Introduction
In a groundbreaking development for both travel and commerce, Buc-ee’s—a Texas-based travel center revered for its colossal stores, spotless restrooms, and quirky beaver mascot—has officially broken ground in Goodyear, Arizona. The massive new location, slated to open in mid-2026, marks Buc-ee’s first venture into the Grand Canyon State and signals more than just a new pit stop—it’s a regional shift in tourism, job creation, and even real estate trends.
And that’s where experts like Isela Felix, a seasoned Arizona realtor and team lead at the Felix Home Team, are paying close attention. “When you bring in a commercial anchor like Buc-ee’s, it has ripple effects on the housing market,” Felix explains. “This isn’t just about gas and jerky—it’s about property values, traffic patterns, and where families want to live.”
In this deep-dive, we explore how Buc-ee’s move into Goodyear is reshaping not only the travel landscape but also Arizona real estate. From economic implications to community engagement, here’s everything you need to know about the newest—and possibly biggest—development in the West Valley.
1. What is Buc-ee’s, and Why Does It Matter?
Buc-ee’s is not your average convenience store. Founded in 1982 by Arch "Beaver" Aplin and Don Wasek, the chain has grown from a humble gas station in Texas to a retail juggernaut with more than 50 locations across the South. Buc-ee’s stores are famous for:
Immaculate restrooms
Over 100 fuel pumps
Gourmet snacks and barbecue
A sprawling gift shop with local memorabilia
Now, with Goodyear as the newest pin on its map, Buc-ee’s is setting its sights on Arizona’s growing population and tourism market.
2. Location, Location, Location: Why Goodyear?
Buc-ee’s selected a high-traffic site at Interstate 10 and Bullard Avenue—a strategic corridor between Phoenix and Los Angeles. This intersection serves as a primary artery for both long-haul truckers and road-trippers headed to California, Vegas, or Sedona.
But it’s not just about visibility. Goodyear’s population has exploded, growing from 18,000 in 2000 to over 105,000 today. It’s no surprise that national businesses like Buc-ee’s are jumping in.
“Retail follows rooftops,” says Isela Felix of the Felix Home Team. “This is a classic example of how commercial development chases residential growth, and in turn, drives more of it.”
3. Economic Impact: Beyond Beaver Nuggets
The Buc-ee’s Goodyear location will span 74,000 square feet and feature 120 fueling stations. The economic expectations are robust:
1,000 construction jobs during development
200+ permanent jobs upon opening
Competitive benefits including 6% 401(k) matching, three weeks paid vacation, and full healthcare coverage
According to Goodyear Mayor Joe Pizzillo, approximately 80% of Buc-ee’s customers will come from outside city limits, infusing the local economy without cannibalizing existing businesses.
This kind of foot traffic not only benefits Buc-ee’s but surrounding businesses—retail, dining, and yes, real estate.
4. The Real Estate Ripple Effect
Commercial development is often a signal flare for real estate investors and homebuyers. Buc-ee’s arrival could bring:
Increased property values nearby
More residential development in adjacent neighborhoods
Higher demand for short-term rentals and Airbnbs
New schools, parks, and municipal infrastructure to support the growth
Realtor Isela Felix confirms these trends. “We’re already seeing inquiries for land purchases and new builds around the Buc-ee’s site. Investors recognize what this means for Goodyear’s future.”
The Felix Home Team, which specializes in Arizona real estate, is now advising clients to look not just at current amenities—but at what’s coming.
“Smart buyers aren’t just buying a home—they’re buying the next five years of growth,” Felix says.
5. A Boost for Local Businesses
Local entrepreneurs in Goodyear are gearing up to ride the Buc-ee’s wave. From food trucks to boutique hotels, there’s a palpable buzz in the business community.
This includes realtors and developers. Arizona real estate agents are packaging Buc-ee’s proximity as a unique selling point in listings. “Just like you’d highlight a home near a top-rated school or Whole Foods, proximity to a Buc-ee’s is a new kind of lifestyle marker,” Felix explains.
6. Tourism Magnet and Cultural Icon
Buc-ee’s is more than a pit stop—it’s a cultural experience. Families plan road trips just to visit one. The company has become a tourist destination in itself, with thousands flocking to new store openings.
The Goodyear Buc-ee’s will be no different, likely drawing in:
Road-trippers on I-10
California transplants curious about Southern charm
Foodies seeking famous brisket and kolaches
Local residents exploring their new neighborhood anchor
In time, Buc-ee’s could become as iconic to Goodyear as Camelback Mountain is to Phoenix.
7. Future Expansion in Arizona?
At the Goodyear groundbreaking, Buc-ee’s co-founder Arch Aplin hinted at more locations in Arizona. “We love the state, we love the people, and we’re always looking for opportunities,” he said.
Industry analysts speculate cities like Casa Grande, Flagstaff, and even Tucson could be next in line.
This speculation alone is enough to move the needle on Arizona real estate trends. “If Buc-ee’s is coming to your city, get ready,” says Felix. “Your zip code is about to get a whole lot hotter.”
8. Buc-ee’s and the Future of West Valley Growth
With the opening of Buc-ee’s, Goodyear strengthens its identity as a rising star in the West Valley. The city is already home to spring training facilities, a thriving aerospace corridor, and several master-planned communities.
Buc-ee’s arrival adds a feather in the cap—a tangible signal that Goodyear isn’t just growing, it’s arriving.
“We’ve been telling clients this for years,” says Felix. “Now, with Buc-ee’s on board, it’s like Goodyear’s finally getting the national attention it deserves.”
9. Real Estate Investment Tips Near Buc-ee’s Goodyear
If you’re considering investing in the area, here are tips from the Felix Home Team:
Look within a 5-mile radius of the Buc-ee’s site—these neighborhoods will likely see the fastest appreciation.
Focus on land—vacant lots and zoned parcels could offer high ROI.
Watch traffic patterns—homes near new roads or bypasses may gain in convenience and value.
Think long-term—buy and hold strategies could outperform quick flips as development ramps up.
Partner with a local expert—someone like Isela Felix, who understands the nuance of Arizona real estate, can help you get in ahead of the curve.
Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will Buc-ee’s in Goodyear open?
The opening is planned for June 2026, though the original target was late 2025.
2. Where exactly is it located?
At the southeast corner of I-10 and Bullard Avenue, in Goodyear, AZ.
3. Will there be more Buc-ee’s locations in Arizona?
Co-founder Arch Aplin hinted at future expansion, but no official announcements have been made yet.
4. How will this affect Arizona real estate?
Local experts like Isela Felix predict increased home values, more development, and higher demand for nearby properties.
5. Who should I contact for real estate advice in Goodyear?
Isela Felix and the Felix Home Team are top-rated realtors specializing in Arizona real estate, including growth corridors like Goodyear.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of Buc-ee’s in Goodyear isn’t just about brisket sandwiches and beaver-themed T-shirts. It’s about transformation. It’s about how a single business can ignite economic opportunity, reframe a city’s identity, and alter the trajectory of Arizona real estate.
Whether you're a tourist, a business owner, or a homebuyer, Buc-ee’s Goodyear is something to watch—and something to get ahead of.
Want to learn how to buy near the next Buc-ee’s? Reach out to Isela Felix and the Felix Home Team today. The beaver may have broken ground—but the real building is just beginning.
