Surprise Apartments and Rentals

Those looking at housing near Phoenix might be in for a treat - or a surprise - when they explore the options available in Arizona. Surprise, Arizona, is a popular option for newcomers, and checking out the Surprise apartments for rent could provide plenty of opportunities. This city is about 45 minutes from The Copper State's capital, and nine out of 10 residents typically recommend Surprise to live in and start a new family.

The U.S. Census Bureau notes that Surprise had a population of about 117,000 residents in 2010. Additionally, the community nearly tripled its population between 2000 and 2010, which might come as no surprise to many longtime residents familiar with the amenities and features the city has to offer.

In 1938, Surprise consisted of one square mile of land, but has since grown to encompass nearly 106 miles. However, there is some controversy about the city's roots. Some historians believe Homer Ludden, a real estate developer and state legislator, founded the community. Other experts claim Ludden's wife, Flora Mae Stattler, established what is currently known as Surprise. Regardless of whom its initial founder was, this community grew from a few houses and a gas station to become an officially incorporated city in 1960.

Surprise officials prioritize education, which is evident in the city's school system. The Dysart Unified School District includes Surprise, El Mirage, Glendale, Youngtown and Maricopa County in the Northwest Valley. It has more than tripled in size since 2000, and educates 24,000 students.

There is a collection of retailers and restaurants, which help attract many newcomers to the apartments for rent in Surprise, Ariz. The top employers in the area include Wal-Mart, Albertson's Grocery, Fry's Food Store, Dillon's Restaurant/Catering and Home Depot. Additionally, industrial and office firms have a substantial impact on the region's economy, as Del Webb Hospital, the city itself and the aforementioned school district are among the top employers in this sector.

According to Money Magazine, the median family income in Surprise was roughly $58,000 annually in 2011. The city saw incredible job growth between 2000 and 2010, as it displayed over 328 percent employment expansion. This might have impacted the price of rentals in Surprise, Ariz., and could have affected the recent population increase.

However, City-Data.com reports that Surprise's cost of living was about six points below the national average, which shows affordable housing might be a viable option in this city. In fact, Surprise's median gross rent was $1,232 in 2009, so it is possible residents may be able to pay housing expenses below the country's average.

Surprise is a popular spot for sports fans, providing baseball, tennis and golf recreational opportunities. This city is the Cactus League home of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, which gives visitors a chance to see Major League Baseball squads get ready for the regular season.

Surprise Tennis and Racquet Club is the largest in the southwest. This club features 25 courts, and is a first-class venue for professional tournaments, national college competitions and various United States Tennis Association-certified events.

Coyote Lakes Golf Club earned a four-star rating in the 2008-2009 edition of Golf Digest, reflecting the outstanding service, conditions of the course and normal pace of play available at this venue. Experienced golfers can tee off on the 18-hole course year-round, while amateurs can improve their game with courses and private lessons available at the club.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Surprise, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.