What to know when moving to El Mirage, AZ
El Mirage at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 30.3% of residents rent and the median household income is $74,764.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,682, making it accessible compared to other markets.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 13.5%, affordability can be a concern for some residents.
- Commute:
- Only 0.1% use public transit, making it a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,682/month in rent to find a suitable place.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
El Mirage has a population of 35,823, with a relatively low education rate of 14.9% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The housing market shows that about 30.3% of the residents are renters, which may appeal to those looking for flexibility in living arrangements. The area does have a median household income of $74,764, but the poverty rate sits at 13.5%, indicating a mixed economic situation.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for strong public transit options, as only 0.1% of the population commutes via public transport.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,682, indicating a moderate cost of housing.
- Median home value is $282,000, which may be appealing for first-time buyers.
- 14.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, reflecting a community with educational aspirations.
- Poverty rate is 13.5%, suggesting some economic challenges for residents.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Arizona, the property crime rate is 1,523.1 per 100,000 residents, which is slightly lower than the national average of 1,546.9. Violent crime sits at 377.3 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 325.3. However, there are positive trends, with a decrease in property crime by 29.2% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 377.3 per 100k vs. national 325.3, with a decrease of 16.2% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,523.1 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, decreasing by 29.2% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 35.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Arizona).
Schools & Higher Ed
El Mirage has access to 18 postsecondary institutions, including community colleges and universities in the surrounding Maricopa County.
- Arizona Christian University in Glendale.
- Glendale Community College in Glendale.
- Arizona State University-West Valley in Glendale.
- Estrella Mountain Community College in Avondale.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, nearby amenities include several parks and recreational spots that can provide outdoor activities.
- Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park - 4.5 stars (12,249 reviews)
- Sahuaro Ranch Park - 4.7 stars (4,336 reviews)
- Surprise Community Park - 4.7 stars (3,509 reviews)
- Thunderbird Conservation Park - 4.8 stars (1,199 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Maricopa County shows a healthy employment landscape with a labor force of 2,564,144 and an unemployment rate of 3.5% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 3.5% in December 2025.
- Employed: 2,475,183 individuals.
- Labor force: 2,564,144 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.