Phoenix and the surrounding “Valley of the Sun” have grown quickly thanks to lower housing costs than California, new tech and manufacturing jobs, and winters that feel like spring.
Areas to consider
- Downtown and Roosevelt Row: arts district, light rail
- Tempe: home to Arizona State University, younger crowd
- Scottsdale: upscale, resorts and restaurants
- Chandler and Gilbert: suburbs with tech employers and families
- Mesa: larger homes and lower rents
Living with the heat
From June to September, highs above 100°F are normal. Locals run errands early, park in shade, keep water in the car and never leave children or pets in a parked car. Heat illness is serious; learn the warning signs.
Before you sign: Ask how old the air conditioning unit is and what summer electric bills typically are. A broken AC in July is an emergency.
Getting around
Valley Metro light rail connects Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. Outside that corridor, most people drive.
Taxes and costs
Arizona has a flat state income tax. Housing is usually cheaper than in coastal cities, but cooling costs are high in summer.
