and quick access to popular mountains.

Best Spots for Daily Miles:
• Arcadia greenbelt areas
• Arizona Canal Path
• Dreamy Draw Park
• Piestewa Peak trails

Why runners love it:
• Flat stretches for tempo days
• Steep climbs for hill work
• Group runs everywhere
• Quick access to coffee shops and restaurants

Why homeowners love it:
• Close to everything
• Lots of character and charm
• Mix of remodeled homes and original builds
• Easy commute to central Phoenix and Scottsdale

If you want a mix of road running, city convenience, and mountain access, Phoenix is a solid choice.

3. Tempe — Budget Friendly + Runner Friendly

Tempe is one of the most accessible cities for runners looking for affordability and variety.

Go-To Running Spots:
• Tempe Town Lake
• Papago Park
• South Mountain (just a short drive)

Why runners love it:
• Tons of group runs
• Smooth bike paths for long runs
• Quick trail access
• Lively and energetic environment

Why homeowners love it:
• Lower price point
• Central location
• Great investment potential

If you want good running and good value, Tempe gives you both.

4. Flagstaff — High-Altitude Training Heaven

Flagstaff isn’t in the Phoenix Valley, but it’s the running capital of Arizona. Runners from all over the world come here to train at 7,000 feet.

Top Trails:
• Buffalo Park Loop
• Elden Lookout
• Urban Trail System
• Walnut Canyon

Why runners love it:
• Altitude training
• Cool summers
• Endless mileage
• Runner-friendly community

Why homeowners love it:
• Seasonal escape from the heat
• Forest views
• Tight-knit small town feel

If you’re serious about running and want cooler weather, Flagstaff is worth considering.

5. San Tan Valley & Queen Creek — Affordable and Quiet with Beautiful Trails

These areas have grown fast and are great for runners wanting space, quiet, and value.

Nearby Running Spots:
• San Tan Mountain Regional Park
• Queen Creek Wash Trail

Why runners love it:
• Wide-open road routes
• Scenic desert trails
• Less traffic
• Peaceful community feel

Why homeowners love it:
• Bigger lots
• Newer homes
• Lower purchase prices
• Family-friendly neighborhoods

If you want affordability without losing running access, these areas are solid picks.

Which Area Is Best for You?

It depends on what you value most:

• Love trail running? North Scottsdale or San Tan Valley.
• Need affordability? Tempe or Queen Creek.
• Want central access and group runs? Phoenix.
• Chasing altitude? Flagstaff.

Every runner is different, and every family has different needs. The good news is Arizona has something for everyone.

If you’re thinking about moving here and want help finding a place that fits your lifestyle — running included — I’d love to help.

Ready to Find the Right Neighborhood?

I’m a runner and a realtor. I live this lifestyle every day, and I help people find homes that match how they want to train, recover, and live.

If you want to explore your options:
Reach out anytime. Let’s find your perfect Arizona home base.