MovingPlace has released its new mid-year report, revealing America’s hottest ZIP codes of the first half of 2026 along with the 10 hottest ZIP codes in Arizona so far in 2026. The report first looked at the areas who saw the biggest ranking changes when compared to the previous year, and now looks at the locations with the most move activity based on per capita moves.
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: The 100 Best Doctors in Arizona for 2026
LOCAL NEWS: The 20 biggest employers in Arizona
As Arizonans relocate in 2026, certain ZIP codes are standing out as the fastest-growing and most in-demand.
The 2026 Mid-Year edition of The Hottest ZIP Codes Report by MovingPlace examines January to May migration data by analyzing over 5 million moves made to find the most popular ZIP code per capita, by overall moves and the top trending areas.
One way the report assesses ZIP code heat is through moves per capita. The moves per capita metric highlights the ZIP codes experiencing the most intense migration relative to their population size. This allows smaller or less densely populated areas with unusually high migration activity to stand out as truly hot ZIP codes.
Here are the most in-demand ZIP codes in Arizona:
The hottest ZIP codes in Arizona
| Rank | ZIP Code | City | Moves per Capita |
| 1 | 85387 | Surprise | 99.5 |
| 2 | 85054 | Phoenix | 59.0 |
| 3 | 85263 | Rio Verde | 51.2 |
| 4 | 85004 | Phoenix | 49.9 |
| 5 | 85355 | Waddell | 44.3 |
| 6 | 85085 | Phoenix | 43.1 |
| 7 | 85377 | Carefree | 38.5 |
| 8 | 85123 | Arizona City | 37.1 |
| 9 | 85003 | Phoenix | 37.0 |
| 10 | 85034 | Phoenix | 35.6 |
1. 85387, Surprise, AZ – 99.5 Moves per Capita
The hottest ZIP code in Arizona is on the northwest edge of the Phoenix metro. 85387 has become a popular destination for movers seeking newer housing and a quieter suburban setting. The area offers more space and residential development than many established parts of the valley, while still providing access to shopping, recreation, and major roadways. Its combination of newer communities, desert scenery, and relatively attainable housing has made it especially appealing to families and retirees.
2. 85054, Phoenix, AZ – 59.0 Moves per Capita
In northeast Phoenix, 85054 sits within the rapidly developing Desert Ridge area, surrounded by major shopping, dining, healthcare, and employment centers. Its newer apartments and master-planned communities attract professionals and households looking for modern housing with convenient access to both downtown Phoenix and the East Valley. The area’s strong amenity base and proximity to major employers have helped make it a popular choice for newcomers relocating to the region.
3. 85263, Rio Verde, AZ – 51.2 Moves per Capita
Northeast of Scottsdale, 85263 covers the Rio Verde community, a desert-oriented residential area known for its golf courses, mountain views, and access to outdoor recreation. Its secluded setting appeals to retirees and lifestyle-focused buyers who want a quieter alternative to the busier Phoenix metro while remaining within reach of Scottsdale’s amenities. The combination of scenic surroundings, recreational opportunities, and a resort-like atmosphere gives the ZIP a distinct draw for newcomers.
“The 2026 mid-year hottest ZIP codes ranking shows that relocation demand on a per capita basis continues to favor fast-growing suburban communities and lifestyle-driven destinations rather than traditional urban cores,” said Daniel Cobb, Senior Editor at MovingPlace. “Many of the top-performing ZIP codes are smaller markets benefiting from population growth, new housing development, and proximity to major employment hubs. A moving trend that we’ve seen across the year is the continued strength of the Sun Belt, particularly Florida and Texas, where buyers are drawn to warmer climates, lower taxes, more available land, and comparatively attainable housing. Communities surrounding major metros, including Dallas, Austin, Denver, and Tampa, are capturing demand as households look beyond city centers for more space and value.”
