Buckeye, Arizona, located in the western part of Maricopa County, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. With a reputation for affordability, newer housing developments, outdoor recreation, and a family-friendly lifestyle, Buckeye continues to attract new residents from across Arizona and neighboring states.
If you’re planning a move to Buckeye, understanding the cost of living in Buckeye is essential. This guide breaks down housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, healthcare, taxes, and overall affordability to help you determine if Buckeye fits your budget and lifestyle.
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Is Buckeye Expensive?
Compared to nearby cities like Phoenix, Goodyear, Surprise, and Peoria, Buckeye remains more affordable, especially in terms of housing.
Buckeye’s cost of living is roughly 6–8% below the Arizona average and significantly lower than major metro areas across the U.S.
Buckeye Cost of Living
The table below highlights the average monthly and yearly expenses for a typical household in Buckeye.
Cost of Living in Buckeye
| Category | Average Cost | Notes |
| Median Home Price | $425,000 – $455,000 | Lower than Phoenix’s median of ~$480k |
| Average Rent | $1,400 – $2,200/mo | Depends on unit size & neighborhood |
| Utilities | $210 – $270/mo | Higher in summer months due to AC |
| Groceries | 1–2% above national avg | Similar to Phoenix metro |
| Transportation | $650 – $900/mo | Car-dependent city |
| Healthcare | 3–4% below national avg | Good access to clinics & urgent care |
| Median Household Income | ~$86,000 | Higher than AZ state average |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.61% – 0.66% | Lower than many states |
| Sales Tax | 8.3% | Combined state & city tax |
Housing Costs in Buckeye
Housing is the largest budget factor, and one of the biggest attractions for new residents.
1. Home Prices
- Median home price: $425,000–$455,000
- Newer housing developments often include:
- Modern layouts
- Energy-efficient systems
- Community pools and parks
Homes in master-planned communities may be higher, but still remain affordable compared to nearby Goodyear or Phoenix.
2. Rent Prices
Buckeye provides a mix of:
- Apartments
- Townhomes
- Single-family rentals
Average rent:
- 1-bedroom: $1,400 – $1,550
- 2-bedroom: $1,600 – $1,850
- 3-bedroom home: $1,900 – $2,200
Newer communities may charge slightly more due to upgraded amenities.
Utility Costs in Buckeye
Arizona’s desert climate means higher summer electricity bills, but mild winter temperatures help balance the annual cost.
Typical Monthly Utility Costs
- Electricity: $140 – $200
- Water & Sewer: $45 – $70
- Trash: $25 – $35
- Internet: $60 – $90
During June–September, electricity bills often rise due to triple-digit temperatures and heavy AC use.
Transportation Costs in Buckeye
Buckeye is car-dependent, and most residents commute for work, shopping, and schools.
Typical monthly transportation costs:
- Car payment (average): $400 – $550
- Gas: $120 – $200
- Insurance: $100 – $160
Gas prices are similar to Phoenix metro, usually ranging from $3.50 to $4.20 per gallon depending on the season. Public transportation is limited, so most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Food & Grocery Costs
Groceries in Buckeye are about 1–2% above the U.S. average, which is common for Arizona due to distribution costs.
Examples of average prices:
- Gallon of milk: $3.80
- Loaf of bread: $3.00
- Dozen eggs: $3.60
- Chicken breast (per lb): $4.50
- Apples (per lb): $2.20
Costco, Fry’s, and Walmart Supercenter help keep grocery expenses manageable.
Healthcare Costs in Buckeye
Healthcare in Buckeye is 3–4% below the national average, with access to:
- Banner Health
- Abrazo facilities
- Urgent care centers
- Private clinics
Typical costs:
- Primary care visit: $110–$130
- Dental cleaning: $85–$120
- Monthly health insurance (individual): $320–$420
- Family plan: $800–$1,200
Residents needing specialty care may travel to Goodyear, Surprise, or Phoenix.
Childcare & Education Costs
Buckeye offers:
- Public schools
- Charter schools
- Preschools
- Private education options
Childcare Costs
- Daycare: $750–$1,100/mo
- Private preschool: $650–$950/mo
School Overview
Buckeye is served by:
- Buckeye Elementary School District
- Liberty Elementary School District
- Buckeye Union High School District
Several charter schools offer specialized programs, making the city appealing for families.
Taxes in Buckeye
1. Property Taxes
Property taxes are relatively low:
- 0.61% – 0.66% effective rate
- A $450,000 home results in about $2,700–$3,000 per year
2. Sales Tax
Combined state + county + city tax: 8.3%.
3. Income Tax
Arizona has a flat income tax rate:
- 2.5% statewide
Overall, Buckeye’s tax setup is favorable for families and retirees.
Entertainment & Lifestyle Costs
Buckeye residents enjoy:
- Hiking in Skyline Regional Park
- Recreational sports
- Dining and shopping throughout the Phoenix metro
Typical entertainment expenses:
- Gym membership: $30–$60/mo
- Movie ticket: $12–$15
- Casual dining: $12–$18 per meal
- Restaurant dinner for two: $60–$90
Buckeye’s affordability allows families to enjoy entertainment without overspending
Is Buckeye Affordable for Families?
Yes, Buckeye is considered one of the most family-friendly and affordable Phoenix suburbs.
Key highlights include:
- Lower home prices compared to Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Chandler
- Good access to schools, parks, and outdoor recreation
- Lower healthcare and property tax costs
- Clean, safe master-planned communities
Families find Buckeye attractive due to both affordability and quality of life.
Pros and Cons of Living in Buckeye
Pros
- More affordable than most Phoenix suburbs
- Newer homes and communities
- Low property taxes
- Scenic mountain trails and outdoor recreation
- Strong job market growth in Maricopa County
- Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods
Cons
- Hot summers with higher utility bills
- Limited public transportation
- Restaurants and shopping are still growing
- Longer commutes for some workers
Who Is Buckeye Best For?
Buckeye is ideal for:
- Families seeking larger homes
- Retirees looking for quiet suburbs
- Professionals commuting to Phoenix or Goodyear
- First-time homebuyers
- Outdoor enthusiasts
Its affordability makes it a top relocation destination in Arizona.
Final Thoughts
The cost of living in Buckeye, remains one of the city’s strongest advantages. With moderate housing prices, low taxes, reasonable utilities, and abundant amenities, Buckeye provides an appealing balance of affordability and lifestyle.
If you’re planning a move to or from Buckeye, Mentors Moving & Storage offers reliable residential moving services to help ensure a smooth relocation experience.
