So, you’re thinking about moving to Phoenix (or one of our many cities in the metro-Phoenix area)? Congratulations! Arizona is one of the best states to live in the country, and Phoenix really does have it all.
5. The monsoon season isn’t as bad as people say
It’s not that bad, really! In fact, you’ll begin to look forward to it because of how infrequently it rains here in the valley of the sun. By the time the monsoon season begins, around Independence Day, we’ve all had enough of the heat and some rain is a welcome distraction.
Is humidity a problem during the monsoon? Not really, it can get up to 60% humidity with temperatures of 105 or more during the day during the monsoon. But, it will often rain at the same time, which cools the temperature. The monsoon season lasts about 3 months (July, August, September) and it’s never as hot and humid as the east coast.
Check out this video showing some of the weather during a monsoon rain storm:
4. It’s big
The metro area is absolutely huge, and to travel from Chandler to Surprise, or North Scottsdale to Phoenix can take you over an hour of driving. But, for most places you need to go it will only take about 30 minutes to get there. In fact, it’s a recurring joke in Phoenix that you can get pretty much anywhere… in 30 minutes.
I’m serious! I live in Scottsdale, and I can be to downtown Chandler or Mesa in 30 minutes. Or, I could be downtown in Phoenix in 30 minutes. Of course, there are exceptions… for example during rush hour at 7 am, but for the most part it takes 30 minutes to get almost anywhere.
In Phoenix, you’ll want to pay attention to where you choose to live. I’ll write more on this later. For now, watch this video showing a drive through Phoenix:
3. It’s diverse
During the winter, you can drive north for two hours and play in the snow and go ski all day. Then, in the afternoon drive to Scottsdale and go play golf. Unlike other states, we have a diverse climate and Arizona isn’t just all desert. We have some of the biggest forests in the world.
If you’re dying to see the ocean, you can drive 6 hours to San Diego, or 7-8 hours to Los Angeles.
Arizona has amazing camping destinations as well, and in only a two hour drive you can be up on the Mogollon Rim at a beautiful campsite surrounded by tall pine trees and grasslands. Just look for Payson or Greer on the map, and go!
Check out this unofficial song about Arizona:
2. You don’t have to change your clocks!
It’s wonderful not having to change your clocks for daylight savings time. We have our own time zone that we get to pick when we set our computers. Set it and forget!
1. It’s hot!
Yes, it’s hot. Yes, it’s a dry heat, which means we have very low humidity. If you’re moving here from the midwest, or the south, you’ll be so amazed about the difference between a high-humidity state and Arizona. Even when it’s 110 degrees in Phoenix, you’ll find yourself often pondering why it’s better than a 90 degree day in Atlanta with 90% humidity. During most of the year, including most of the summer, our humidity is typically around 10%.
I’ll share a link I send to my friends when they ask if it’s hot in Arizona. Check out this awesome page that shows everything you could want to know about Phoenix average weather.
I couldn’t end with that… the best part about Phoenix is our winter weather. From early November, until at least mid-May it is the nicest you’ll ever imagine. You’ll rarely need a coat, and if shorts and t-shirt are your thing, you’ll be at home here in the desert. Come to Phoenix for the beautiful winter weather, and you’ll never leave.
We also have massive dust storms, which are called haboobs. You’ll get to know these in your first year in Arizona. They’re big, but typically not dangerous except for low visibility:
Why move to Arizona?
Succinctly, we have a lot to offer! From the diverse climate, to a wide landscape and huge sky… to a thriving metropolitan Phoenix business climate. We have a huge tech industry in Phoenix as well (of which the author is involved).
Arizona makes an excellent base for exploration of the southwest! There’s an elevation range of over 12,500 feet in Arizona, beautiful ponderosa pine forests (the biggest in the world), and Flagstaff averages over 100 inches of snow each year! Great for winter sports.
There are more than 100 lakes in Arizona, including Tempe Town Lake, Pleasant, Mead, Havasu, and Powell.
If you’re into sports, we have you covered! From the Phoenix Suns (basketball), to the Arizona Cardinals (football), to the Arizona Diamondbacks (baseball), and the Phoenix Coyotes (ice hockey).
Not only that, but we have an absolutely thriving food community in Arizona. There are new restaurants opening almost daily in Phoenix, and a booming food truck business — by some accounts, over 50 roam the city!
Move to Phoenix
Arizona also boasts a thriving coffee scene that is one of the best in the nation, with literally dozens of independent third-wave coffee roasters and coffee shops.
On top of all of that, you can get a great secondary-education here in Arizona. Choose between Arizona State University, Thunderbird School of Global Management, Northern Arizona University, and University of Arizona, among many others.
174 Comments
Just found your site. I’m new here and moved from beautiful So Cal. 45 min from Disneyland! I’m tired of the earthquakes so we are calling this place home for now.
Love your site. Do you have instagram?
Hi Anna, thanks for the comment and welcome to Arizona!
Yes, here’s two of the Instagram accounts I manage:
http://instagram.com/visitarizona
http://instagram.com/arizonacoffee
Again, welcome to AZ!
I’m wanting to move to Arizona. I’m from Northern Wi and winters are tough here. I have disabilities and smart choice is better wheather. Have rheumatoid arthritis. I do get SSDI, I’m still very active and love to golf. Looking for suggestions on places to move to, golf, some work and reasonable living conditions.
Hi Shan, well if you’re looking for a place to escape the snow, you’ll love Arizona!
Hello. Did you move to AZ and if so, how is it going? What area? Culture shock?
No Janeajeeps I haven’t yet. I am not retiring until May and going out in Dec. to stay for a while. I lived there in the ’80’s for a year and I loved it but missed home very much so I came back to CT. Yes, a bit of culture shock. The people are different in AZ not in a bad way, just different from people in the NE. Are you thinking of moving to AZ soon?
Hi Chris,
I’m from Illinois and lived in LA for 10 years. Love LA but very expensive.
First of all, thank you for your article. I was just in Phoenix last week for the third time and I LOVE it! I agree with everything you said.
I am going to move there in the fall. I see you are from Scottsdale, I am torn between living there or in Chandler. I can get a condo in Scottsdale and small house in Chandler. I’m in my 50’s, loved the Greenbelt for bike riding, like pools, of course, and working out. Also, love going to baseball games and live blues and rock music.
Any advice for living in Chandler vs Scottsdale for me…
Thanks!
Pam
Hi Pam, this is a bit late to reply, but I bet you would enjoy both.
I understand that in Chandler, there are a lot of parks. Like, one within a mile of each house.
Bigger fool theory. Do not move to AZ for the following reasons:
Desert is running out of water: You don’t want to own real estate when this state officially runs out of water. the housing prices are already declining while they are still rising in most of California and its northern state Colorado. I already have the feeling that the smart money is leaving.
Poor economy – Outside of construction and housing this hot oasis does not have much to offer. The only news you will hear is about a new restaurant coming to down and they open and close a dime a dozen in phoenix.
Not diverse – Millenniums rather live with roommates in a cosmo city like Diego or San Fran then to move to Phoenix. All one has to do is visit downtown Phx to see its absolutely DEAD. for over 30 yers politicians have been trying to boost the area and has failed everytime. the concrete jungle makes it hotter than it already should be. Also alot of old people with little money is moving to Phoenix. Based on their limited income they are in no way shape or form to encourage the city to grow.
Sports- while the desert has four professional sports teams, three out of four ranks worst in attendance. For one retirees don’t have the disposable income to support it. Two the city is so spread out there is no sense of community. three people are from other places and they rather support their own home team than a town with no character. Hockey will be gone in four years and the way the Suns are going they may start threatening to leave as well.
Weather- Phx is number two behind LA as far as pollution. this is the ONLY place I know where one cannot drive a black car. Many have tried but most have failed. It is so hot that you cannot be out in the sun for more than 5 minutes before your skin start to burn. Because of the growth the summers are getting hotter and hotter and is unbearable. By the time it cools off it is late November and then it starts getting hot the middle of March. that leaves about 2.5 months of good weather. Don’t let them fool you. IT is nowhere close to eight months of good weather. No where close!
In summary don’t move to Phoenix unless you want to feel like you are in hell, get dirty lungs and be in a place where the real estate values plummets as people leave for greener pastors.
I really don’t know how to respond to your comment, but I’ll hit some high points:
In my experience, Arizona always cools off by November 1st. That’s when it is always nice, in my experience.
Housing prices: Home prices have remained stable in the last year. Zillow predicts they’ll rise 3.6% over the next year. On that note, according to Zillow, Colorado and LA home prices have gone up more than AZ.
http://www.zillow.com/phoenix-az/home-values/
Sports attendance? I’m not sure, but this chart on Wikipedia seems to show attendance is reasonable. Can you show otherwise?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Average_attendances_of_professional_sports_teams_in_the_United_States_and_Canada
Weather and pollution: According to the link below, yes, Phoenix ranks next to Los Angels in terms of Year-Round Particle Pollution. But, in comparison, LA is #1 for Ozone, and #4 for Short-term particle pollution and Phoenix isn’t anywhere close!
http://www.stateoftheair.org/2011/city-rankings/most-polluted-cities.html
Driving a black car: Really, you’d make this a reason not to move here? Plus, I’ve known plenty of people who have driven black cars in AZ for years.
Economy: Arizona has a massive tech community, and if you check out this list on Wikipedia, you’ll find that construction and housing are not in any of the top ten largest employers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona#Largest_employers
Do we have enough water? The short answer is yes, and I’ll provide some links to info you can read. Approximately 69% of all water use in AZ is for agricultural purposes.
Could Arizona run out of water? Sure, but I don’t think it’s something to worry about now.
How AZ uses water: http://www.azwater.gov/AzDWR/PublicInformationOfficer/documents/supplydemand.pdf
The summary version: http://arizonaexperience.org/people/arizonas-water-uses-and-sources
My husband and I just visited the Phoenix area for our first time. I immediately fell in love with Arizona! I currently live in Missouri, and I couldn’t believe how nice it feels in AZ when it’s 100 degrees. In Missouri the humidity is so bad that you’re usually miserable at 80 degrees. I have travelled to quite a few different parts of the country, but I have never visited any other place that I felt so drawn to. There are just so many different terrains within a couple hours of Phoenix. I’ve lived in Missouri my entire life, but would love to relocate to AZ. It was so strange to feel so at home somewhere I’d never been. In my experience, the people there are so friendly and helpful. We had some of the best restaurant experiences and the service was amazing. I was so impressed with how Phoenix is so large, but the people that live there give it that small town feeling. I am dead set on moving to Phoenix if my husband can find a job there. He is a diesel mechanic, as well as an ase master tech for regular cars. I liked the northern side of Phoenix, but I’m not real familiar with the area. Could you recommend an area that may be good to look into? I would love a view of the mountains. Definitely somewhere safe, and we have kids so good schools are important. Thanks so much! Arizona is just perfect in my opinion. 🙂
Where to live in Phoenix. One of the most difficult questions to answer (unless you have time for lots of questions).
I guess what I’d say is that I love the east valley, and I also like it when my commute is minimal. So, I’d suggest living within 15 minutes of work.
I’ve been a resident my entire life & “where to live” is a toughy – everyone has their reasons for where they love. If it’s ok with Chris, I’d suggest the City Data site. Once upon a time we thought of moving & it was a wealth of information. Ultimately, we stayed here.
Hello, I am moving to the Phoenix area very soon for work and have read several articles about the city and weather. I grew up in PA and have never lived in the Western side of the country. This article had some great info and was happy to see some recent comments being posted here at the end! I don’t know many people in the area and have been constantly browsing for good locations to live. I am a young professional looking for a vibrant community, but do not want to live near the undergrad world. Any suggestions? I have heard Old Town Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix and Ahwatukee (spelling?) are great places, but would love to know an insider’s opinion. Thanks!
The really cool thing about Old Town Scottsdale is that it’s becoming a really awesome area to live. There’s a new Sip Coffee & Beer House that’s pretty popular. It’s right downtown and from there you can walk all over old town and see cool stuff. Lots of restaurants, bars, nightlife.
Old Town also has lots of business and touristy stuff. It’s a good mix.
Where to live is the hardest question of all. I’m working on an article about where to live, which I won’t be able to publish until about October. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Chris
Hi Nikki,
I see you feel in love with Arizona the most beautiful state I think.
If your really interested in moving here please email me as my husband and I have our place for sale and I would like to show you.
Sincerely
Jana
Hi. I too came away with the same experience….
I love that you replied to Derrick. This was necessary.
My kids are 4th generation, my husband & I are both natives & I would live no where else. Ok….maybe SoCal part time because, BEACH. But I recently traveled to Idaho, Washington & Oregon…..I felt like none of them held a candle to Arizona! Fun to see but I missed what home offered.
I think the most important factor is, sometimes we don’t settle where we’re meant to be. I think Derrick just isn’t a fit.
Thanks, TK! I agree, nothing like the beach.
Are you aware that AZ has had more rain than most of CA this year? The bay area is in the middle of a drought and Fremont is running on well water. Phx has just had some massive flooding. YEEHAW! Cali can go drop off into the Pacific. Just a few more earthquakes now.
Just saw your comment. Yeah! I’ve been loving all of the rain we’ve had last year, and this winter. Lovely times!
Derrick, I ‘d have to agree with you! I moved there from the Chicago area 24 years ago and your pretty spot on! HOT, HOT, HOT!!!! crowded BIG TIME since 1991, pollution OMG!, allergies are VERY,VERY BAD. So, if you do not have to go to work, have really good air cleaners , like rude people, speak Spanish better then English and drive really, really fast while your texting you’d do alright. Oh yeah….. most importantly, you best be packing a gun cuz everyone else is and your going to need it. There is also some good things…… write me to know more.
I despise people like Derrick… misery loves company like you. Go populate a city you think is sooooo much better, and leave us alone. Coming from Chicago, I had the understanding that I was moving west, warmer, newer city and completely different landscape. How one (Derrick) can compare LA or even Chicago or NY is beyond me. It’s apples and oranges and I hear it all to often. You lack depth and character ….
Great article Chris!
Sorry to say but Derrick is right I’ve been in arizona all my life and I need out!!! This heat is worst than ever ! Even if you have a pool it’s no good only time you can swim is super early in the morning because the water is a bit cool the rest of the day it’s so hot can’t enjoy .plus there’s not much to do here because the heat will kill you ! Winter is from December to February the best times of the year because it’s cool weather .my main problem The HEAT!!! And nothing to do…
I know this post was a while ago but I would also like to make a few points. We lived in the Ahwatukee section of Phoenix for 11 years. We moved back to our place of origin- eastern PA seven long years ago, thinking extended family was important to be near plus our daughter was going back here to attend grad school and we are very close to her. She is definitely staying in the east also. And extended family is highly overrated – absence will truly make the heart grow fonder as I forgot when we decided to move back to PA….!
When the last child is graduated from our state university here we are moving back just as fast as we can unload our house. You cannot beat the sun, the warmth and the ease of everything in The Vallley of the Sun. Driving is a pleasure if you stay off the freeways- nice wide streets, lights that are timed properly unlike here in idiotville PA. Lots of shopping conveniently located. And the activities are endless – we used to hike every weekend or head up to Flag or down to Tucson. We beached either in Rocky Point – 4 hours away from Ahwatukee or San Diego – 6 hrs of easy driving.
We will miss our daughter and her new wonderful husband dreadfully and our future grandkids down the road like crazy but we can visit them and they can visit us (even if we have to pay for their flights sometimes- they are in Ed so not really high paying!!). Our son had said he would be happy to live in AZ again and will likely join on the move after graduation. He still has great friends and his karate dojo where he trained and then taught is still here( he is a black belt in Wado)
The Valley has great schools IF you buy in the right place so you DO have to be careful with that. The water issue is a real one but I think serious problems are farther away in AZ than they are in California.
We were just there for two weeks. House prices are rebounding slowly but surely. Out house, sold on the early part of the downslope and the price for it we sold it for is well below what it is selling for now and we sold just 8 months off the top( it is for sale!!)
There are a lot of large employers still left there who are doing well. Honeywell, Intel, TRW, Gen Dyn, Boeing and so many more. My husband works at home and his staff is international so we can live anywhere near an airport so jobs are not as much an issue for us. Which brings me to the wonderful airport. Sky Harbor is the easiest airport I have ever been to – bar none.. And we travel a lot, all over the country as well as internationally. So easy especially with the new sky train going in.
Chase field for the D-backs is so easy to get to and park. The ballpark itself is lovely and comfortable. And you can get tickets and at a reasonable price. A plus, if you ask me, that it isn’t sold out every game. You can decide at the last minute and buzz right over. We aren’t into the other sports. And then there are the cactus League games- so much fun!! And reasonable.
If you are active, love the sun and warm weather I don’t think you can do better than Az and I am partial to Phx rather than Tucson – mostly for the conveniences in Phoenix that I think Tucson, while lovely, lacks. That said, the Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson is my favorite place in the state. It is harder to find shopping and the roads are a little squirrely there however.
The people are from all over and I think it still might hold true that for every three who come two leave. And some people can be really snotty – especially if you move into neighborhood of young financial professionals. We did and we made only few friends out of the dozens of homes nearby. However we did make very good friends with other neighbors and in the organizations we joined( hiking club, birding group, things at ASU etc). But that can and does happen everywhere. We have friendly neighbors here in PA but we are all busy and have differing interests so we rarely see them and don’t really socialize beyond the mailbox usually.
It sounds like you had a bad experience in AZ and you are turned off by it. I get it and that’s a shame for you. You are really not giving an accurate picture of the place however.
Thank u for balancing out the point of view that Derrick presented…the first time I visited Phoenix I didnt want to leave my hotel room because my sandals felt like they were melting while walking outside.
But that was when I was a kid in my 20s. I’m now 40-something and after living life, mostly in the frigid Northeast, working like a dog, I have come to love sauna heat! It’s good for my bones…
There are a ton of East Coasters I know who have made the move out West, and they’re not just old folks with little money. There are people who spent their lives hoping to make a difference in society, and maybe not all will end up in AZ, but some will. Hopefully over time, that may help to alleviate some of the problems that Derrick states.
Joan
Hi hananh
Your comment about burn,sting,poke or bite is right on.. The state is beautiful, An the flys are god awful . An not to mention the chemicals I’ve had to spray to keep the scorpions an what have u outta of my house. Summer’s ar way to hot. Winter the flys are so bad u can’t go sit on you patio no wonder the houses are so big you stay in them 24/7 unless you go to some other building that’s cool.we are coming up on a year here an I’ve tried to meet people the cost of living is good. We lived in southern cal the traffic high cost of living the cost of housing. They tax u to death. I lov the cold an a warm fire in winter but I’m in my sixties in great shape my husband still works an will probably continue he wouldn’t know what to do. In five years I’d love to go to Idaho or Michigan cause we lived there for 15 yrs. an loved it.. I’m stuck in Az for now just trying to survive.
You must be young. When you grow “older” you will learn to enjoy a place of quiet and beauty. Try San Diego!!!!! Ya got a lot of money cuz it’s REALLY expensive, NO WATER, people living here from all over the world, it’s not like it was in the “old days”. Good luck to you!
As someone that lived in Phoenix for a year, and then bailed as fast as possible to a different state (California), I can’t agree more with everything you’ve said here. I guess I can see how some people would love Arizona, but I’m not one of those people. I can also see how a lot of people would really dislike Phoenix too- from the scorching hot weather ( and don’t let “but it’s a dry heat” fool you, 120 degree is burning hot, no matter what kind of spin you put on it), to the near zero humidity, to the oppressive conservative attitude, and the lack of culture (I swear, Arizona is behind national trends by at least a year), it just seemed too hot, too boring, and too politically backwards for someone like myself. Phoenix would definitely be great if you’re someone who’s looking to retire somewhere warm, but if you’re under forty, and want a culturally vibrant place to live, this isn’t it. Plus everything outside is either trying to burn, sting, poke, or bite you, and during most of the year you need to have your AC or heating going constantly, and a sprinkler on in your yard, or you end up sweating and your yard ends up a brown, dead, fire hazard. NO THANKS!
As someone who is definitely under-40, I can tell you I love Arizona! Arizona is one of the top places for job growth, we have a business-friendly state and lots of companies are moving to AZ. It’s definitely hot in the summer, but lots of places are hot in the summer. Most people run their A/C in the summer across the United States.
Agreed don’t do it. Moving back to Diego worst year of my life. I an in my early 50’s if your young you will hate it.
I totally agree with you ,I’ve been in arizona all my life and I’m dying here!! I want out! The heat is killing me . There nothing to do here just movies , eating at restaurants or a mall that’s it ! You have to go real far up north to sedona or prescott to get decent weather. We habe no winters anymore just this dreadful heat .Can’t garden can’t grow anything the heat will kill it! Houses are built rite next to each other not much of a yard or privacy… so if I were you all I’d move elseswhere..im looking to get out asap!!!
Hater! Phoenix is great! I’m a millennial that moved from denver to Az. Everything about Phoenix better than Denver if you ask me. The only thing that makes Denver a hot city is the legal pot.
Your information was very helpful for me! I, for some odd reason, have been obsessed with Arizona since I was 17 years old. I was actually accepted into NAU, and planned on going. But my family talked me into staying home. I live in Saint Louis, MO and I’ve been wanting to move away for quite some time now. I will be making my first trip to Phoenix next month and I plan on moving in February. I am currently discussing with my company to transfer there.
That’s awesome! I lived in St. Louis for 5 years when I was a kid, and loved St. Louis… but, I love Arizona even more! Check out arizonacoffee.com for some cool coffee shops to visit in AZ.
I lived in Des Peres, MO (a suburb of St. Louis) from age 10-15 so I know a bit about living in the midwest. There’s definitely a lot to see and do here in Arizona!
I grew up in St. Louis county and Des Peres was only 10 minutes away! I’ve been looking to move as well, currently live in DC but need someplace that’s more open. I’m thinking either Phoenix or Denver.
Awesome!
My daughter did her BA and MA at NAU. It is really more like a small private college. The professors there REALLY want to be there and sacrifice a lot to stay there. My daughter got a great education, was able to do undergraduate research in her field which is hard to do. It propelled her to an Ivy for her doctorate. I am sorry you were talked out of NAU. And Flag is a wonderful town. My daughter was so sorry to leave. She wants to definitely stay in the east as a professor and the ONLY exception to that would be if there would be an opening in her field for a tenure track position at NAU she said she’d be on a plane in a heartbeat!! Flag is very cold and snowy most years however! But you are only 2 to 3 hours away no matter what part of Phx you are living in!!
Great Article! I’ve been here for 8 years, and Plan on being here for the rest of my life!
Hi there. I accidentally stumbled upon your article. I’ve been living in New York City for about 14 years and must admit that I’ve had enough. Don’t get me wrong, I still love NY but I think I need a break. I recently came back from a trip to the west coast (my first ever) and I only saw a tiny part from Arizona while driving from Vegas to the Grand Canyon but ever since, I can’t get it out of my head. I’ve traveled up and down the East coast, from the Niagara Falls down to Florida but I haven’t found a place that I would find myself attracted to as much. I’m not sure whether it is the desert, the climate, the mountains or what it is that is just trying to reel me in. So, thanks for the article, it’s a nice change from most of the others trying to discourage people from going.
Veronika
Hi Vero, i totally agree with you! I drove across AZ, and I loved it. Although Derreck comment sounded pretty negative, and a pretty high grade of pessimism, I still am very interested in Phoenix… and as cyclist, this place looks amazing.
All the best! David
hi Vero and David… just saw your messages. I totally agree with you. Road trips in Arizona are awesome. The scenery can change so much in just a few hours.
I can drive from here in Scottsdale where I live to Flagstaff in 4 hours or so, and see snow and go skiing. Or, I can drive south to Tucson and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine… so many options.
I recently did a road trip from Phoenix to Denver. We drove through Flagstaff, through the Tubac area, and then towards Four Corners. Then we stayed overnight in Moab. All of that we were able to do in one day of driving.
Thanks for your comment. The last time I visited NYC was when I was 7 years old. Hoping to return some time soon. I did make it out to PA, NJ, DE, and MD last year however.
Chris thanks for all of the info. My fiance & I are visiting Phoenix next month with the intention of relocating there permanently from Washington. You have great suggestions for sight seeing & we want to see it all, but our main goal this trip is more career focused. Any suggestions for major blue collar employers or industries there?
Jessica, great question! I saw an article that shows the top 15 employers in Arizona:
Here’s where I got the data.
Hope that helps!
Hey there, I am thinking about re-locating to Phoenix for work, I’m originally from NY and currently living in Ohio – needless to say I’ve had just about enough of this cold weather. If I were to move there, what suburbs would you recommend? Essentially just a nice low crime suburban area. Thanks!
It kind of depends on where you work. But, Chandler and Gilbert are growing like crazy. Scottsdale and North Phoenix are safe. Tempe is also growing. The whole city is so expansive that it really does depend on where your workplace is… if you work in Tempe, but choose to live in Avondale, you’ll have to drive almost an hour to work!
Hi-
I’m considering a move to the Phoenix area. I was there visiting a friend in Chandler. I loved it! I am on a very tight budget and it looks like Mesa is the only area that is even close to being affordable for me. Would you recommend it?
Thanks!
Mesa is a great place to live, but I’m not sure it is any less affordable than Chandler.
Even more affordable and newer homes is Queen Creek and San Tan Valley which is 15 minutes southeast of Mesa. Currently the counties are offing Zero Down Financing options with no repayment required. Here’s a link of what available:
http://bit.ly/1YI7rIE
The Ahwatukee Foothills just off I 10 as you are heading out of Phoenix towards Tucson.
I thought Ahwatukee was scorpion central?
What would be a good safe area to live with children when the work place is located in Tolleson?
Check out Avondale, Litchfield Park, El Mirage, or Laveen. Also, Glendale.
Garden Lakes in Avondale, Az is very safe. I resided there for several years. The most affordable homes right now in the valley. Chris is right. Litchfield Park too but more pricey. Garden Lakes has low crime as lots of airforce brass reside there. Very close to Tolleson.
What a neat website. Hubby may have to relocate to Arizona from NJ within the next year. My only problem is I have a severely handicapped adult son. Apparently Arizona is the NUMBER ONE state in the entire country for people with developmental disabilities. If anyone has any info about that, I’d appreciate it, as I may be going West, young man! And I must say I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve heard really wonderful things about AZ.
Wow I had no idea we were #1 in that category. Is that #1 in care for handicapped, or that we have the most handicapped? Welcome to Arizona!
It means that there are no waiting lists for services for the developmentally disabled. AZ is the ONLY state in the union that has no wait lists, which, if it works correctly, means that parents and caregivers get much-needed help. No. 2 is NH, which is also a fabulous state. So, my hats off to AZ. You guys should be very proud of this fact because every state is different and some states have wait lists which are YEARS long and terrible services. I’m a-political, but I find it very ironic that a red state that so many people make fun of as being gun-totin’ and foreigner-fearing and ignorant has this very liberal policy. I come from a very blue state, and we are nowhere near the top of the list. This rating is according to Disability Scoop. Also, if you go to medicaidwaiver.org and click on AZ, you will see that they have no waiting lists. Yay, Arizona! Apparently they must care just a little bit about their people. Also, last I checked, the University of AZ is the most handicapped accessible university in the country — 100% accessible. Good for you guys.
Lori,
did you end up moving to AZ? I am from NJ too & will be heading that way with my wife shortly.
This is a great article! Now I just gotta convince my husband to make the move! How does the company Trader Joe’s do over there?? That’s who I’m employed with.
There are several Trader Joe’s around here, and they’re always busy. I can think of 3 within 10 minutes of my home in Scottsdale.
Hey there, I am thinking about relocating to Phoenix next year in June. I’m a Georgia native and have lived in Georgia my entire life and I am ready for a change. I am going to attend school and I am looking to find a job. I’m thinking about attending Grand Canyon University for my Masters Degree. Do you have any information on nice affordable apartments near the college campus? Or in that area in general. Thanks for all the information. I am very excited to visit Arizona in either March or April next year. And I can’t wait to make it my home.
Thanks for visiting my site!
I’m actually not an expert on apartments around here. I do know friends who have attended GCU, but they all lived in houses.
We are planning on moving out there next year. We are thinking Chandler or Gilbert, but I am worried they are a little too large of towns. I worry about getting into programs with the park district, crowded movie theaters and lines at restaurants, over crowded schools. We both work from home so no commuting issues. Any experience knowing how livable those towns are?
Gilbert and Chandler are really livable. You’ll love them. They’re not that crowded, since they’re so spread out.
Check out Liberty Market in Gilbert. Awesome place for dinner/coffee. Also, Joe’s BBQ is awesome.
Hey chris! My family and I are moving to Arizona from Oklahoma. We are very excited! The only thing is his work is in tolleson, and Gilbert. We don’t know which is a better spot to move. Any advise ?
Gilbert is really on the rise. Gilbert, AZ has been really popular for people moving to Phoenix. Also, check out Chandler and Mesa next door. Or, Queen Creek is a little further out.
I too am from the St. Louis area. We are planning a trip in March to look at homes and employment. What do you think about the Queen Creek & San Tan Valley area?
Queen Creek and San Tan Valley are really nice as well… the only thing, is you’ll find it takes you 45 minutes to drive to central Phoenix. So, keep that in mind.
We made our visit. I got a job at the hospital in Mesa, and bought a house in Queen Creek. Will be there in a few weeks. I am really looking forward to it.
Awesome! Welcome to AZ.
Hope everything is going OK for you. Have you adjusted to the intense Summer heat? We were recently in the Phoenix area to determine if relocating to the Valley would be right for us. Went out to Phoenix area in November 2014 and recently in July 2016. Oh my, what a difference in temps!
Hi Jauna, we are thinking of relocating to either St Louis or Scottsdale. How do you compare the two places? Is summer heat in Phoenix really that bad? Could you give some advices? Thank you
Hi Chris,
I’m moving to Phoenix in a year. What are the best areas to live in. I have a four year old and want to be in low crime area as it will only be my son and I. Thank you!
Nevermind, just saw your recent post!
Sounds like you got the answers you were looking for. Thanks for visiting!
Hello, my family is looking to move to Phoenix from Ohio in a Safe neighborhood Close to airport Between Phoenix and Scottsdale. Could you please recommend neighborhoods with great schools as well as family friendly. We have a 3 1/2 and 6 month year old. Our oldest is currently in Montessori preschool. Thanks in advance for all your help as I have only lived in the Midwest.
Great question. You might check out some of the neighborhoods in Tempe, but really there’s so many places within 15 minutes of the airport. I live in Scottsdale at Thunderbird and I can get to the airport in 15-20 minutes. North Phoenix might also be a good choice.
Hi there, my family and i are looking to relocate sometime in the next couple of years and have heard great things about Arizona, One of the biggest issues i have living in Michigan is allergies, they bother me the whole year. I was hoping to find relief in a drier state, but from some of the comments i read here, im starting to second guess this decision. Is Arizona that bad with allergies?
Most people seem to have no issue with allergies. I’ve had issues the last few years, but if I stay indoors and don’t do yard work it’s not really an issue. It’s every year around late February for a month, maybe.
Honestly, most people don’t have an issue.
I resided in Az for 27 years. Allergies are bad in the fall & spring. I moved to the coast of Oregon and my allergies are much better here do to the salt ocean air. No issue at all with them.
But the damp weather is very bad & now I have huge pain issues. I’d rather deal with the allergies for a few weeks.
Hi, we have have a chance to relocate to phoenix, but not sure yet. How are the utility bills? We are thinking high do to the Hot weather. Also what are the best places to live if the job is on n. 43rd ave. thanks
You asked about utility bills. My home is about 2,400 sq. feet and in 2013 here’s what I spent on utilities:
Electric: $2,317.59
Gas: $368.84
Water/Sewer/Trash: $1,161.44
I hope that helps!
Hi Chris! I am moving to the Gilbert area from Chicago this coming June , I’m so excited! I dread the winters here and Love sunshine! Your articles and post are great information, I thank you for answering all the tough questions! I was really curious about the utilities as well, now I have the answer, Thanks!
Glad that I have been able to help!
I would say it all depends on allergies.
we are getting ready to go visit there and give it a shot. If all else fails we will move to a different state or go back to California which we are getting tired of due to excessive laws, taxes and losing rights.
Hi Chris. Nice page, thanks for the information. Could you give some advise as to what are the best cities around Phoenix that are not huge retirement areas? Thanks!
Sun City is a retirement area, but in my opinion the rest of the valley doesn’t have the feel of a retirement zone. Perhaps some parts of Paradise Valley. But, Paradise Valley is where some of the rich retired people live.
Greetings! I haven’t watched your videos yet. I have just been reading through parts of the rest of it. There is a State Farm Insurance branch in Phoenix and I would think that would help with the economy somewhat (in addition to the places you mentioned). Not too sure about the negative comments regarding water. It boggles my mind to think a state can actually run out of water.
Anyway, I am researching warmer/hot states as I’d like to be gone from the Midwest before next winter. You spoke of diversity as it refers to weather. I was interested in firsthand knowledge about demographics, racial diversity if you will, coupled with socioeconomic stats. I read some stats but it was from 2010. I enjoy cultural events and would hate to lose anything like that when I move. So, I would like to get someone’s opinion who actually live there. It would be nice.
I admit I was not particularly enthralled with the idea of moving to Phoenix but the more I learn the better I can decide. So I haven’t ruled Phoenix out but I still have health related things to research and I am none too thrilled with the idea of dust storms, scorpions or huge spiders and goodness gracious, snakes! My research continues. I’ll decide soon enough.
Thanks so much for sharing this information.
M
Hi Mibo, its diverse, esp. around the Univ. of AZ area.
Hey Chris…I am a single guy 30’s looking to move from NY to the PHX area next month. I already secured a job in sales in the Arrowhead area and have looked at apartments, primarily in the Avondale area near I-10 and 101. Also in Glendale and Peoria off the 101. Are you familiar with these areas? As much as I’d like to be in Scottsdale or Tempe (where everyone else wants to be), I really liked the areas I visited in the West Valley. Plus it’s closer to my job. Your 2 cents?
I know lots of friends that love the west side, and Avondale area. I don’t really have any good recommendations for places to live over there. Avondale is really new, and nice.
Hi..looking to move to Phoenix area in the fall..We were out there last summer and have narrowed down where we want to live..thinking Peoria or Surprise..we want to be by Lake pleasant..how are these areas?..we will also need a furnished apt first..any recommendations?
Both Peoria and Surprise are great places to live. Also you could consider Cave Creek. It’s probably the same driving distance.
Hi.. great blog. I am looking to relocate to Scottsdale and have 2 boys 10 and 8. We are from NY and NJ and are looking for an area in Scottsdale that has tons of young kids/families and lots of activities/community for kids. Any suggestions on places to live with loads of kids maybe even East Coast transplants? Also – best private school recommendations in the area? How is DC Ranch? My kids play hockey and are big golfers.
Hi.. your blog is great. I am planning on relocating with 2 boys 10 and 8 years old from NJ/NYC. I am looking for areas in Scottsdale to live with my family. We want to be in an area with tons of kids that play outside and where there are tons of activities. We are in a great neighborhood and in order to move it needs to be a fun spot. Any suggestions in Scottsdale. Both my kids play hockey and are avid golfers so a golf course community is a definite must. Any suggestions would be appreciated – where do all the NJ and NYC transplants live in Scottsdale? Also – what are the top private schools in the scottsdale area? We don’t want to deal with overcrowded public schools. Is Scottsdale a fun place to raise a family? I am worried by all the comments on the drugs, guns, and heat.
Amy, I think Scottsdale is a great place to grow a family. Check out my other web site for things to do in Phoenix with kids: http://www.thingstodoinphoenixwithkids.com/
How is DC Ranch?
DC Ranch is a really nice neighborhood. I’d say it’s a luxury area in Scottsdale.
Hi guys, thinking about moving to Arizona but not sure where yet. I have 2 kids. One will be going to college the other will be going into 4th grade.. I need them to be in a safe neighborhood and good school. Any suggestions will be helpful. Thanks
Paula, there are tons of awesome and safe places around metro Phoenix.
I’d start by looking near your kids’ college. Assuming that’s ASU, maybe try Tempe, Chandler, Scottsdale.
Hi, my husband and I are looking to relocate to the Phoenix area, we both have high school diplomas and work in the manufacturing industries. my question is, how easy is it to find factory work and or even retail work. We are not people looking to live rich, but working to live instead of living to work. Thanks
Cheryl remember Az is a right to work state so wages are lower than a union state you might consider that. But many job opportunities there much like Texas. Many union states have fewer job opportunities, factories are closing as the unions are demanding higher wages & more benefits. More industry is moving south, west & to Mexico as the unions are getting to greedy. Az has a huge service industry not alot of factory work. Lots of retail work available. A wonderful place to live & work.
My husband and I just got back a couple of weeks ago from a week-long visit to Arizona. We are from NJ. I have lived in NJ all my life and, pardon my language but, it sucks in NJ. The bottom three states to live in as far as taxes, no rights and excessive legislation are as follows: 48, NJ; 49, CA; 50, NY. We didn’t know how to act when we got to AZ. About four days into the trip I said to my husband, “Arizona treats people like adults.” He agreed. I love AZ and would move there tomorrow. I just would move north of Phoenix. AZ was not how I expected it to be. It is absolutely beautiful, it has all different climates, the people are very friendly and welcoming, and you can actually carry a gun!!!! We couldn’t believe it. Give me just two years. Loved it. Can’t wait to go back.
Ditto.
I will be relocating to Glendale soon and since I hate driving ( I’m from NJ and I walk everywhere) I’d like to know if it’s part of the culture of Maricopa County to ride a bike to go to places or walk. I heard from a friend that AZ people always drive – I don’t want to be seen as an “alien” just because I’m riding a bike to go to a store. I would appreciate if someone could answer my question.
It’s true that people in Arizona drive a lot. Phoenix has been described as a car city for a number of reasons. It’s hot here in the summer, so often people go from their air-conditioned house to an air-conditioned car. Truthfully, it just depends on where you live and how close it is to where you’re going.
HI! so glad you have this site! my wife and i are planning to move to AZ next year (waiting for the last kid to graduate). Thanks to this site, we have a little more idea of what AZ has to offer. 🙂
So glad to have stumbled on this site! My husband and I are making our first trip to Phoenix in two weeks and I am super excited!! Can you recommend must see places to see, things to do, places to eat?
We are contemplating moving there but want to go check it out good first. We’d be looking for a safe, neighborhood relatively close to activities, shopping and entertainment.
I’d love to get some feedback, thank you!
Tammy, glad to hear you are coming to Phoenix for a visit! If you’re thinking of moving here you may want to drive around a bit to get a feel for the area.
A couple of the most walkable downtown areas:
Old Town Scottsdale, Gilbert Water Tower, Tempe Mill Ave, Downtown Mesa, Scottsdale Quarter.
Must see places to see:
Musical Instrument Museum is pretty neat. That’s always fun.
Old Town Scottsdale has lots of cool old shops.
I’ll be honest, it’s a tricky question when people ask where they should live in Phoenix because it often depends on the job. It takes more than an hour to drive from Chandler to the far west valley. So, you need to pick a place to live based on commute to some degree.
Hi there! A bunch of my friends are moving to Arizona within the next few weeks, and, after living there briefly, am fascinated with the idea of going back.
I am not too worried about housing. Coming from Colorado, it will almost definitely be cheaper. As for jobs though, I’m not sure how the market is.
I work for Arby’s as a store manager, and I have over 15 years of food experience. My resume is sound, and I don’t change jobs ever. As far as restaurants go, how is the job market? Stability is my life and I’d like to be able to find a stable career there, not move from one job to another.
Any input would be greatly appreciated!!
i use to live in Az. Started in Phoenix bs k in 1985, lived in pardon, Prescott, flagstaff, I’m originalky from Wi. I moved back to wi in 2001, after jesting Az. To live in Tx. And Colorado. I’m going to be moving back to Az. In the Peoria area in 2017 when my son graduates from high school here in Wi. Done with eu yet, cold, snow, humidity, bugs that’s a big one, n not fond of cow manure anymore. So my question is related to insurance, emmisions, and over all job market. I’m a hair dresser, n I know about getting lcense changed over, I also am thinking about going into anime rescue there. Vern doing that here since 2002, My fiancé is manager of walmart will b transferred but wanting to get back into grocery management, he has experience past 25 years of that. Any hints would b great thank you. My aren’t live in dun city grand surprise, they bs e been there since 1985,mom retired now n dad a realitor we have a modular home ready for us when we get there…
Hi, my husband and I is planning to move to Arizona. We are from the cold state of Minnesota. My husband is a native of Minnesota, and I am from the Philippines. I lived and work there for three years, and I love the climate and the environment. We are considering Gilbert, but I don’t know if the housing is affordable and there’s a job for us. My husband is an electronic/maintenance technician, and I am a Nursing Assistant, and soon to graduate on Medical Coding. I hope you can give us an insight on what is better for us. Thanks for your time and God bless.
Hi Edna,
I think these types of jobs are available all over the valley, but I do know that Gilbert is an awesome place to live. Check out Liberty Market for awesome food! It’s a nice place. I know there’s a lot of great job opportunities for medical coding in the valley.
Best wishes,
Chris
I’M actually moving to az next July I’m a little nervous, because I’m not sure what to expect. I think I’m most nervous about the job market and housing. I’m hoping someone on this site that actually live in az can share information about the job market ( difficulty level to find a job) and best places to live for a single female.
The job market in AZ is terrific! Of course, it depends on your industry… but, things are thriving here.
This is great! I’ve read most of the comments on this thread, and it’s further piqued my desire to move to Phoenix!
We are relocating from Ohio in February! We are a family of 5 with little ones. My husband will be working north of Phoenix at the PetSmart headquarters. What areas should we check out to live that are safe and have good schools? Any help would be great!
PetSmart is at I-17 and the Loop 101, right? That’s a great area. I’d check out the Desert Ridge area just to the east. I don’t know about the schools in that area, but it is nice.
From there, you have options being close to the freeway.
Hi Chris, I’m thinking or re-locating to Buckeye, AZ from the Midwest. Can you please tell me how’s the crime rate, schools and overall feel of the neighborhoods? I have two children one in high school and one in middle school.
Buckeye is a great place to live. Way out west. It’s somewhat close to Avondale. I’ve started a site about Avondale here: http://visitavondale.com/
I’ve never lived in Buckeye, so can’t really say for sure.
Thanks Chris, you are terrific!! My husband and I are flying out there next week to visit and hopefully secure a resident. Totally excited!
Love this site, thanks for your input. My husband and two little boys are seriously contemplating a move. We have visited a few times and love Gilbert. However some of the house prices seem a bit better in chandler (the side right next to Gilbert) and of course queen creek. Is there anything I should know about chandler- parts to avoid? Same with queen creek? Also, do you have any insight as to why there are always so many houses for sale? Is there just a lot of turnover? Any insight you have would be appreciated! Thank you!
I think the housing market in AZ is pretty good. My house value keeps going up (in Scottsdale). I think it’s a trend valley wide. I have lots of friends in Chandler and they love it. Lots of great places and growing. Gilbert has an awesome downtown. Queen Creek is further out so your house buying power goes up but then there’s the drive if you need to get to Phoenix.
Check out my other site: http://www.thingstodoinphoenixwithkids.com/
I have an article I’m trying to write about places to live in Phoenix, but it isn’t done yet.
Also, I’m trying to find the article you mentioned you were writing about places to living the the Phoenix area but i cannot find it. Could you post a link?
Hey Chris, love your site. So informative!! I am thinking of moving to AZ after I retire soon. I used to live there in the ’80’s and loved it but was completely homesick for my home in CT so I moved back. Now that I am older I am hoping that has passed. Anyway, looking for an area not too far from the Phx/Scottsdale area or therein for seniors. Any suggestions?
This is a wonderful Blog! My Wife and I took a 1 week tour of AZ back in 2014. We flew into Las Vegas, grabbed a rental car and worked our way thru the state and flew back to Milwaukee (home) from Phoenix. We visited , Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, and others. Absolutely loved it. It was in August so it was HOT and I didn’t mind the heat at all. My wife has family in Gilbert we also visited. They took us out on their boat which seemed odd being in a desert but there are flooded canyons you can swim/boat it.
Anyway, Since that trip We are dead set on moving to Gilbert, AZ. As soon as I can get our house ready and sold and one of us gets a job, we are there. Hopefully before the next Wisconsin winter (so over snow after 30+ tears here).
If you’re thinking of moving to AZ but aren’t sure, take a visit and explore a bit. As for the Wife and I, we plan to be spending next Winter in AZ.
Gilbert, AZ is such a cool city! It’s young, vibrant, and growing fast. Lots of cool places, and I love their downtown area and Liberty Market. There’s so much cool stuff to do in Gilbert. Thanks for the comment! We visit Wisconsin frequently!
Hello my family and I plan on moving to the Phoenix area next year. We have an 14,13, and 9 Year old children. I’m from Illinois which is a union state and I know AZ isn’t just wanted to know if you can make a good living in the construction field. My wife will be transferring from State Farm so she won’t have a problem in her field of work thank you..
Yes, we have a really great construction industry here in Arizona.
Arizona is the 7th fastest growing state. it grew +6.82% from April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2015 (Source).
Thank you Chris Tingom for the information my wife and I will be flying out this weekend to check different areas out..
Something to add if you are considering moving. Arizona has more HOA’s than just about anywhere else on the Planet.
My boyfriend and I are in our early 20’s and were born and raised in San Diego. We recently have been talking about moving to AZ. Right now we live in a very old and outdated 700sqft. apartment paying $1,000.00 a month (cheap for San Diego) we are east of the city. we both have full time jobs but are always struggling to get by. EVERYTHING is expensive out here. Ive been looking online for 2bed 2bath apartments in AZ and the prices are awesome!
Do you know of any good areas that have nice apartments. we are looking to spend around the same amount in rent.
-By the way loved your site! very helpful!
Thanks.
Yeah, it’s pretty amazing how much apartment you can get here (compared to some other major cities). I would advise checking out the Arcadia area, south Scottsdale, or the North Phoenix areas. There are LOTS of apartment complexes, so you’ll definitely find something you like. Also, check out Tempe. It’s a great place.
Hey Chelsea, did you and your boyfriend make the move? My boyfriend and I, also in our early/mid 20s, be moving to a condo in Scottsdale/Paradise Valley from Ohio in the fall. I’m wondering if you’ve made friends in the city. Where are all the hangouts, and what job industry are you in?
Thanks!
Taylor
Where is the best place to live if you work in Tempe at ASU?
There is not much conversation on air quality but research shows the air quality is particularly bad in the valley. That said are there areas with more or less smog. I was stationed in Phoenix at Wiilliams twice and Luke. At that time there literally no Gilbert or Buckeye or surprise and Chandler was a small place to drive through. In Scottsdale Shea was the far north side of Scottsdale. My how times have changed.
Hi Chris,
Love your site. I am thinking of moving to AZ after I retire soon. I looking for an area not too far from the Phx/Scottsdale area or therein for retirees. Any suggestions?
Carol, you’ll love Arizona! Scottsdale is where I live, so I always recommend it. I love living here in Scottsdale. So much to do, and close to everything else. I’d check into homes all over Scottsdale. There’s something for everybody.
Carol, you’ll love Arizona! Scottsdale is where I live, so I always recommend it. I love living here in Scottsdale. So much to do, and close to everything else. I’d check into homes all over Scottsdale. There’s something for everybody.
Im Australian but still a person that loves to visit america
Thanks for visiting!
Hi Chris,
My husband and I are planning on moving to sun city in a couple years when we retired…. Im very scarced of snakes and scorpions…. Do I need to worry about theses two things?.. Thank you …
Hi Darcy, some areas have scorpions, and others do not. We tend to see a half dozen scorpions each year at our house, while I know people only 10 minutes away in Scottsdale who have never seen a scorpion.
I’ve never seen a snake at my house.
I lived in Az for 27 years & only saw a snake once. They stay out of the city areas mostly in the desert & rocky areas & field areas.
A question to ask your realtor or ask the neighbors in areas you are interested in moving too. Not like Florida which is crawling with snakes.
Darcy, i wouldn’t fear scorpions. I did a lot of research on them prior to going to Arizona for vacation, which set a lot of potential fears at ease. From what i hear and read there’s only one type of scorpion that can even potentially be fatal to humans in Arizona. They do have an “anti venom” for this as well from what i read at area hospitals, and there has not been any scorpion related fatalities in Arizona since 1968! Look up the “Arizona bark scorpion” if you want to do any research of your own.
I hope this sets you at ease, at least when it comes to scorpions, they’re really nothing to worry about 😉
Shawn, thank you…. we are planning on moving to Az. . in two years to sun city where we will retired… I sure hope I dont see any scorpions…. yikes!
I’m an AZ native, born, raised, and have never lived anywhere else and I cannot wait to move out of AZ. It will always be my home but I cannot stand having no seasons and being stuck indoors for 8 months out of the year. During summer break I was always stuck indoors and now my daughter is too. The rental prices are going up but incomes aren’t. After almost 27 years of being here, I’m over it. Plus the snow birds drive me crazy! The drivers here truly suck. Unless you like dirt, cactus and rock with very little green, I wouldn’t move here
Well i would suppose many people get tired of where they’ve lived their whole lives! I know i have! I currently live (born and raised) in Chicago. I’m 34 years of age now, and ever since coming down to Phoenix for my first time only a few months ago; I’m SOLD!
I want to live there SO bad that I’m contemplating just doing it. By that i mean, prior to lining up employment or even a place to lay my head at night! That’s right, I’m literally thinking of just heading down and living in/out of my car if it need be until i get things in order!
So while you may want OUT really bad, I want IN really bad! And if we both have something in common it’s that we’re both sick of where we’ve been so long!
Oh and i forgot to touch on the traffic comment, i actually also loved your traffic out there. People seem SO much more courteous on the road opposed to Chicago! In other words, if you don’t like the traffic there, DEFINITELY do NOT attempt to drive in Chicago 😉
Just moved out here from Chicago. We love it! The drivers are bad here. It’s just a different kind of bad then Chicago.
Hi everyone,
Does anyone know what sun city is best to live at? We are thinking the original sun city… any thoughts about the others? Tyvm
So far I have read some great information. I haven’t had a chance to read everything yet so hopefully my questions haven’t already been asked…Sorry if they have. I have visited Phoenix a few times on weekend trips and once visiting my dad when he lived there. (Now lives in Brazil) I pretty much fell in love with it. I googled both positives and negatives. The negatives really kind of made me cringe and not want to go regarding crime and drugs. Although there are lots of positives. My husband works for QT Kitchens and they have a location in Tolleson, AZ. We live currently south of Kansas City, Missouri. We were looking at Peoria as a possibility. We have kids so good schools are a must, but our income is not very big. Currently around 30k. Are there other areas semi close to Tolleson that are good areas? I know from what I have read Tolleson itself is not that great, especially school wise. Also, what are typical electric bills? Here we run the AC at 80 during the day and 75 at night and our electric runs about $150-$170. Thank you so much for your help and I look forward to learning more.
Our electric bill was very high the first month. We do have a large house though. We moved in June. SRP has time of use plans and that helped lower our bill a lot. So look into the plans for sure! If you call and tell them about your lifestyle they will find the best plan for you. I have heard that people have bills under $200 in the summer with no pool and keeping AC at 80 or higher during the day. I can’t help much with places to live since we are south. It does seem like the better schools are in high priced areas.
Thanks for your reply!
In Arizona, we typically have extremely low heating costs during the winter, and this tends to offset the higher air conditioning costs in the summer.
Im moving to phx in november because my work is moving there from orem utah. Ive lived in utah my whole life (26 years) i wont lie im really nervous to move and leave home so its good to come across this positive article. Im a little worried about crime since its so safe in utah too
Metro-Phoenix is considered a very safe city. Sure, there are a few areas that are safer than others, but I don’t think you should be worried.
Hello. My family and I are moving to phoenix next year. My husband is a trucker and I am looking to get back in a bakery, my delima as with any other place I’ve lived is that I have a felony conviction. Will my employment opportunities be limited?? Also we are looking to rent to own near Glendale, any suggestions? Thank you. This is soo helpful.
Glendale is a very popular place to live in the valley.
Hi Chris,
I am a single male physician in my mid 30s looking to move to PHX from NYC where I have been all my life. I love NYC’s ethnic diversity, rich culture, and the restaurant/bar options. While I don’t expect to duplicate this anywhere in the country, can you help me figure out where I could live that would afford me some of these things? Coming home and heading to a nice restaurant/bar with outdoor seating is my cup of tea. More importantly, most of my offices are in the northwest (Sun City, SUrprise, etc). Being within 30 mins of this area would be ideal. Any thoughts on where to live to engage in a social scene that may suit my taste? Thanks in advance!
I’d suggest taking a look at Peoria, Glendale, or the Desert Ridge area.
Those would all be a reasonable commute.
Arizona has so many restaurants, it’s unbelievable. I live in Scottsdale, and there are probably 100 restaurants within 3-4 miles.
Great information here. I lived in Paradise Valley in the late 80’s/early 90’s. I’ve been in Georgia for 25 years and have recently retired and am considering moving back to the beautiful Valley of the Sun! I’ve missed it ever since I left. I’m considering Anthem. Do you have any thoughts or know anything about Anthem? Thanks much for any info anyone has!
Hi, I have a 6 year old daughter and a 5 year old son.
We are moving to Phoenix AZ in one year.
And I really need help with public schools (excellente ranking)
We look for a very nice and family area to live.
Thanks for your help
Your articles are amazing!!
Phew *wipes brow* thought I’d never get to the end of reading all these comments.
A born n bred Londoner with family across the US in particular my eldest brother who has been living in Scottsdale for the last 25 years.
I’m seriously considering a move to AZ but undecided between there or FL state where I mainly spend a lot of my time when visiting the US.
I really need to do more research on AZ as only been there twice and this forum and the comments has helped somewhat.
Hi! My husband lost his job. He is 63 and I’m 62. What do people do about health coverage until they hit 65? We are thinking about Arizona due to lower cost of living as we live on Long Island NY. We visited AZ in 2015 and liked it very much.
Thought I’d keep this going.
Lived in the Midwest my entire life, from Detroit to Chicago. Been in Chicago for the last 22 years with 2 kids and a wife. Loved the city except for the past 5, crime, traffic, budget woes and the weather (more as I get older), has us moving to AZ in the near future.
We have family in Maricopa, but its the year round activities that has me more interested in moving than anything else. We love the outdoors and although we have plenty to do around here, its usually the cost and traffic that keeps us from doing it. Everything is either north (go through city) or east (drive around lake), that’s enough to keep us from taking a day trip.
We’ve been to AZ numerous times, so were aware of the heat in the summer, its the jobs that has kept us from moving, that is until recently. My company wants to relocate some of the staff to Tempe and I jumped all over it.
Cant wait to start doing some research.
Others experience moving from the Midwest would be helpful.
Thanks in advance!!
Chicago to the Tempe area is a big change! You’ll love it.
Hi my family and I are moving from the Midwest to Phoenix this summer for work. My husband will be working in Midtwon Phoenix. I would like suggestions on communities/suburbs to live. We would like a safe area with great schools. We are moving from a very small town with lots of fields and very limited diversity. I want the easiest transition for my son with limited culture shock. With this in mind we would like a community that is not super crowded, safe to ride bikes, and has 40% caucasian population. *We are not racist in the slightest I just want my son to have a smooth transition and being in a community where the majority of people speak English as a second language may not be the smoothest transition.
Hi, I suggest checking out Chandler or Gilbert. There are areas around there that should give you that “fields” view.
Laveen could be another option. Very new area.
It’s monsoon season now in Phoenix. I was doing some research on some of the damage in the city and came across your post. Although it’s 2018, its still timely. Thanks.
I visited Phoenix back in the early 90’s in August and I was surprised how comfortable it was. As you mention, it’s a dry heat (it was when I went) and while I was only there for 2 days, the weather was pleasant. I thought the monsoon comment was a joke but it sounds like you have your rainy season after all. That’s fine by me as I love the rain. I’ve been considering moving someplace warm but hate the humidity thus Florida’s out of the question. I’ll have to consider Phoenix now.
I just moved to Phoenix and it’s hot!
I’m looking for an indoor 24 hour track.
I enjoy running. But this heat is too much. And I’m not a morning person.
This is a late comment but just had to give my input. Living in Phoenix was one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had. They have terrible pollution and most everyone there has allergies because of the dust/dry air. I had allergies all year round and had bronchitis at least 3-4 times a year. I grew up in WI and never ever dealt with this before. It just smells like dirt there. And the dry air is terrible for your skin and health. No thank you. Another thing is the drivers are terrible. Accidents all the time and people are crazy on the road. Also AZ will run out of water eventually it’s just a given and the facts are there. It’s overcrowded, overrated and I guarantee that you will develop allergies after moving there. Check your weather app for Phoenix and it almost always says unhealthy air quality. I’ve lived in over 10 different cities and Phoenix was by far the worst.