One of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona, Surprise has become just that—a surprise! Founded in 1938 by Flora Mae Statler, the city was dubbed with its unique moniker because Statler announced she “would be surprised if the town ever amounted to much.” Located to the northwest of Phoenix, Surprise and its surrounding area provide popular retirement destinations in their triple master-planned, age-restricted communities of Sun City, Sun City West, and Surprise’s own Sun City Grand.
Fans of Arizona’s Spring Training games and festivities will love living in Surprise, home to the training facilities for both the Texas Rangers and the Kansas City Royals. For those who would rather participate than spectate, however, the city also boasts the award-winning Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex, where visitors can enjoy their active lifestyles all year long.
Students in Surprise have the choice to attend the Arizona Charter Academy or the public schools, which are served by the Dysart Unified School District, and the city’s proximity to Phoenix means that continued education is widely available through the community college district or Arizona State University’s West Campus, nearby on the border of Glendale.
When checking out neighborhoods in Surprise, don’t forget to visit the city’s impressive aquatic center, featuring a competition-size pool, water slides, and diving platforms. You’ll love the convenience of meeting up with friends and neighbors for a splash in the water, or go all-out and book the facility for your family reunion or other private event. With a population that continues to grow steadily, your new hometown will just get bigger and better!