If you’ve been thinking about moving to Phoenix, you’re not the only one, and there are plenty of reasons why. Endless summer days and plenty of outdoor activities have driven tens of thousands to make a move in the past few years. The 2022 population of Phoenix has grown 1.48 percent since 2021, and Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the U.S. During the last 10 years, population growth has ranged between 1.18 percent and 2.53 percent.
It’s also a young city. According to the 2019 Census estimates, the median age of a Phoenix resident is 33.8. The city contains just over 1.6 million residents, with non-Latinx making up 57.4 percent of the population, while Latinx accounts for 42.6 percent of Phoenix residents.
Economy
Making such a move requires motivation beyond the appealing weather. So what else is causing people to say yes to Phoenix? Compared to other metropolitan areas, the booming economy and accessible housing are huge factors.
According to the Economic and Research Business Center of the University of Arizona, first-quarter economic numbers for the State of Arizona are again looking bright after regaining their pre-pandemic peak in November 2021.
Arizona’s lower state sales tax appeals to those coming from surrounding areas. The state sales tax is 5.6 percent. By comparison, California’s is 7.25 percent, Nevada’s is 6.85 percent, and Texas sits at 6.25.
Maricopa County adds a sales tax rate of 0.7 percent, and the city sales tax rate is 2.3 percent. This adds up to a total sales tax of 8.6 percent for Phoenix residents.
According to Nerdwallet, the U.S. median household income is $52,762, with a median person’s amount per household of 2.60. (Nerdwallet acquires its data from The Council for Community and Economic Research.)
- Phoenix ranks 12th on that list, with a median household income of $48,596.
- Phoenix is the 85th most expensive city out of a database of 268 cities from Nerdwallet.
- The median home price for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house is $346,409.
- Rent for a two-bedroom apartment has a median price of $1,533.
- Living in Phoenix is less expensive than in 47 percent of other American cities. The estimated monthly costs for a family of four are $4,860. The estimated monthly expenses for a single person are $2,856.
- A loaf of bread costs $3.50, a gallon of milk averages $1.57, and a dozen eggs will set you back $1.91.
The State of Arizona is Phoenix’s largest employer. Photo by EdgeofReason via Adobe Stock.
Largest Employers
- The State of Arizona
- Wal-Mart
- Banner Health
- City of Phoenix
- Wells Fargo
- Bank of America
- Maricopa County
- Arizona State University
- Apollo Group Inc.
- J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.
New home construction
New home construction in Phoenix continues to be a selling point for many. After all, securing a brand new home remains a massive challenge for millions of Americans. Yet, according to estimates from the U.S. census bureau, Arizona housing permit activity was notable again in 2021.
Arizona permits totaled 64,924 in 2021, up 7.6 percent from the revised 2020 total, single-family permits rose 9.1 percent, and multi-family permits rose four percent last year. For Phoenix specifically, permits hit 51,143 in 2021, increasing 6.0 percent from the revised 2020 count. Single-family permits were up 9 percent, and multi-family permits elevated slightly to 0.4 percent.
So we’ve established that Phoenix has an appealing climate, an excellent economy, and lots of new home construction. If you’re wondering about some of the other factors to consider before moving to Phoenix, here are a few facts and tips you should know about.
If you’re looking to move to Phoenix, make tracks because home prices are climbing. House prices have increased faster in metro Phoenix than in any other city in the last two years. According to Forbes, the median single-family house price in metro Phoenix increased by $100,000 in 2021.
New home construction in Phoenix would typically cost around $172 to $213 per square foot in 2021. Custom luxury homes would rise up to cost around $356 or more per square foot for the same time. An economical home in Phoenix was estimated to cost approximately $230,000 or about $153 per square foot.
Realtor.com reports that in March 2022, Phoenix’s median listing home price was $459,000, trending up 27.5 percent year-over-year. However, the median selling price for the same period was $447,300. That equals out to homes being sold at an average of 1.25 percent over the asking price.
Real estate experts are reporting that Phoenix’s market is not likely to see significant declines, despite rising prices because Phoenix is still viewed as a more affordable and appealing option compared to other nearby states with large metros, such as California.
While most people think of the heat, Phoenix also experiences long stretches of temperate weather. Photo by Jenifoto via Adobe Stock.
Climate
Phoenix is known as the “Valley of the Sun” for a reason – the city’s hot climate is legendary, and it’s considered a major draw for many who are looking to get out of snowy locales. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix is the largest city in America in this climate zone.
According to the National Weather Service, last year was tied for the 10th hottest year in Phoenix. Weather records began for the city in 1896. In 2021 the average high was 88.2°F, the average low was 64.5°F, and the average temperature was 76.3°F.
The city has over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities like golf, swimming, and hiking.
When it comes to rainfall, don’t expect much wet weather. The National Weather Service reports that Phoenix has never received more than 20 inches of rain in a year since the records began.
Its wettest year was more than a century ago, in 1905 when 19.73 inches of rain fell over 12 months.
The National Center for Environmental Information releases updated climate averages for temperatures and precipitation once every decade. Their most recent update covered the years between 1991 and 2020.
During this time, the average rainfall amount in Phoenix has dropped to 7.22 inches to 8.03 inches.
While these amounts may seem small overall, Phoenix does have a monsoon season, which typically occurs between mid-June and late September. This time of year brings lightning, dust storms, and strong winds.
Severe weather in Phoenix typically falls under drought due to its low rainfall. However, when rain does arrive during monsoon season, it can lead to rock slides and flash floods.
Severe hot weather is also a risk – the city has reached over 120°F on rare occasions.
Healthcare
Phoenix is renowned for its world-class healthcare system, which is widely considered one of the best in the world.
Cutting-edge medical research, advanced treatment options, and a vast network of highly trained healthcare providers supports this state-of-the-art system.
Whether you need access to specialized care at Phoenix Children’s Hospital or are in need of mental health support, Phoenix has the resources to meet your needs.
Furthermore, this exceptional healthcare infrastructure is complemented by an array of support services that help patients and their families feel more at ease and better able to cope with whatever challenges they may be facing.
The Phoenix area has many top-rated hospitals, including Mayo Clinic Phoenix, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, and Dignity Health – St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center.
These hospitals offer a wide range of services, from emergency care to cancer treatment.
In addition, Phoenix is home to many specialty hospitals, such as the Barrow Neurological Institute.
Sports are an important part of Phoenix’s fabric, with teams in the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. Photo by masisyan via Adobe Stock.
Sports
Phoenix is home to a thriving sports scene, with many professional teams calling the city home. Whether you’re a fan of baseball, basketball, hockey, or one of Phoenix’s other popular sports, there are plenty of opportunities to cheer on our talented local athletes.
The city fields teams in all four major professional sports leagues: The NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, NBA’s Phoenix Suns, MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks and NHL’s Arizona Coyotes. Downtown’s Footprint Center is also home to the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury and the Indoor Football League’s Arizona Rattlers.
And with Phoenix’s temperate climate and gorgeous natural landscape, it’s no wonder that so many fans enjoy getting out to the stadium or arena to support their favorite teams.
Education
In 2021 Arizona ranked 49th in public school quality compared to the rest of the United States.
The best school districts in the Phoenix area include Heritage Academy in Mesa, Chandler Unified No. 80 in Chandler, Scottsdale Unified in Scottsdale, and Gilbert Public Schools in Gilbert.
The Phoenix metropolitan area is home to several world-renowned universities, including Arizona State University, the University of Phoenix, and Grand Canyon University.
In addition, Phoenix is also home to many community colleges and technical schools that offer affordable and convenient education options.
Popular Neighborhoods
Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Phoenix include Downtown Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix, Roosevelt Row Arts District, Paradise Valley, Arcadia Tempe and Glendale.
And while many people think of Phoenix when they think of Arizona, there are actually several other cities in the state worth exploring.
From Tucson to Sedona, there are a variety of cities that offer something unique.
Tucson is a great place to experience traditional Mexican culture, while Sedona is known for its stunning red rock formations. Flagstaff is another city that offers a variety of outdoor activities, as it is located near several national parks and forests.
Entertainment
Phoenix, Arizona, is a bustling city with a lot to offer in terms of entertainment. There are numerous bars and clubs and a variety of live music venues.
The Phoenix Symphony Orchestra is one of the most popular attractions, and several theaters offer both Broadway shows and local productions.
The Phoenix area is home to a number of different music genres, including country, rock, jazz, and more. Phoenix is also home to many music festivals, including the Phoenix Jazz Festival and the Phoenix Country Music Festival.
These festivals showcase the best of what Phoenix has to offer when it comes to music.
In addition, Phoenix is home to a number of different music venues, including the Phoenix Symphony Hall and the Phoenix Opera House.
These venues offer locals and visitors alike the chance to enjoy live music in various genres. So whether you’re a fan of country music or classical music, there’s sure to be something.
Like all major cities, Phoenix offers a variety of options for getting around. But chances are – you’re going to need a car.
Transportation
Phoenix offers many different ways to get around the city.
As the capital of Arizona and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the southwest, Phoenix is home to a comprehensive public transportation system that includes light rail, commuter trains, and buses.
There are also numerous cycling trails throughout the city and plenty of dedicated bike lanes on city streets.
For those who prefer driving their own vehicles, Phoenix provides an extensive network of highways. So whether you’re commuting to work or traveling around town for fun, Phoenix makes it easy for everyone to get where they need to go.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the busiest airport in the state of Arizona and the tenth busiest airport in the United States.
Phoenix is served by 22 airlines and offers non-stop flights to more than 150 destinations worldwide. Phoenix Sky Harbor is also a hub for American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
The airport is situated just three miles from downtown Phoenix and is convenient to many of the city’s best attractions, including the Phoenix Zoo, the Desert Botanical Garden, and Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is an important part of the Phoenix economy and offers travelers a gateway to the southwestern United States.
Outdoor Activities
Arizona is famous for its spectacular and diverse landscape, ranging from desert vistas to towering mountain peaks. As a result, the state is home to several impressive national parks, each of which offers something unique and awe-inspiring. Zion National Park, in particular, is renowned for its vast sandstone canyons and soaring pink cliffs.
This park attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to witness the expansive beauty of this wild landscape.
Another popular park in Arizona is Grand Canyon National Park, famous for its iconic steep walls and dramatic gorges. With so much natural beauty on display, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to Arizona’s national parks.
Whether you are an avid hiker or an outdoor enthusiast, a trip to one of these incredible parks will be a memorable experience.
Arizona is home to a large and diverse wildlife population. From desert-dwelling species like coyotes and javelinas to mountain-dwelling species like elk and bighorn sheep, there is a wide variety of wildlife in the state.
In addition, Arizona is also home to some endangered and threatened species, including the Mexican gray wolf and the black-footed ferret. While some wildlife species are more commonly seen than others, all of them play an essential role in the state’s ecosystem.
Whether hiking through the desert or climbing one of Arizona’s many mountains, keep your eyes peeled for some of the state’s most amazing wildlife.
Politics
The Phoenix City Council is made up of nine members, each elected from one of nine different districts. The mayor of Phoenix is also elected, and serves a four-year term.
Phoenix has a strong mayor-council form of government, and the mayor has significant powers. For example, the mayor can veto legislation passed by the City Council and appoints members to various boards and commissions.
Phoenix also has a professional city manager, who is responsible for administering the city’s day-to-day operations. The city manager is appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the City Council.
Phoenix politics are thus characterized by a strong executive brancah and a relatively independent city manager. Phoenix elections are non-partisan, and all registered voters can participate.
Doug Ducey is the current governor of Phoenix and has served since 2015. He is a member of the Republican Party and was previously the state treasurer.
Ducey was born in Toledo, Ohio, and moved to Arizona in 1982 to attend college. After graduating from Arizona State University, he began his career as a businessman.
He co-founded Cold Stone Creamery, a chain of ice cream stores, in 1988.
In 2006, he sold his majority stake in the company and entered politics. He was elected state treasurer in 2010 and became governor after the resignation of Jan Brewer in 2015.
Ducey has been married to his wife, Kathy, for 26 years and they have three children together. As governor, Ducey has focused on creating jobs, cutting taxes, and increasing school funding.
He has also worked to increase trade with Mexico and attract new businesses to Arizona.
New Home Listings
Talinn at Desert Ridge
Residents of Talinn at Desert Ridge can take advantage of on-site amenities. Image of Talinn at Desert Ridge by D.R. Horton via BuzzBuzzHome
Location: 21909 North 56th Street, Phoenix, AZ
Developer: D.R. Horton
Price Range: $839,990 to over $997,990
Size: Three to five bedrooms, 1,611 to 3,487 square feet
Talinn at Desert Ridge is a single-family home gated development that includes many community amenities, like a workout room, pickleball court and a yoga lawn.
Seasons at Vista Del Verde II
Seasons at Vista Del Verde II consists of 180 houses in Avondale. Rendering of Seasons at Vista Del Verde II by Richmond American Homes via BuzzBuzzHome.
Location: 10835 West Grant Street, Avondale, AZ
Developer: Richmond American Homes
Price range: $438,990 to over $517,943
Size: Three to five bedrooms, 1,693 to 2,096 square feet
Seasons at Vista Del Verde II is a single family home development with 180 houses. The amenities include parks, playgrounds and a volleyball court.
23 North
23 North is a townhome community located close to the I-17 corridor. Photo of 23 North by K. Hovnanian Homes via BuzzBuzzHome.
Location: West Royal Palm Road & North 23rd Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
Developer: K. Hovnanian Homes
Price range: $411,990 to over $430,990
Size: Two to three bedrooms, 1,223 to 1,498 square feet
23 North is a townhome community in north central Phoenix located near the I-17 corridor and close to public transportation.
Verde Trails – Classic Series
The classic series at Verde Trails offers amenities like a soccer field, playground, BBQ grills. Photo of Verde Trails – Classic Series by Meritage Homes via BuzzBuzzHome.
Location: 11038 West Luxton Lane, Tolleson, AZ
Developer: Meritage Homes
Price range: $381,990 to over $461,990
Size: Three to five bedrooms, 1,172 to 2,311 square feet
Verde Trails – Classic Series is a single-family development with 70 homes. Community amenities include a soccer field, playground, BBQ grills and much more.
Wildhorse Estates
Built by Pulte Homes, Wildhorse Estates is located in Scottsdale. Rendering of Wildhorse Estates by Pulte Homes via BuzzBuzzHome.
Location: 12339 North 93rd Way, Scottsdale, AZ
Developer: Pulte Homes
Price range: $1,524,990 to over $1,908,990
Size: Three to four bedrooms, 3,142 to 4,767 square feet
Wildhorse Estates is a single-family home gated community with 40 units in Scottsdale. Amenities include outdoor seating with a gas fire pit and a covered outdoor dining table.
