Snowbirds flock here every season, and young professionals are relocating in droves, but what makes Phoenix, Arizona, so popular? Mostly known for its year-round sunshine and desert landscape, there is so much more to the city. Read on to discover why Phoenix is so popular (and why you may want to consider it for your next move…)!
Phoenix Climate: Warm Weather All Year Round
We’re starting with an obvious one. But hear us out. Appropriately named the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix is famous for its hot and dry climate. On average, residents enjoy almost 4,000 hours of sunshine and 36 days of precipitation annually. This is a far cry from other popular metropolises like NYC, Boston, Chicago, or Seattle. The result is a typically friendly and happy population (though we are generalizing here), especially when you compare it to the more hardened locals of the Northeast US (again, generalizing).
Snowbirds from around the US and Canada flock to Phoenix for its warm weather every season. The Maricopa Association of Governments reported that “about 100,000 people from Canada come to Arizona to spend the winters.” These seasonal visitors usually relocate in October and stay until April or May. But it’s not just retirees relocating to the city. More and more young professionals and families are trading in cold northeast winters for a warmer climate and more enjoyable lifestyle.
Relatively Low Cost of Living for Phoenix Locals
According to a recent RentCafe report, the cost of living in Phoenix is approximately 3% lower than the state average and 2% higher than the national average. Despite being higher than the national average, Phoenix’s cost of living pales compared to other major cities like NYC, Miami, and San Francisco.
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Phoenix is $1,300. On average, you’ll pay about $2000 for the same apartment in Miami or Seattle. As of March 2024, the median listing home price is $524.9K. Compare this number with $999K in Boston and $1.2M in San Francisco, and you can see why Phoenix has become a popular choice.
Locals can also enjoy a less expensive dining experience than New Yorkers or Bostonians, for example. Numbeo.com estimates that a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant in Phoenix will cost about $80. In Boston, the same meal will cost $100.
Ample Phoenix Job Opportunities
But what good are cheaper dining experiences if I don’t have the money to pay for them? The good news is that Phoenix also boasts a dynamic job market with employment opportunities across various industries. Currently, the city’s unemployment rate is around 4.3%. This is lower than the national average and reflects the Valley’s relatively strong job market.
And there’s something for almost everyone. The city is a hub for technology, healthcare, finance, education, and manufacturing sectors. It also offers job prospects for seasoned professionals and entry-level workers. Some of the largest employers in Phoenix include Banner Health, Wells Fargo & Co., Raytheon Co., Intel Corp, and American Airlines Group.
Outdoor Adventures Await in Phoenix
Phoenix is a popular metropolis for active and outdoorsy people. Its abundance of hiking trails, golf courses, and pools means there’s always something to keep you busy. And its dry climate enables you to enjoy these activities year-round. There’s no hiding indoors at 5 pm from freezing temperatures and dark skies.
The short but taxing climb to Piestewa Peak is popular among more advanced hikers and offers a stunning view of the Sonoran Desert. However, dogs aren’t allowed on this trail, so you’ll need to leave your pets at home.
If kayaking is more your vibe, the Salt River is a favorite of the metro Phoenix paddling community. Meanwhile, the area has close to 200 public golf courses and several upscale resorts, making Phoenix one of the most popular golf destinations in the world.
Great Art, Culture, and Food Scene
Phoenix is home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries and museums for locals and visitors to enjoy year-round. The Roosevelt Row Arts District, known locally as “RoRo,” is a hotspot for art lovers, featuring a vibrant collection of galleries, studios, and colorful murals that adorn the streets. The district comes alive during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, where visitors can meet local artists, browse artwork, and enjoy live music and food trucks.
We can’t celebrate Phoenix without mentioning its fantastic food scene. From authentic Mexican cuisine to traditional Southwest dishes, it is sure not to disappoint. Barrio Cafe is a popular choice for those craving Mexican cuisine done right. Known for its innovative take on traditional dishes, its signature cochinita pibil is a must-try. It features mouthwatering slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus juices…(Are you starting to feel hungry, too?).
For a taste of the Southwest, check out The Mission, where Chef Matt Carter’s creative menu features dishes inspired by the flavors of Mexico and Latin America. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine make it a local favorite.
Are you planning a local or long-distance Phoenix move? Don’t wait until the last minute to hire your movers! Speak with a reputable Phoenix moving company like Gentle Giant today. We have some great resources to get you started on your Phoenix move. Check out our moving checklist for information on how to prepare and use our free move estimate tool to determine the cost of your relocation.