Curious about what living in Phoenix is like? Let’s set the record straight about what the Valley of the Sun is all about. Sure, what you’ve heard about the heat might have you sweating already, but there’s so much more to this vibrant city than just scorching temperatures. From stunning sunsets to a lively cultural scene, here’s why Phoenix might just be the coolest place to call home.
What It’s Really Like Living in Phoenix, Arizona – Straight From the Locals
People are subjective, which means that certain things that are good for someone else don’t have to be necessarily good for you as well. But based on what locals think, residing in The Valley of the Sun is an overall positive experience.
Do you like being in the sun, enjoying outdoor activities and lovely sunsets? Would you like to be close to many other states and have a spontaneous weekend trip whenever you want? If so, there’s no reason to scratch your head trying to decide where to live – Phoenix is your perfect match.
The City Is Pretty Welcoming to Newcomers
This city’s residents are known for their warm hospitality – often as warm as the desert sun! Locals are genuinely friendly and eager to strike up a friendly chat, so you’ll quickly feel at home here. They’ll also tell you just how easy it is to get a job here, as well as share which of the many popular attractions and events you should check out.
Of course, as in every community, there are downsides. Obviously, when there are more than 1.6 million people scrambling around the city in scorching heat, that can be challenging to get used to. On top of that, sometimes there are strong winds that carry sand, and if you’ve never experienced that, chances are you won’t be that delighted when you experience it for the first time.
Is Living in Phoenix Expensive?
It’s important to know you’ll be able to maintain the same quality of life after the move. As for the cost of living in Phoenix, it’s best to compare it with cities in another state to get a clearer picture.
For instance, it’s way cheaper than Los Angeles – just take a look at Numbeo and you’ll see how big of a difference it is, especially when it comes to buying or renting an apartment. You might even have enough left over for an extra cactus or two!
Similarly, the cost of living in Chicago shows that almost everything costs more here than in the Valley of the Sun. Then again, if you compare it with the cost of living in Austin, you’ll see that only rent is more expensive there. All in all, it’s all about weighing your options and figuring out what works best with your budget.
Keep in mind that the average yearly salary here is around $64,000, but it’s also one of the best cities for jobs and opportunities that go well beyond this number. A four-person family spends a bit over $3,000 per month, meaning that the costs here really are reasonable.
Job Hunting in Phoenix – Easy or Not?
Moving to Phoenix brings a lot of opportunities in various aspects, and career growth is definitely one of them. This is a big city – the fifth biggest in the nation – and with a little look around, you’ll get the job you want. The population is growing, many companies are coming to this community, and tourism is always thriving due to the many sunny days.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates are dropping each year, and wages and salaries are increasing. Similar to other cities, the best-paid job positions are doctors (surgeons, dentists, and other specialists), as well as chief executives. Here’s a list of the top five companies to apply to if your profession isn’t mentioned above:
- Cable ONE,
- Avnet,
- Western Alliance Bank,
- Freeport-McMoRan,
- Alliance Residential.
The biggest employer is the State of Arizona, with nearly 50,000 employees. Wal-Mart, Banner Health, the city authorities, and Wells Fargo are the others in the top five by the number of employees. So, if you’re looking to get a job before you move, connecting with one of these employers would be a smart move.
Phoenix’s Best Spots – Places to Check Out Before You Contact Cross-Country Movers
The most populous state capital in the US certainly has a lot of charming neighborhoods. Whether you’re raising a family, living it up on a solo adventure, or preparing for college dorm life, there’s a place for everyone. Here are the best neighborhoods in Phoenix based on the quality of life they offer:
Desert View
Desert View is rated as the top place to live in the capital of Arizona. It’s in Maricopa County, and almost 44,000 people live there. The vibe is dense suburban, it’s great for families, and the schools in this community are held to a high standard.
Ahwatukee Foothills
Another place in Maricopa County, Ahwatukee Foothills comes second, mainly due to its high level of safety. It’s a suburban neighborhood with a strong feeling of community. It’s the kind of place where neighbors might just drop by with cookies – or, more likely, sunscreen!
Camelback East
Camelback East offers excellent nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes. It’s one of the most established areas, surrounded by the Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. The rents are pretty affordable. Plus, you’ll be so close to all the action that your biggest problem will be choosing between tacos and sushi for dinner!
Rio Vista
Rio Vista is great if you wish to buy a property. It’s an urban village in the northern part of the city, and more than 80% of residents own their homes there. With its well-maintained parks and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a stable and community-focused environment.
Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods since the median household income is more than $100,000. If you’re looking for an elite community, this could be the one. With its luxurious homes, stunning mountain views, and top-notch amenities, it’s all about high living.
The Ultimate List of Living in Phoenix Pros and Cons
Just like any place on the map, residing in Arizona’s capital comes with its fair share of advantages and disadvantages. So, before you start packing and booking the long-distance moving services you’ll need, it’s important to know both the good and the bad. Let’s take it one step at a time.
The Weather Is Both a Pro and a Con at the Same Time
We’re not going to lie – it’s hot. The city is located on the upper edge of the Sonoran Desert, and summer can hit 110°F in July. On the flip side, it’s heaven for everyone who hates the cold and the snow – there isn’t any. Winter is mild, and there is virtually no rain – only 9 inches of rainfall throughout the year, and the national average is 38 inches.
Heat is a lot harder to bear when the air is humid, but that’s not a problem here – the desert air is, of course, pretty dry. However, there is a problem with dust storms which can be pretty unpredictable. If you get caught in one during your daily commute, it’s best to park the car and wait for it to pass, since it significantly reduces visibility. Once that becomes second nature to you, you’ll know you’ve become a true Arizonian!
Commuting Is Not as Bad as in Other Cities but There’s Increased Traffic During Winter
Here, it’s very easy to get around. You’ll find your way easily because the community is planned as a grid and the roads are spotless. The freeway system is composed of three major freeways – Interstate 10, Interstate 17, and US Route 60.
While bringing your four-wheeler with the help of a relocation and auto transport company is always a good idea, public transportation is also available. Locals use Metro rail and buses, as well as RAPID commuter bus services, taxis, and Uber.
There’s just one thing to keep in mind – people from other states who want to run from the cold regularly come here during the winter months. Locals refer to them as “snowbirds”. Once they arrive, the number of car accidents rises and so does the time you spend in traffic jams, so it’s important to be prepared for it.
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Read moreGot Energy? The City Offers Plenty of Outdoor Fun!
There are close to 200 golf courses, many hiking trails, beaches, lakes, picnic spots, and even trails for horseback riding. All in all, the Valley of the Sun has many ways for you to escape the everyday hustle and bustle.
If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Phoenix, you can go water-skiing, boating, or fishing in Canyon Lake – it’s less than an hour’s ride away. Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area is excellent for hiking and biking, as is Dreamy Draw Recreation Area. Being closer to nature and having an active lifestyle is beneficial for both your body and your mind – as an outdoorsy person, you know that better than anyone.
A Couple of Additional Things to Know about Relocating to the Valley of the Sun
Before you go ahead and hire long-distance movers, you should know a few more things. First and foremost, because of the heat, June and July are not the best times to move. Of course, if you’re planning to relocate during summer, it’s not impossible – just be prepared. And remember, you might end up with a tan before you even unpack the boxes!
There Are a Lot of Popular Annual Events in Phoenix
Once you reach this place, you’ll quickly realize that it’s far from lacking in the culture and nightlife department. A number of festivals occur every year, such as Tacolandia, the annual taco festival, and Improv festival, a celebration of improvised comedy and drama. On top of that, Comic-Con happens in May, and even if you’re not that into it, it’s a blast!
The museum scene is also vibrant, and you’ll be able to visit the Art Museum, Center for Creative Photography, Heard Museum, Symphony Hall, and many more. Plus, with so many cultural spots, you’ll have plenty of excuses to trade in your TV binge for some high-class eye candy.
It’s Home to Great Food, Especially Mexican
From fine dining to cheap eats, this place has amazing food. It’s very diverse, but the main influence is from Mexico, as Arizona has been a Mexican territory up until 1912.
Some of the best spots are Binkley’s Restaurant and Wright’s at the Biltmore if you’re up to some fancy meals. You can also grab lunch at True Food Kitchen or at Hillstone. If you’re looking for some cheap bites, Chino Bandido is an excellent option – they serve not only Mexican dishes but Asian as well.
Road Trips Are a Huge Thing Here
The state is close to California, Nevada, Mexico, and many national parks. So, if you’re looking for something to do over the weekend, the possibilities are endless. All you’ve got to do is hire a company such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving to help bring your four-wheeler as well.
Las Vegas and many fun parts of Los Angeles will be at your fingertips. You’ll have easy access to Big Bear Lake and Mountain, Rodeo Drive, Redondo Beach, or Disneyland Park. Mexico is well known as a vacation destination, so pick your favorite, get in the car, and enjoy it.
Our Relocation and Car Shipping Company Can Help You Get There in Style
So, there you have it – Phoenix is more than just a desert with a side of sunburn! With its vibrant arts scene, friendly locals, and a wealth of outdoor activities, you’ll find yourself trading your winter coat for shades in no time.
But cross-country moving is no joke, and you’ll need experienced Phoenix movers for this job. Our long-distance moving company, Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving, offers help in various aspects, from the usual shipping to complete packing services. Let our team handle the heavy lifting while you focus on exploring the new city. Contact us today, and we’ll make the move smoother than an Arizona sunset!
FAQ
What Is the Cost of Living in Phoenix Like?
The cost of living is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Housing costs are particularly affordable, with a median home price of around $400,000. However, other expenses such as food, transportation, and healthcare tend to be similar in cost to the national average.
How Is the Job Market in Phoenix?
The job market is relatively strong. The city has a diverse economy with industries such as healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and retail. In recent years, Phoenix has seen steady job growth, particularly in industries such as construction and professional and business services.
What Is the Weather Like in Phoenix?
The weather is hot and dry, with warm temperatures throughout most of the year. The area gets very little rainfall, with most of the precipitation falling in the form of infrequent but intense monsoon storms in the summer months.
How Is the Real Estate Market in Phoenix?
The real estate market has been strong in recent years, with steady growth in both home prices and sales volume. The area has seen an influx of new residents in recent years, driven by factors such as the relatively low cost of living, a strong job market, and attractive weather. However, it’s important to note that real estate markets can be subject to fluctuations and it’s always a good idea to research local market conditions and trends before making an investment.
How Is the Traffic in Phoenix?
The traffic can be congested at times, particularly during rush hour on weekdays. However, the city has been investing in expanding its public transportation system in recent years, which has helped to reduce congestion on some of the city’s busiest roads.
What Is the Food Scene Like in Phoenix?
The food scene is diverse and vibrant, offering a wide range of cuisine options to suit every taste and budget. The city has a rich culinary heritage, influenced by its Southwestern and Mexican roots, as well as its diverse population.
How Is the Healthcare in Phoenix?
The healthcare is generally considered to be good, with several top-ranked hospitals and a large number of healthcare providers. The city is home to several major health systems, including Banner Health and Dignity Health, as well as numerous specialty clinics and private practices.
How Is the Education System in Phoenix?
The education system is comprised of both public and private schools, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The city is home to several large school districts, including the Phoenix Union High School District and the Paradise Valley Unified School District. It’s also home to several colleges and universities, including Arizona State University, one of the largest universities in the country.