Wondering whether Phoenix’s East Valley is the right fit and how Eastwood in the City of Maricopa stacks up? You are not alone. Many buyers want newer homes and room to breathe while staying connected to East Valley amenities and jobs. In this guide, you will learn what sets the East Valley apart, where Eastwood fits, and how to evaluate housing, commutes, schools, and daily life. Let’s dive in.
East Valley basics
The East Valley typically refers to Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and Tempe. Broader definitions include Queen Creek, Apache Junction, parts of Scottsdale, and exurban communities like Maricopa. The exact boundaries can vary by who you ask.
Here is an important detail if you are considering Eastwood: the City of Maricopa sits in Pinal County, not Maricopa County. That matters for property taxes, school districts, and which county offices handle assessments and services. Many buyers still include Maricopa in an East Valley search because it sits southeast of Phoenix and connects to Chandler and Gilbert for shopping and jobs.
Eastwood, Maricopa at a glance
Eastwood and nearby neighborhoods in Maricopa feel more exurban compared with Chandler and Gilbert. You will see newer subdivisions, some larger lot options depending on the community, and a quieter pace. Retail and dining continue to grow, though you will find fewer urban amenities than in Tempe or downtown Chandler.
Housing in Maricopa is often more affordable than Chandler and Gilbert for similar new-construction homes. That can shift with demand and new builder phases, so it is smart to check current numbers with recent sales data before you write an offer. Expect homeowner associations in many communities, especially master-planned developments.
Master-planned living
Across the East Valley, master-planned communities are common. You will see this model in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and throughout Maricopa. HOAs often manage amenities like parks, pools, lakes, and trails. Fees and rules vary, so review CC&Rs and recent HOA budgets to understand what is covered and any restrictions that could affect your plans.
Housing costs to plan for
Pricing varies by city and neighborhood. Chandler and Gilbert are widely viewed as high-demand suburbs with strong construction quality and convenient amenities, which can push prices above the metro average for comparable homes. Tempe’s pricing is influenced by Arizona State University and light rail access, with more multifamily and higher rental turnover close to campus. Mesa is large and diverse, with both budget-friendly pockets and higher-end areas.
Maricopa often provides more affordable new homes relative to Chandler and Gilbert. That value proposition, plus the small-town feel, draws many buyers to Eastwood and nearby communities. Always verify current pricing with up-to-date market data from the local MLS and trusted broker reports.
Beyond the purchase price, plan for these monthly and annual costs:
- Mortgage principal and interest
- Property taxes that vary by county, city, and special districts
- HOA dues if applicable
- Utilities, with higher electricity use in summer for air conditioning
- Homeowners insurance, and any added coverage if a property is in a mapped flood area
If you are considering new construction, ask the builder and city or county planning offices about water adequacy and utility providers. In Arizona, water supply policies and conservation programs are important to understand, and Maricopa’s providers can differ from East Valley cities in Maricopa County.
Commutes and transportation
Most East Valley residents drive. Key corridors include Loop 202, Loop 101, US-60, and I-10 for westbound travel toward central Phoenix. Your commute time will depend on your origin, your job location, and the time of day. Many Maricopa residents commute toward Chandler, Gilbert, and Tempe for work, and some drive farther west or north depending on the employer.
Valley Metro bus service covers parts of the East Valley, with frequency that varies by route. Light rail serves Tempe and portions of central Mesa, which is a plus if you want transit-oriented living in those areas. Rail access does not extend to most Maricopa neighborhoods, so plan for driving or park-and-ride options.
For air travel, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is reachable via I-10 or surface streets. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport in Mesa offers limited commercial service and can be convenient depending on your airline and destination.
Schools and districts
School systems differ across the East Valley. Chandler Unified School District and Gilbert Public Schools are frequently recognized among strong large suburban districts in Arizona. Mesa Public Schools is very large, and experiences vary by attendance area. Tempe is served by Tempe Elementary and Tempe Union High School Districts, with a student-centered environment near ASU.
Maricopa’s public schools are served by local districts in Pinal County, such as Maricopa Unified School District. Ratings can vary, so it is smart to evaluate specific schools that serve your target address rather than relying on citywide averages. You can review A–F accountability reports from the Arizona Department of Education and check district websites for boundary maps, enrollment policies, and program offerings.
Lifestyle and amenities
One of the East Valley’s biggest draws is lifestyle variety. Chandler and Gilbert offer extensive parks, aquatic centers, youth sports, and a mix of independent and familiar dining. Downtown Chandler has dining, entertainment, and galleries. The Gilbert Heritage District draws visitors for its restaurants and events, and SanTan Village in the Gilbert/Chandler area is a major shopping destination.
Tempe is more urban and walkable near ASU, with arts, nightlife, and transit access that attracts students and young professionals. Mesa spans historic neighborhoods and newer suburbs, with the Mesa Arts Center, Sloan Park for spring training, and access to outdoor recreation.
From Eastwood, you can enjoy a quieter neighborhood experience while reaching popular East Valley attractions with a planned drive. Regional parks and desert trails are within range for weekend hikes, and you will find many golf courses across the Southeast Valley to explore.
Eastwood vs. core East Valley
Choosing Eastwood in Maricopa often comes down to tradeoffs. If you want newer homes, possible larger lots, and a small-town vibe at a generally lower price point, Eastwood can be a strong match. If you want high walkability to nightlife or direct light rail access, Tempe and parts of Mesa may fit better.
Think about where you work, how you spend weekends, and the school programs that matter to you. If you can accept a longer drive in exchange for more home and a quieter neighborhood, Eastwood deserves a close look.
Employment access
The East Valley has several job centers. Chandler stands out for high-tech and semiconductor employment, including large manufacturing campuses. Tempe has Arizona State University and a growing mix of tech, healthcare, and retail jobs. Gilbert continues to expand healthcare and distribution roles, while Mesa supports aerospace, manufacturing, and major healthcare campuses.
From Eastwood, many residents commute north toward Chandler and Gilbert. Time your trips during actual rush hours to see the true drive experience before you finalize your move.
Practical checklist
Use this quick list to focus your search and avoid surprises:
- Commute test: Drive your likely route during morning and evening rush to confirm door-to-door times. If transit matters, review Valley Metro bus and rail maps for current options.
- Monthly costs: Add mortgage, property taxes, HOA dues, utilities, and insurance. Ask your insurance agent about any special factors such as flood mapping.
- HOA review: Read CC&Rs, fee schedules, and recent meeting minutes. Note rules on exterior paint, landscaping, short-term rentals, and pets.
- Schools: Check Arizona Department of Education A–F ratings, district boundary maps, and enrollment policies for the specific address.
- Water and utilities: For new builds, request water-source documentation and conservation details. Confirm electricity and water providers for each property.
- Safety research: Review local police department dashboards and public crime data at the city level to understand trends by neighborhood.
- Resale outlook: Consider proximity to employers, highway access, established retail and dining, and local school options. Ask a local agent for micro-market insights and recent appreciation patterns.
How we help
Buying in the East Valley is not one-size-fits-all. Neighborhoods can change feel within just a few blocks, and county lines affect practical details like taxes, services, and schools. You deserve guidance that connects lifestyle goals with on-the-ground realities.
The Huffman Davis Group partners with you to compare Eastwood and core East Valley neighborhoods side by side. We bring hyperlocal knowledge, MLS-driven insights, and hands-on advocacy from senior agents. We help you test-drive commutes, review HOA and utility details, and confirm school options so your decision is clear and confident.
Ready to explore Eastwood and the East Valley with a trusted local team? Meet the Huffman Davis Group and let’s start your plan.
FAQs
What is considered the East Valley, and is Maricopa included?
- The East Valley commonly refers to Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and Tempe, with broader definitions that often include Maricopa due to its location and connection to East Valley amenities.
How do commutes from Eastwood to Chandler or Gilbert usually feel?
- Most residents drive using Loop 202, Loop 101, US-60, or I-10, and times vary by route and time of day, so live-drive your commute during rush hour to set expectations.
Are homes in Maricopa typically more affordable than Chandler or Gilbert?
- Maricopa often offers more affordable new homes relative to Chandler and Gilbert, though prices change with demand and new builder phases, so verify with recent sales data.
What should I know about schools if I move to Eastwood in Maricopa?
- Maricopa is served by local Pinal County districts, and ratings can vary by school, so review Arizona Department of Education A–F reports and district boundary maps for your address.
Does Eastwood have HOAs, and what do they cover?
- Many communities are part of HOAs that manage amenities and set property standards, so read CC&Rs, fee schedules, and recent minutes to understand coverage and rules.
Which airports serve East Valley residents?
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International is the primary airport, and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway in Mesa offers limited commercial service that may be convenient depending on your airline.
