The Southwest

Discover the Southwest's stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and dynamic cities.

The Southwest is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and histories, where the spirit of the frontier lives on amidst modern cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Albuquerque.

This region is renowned for its stunning natural wonders, from the grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the mysterious beauty of the desert landscapes. Life here blends the old and the new, with rich Native American heritage coexisting with dynamic, growing urban areas.

The climate ranges from the scorching heat of desert summers to the mild, pleasant winters that attract people from all over. Whether you’re drawn to the arts and culture deeply rooted in the past or the opportunities in rapidly expanding metro areas, the Southwest offers a warm welcome with a backdrop of breathtaking sunsets and a wide-open sky.

Total Population

41408569

Households

14,426,766

Land Area sqmi

443,518

Explore Southwest States

Learn more about living in each unique Southwest state

Start Organizing Your Move Today

Stay on top of tasks and avoid moving-day chaos. Download your moving checklist and box inventory list.

Find Your Place in The Southwest

The top cities, towns, and metros in categories movers care about

Texas

Prado Verde

Texas

Piney Point Village

Texas

Bunker Hill Village

Texas

West University Place

New Mexico

Valencia

Texas

Westlake

Median Household Income

63,397

US Average $74,580

Cost of Living Score

94.7

How does the Southwest compare?

The Best Places For Your Lifestyle

The best cities and towns for families, retirees, and singles

Min Hourly Wage

9.10

Living Wage

16.53

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by hiring a professional cleaner. A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

Compare The Cost of Living in The Southwest

What’s the true cost to live in a Southwest states
#2

Oklahoma

Cost of Living Index 85.8

Minimum Hourly Wage $7.25

Living Wage $15.75

#15

Texas

Cost of Living Index 92.5

Minimum Hourly Wage $7.25

Living Wage $16.41

#19

New Mexico

Cost of Living Index 94

Minimum Hourly Wage $11.5

Living Wage $16.25

#36

Arizona

Cost of Living Index 105.8

Minimum Hourly Wage $12.8

Living Wage $17.43

Top Rated Schools

Find where students are excelling in The Southwest

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

C+

B+

B+

B+

B+

B-

B+

C-

School Districts

Find the best school districts in the Southwest states

Houston School District

Schools

274

Students

194,607

Teacher Ratio

17.72

Dallas School District

Schools

237

Students

143,558

Teacher Ratio

14.54

Albuquerque Public School District

Schools

176

Students

81,762

Teacher Ratio

13.56

Fort Worth School District

Schools

140

Students

74,850

Teacher Ratio

14.76

Austin School District

Schools

125

Students

74,602

Teacher Ratio

14.24

Northside School District

Schools

124

Students

102,377

Teacher Ratio

15.07

Idea Public School District

Schools

123

Students

67,988

Teacher Ratio

18.08

San Antonio School District

Schools

100

Students

44,710

Teacher Ratio

14.26

Cypress-Fairbanks School District

Schools

90

Students

117,217

Teacher Ratio

15.26

The Best, Worst, Wealthiest, and More...

45 trending topics that matter for today’s mover

Best Metros in America

Discover the top-rated Metros across America
Best Metros

Best Cities in America

The top-rated cities and towns across America
Best Places in America

Best Metros For Families

Explore the perfect Metros for Families
Best For Families

Continue Reading

Moving soon?

Receive valuable information and advice direct to your inbox.

Moving Checklist & Box Inventory Guides Included!

Join the First&Sold community

Connect With a REALTOR®

Buying or selling a home? Access First&Sold’s network of experienced REALTORS®

Buy first, sell after.

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to reach you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

We're excited to hear from you.

Let us know how to reach you and one of our friendly home specialist will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

The next step is a sold sign

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to contact you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Meet Nuri Caplinger

Questions on Las Vegas real estate? Ready to buy or sell? Meet your local Professional, Nuri.

Learn how your information is protected in the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Speak to an advisor

Enter your information and a home advisor will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy