Seven of the Most Scenic Cities in the Southwest Region

Tucson, AZ

Explore the stunning oases of the American Southwest with our guide to seven of the region’s most scenic cities. Across these vibrant communities, you’ll discover breathtaking landscapes, immaculate architecture, and more. 

1. Tempe, Arizona

Home to pristine waterfronts, mountain vistas, and botanical gardens, Tempe is a gem in the desert. The bustling South Mill Avenue in Tempe’s downtown area offers specialty shops, cozy eateries, and live entertainment. Neighborhoods such as Corona-South and The Lakes stand out as particularly scenic areas in Tempe, with Corona-South offering beautiful mountain views and access to natural parks, while The Lakes provides picturesque waterfront homes, private docks, and serene water vistas. In September, Tempe’s real estate market was balanced, with 827 homes on the market and a median sold home price of $485,000, per Realtor.com.   

2. Scottsdale, Arizona

Renowned for its world-class golf courses and luxurious spas, Scottsdale is a premier destination for those seeking exquisite scenery. The city’s cactus-lined walking trails, combined with Old Town Scottsdale’s interactive artwork, high-end shops, and historical landmarks, create a unique blend of nature and culture. Prestigious neighborhoods such as Paradise Valley and Central Scottsdale offer upscale homes providing scenic views of mountain and desert landscapes. Scottsdale exhibits a balanced housing market, with over 6,000 homes for sale and a median sold price of $970,000, based on September data from Realtor.com.  

3. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Located in the high desert, Albuquerque offers unparalleled natural beauty with the Sandia Mountains, Petroglyph National Monument, and botanical gardens. Notable neighborhoods include Nob Hill, known for its trendy shops and historic charm; Sandia Heights, offering breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains and luxurious properties; and Bear Canyon, featuring scenic landscapes and access to hiking trails. These neighborhoods attract discerning buyers seeking natural beauty and a vibrant community. In September, Albuquerque’s housing market favored buyers, with approximately 2,800 properties for sale and a median sold home price of $336,700. 

4. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson presents both natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. The central Trail Dust Town complex offers charming eateries, shops, and family-friendly Old West attractions. Catalina Foothills and Skyline Country Club are especially scenic high-end neighborhoods known for their luxurious homes that provide breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape. Catalina Foothills features exclusive gated communities and top-rated schools, while Skyline Country Club offers a prestigious golf course and a vibrant lifestyle. Tucson’s highly desirable real estate market is balanced, with over 25,000 homes for sale and a median sold price of $357,800, according to Realtor.com’s September data. 

5. Mesa, Arizona

Set against the backdrop of Red Mountain, Mesa presents stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities. Usery Mountain Regional Park features an array of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, showcasing the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, while downtown’s Mesa Arts Center is set among gardens and public art installations, contributing to the city’s scenic and cultural charm. Las Sendas and Mountain Bridge are two especially scenic neighborhoods featuring luxury homes and amenities providing breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and mountains. In September, Mesa’s real estate market was balanced, with over 4,000 homes on the market and a median sold price of approximately $469,500, per Realtor.com. 

6. Sedona, Arizona

Surrounded by pine forests, red rock formations, and vast canyons, Sedona is one of the Southwest’s most scenic destinations. The city’s desert hiking trails, ravines, and parks like Red Rock State Park and Slide Rock offer postcard-worthy views. Premier neighborhoods such as Oak Creek Canyon and The Village of Oak Creek are highly coveted for discerning homebuyers seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Oak Creek Canyon offers stunning red rock views, luxurious homes, and easy access to hiking trails, while the Village of Oak Creek showcases picturesque landscapes, golf courses, and upscale amenities. Sedona’s real estate market favors buyers, with 738 properties on the market and a median sold home price of $935,000, according to September data from Realtor.com. 

7. El Paso, Texas

El Paso is characterized by the dramatic backdrop of the Franklin Mountains and the stunning landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert, which offer breathtaking views and outdoor recreational opportunities. Scenic drives, such as the loop around the Franklin Mountains, enhance the visual experience, while parks like Wyler Aerial Tramway State Park provide access to beautiful natural settings. The city’s rich cultural influences are also reflected in its architecture and art, adding to its overall charm. Three of El Paso’s most scenic upscale neighborhoods are The Willows, East El Paso, and the Rim Area. Each offers luxurious homes and beautiful views, with The Willows featuring tree-lined streets, East El Paso showcasing stunning desert landscapes and recreational access, and the Rim Area providing breathtaking mountain vistas. Homebuyers hold the advantage in El Paso’s real estate market, with a median sold home price of $259,700 and nearly 3,000 property listings currently on the market, based on September data from Realtor.com.