Chandler, AZ: How Safe is Chandler?

Chandler, Arizona, is earning national recognition for its commitment to public safety, with crime rates dropping to historic lows in 2023.

Serious crimes decreased by an impressive 18%, showcasing the city’s effective mix of strategy and innovation.

The Chandler Police Department has focused on community-based policing, ensuring officers are visible in neighborhoods and schools.

This hands-on approach builds trust, enabling proactive crime prevention and rapid response.

Advanced technology is at the heart of Chandler’s safety efforts.

The Real-Time Crime Center uses live mapping, surveillance tools, and drones to provide officers with up-to-the-minute intelligence.

The Chandler Fire Department has maintained elite accreditation for 25 years, while its paramedic training ensures top-tier emergency care.

Plans for a municipal ambulance service by 2027 will further improve emergency response.

In 2024, homicides dropped by 34%, reinforcing Chandler as a leader in safety and community well-being.

The Downtown Chandler Farmers Market is a lively Saturday tradition that unites local farmers, food vendors, and artisans in the heart of Chandler, Arizona.

Hosted at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West, the market adjusts its hours seasonally—running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in cooler months and 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. during summer’s heat.

Shoppers discover fresh produce, unique handmade items, and delicious local bites.

The market also builds community spirit with special events, including a lively Kids Day offering games and family activities on the first Saturday each month.

Wellness lovers can join Yoga in the Park sessions for an energizing morning.

Leashed pets are always welcome, making each visit a joyful outing for all ages.

Locals and newcomers alike experience true Chandler charm by supporting small businesses and embracing a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

(Former Living Room Chandler Location)
2475 W Queen Creek Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 855-2848

Chandler Fashion Center is gearing up for a major transformation as it nears its 25th anniversary.

The south side near Harkins Theatres will see new full-service and fast-casual restaurants, many with expanded patios for year-round dining.

The highly acclaimed Din Tai Fung is set to debut in 2027, with more dining options to be announced in 2026.

The center’s lower-level lawn and event space will also be refreshed for concerts, family events, and community gatherings.

A new interactive splash pad will double as a lit water feature by night, while shaded seating, fire pits, and lush landscaping promise a welcoming, garden-inspired vibe.

Construction starts in January, aiming to keep disruption minimal.

New walkways, retailers like Scheels and Vuori, and future arrivals including J.Crew Factory and Seafood City reinforce the center’s evolving role as East Valley’s go-to destination.

Downtown Chandler’s thriving business scene has been celebrated as the Chandler Arizonan revealed winners of the latest ‘Best of Chandler’ Awards.

SanTan Brewing Company clinched two top honors, earning both Best Craft Beer and Best Local Burger, making it a standout for both drinks and comfort food.

The Sleepy Whale also grabbed attention in the Best Craft Beer category, delighting beer lovers with its wide-ranging tap list.

Cocktail aficionados were treated to a trio of winners, as The Ostrich, The Brickyard Downtown, and Spirit House each earned praise for their creative and memorable drinks.

Diners looking for healthy fare can count on Original ChopShop, which took home the honor for Best Healthy Food, thanks to its fresh, locally inspired menu.

DC-Steakhouse secured the title of Best Steakhouse, while San Marcos Golf Course continues to impress as the city’s Best Golf Course. These recognitions highlight the variety and quality drawing people to Downtown Chandler.

The Chandler Unified School District is bracing for a 3% drop in student enrollment next school year, prompting plans for staffing reductions.

About 120 positions, or 2.2% of CUSD’s roughly 5,430 employees, are expected to be impacted as the district adjusts to this decline.

The Chandler Education Association has raised concerns that these cuts could have a major effect on student services.

Enrollment decline has become an ongoing issue, with nearly 1,000 students lost last year alone.

Superintendent Frank Narducci attributes this change to larger graduating classes being replaced by smaller kindergarten groups.

To mitigate budget challenges, the district is exploring a 15% budget override election in November 2025 to fund safety personnel, manageable class sizes, competitive teacher pay, and special programs.

District officials emphasize a commitment to supporting staff throughout this transition.

Veterans Oasis Park in Chandler showcases the city’s dedication to natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

Encompassing 113 acres, the park features a scenic Sonoran Desert setting and a 5-acre fishing lake stocked with trout and catfish, making it popular among local anglers.

Outdoor lovers can explore 4.5 miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, weaving through vibrant habitats and home to more than 150 bird species.

Birdwatchers especially enjoy free, guided bird walks hosted monthly from November to April by the Desert Rivers Audubon Society.

The Solar System Walk provides a self-guided, educational journey through space, while the Field of Honor veterans memorial offers a meaningful place for reflection.

Open daily, Veterans Oasis Park invites everyone to enjoy desert serenity and local wildlife from sunrise to late evening.

Angel Encinas has been unanimously appointed as Chandler’s new vice mayor, serving through January 2027.

Raised in Downtown Chandler, Encinas is deeply rooted in the local community. He currently manages an immigration consulting business, works as a realtor, and is a proud Chandler High School and Arizona State University graduate.

Since joining the City Council in 2023, Encinas has engaged in key committees focusing on community safety, connectivity, and economic vitality.

His public service efforts were nationally recognized with the National League of Cities' Under 40 Impact Award.

Encinas’ appointment comes during a period of significant growth for Chandler, highlighted by the revitalization of Chandler Fashion Center and the arrival of new restaurants like George & Gather and Miel de Agave in Downtown Chandler.

His leadership is set to help guide Chandler’s continued transformation and prosperity.