Peoria, Arizona

Peoria, Arizona is one of Phoenix's largest suburbs, housing around 120,000 residents. It was listed in Money Magazine's Top Places to Live in July 2008 because of recent growth in the northwest end of town, which includes several residential and business developments. Families are attracted to the area by great school districts and city sports programs. In addition, outdoor enthusiasts love this area for its proximity to the Lake Pleasant Regional Park, which offers fishing, hiking and boating year round. Baseball adds some excitement during spring training, with the Peoria Sports Complex hosting both the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres. The new Peoria Center for the Performing Arts has not has the impact predicted, but should soon find its place as one of the city's premier cultural entertainment venue. If you are seeking nightlife, you'll have to travel to neighboring cities, Phoenix, or Scottsdale.  Rental options are numerous here, with both homes and apartments being readily available starting at around 650/mo.