Phoenix, Arizona, is a city that offers it all with stunning desert landscapes in the backdrop. As the fifth-largest city in the United States, it has become an increasingly popular destination for people looking to relocate.
Whether the city’s growing job market draws you in, its affordable cost of living, or its year-round sun, Phoenix is a great option for all.
Why Move to Phoenix, You Ask?
From the warm, sunny weather to the appealing job market and the relatively low cost of living, Phoenix has become a top destination for people seeking a change of pace and pricing. Don’t be afraid to make that cross-country move.
Here are a few reasons why Phoenix is awesome:
1. Affordable Cost of Living
Being able to afford to go out is a luxury these days in the US. Compared to other major cities in the U.S., Phoenix offers a much more affordable cost of living.
Housing is the biggest draw in, with lower average home prices and rent, This affordability, combined with a lack of state income tax in Arizona, makes Phoenix an attractive destination financially speaking. Combine that with the sun and you have a perfect combo.
2. Year-Round Sunshine
If you’re someone who enjoys sunshine you will love it here! Phoenix is the place for you sun lovers that hate being cold. With over 300 sunny days a year, the city is known for its warm and dry climate. Summers do get extremely hot, but wiht a pool you will survive.
3. An Ever Growing Job Market
Phoenix has one of the fastest-growing job markets in the country, with growth in industries such as technology, healthcare, education, and finance. Major companies like Intel, and Banner Health have significant offices in the area, and the city’s relatively low cost of doing business is attracting more tech startups.
4. Beautiful Desert Surroundings
One of the things that sets Phoenix apart from other major U.S. cities is its unique desert landscape. The cactuses are calling you! Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert and great mountain ranges, Phoenix is an outdoor adventure paradise.You can go hiking in the desert, cycling on the city’s bike paths, or simply enjoy with beers by the pool with a backdrop.
5. Lets Get Classy and Sporty
Phoenix is not just a place for work and outdoor adventure, it is also home to a great arts and culture scene. The city has great local music venues, theater, and a impressive culinary scene, with many festivals, museums, and galleries to explore for everyone. The city’s sports teams, including the Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Phoenix Suns (NBA), and Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), offer fun games year-round.
Cost of Living in Phoenix
Phoenix is known for its affordable living, one of the primary reasons people choose to move here. Let’s take a dive into the key cost of living factors to expect when relocating from anotehr state to Phoenix:
1. Housing
Housing costs in Phoenix are significantly lower than in other big cities, making it an attractive place to buy or rent even for investmest purposes. While housing prices have been increasing over the past few years, they remain relatively affordable.
- Renting: As of last year, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Phoenix is approximately $1,300 to $1,800 per month, depending on the neighborhood. Areas like Downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe tend to be on the higher end, while neighborhoods further from the city center offer more affordable rates.
- Buying a Home: The average home price in Phoenix is around $420,000 as of 2023.
2. Monthly Expenses
- Electricity: Due to Phoenix’s hot summers, AC is a must. As a result, your electricity bill can be relatively high. The average monthly electricity cost is about $150 to $250, depending on the size of your home and usage.
- Water: Water bills in Phoenix average around $40 to $80 per month..
- Internet and Cable: Internet costs in Phoenix typically range from $50 to $100 per month for standard service. Cable TV is typically between $50 and $150, though many people opt for Netflix instead.
3. Transportation Costs
Phoenix is a big and wide city, so having a car is a must for most people. Public transportation is available, but it’s not as extensive as in cities like New York or Chicago. Here’s what to expect:
- Gas Prices: The average price of gas in Phoenix is usually between $3.20 and $3.60 per gallon.
- Car Insurance: Car insurance in Phoenix is relatively affordable, with the average cost being around $1,000 to $1,500 per year for full coverage.
Fun Things to Do in Phoenix
Where the desert meets the city, and outdoor adventure blends with urban fun you can find it all. Here are some of the top things to do once you’ve settled in and are back to adventuring:
1. Hike Camelback Mountain
One of Phoenix’s most iconic landmarks, Camelback Mountain offers stunning views of the city and a challenging hike for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget your “Camelback water bag!” The summit can be reached via two trails: the Echo Canyon Trail or the Cholla Trail. The climb is steep but offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert. I think it’s a must-see at least once if you live here.
2. Explore Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden has over 21,000 desert plants, including many native to the Sonoran Desert. It’s an excellent place for nature lovers and anyone interested in learning about desert flora and fauna. Geek out on cactuses and show off your knowledge of the desert.
3. Catch a Game
For sports fans, Chase Field is home to the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team. Whether you’re catching a game in the summer or attending one of the stadium’s bigtime events, it’s a fun place to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. You don’t have to love ball to enjoy the vibes of Chase, trust me.
4. Take a Day Trip to Sedona
While Sedona is about a 2-hour drive north of Phoenix, it’s well worth the drive for the weekend. Known for its red rock mountains and special healing energy, Sedona is a great place for hiking, photography, and stargazing. The area is also home to great art galleries and boutique shops so the whole family will find something fun.
Phoenix Lovers Wrap It Up
We hope that our love for Phoenix is contagious. From the lovely deserts to the affordable living, there are just so many reasons to move to Phoenix. All of us at Pricing Van Lines look forward to simplifying your cross-country move to desert paradise. Enjoy the sunshine!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phoenix a good place to live?
Yes, Phoenix is a great place to live for people seeking an affordable cost of living, sunny weather, and a great job market. While the summers can be extremely hot here, the warm winters and overall affordability make it a top choice for many people. You have it all in Phoenix.
What is the best neighborhood in Phoenix to live in?
Arcadia is a charming area with tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and modern homes. It is perfect for families and has great schools and amenities.
- Downtown Phoenix: A vibrant urban area with an arts and culture scene that is top in the USA.
- North Scottsdale: Known for its luxury homes, golf courses, and upscale shopping.
Is tipping my movers a must?
Yes it is expected of you. They are hard workers helping you get from A to B. Tipping between 15-20% is expected by movers and drivers alike. Think of it as if you’ve gone to a restaurant and left without tipping- not cool. Plan ahead for these costs so you aren’t surprised as a tip is part of the fare.
What’s the weather like in Phoenix?
Hot. Phoenix has a desert climate, with extremely hot summers where temperatures often exceed 100°F and mild winters you would feel ashamed to even call a winter.
How do I help my pets acclimate to the changes of moving to a hot climate?
Make sure you acclimate your dog with plenty of water and keep them indoors at the start to avoid dehydration. Try and make the moving experience fun for them with lots of walks and treats since they are stuck indoors.
Associate the move with positive things your pet loves to make the day less hard for them. Ensure to set up their home base as soon as you get into the new home so that they can feel they have their own corner with food, water and their bed.
