Greater Phoenix stands out in WalletHub's "Best Cities for Jobs" rankings

WalletHub's latest "Best Cities for Jobs" study places Scottsdale at number one in the U.S. and shows the Greater Phoenix area with several strong performers, including Chandler (No. 14), Gilbert (No. 28), Tempe (No. 30), Peoria (No. 33), Mesa (No. 55), Phoenix (No. 72), and Glendale (No. 80). The big takeaway is simple. The Valley is not driven by one job center. Job growth and hiring are happening across multiple Valley cities.

Why this matters for Phoenix area homebuyers and sellers

Jobs support housing demand. When an area attracts employers and workers, it often brings new residents, strengthens household formation, and helps sustain buyer activity. The rankings also reinforce what locals already know. Demand varies by submarket, even within short drives across Greater Phoenix.

For buyers, this can affect competition, pricing, and how quickly homes sell in specific areas. For sellers, it can influence buyer traffic and the amount of leverage you have when your home is priced correctly and shows well.

What Scottsdale's top ranking can signal for the local housing market

WalletHub points to Scottsdale's strength across job market measures and income considerations adjusted for cost of living. It also notes that Scottsdale and Gilbert are tied, along with a few other U.S. cities, for the highest median household income in the country when adjusted for cost of living.

In real estate terms, areas tied to higher wages and strong employer bases often see more consistent demand, especially for well-located homes near major work centers and amenities.

How WalletHub ranked the cities

WalletHub compared 182 cities and weighted the score mostly toward job market factors, with a smaller portion tied to things like affordability and commuting.

What it means if you are relocating to Phoenix

If you are moving here, a practical approach is to choose an area that fits your day-to-day lifestyle and gives you access to more than one job corridor. Many relocations go smoother when you prioritize commute options, schools, and nearby conveniences instead of focusing on one city alone.

If you want help narrowing it down

If you are relocating or making a move within Greater Phoenix, I am happy to share a short list of neighborhoods that fit your commute to work, budget, and lifestyle.

Source: WalletHub, "Best Cities for Jobs."

Cindy Nelson is an Arizona native and REALTOR® with Realty One Group serving Greater Phoenix, including Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Mesa, and Peoria. Her local expertise and strong real estate knowledge have helped buyers, sellers, and investors succeed with strategies tailored to their goals. Outside of real estate, she supports local small businesses, stays involved in the community, and enjoys exploring Arizona.