Peoria lies northwest of Phoenix and shares much of its growth with neighboring Glendale and Surprise. Historically, Peoria was a small agricultural settlement founded by farmers from Illinois. Over the last few decades, the city expanded significantly and now features modern master-planned communities, recreational areas, and the popular Lake Pleasant Regional Park, which sits to the north and helps define the city’s outdoor appeal. Peoria’s housing landscape includes everything from affordable ranch homes to stylish newer subdivisions in the northern region. The northern part of Peoria, in particular, has seen rapid growth, with scenic desert surroundings, larger lots, and higher-end developments. These areas feel somewhat suburban-rural due to their proximity to open desert terrain. Existing homes generally range from $420,000 to $550,000, while new construction costs around $180–$240 per square foot, placing a typical new 2,000-square-foot home at $360,000 to $480,000 before land. Peoria is about 25–30 minutes from Phoenix, making it a popular residential community for commuters. Its mix of new neighborhoods, recreational amenities, and western metro convenience has made it one of the most desirable West Valley cities.