Apartment Space in Arizona: How Much Square Footage You Can Rent for $1,500 a Month Across the State

The peak rental season may be cooling down, but finding the right apartment is still a challenge for renters across the country who are on the hunt for the best deals. With a budget of $1,500 a month, you can generally expect to secure about 729 square feet of living space, on average, across the U.S., but this square footage can vary quite a bit depending on where you’re looking for rental apartments.

When it comes to apartments in Arizona, things can get interesting. The state offers a diverse mix of living environments, from bustling urban centers to serene suburban neighborhoods. This variety means that renters in Arizona are eager to stretch their budget as much as possible to get the most space for their money, especially when demand is high.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at five cities in Arizona where you can find the most and least apartment space for $1,500 a month: Tucson, Surprise, Peoria, Phoenix, and Scottsdale. Each city offers its own distinct flavor and a different amount of apartment space, giving you plenty of options to consider as you search for your next home.

Tucson offers the most apartment space in all of Arizona

Tucson, the second-most populous city in Arizona, is a hidden gem for renters seeking ample apartment space. Here, you can secure a generous 896 square feet for $1,500 a month — 167 square feet more than the national average, giving you plenty of room for a dressing area or a small home office.

Tucson boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm. The University of Arizona Science area is popular among students and young professionals, while family-friendly suburbs like Sam Hughes offer a quieter, more residential vibe. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling downtown area or the peaceful foothills of the Catalina Mountains, Tucson provides diverse options for every type of renter.

As a good renting spot in Arizona, apartments in Tucson attract a mix of renters, from students and university staff to retirees and families. The city’s rich cultural scene, lively arts community, and proximity to outdoor adventures make it an appealing choice for those looking to balance work and play. Plus, with attractions like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Saguaro National Park, there’s always something fun to do in your free time.

Surprise is a cozy retreat with plenty of elbow room

Nestled in the northwest corner of the Phoenix metro area, Surprise is a small city with big opportunities for renters. Here, $1,500 a month will get you 857 square feet of living space. That’s 128 square feet more than the national average, perfect for a cozy reading nook or a spacious walk-in closet.

Despite its smaller population, apartments in Surprise are particularly appealing to those seeking a quieter, suburban lifestyle. The city is home to several well-regarded neighborhoods, including Marley Park, known for its charming homes and community-oriented atmosphere, and Rancho Gabriela, which offers a mix of single-family homes and apartments for rent.

Surprise is particularly popular among families and retirees, thanks to its excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. The city combines a close-knit community feel with modern amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and the Surprise Stadium, where you can catch a spring training baseball game.

Renters in Peoria enjoy generous apartment space in a growing suburb

Just northwest of Phoenix lies Peoria, another small city in Arizona where renters can find spacious living options. For $1,500 a month, you can rent 849 square feet of apartment space, which is 120 square feet more than the national average. This space is perfect for setting up a home gym or a small dining area.

Peoria is considered a good renting spot in Arizona, especially for those who appreciate a suburban environment with easy access to urban amenities. Neighborhoods like Vistancia and Westbrook Village offer a mix of housing options, from modern rental apartments to single-family homes, catering to a diverse range of renters.

The city is known for its excellent schools, numerous parks, and proximity to Lake Pleasant, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. Those renting in Peoria are a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees, all drawn to the city’s relaxed atmosphere and ample living space.

Phoenix thrives on urban lifestyle — but expect a trade-off in square footage

As Arizona’s state capital and largest city, Phoenix offers renters a dynamic urban experience with plenty of amenities. However, renting in Phoenix often comes with some trade-offs when it comes to square footage. A monthly budget of $1,500 is enough for about 793 square feet of apartment space, which is 64 square feet more than the national average and 100 square feet less than what’s available in Tucson within the same amount. This means you might have to compromise on that extra bedroom or spacious living area.

Phoenix is known for its vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique living experience. Downtown Phoenix is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, with easy access to restaurants, entertainment, and public transportation. For a more residential feel, areas like Arcadia and North Central Phoenix offer tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and modern homes.

Despite the smaller square footage, Phoenix remains a top renting spot in Arizona, particularly for young professionals and families drawn to the city’s booming job market and cultural attractions. With a wide range of dining options, sports venues, and outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains, Phoenix offers a lifestyle that appeals to those who enjoy the buzz of city life.

Scottsdale offers premium living and just enough apartment space

Scottsdale, known for its luxury living and upscale amenities, offers slightly more compact spaces for $1,500 a month. On average, renters here can secure 675 square feet of apartment space, which is 221 square feet less than what’s available in Tucson. While apartments in Scottsdale may be smaller within that budget, that’s still enough for a cozy home feeling.

Scottsdale is considered one of the best renting spots in Arizona for those who prioritize a high-end lifestyle. Plus, attractions like world-class golf courses, art galleries, and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, make Scottsdale a desirable location despite the smaller square footage renters can secure within $1,500 a month. Renters here are often willing to trade off square footage for the opportunity to live in one of Arizona’s most prestigious areas.

As you can see, renting in Arizona offers a range of options for those looking to maximize their apartment space for $1,500 a month. Whether you’re seeking extra elbow room or a premium lifestyle, Arizona’s diverse cities provide the perfect backdrop for your next home. From the spacious living in Tucson and Surprise to the more compact, urban environments of Phoenix and Scottsdale, there’s something for every renter.

If you’re thinking about relocating to other states, find out how much apartment space $1,500 gets you in Georgia; Florida; Michigan; Louisiana; New Jersey; North Carolina; and Nevada.