With its stunning natural beauty, thriving economy, and vibrant cultural scene, Phoenix offers an irresistible allure that has captured the hearts of many. In this Redfin article, we will unveil what makes Phoenix such a great city to call home. Whether you’re considering buying a house in Phoenix or renting an apartment in the valley, join us as we dive into the top reasons why Phoenix stands out as a prime location to move to.
1) Sports culture
Phoenix is a golfer’s dream. The city boasts nearly 200 golf courses and the Waste Management Phoenix Open, one of the biggest PGA events out there. The NBA, the NFL, the NHL, and the MLB all have teams based out of Phoenix. Plus, there is NASCAR racing.
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2) Weekend getaways
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There are ample opportunities for weekend getaways, whether you have a couple of hours to travel to Northern Arizona, California, Mexico, Lake Mead, or Las Vegas. Take a trip to Sedona and partake in some hiking; downhill ski at Snowbowl, or head to the Grand Canyon for some magnificent views. You can also easily explore the surrounding cities of Scottsdale, Tempe, and Glendale.
3) Affordable living
Phoenix, AZ is renowned for its affordable cost of living, making it an enticing place to call home. While the cost of living in Phoenix is 4% higher than the national average, it still remains relatively budget-friendly. With a median home sale price of $425K, compared to the national median of $407,500, Phoenix offers a favorable housing market that provides an opportunity for homeownership at a reasonable price. Also, the cost of living in Phoenix is 8% lower than nearby Scottsdale, AZ, and a staggering 31% lower than the bustling city of Los Angeles, CA. These significant differentials showcase Phoenix’s ability to offer a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing convenience or quality.
4) Phoenix’s thriving food scene
From taco trucks to gourmet patios and fine dining, residents can enjoy a wide range of cuisine while living in Phoenix. Some restaurant choices are Lux Central, Tacos Chiwas, and Tratto. Some popular dishes in Phoenix include Sonoran Hot Dog, fry bread, and green chile stew.
5) Arts & culture
From cultural activities to exciting professional sporting events, there’s an activity for everyone. Enjoy ballet and the symphony to theater and Broadway at the Arizona Opera Company, Ballet Arizona, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gammage Auditorium, and Ak-Chin Pavilion.
Phoenix is also a diverse city, complete with a rich cultural heritage. Learn more about the confluence of Hispanic and Native American cultures in this part of Arizona at the Heard Museum. Additionally, the city is full of art, from classical and contemporary pieces in the Phoenix Art Museum to stunning city murals in the Roosevelt Row Arts District.
6) Things to do
No matter your interest, there’s always something to do in Phoenix. The climate and desert terrain allow plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, cycling, fishing, and rock climbing. You can also enjoy the city’s 189 parks, 33,000 acres of desert preserves, and 200 miles of trails. Or, float down the Salt River to cool off when the weather is too hot. Kids and adults alike will be in awe at all they learn at the Arizona Science Center, the OdySea Aquarium, or the Phoenix Zoo.
7) Weather
Whether you own a home or rent an apartment in Phoenix, you’re in for a lot of sun and warm weather. With an average of 320 days of sunshine a year, Phoenix tops the charts for the sunniest metropolitan area in the country. Hot temperatures are the norm in the summer months, with an average high of 106 degrees in July. Winters are mild, with a low of 41 degrees in January.
8) Breathtaking landscape
Home to the Sonoran Desert, The Arizona landscape is one of the world’s most unique and diverse desert biomes. The Grand Canyon, one of the only Seven Natural Wonders in the United States, can be found in Arizona, with the mighty Colorado River passing through the canyon.
Methodology: Median home sale price data was pulled from the US Housing Market resource during June 2023.
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