Surprise, AZ
Population 149,519 · Arizona
About Surprise, AZ
Surprise is a major city in Arizona with a population of 149,519 residents. The median household income is $93,371 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Surprise is 41.6 years.
Housing in Surprise has a median home value of $396,000 and median monthly rent of $1,917. Of the 60,356 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 42,996 owner-occupied and 11,446 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Surprise is 4.2% and the poverty rate is 7.8%. 31.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.3 minutes.
How Surprise Ranks in Arizona
Cost of Living in Surprise, AZ
Compared to national averages, Surprise has a median household income of $93,371 (24% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $396,000, which is 62% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,917 is 65% above the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, Surprise's income is 50% above the state average of $62,086, and home values are 67% above the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in Surprise, AZ?
Surprise offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $93,371, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $396,000. However, as a major city, Surprise provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Surprise has a population of 149,519 with a median age of 41.6 years. Compare Surprise with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near Surprise
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tempe | 186,419 | $77,643 | $421,900 | Compare |
| San Tan Valley | 105,231 | $93,642 | $365,900 | Compare |
| Peoria | 194,338 | $93,403 | $429,400 | Compare |
| Goodyear | 102,891 | $101,814 | $441,900 | Compare |
| Buckeye | 99,844 | $98,778 | $384,100 | Compare |
| Yuma | 98,461 | $62,546 | $209,100 | Compare |
| Avondale | 90,644 | $81,260 | $348,700 | Compare |
| Flagstaff | 76,333 | $68,041 | $503,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Surprise With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Surprise
What is the population of Surprise, AZ?
The population of Surprise, AZ is 149,519 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Surprise?
The median household income in Surprise, AZ is $93,371 per year.
What is the median home value in Surprise?
The median home value in Surprise, AZ is $396,000.
What is the average rent in Surprise?
The median monthly rent in Surprise, AZ is $1,917.
What is the unemployment rate in Surprise?
The unemployment rate in Surprise, AZ is 4.2%.