Thinking of living in Phoenix, Arizona? What about those smaller outlying communities in Arizona, like San Tan Valley, Maricopa, or Cave Creek?
Well, I’m here to help you make up your mind!
Nearly five years ago, I made one of the most drastic moves when I picked up and left Rhode Island, my birthplace and home for 33 years, and decided to “go west.” I ended up in Tempe, Arizona.
At first there was a huge culture shock and nostalgia, of course. I will not lie or exaggerate the truth here… It was quite difficult to make that move and for a few weeks after arriving, I doubted my decision.
Things eventually calmed down and came together, as they often do, and I found a decent job in Scottsdale, Arizona, got a car, and started to really enjoy life in the greater Phoenix area of Arizona.
Now, I know what you may have heard, especially if you live in one of those states that has all 4 seasons. You have heard that in summer it is terribly hot, almost unbearable. Well, the truth is that it is quite hot. BUT, and this is a big “BUT”, IT IS dry heat! As cliché as it sounds, it is true. That being said, you really must have air conditioning and/or a pool (which most people do) to live comfortably during the hot Arizona summer.
The best thing about living in Phoenix, Arizona is that the real heat only lasts for about four and a half months, and then the weather turns into winter “paradise” and that weather can’t be beat! It is absolutely beautiful!
Now that we’ve got the weather out of the way, let’s talk a bit about the economy.
In truth, the Arizona economy appears to be on a slow rebound. It seems that there are many jobs available in different fields, and I think it is on the rise. However, there are challenges here as in all states. As for the cost of living in Arizona, most of the research I’ve done shows it to be slightly higher than the US average. I suspect it may be due to higher energy costs during the summer months.
What about activities in Arizona? Well, if you love hiking, camping, fishing, mountain biking, swimming, and even skiing, then you’ll love Arizona!
When most people think of Arizona, they think of a barren, waterless desert. That statement couldn’t be more wrong. In fact, Arizona boasts more than 120 lakes (as well as many man-made ponds), comprising approximately 16,000 acres. Arizona is growing rapidly as more and more young couples flock to Arizona each year to build their “American dream.” Retirees have jumped on the bandwagon too, finding affordable housing, pleasant weather, and an abundance of attractive golf courses.
If skiing is your thing, you can always travel north to Flagstaff and ski Snowbowl, where you can ride any of 6 lifts to the top of some 40 ski slopes. You can enjoy skiing in Arizona from mid-December to mid-April.
If you’re like me and obsessed with bass fishing, then Arizona might be right for you. Some of the best coarse fishing can be found here within an hour’s drive from Phoenix. Lakes Pleasant, Roosevelt, Apache, Canyon, and Saguaro are well known for providing anglers with plenty of lunker-sized bass! It is important to mention that there are many other activities to enjoy on the lakes, such as camping, swimming, hiking and boating.
If sports is your thing, Phoenix has top-tier sports teams in almost every professional sport. Most sports fans have heard of the Cardinals, Suns, Diamondbacks, and Coyotes. As for college sports, all you have to do is visit Arizona State University Tempe to find them.
Arizona’s nightlife is also fantastic, with Scottsdale hosting a great nightclub scene. Tempe’s Mill Avenue district and Tempe Marketplace are also hot spots, boasting some of the best sports bars and restaurants in central Arizona.
The bottom line is that moving to Arizona was probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Sure, it’s hot in the summer, but that’s a small price to pay to enjoy all the great activities and beautiful weather that have made Arizona one of the fastest growing states in the United States.
As you can see, there is something for everyone here in Arizona. So if you were on the fence about living in Phoenix, Arizona, and just weren’t sure about moving, this article should help you find the right path. Hopefully when you land you will be standing on Arizona soil!