I’m Nick Reno, and I’ve spent 30 years moving around this country—sometimes on a whim, sometimes out of necessity. After dozens of relocations, I’ve learned a thing or two about settling down. Phoenix, Arizona, is one place I’ve come to know pretty well. Let me share what I’ve found, using both personal observations and some key data you might appreciate.
1. Introduction: Why I’m Sharing This
Living in different corners of the U.S. taught me that every city has its own heartbeat. People often assume Phoenix is just desert heat and cacti, but there’s a lot more going on. If you’re on the fence about moving here, I hope these highlights (and lowlights) give you some clarity.
2. Perk #1: Warm Weather
Phoenix sees about 78 days topping 90°F each year, and 0 days that dip below freezing. It has very hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and mild winters with cool nights. I personally don’t miss shoveling snow, though I sometimes wish for a cooler breeze in July.
3. Perk #2: Low Rainfall
The city averages 8 inches of rain annually. You won’t need an umbrella much, which I find convenient. On the flip side, if you’re used to lush green landscapes, the desert scenery might take some getting used to.
4. Perk #3: Manageable Living Costs
- Monthly Transportation Costs: \$110
- Monthly Utility Costs: \$150
- Cost of Living Index: 95
Compared to pricier metro areas, Phoenix can feel like a breath of fresh air. You’ll still want to budget carefully—nothing’s cheap if you overspend. But overall, I found basic costs didn’t break the bank.
5. Perk #4: Flexible Housing
- Average Age of Homes: 41 years
- Annual Property Tax Amount: \$2,892
- Property Tax Percentage: 0.66%
You’ll see a mix of older homes with character and newer developments with modern finishes. The property tax rate isn’t the lowest I’ve encountered, but it’s far from the highest.
6. Perk #5: Fair Rental Market
- 2-Bedroom Rent: \$1,400
- Home Rent: \$2,500
- Expensive Neighborhood: Arcadia
Arcadia can be a bit steep, but there are other areas more in line with typical budgets. I like the balance here—if you’re flexible on neighborhood choice, you can usually find a decent price point.
7. Perk #6: Employment Opportunities
- Top 3 Industries: Technology, Healthcare, and Education
- Population: 1,690,000
- Job Scene: strong job market with diverse industries including tech and finance
- Median Income: \$67,000
I appreciate the variety in Phoenix’s economy. If you’re skilled in tech, healthcare, or education, there’s a fair chance you’ll find work. Plenty of startups and established companies are planting roots here.
8. Perk #7: Quick Access to Healthcare
- EMS Response Time: 9 minutes
- Number of Doctors: 1,700
- Number of Hospitals: 53
I’ve lived places where a trip to the ER was a major hike. Here, you can generally reach medical assistance quickly. It feels reassuring, especially if you have kids or elderly family members.
9. Perk #8: Outdoor and Family Activities
- Number of Parks: 200
- 3 Outdoor Activities: Hiking, cycling, and picnicking
- Bike-Friendly Score: 68
The city invests in green spaces and bike paths—probably a necessity for those who want to stay active when it’s not blisteringly hot. Early mornings in Phoenix can be great for a refreshing bike ride.
10. Perk #9: Food and Nightlife
- Number of Restaurants: 300
- Restaurant Scene: Offers a diverse mix of cuisines with many food trucks and fine dining options
- Nightlife Scene: features an exciting mix of nightlife options ranging from trendy clubs and cocktail lounges to live music venues
I love the local restaurants here. Whether it’s a quick bite at a food truck or a dressy dinner downtown, you’ll find something tasty. The nightlife has grown a lot over the years, too—there’s always somewhere to unwind after a long day.
11. Perk #10: Community Events
- Number of Annual City Festivals: 20
- Live Events: performances at the Orpheum Theatre
- Farmers Markets: Phoenix Public Market normally open Saturday 8am–1pm
Weekends can be lively, with festivals and markets drawing crowds. I’m a fan of the Phoenix Public Market—it’s a fun way to find fresh produce and meet local artists. The Orpheum Theatre is a gem for cultural events.
12. Perk #11: Senior-Friendly Touches
- Retiree Tax Benefits: might be eligible for special property tax exemptions easing housing costs
- Senior Citizen Communities: Brookdale Phoenix
- Senior Citizen Clubs: Phoenix Senior Center has programs for elder residents including art classes and fitness sessions
Phoenix does a solid job supporting its older residents. If you or your relatives fit this demographic, these programs and benefits can make day-to-day life smoother.
13. Perk #12: Cultural Variety
- Largest Ethnic Group: Hispanic
- Second Largest Ethnic Group: White
- Political Climate: urban diversity with a mix of progressive and conservative politics
The city’s a tapestry of cultures, and I like hearing different languages on my morning coffee runs. It makes the place feel vibrant, and there’s usually some community event going on to celebrate heritage and traditions.
14. Drawback #1: Traffic Congestion
- Commute Time: 27 minutes
- Evening Traffic: evening congestion on Central Avenue
Driving can be a challenge at rush hour. I do my best to avoid peak times if I can. Otherwise, I arm myself with a good playlist or a podcast to keep my nerves calm.
15. Drawback #2: Serious Summer Heat
- Summer Weather Description: extremely hot and dry
- Summer Air Quality: moderate air quality affected by heat and high traffic
Temps can skyrocket well above 100°F. Air conditioning is not optional—you’ll need it to survive. I’ve never been a big fan of triple-digit heat, but at least the winters are mild.
16. Drawback #3: Local Taxes Can Add Up
- Annual City Tax Revenue per Resident: \$1,800
- Sales Tax Percentage: 8.60%
You might feel the pinch at the register, especially with sales tax hovering above 8%. Still, some find it more acceptable than living in states with higher income taxes.
17. Drawback #4: Crime Index and Security
- Crime Rate Index: 55
- Number of Police Officers: 6,000
Every city has its concerns, and Phoenix is no different. Keep an eye on local neighborhood stats if safety is a top priority for you. Basic precautions—locking doors, staying alert—usually go a long way.
18. Drawback #5: Questionable Water Taste
- Water Quality Score: 65
The tap water’s flavor can be a bit off. Some people install filters or opt for bottled water. If you’re not too picky, it may not bother you, but I use a filter.
19. Drawback #6: Higher-End Areas Are Pricey
- Expensive Neighborhood: Arcadia
Arcadia, in particular, can stretch a budget fast. It’s a lovely area, but if cost is a concern, keep in mind that many neighborhoods are more affordable while still offering great amenities.
20. Drawback #7: Air Quality in Winter
- Winter Weather Description: mild and sunny
- Winter Air Quality: mixed air quality with significant pollution from transportation
Traffic emissions can lower air quality during the cooler months. If you’re sensitive, consider an air purifier. Most people I know say the skies look clear enough, but the data suggests some pollution levels do rise.
21. Drawback #8: The City’s Always in Motion
- Migration In Total: 65,000
- Migration Out Count: 60,000
- Net Migration: 5,000
- Non-Citizen Move-In: 15,000
People come and go constantly. That can mean fresh perspectives, but it also might make it tough to form long-term ties with neighbors who move out. Overall, the net gain indicates the city’s still growing.
22. Final Thoughts: Is Phoenix Your New Home?
Phoenix, Arizona, offers as a major city offers extensive job opportunities and urban living attracting diverse residents. If you’re seeking steady employment in tech, healthcare, or education—and you can handle the summer heat—you might thrive here. The downsides are real, though, from traffic jams to higher sales tax.
When you’re ready to make the jump, Allied Van Lines is here to help get your life from point A to point B, whether that includes sofas, autos, or anything in between. Phoenix can be a solid choice if it matches your lifestyle and goals. Ultimately, you’ll know best once you settle in and feel the city’s rhythm for yourself. Good luck!