A stunning desert backdrop welcomes you to sunny Phoenix, Arizona. The “Valley of the Sun” promises beautiful weather, high-end resorts, fun recreation, and great attractions. From saguaro cactus to lively casinos there is something for everyone in Phoenix.
Mild winters and warm summers make Phoenix a joy year round. How can you go wrong with 334 sun-filled days each year? Residents take advantage of this fact spending many a day in the nation’s largest municipal park, South Mountain Park and Preserve.
This fast-growing area features museums, entertainment, outstanding dining and easy relaxation. Learn more about Native American tribes in the area or explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Join the many Phoenix residents making this not only the Valley of the Sun but the Valley of the Fun!
Phoenix Area Communities
Explore the iconic neighborhoods around Phoenix.
Downtown Phoenix
When you want to be in the midst of the action from culture to nightlife, downtown Phoenix is a great spot. This revitalized area is home to mixed-used buildings, townhomes and ease to all things fun.
CenPho
Residents enjoy cultural perks of museums, restaurants and farmers markets sure to keep you busy and entertained by all Phoenix has to offer.
Tempe
East of Phoenix, Tempe is a gorgeous suburb. Home to Arizona State University, there are townhomes and single family homes to fit any need. With a college, fun restaurants and the Salt River, you’ll never be bored in Tempe.
Ahwatukee
This welcoming neighborhood in the southern part of the city is primarily residential. The southwestern style is seen with beautiful red tile roofs and stucco homes. Residents here have easy access to South Mountain Park, making this a suburban mecca for families.
Paradise Valley
Looking for luxurious suburb? Paradise Valley has many high end homes along cliff sides, golf courses and resorts. Ideally, there are many single family homes in the area awaiting new homebuyers.
The Warehouse District
Living in the revitalized neighborhoods of the Warehouse District means easy access to the city as well as eclectic homes, restaurants, bars and galleries.
Downtown Scottsdale
Scottsdale has outstanding luxury lofts in its gorgeously redeveloped downtown. Shop and dine at the Scottsdale Waterfront or Old Downtown for upscale and down to earth fun!
Arcadia
This former area of citrus groves is now a Valley of the Sun treasure with gorgeous neighborhoods with great walkability. Arcadia residents have the perk of Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area.
Glendale
Glendale is a Phoenix suburb with its own charm and amenities. Shopping districts, quaint downtown and abundant new homes make this a perfect spot to call home!
Top Phoenix School Districts
Phoenix has great schools, where your children can thrive!
Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Phoenix Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of Arizona, NewHomeSource has a guide to all the resources you need to find the right school for your child.
Chandler Unified School District No. 80
Students Served: 42,252
School Breakdown: 30 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 8 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 19
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: The city of Chandler
Scottsdale Unified School District
Students Served: 23,883
School Breakdown: 20 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and 6 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 18
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Part of the city of Scottsdale, part of Paradise Valley
Gilbert Unified School District
Students Served: 37,096
School Breakdown: 27 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, and 7 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 19
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: The city of Gilbert
Peoria Unified School District
Students Served: 36,660
School Breakdown: 35 elementary schools, 43 middle schools, and 10 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 19
Test Proficiency: Below state averages
Communities Served: Parts of the city of Peoria
Deer Valley Unified School District
Students Served: 33,793
School Breakdown: 31 elementary schools, 18 middle schools, and 7 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 18
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: North Gateway, Rio Vista, Deer Valley, New River
Paradise Valley Unified School District
Students Served: 32,491
School Breakdown: 32 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 9 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 18
Test Proficiency: Below state averages
Communities Served: Part of Paradise Valley, part of Desert View
Top Employers in Phoenix
The Phoenix-Mesa Area has a booming economy.
Employment in Phoenix is supported by local government, banking, and healthcare.
State of Arizona
The State of Arizona is the largest employer in the Phoenix Area, providing government jobs tonearly 50,000 people in the area.
Wal-Mart
The retail giant Wal-Mart provides over 30,000 retail and corporate jobs to people living in the Phoenix-Mesa Area.
Banner Health
Banner Health over eight healthcare locations in the Phoenix-Mesa Area, employing almost 25,000 people in the medical sector.
City of Phoenix
Over 15,000 people work for the City of Phoenix, providing vital government services to the 1.6 million residents of Phoenix.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo has a major employment presence in the Phoenix-Mesa Metropolitan Area, providing a huge number of people in the finance sector.
Phoenix Area Museums
Many of Phoenix museums reflect the city’s Southwestern flair.
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Found inside the historic Monroe School Building, this hands-on museum is a welcome sight for children of all ages. Let your imagination go wild with interactive and hands-on learning exhibits sure to spark wonder.
The Heard Museum
The Heard Museum has served the Phoenix area since 1929 with its focus on Native people. Enjoy sculpture gardens, an amphitheater, southwest art, festivals and lectures. Free admission for American Indians.
The Musical Instrument Museum
You don’t have to play an instrument to appreciate the Musical Instrument Museum with over 15,000 instruments and musical artifacts. Representing over 200 countries, this museum allows you to see instruments used in other cultures in context with the use of videos with headsets. Take advantage of great themed weekends and concerts.
Phoenix Art Museum
With three levels, an auditorium, sculpture garden and more you will spend hours enjoying the Phoenix Art Museum’s vast collection including European fashion, western American art and modern photography. Local artist exhibits, festivals, artist’s talks and live performances provide outstanding cultural experiences.
Arizona Science Center
Get lost in the five stories of exhibits at the Arizona Science Center. This hugely interactive museum will have you exploring the human body, science and the mind.
Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting
Paying homage to the men and women that keep us safe, the Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting showcases tools, gear and fire technology through the years. Truly a testament to this profession.
Pueblo Grande Museum
Learn about the ancient people who lived here. The Pueblo Grande Museum features the amazing engineering works of the early canal makers. The archaeological site is quite impressive.
Great Parks in the Phoenix Area
Reconnect with nature in Phoenix’s fantastic parks.
Papago Park
Looking to hike? This hiking haven will have you communing with nature. Enjoy the scenic views, and a really fun zoo.
Encanto Park
This gorgeous park features two golf courses, a lagoon, nature trail, and fishing on over 222 acres. Residents love the relaxing feel.
Margaret T. Hance Park
This park is named for the first female mayor of Phoenix. Her legacy brings a gorgeous Japanese Friendship Garden and an Irish Cultural Center to explore.
South Mountain Park and Preserve
As the largest municipal park in the United States, Phoenix residents enjoy beautiful city views, hiking and more. Offering 16,000 acres of wildlife and outdoor recreation this park is a Phoenix Point of Pride designation.
Royal Palm Park
Popular with families, this park has great playgrounds, open spaces, disc golf, and more. This quiet, safe neighborhood park is home to fun family events like a fall festival.
Roadrunner Park
This is a wonderful suburban park filled with residents enjoying sports fields and tennis courts. Home to a great farmer’s market where you can buy delicious local produce and fresh salsa.
Phoenix Sports Teams
You Can Root On (Or Pretend You Don’t Care About)
Motocross isn’t always organized in Phoenix, but it sure is popular!
Phoenix has four major professional sports teams. There is always a game to attend, fan gear to purchase, and fun sports bars with friends.
The Arizona Cardinals are the longest continuously run professional football team in the United States making their home at State Farm Stadium. Catch a great baseball game watching the Arizona Diamondbacks hit some homeruns. Hockey fans have the Arizona Coyotes on the ice and the Phoenix Suns impress with nothing but net on the basketball court.
Phoenix is a mecca for NASCAR fans with two NASCAR race weekends at ISM Raceway. NHRA race fans enjoy adrenaline rush racing at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park.
The temperate weather brings other sporting options including the LPGA Founder’s Cup and the Phoenix Open. Golfing is big in Phoenix. Frequent marathons, half marathons and 10Ks keep runners active.
Supporting the local university means abundant options to attend sporting events at Arizona State University.
Living in Phoenix
Live a life you love in Phoenix!
It comes as no surprise that Phoenix is growing. With its fabulous weather and great median home price, Phoenix is affordable and enjoyable!
This desert oasis has a higher cost of living than the national average but significantly lower than spots like San Francisco or Washington, D.C. This safe city offers excellent air care with low pollutants making outdoor recreation even better.
Outstanding health care and affordable utilities, groceries and dining add to the Phoenix experience. Living in a city of its size the cost of living of Phoenix is nearly 32% lower than a large city counterpart like the Big Apple.
Phoenix Housing Trends
Phoenix is a hot market. Priced competitively, there are many people vying for the inventory, so you may have to act quickly when you find the perfect home. With the median home price under $300k, you get a lot for your money in this Arizona oasis.
Median Home Price: $249,900.
With affordable options in the suburbs, homebuyers have a great opportunity to choose an area fully equipped with amenities. Living close to work or commuting, these suburbs are dynamic with a variety of home styles at all price points. Great spots outside of Phoenix proper to consider include Tempe, Glendale, Scottsdale and Arcadia.
Growing Communities in Central Phoenix
Life in Central and Downtown Phoenix lets you enjoy a funky metropolitan lifestyle, infused with a unique Southwester flavor. Central Phoenix has numerous new home communities, like Madison Ranch and Arbors, with beautiful houses available for sale, so you don’t have to sacrifice a life you love to invest in your dream home.
Growing Communities in South Phoenix
Casa Grande is a beautiful city in South Phoenix. This comfortable town gives residents access to the vibrant city of Phoenix, while still providing them with a serene retreat to call home.
If you want to invest in a the house you always dreamed about in the Phoenix-Mesa Area, you need to explore South Phoenix communities like Villago and Waterson, and start living a life you love.
Growing Communities in North Phoenix
Cave Creek and Carefree are two fantastic cities in North Phoenix, perfect for growing families and people who want to connect with the beautiful scenery that surrounds the Phoenix-Mesa Area.
Black Mountain and Rancho Paloma are two of the new home communities in North Phoenix where you can invest in your dream home and live a life you love.
Growing Communities in Glendale
West Phoenix is home to the great city of Glendale, a city just outside Downtown Phoenix. Glendale has some of the best schools in the Phoenix Area, making it great for families. It’s close proximity to Phoenix’s vibrant urban hub makes it great for young professionals.
If you want to call Glendale home, you can find numerous new home communities, like Westgate and Western Enclave, that have beautiful houses waiting for you.
Amazing Phoenix Restaurants
Phoenix is a veritable bevvy of great dining from fresh fun food trucks to upscale establishments. No matter the price point, Phoenix restaurants will provide a variety of diverse foods sure to please the pickiest of eaters.
Enjoy Southwestern flavor in Phoenix!
Pizzeria Bianco
Phoenix enjoys signature pizza pies topped with everything from smoked mozzarella to pistachios at this downtown eatery. Chris Bianco is the mastermind behind this amazing wood-fired pizza place!
Tratto
There are some delicious secrets in this strip center restaurant from chicken livers on toast to a fabulous rigatoni. The well-thought out ingredients make this a delectable Italian dining experience.
El Horseshoe Restaurant
Try the amazing cahuamanta at this restaurant. The shrimp and manta ray in this stew will leave you hankering for more. Homemade tortillas and a friendly demeanor make this a Phoenix favorite.
Chula Seafood Uptown
While far from the ocean, Chula is known for its desert seafood. With everything from sea bass to scallops your seafood fix will be satisfied. Grilled oysters and the smoked fish platter are a great recommendation.
The Stand
When your menu is limited to burgers, fries and shakes it’s easy to be at the top of your game! These juicy burgers are topped with sautéed jalapenos and buttery onions. Top it off with the dulce de leche shake to really indulge the taste buds.
Durant’s
No city is complete without a steakhouse and Durant’s has been serving Phoenix for nearly seven decades. Stiff martinis, steaks cooked to perfection and charm make this a go-to in Phoenix.
Fry Bread House
Green-chile beef, cheese and refried beans top the flavorful flatbread served here. True flavors of the area come together in the Arizona “tacos” sure to satisfy any hunger pangs.
Persepshen
This farm to table concept is a step up with pickling, wood-grilling and dry-aging. Known for their local use of Arizonan spirits enjoy a delicious cocktail or wine with your dinner.
Century Grand
Based on a theme of 1920s rail travel, this charming spot creates a magical experience. Platform 18 has you feeling as if you are in a train car with synchronized screens of passing scenery.
Arizona Wilderness DTPHX
You won’t find a better selection of brews and burgers than this spot. Try the grass-fed burgers topped with peanut butter and jalapeno jelly.
Green New American Vegitarian
Vegan food full of flavor and options is what you’ll find at this 100% vegan plant-based restaurant. You won’t be missing out on the meat when you sample a sandwich like the Big Wac.
Pane Bianco Van Buren
Another great venture by Chris Bianco is serving up brunch. Be sure to have a bloody mary with your fluffy spelt pancakes. Overstuffed sandwiches and pizza round out the offerings in this beautiful old building.
Carolina’s Mexican Food
Serving fabulous Mexican meals since the 1950s, you’ll find this family-friendly restaurant easy on the pockets and belly. Breakfast, lunch or dinner are all served with fresh in-house tortillas.
Alzohour Market
Adding its diverse ethnic flair to the Phoenix food scene is Alzohour Market. Enjoy delectable Moroccan specialties including bastille and lamb tagine.
Grand Avenue Pizza Company
Late night pizza slices can be had until 4 am at this delicious spot. Grab a slice or a whole pie. The Stallion is a favorite with pepperoni, sausage, jalapenos and artichokes.
Saint Pasta
Hankering for pasta? This Italian food truck serves up outstanding dishes with savory sauces. Be sure to try the garlic bread.
Vencia
With a great craft beer selection and outstanding cocktails your Pan-Latin meal is delectable. This progressive eatery offers sharing plates with exotic flavors with Peruvian influences.
Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles
This Phoenix mainstay is where the locals will be found. Popular and worth it, the chicken and waffles are to die for! It’s a crazy combination that works and works well!
Great Attractions for Phoenix Stay-cations
Explore Phoenix’s exciting art scene!
Camelback Mountain
This truly unique formation looks like the head and hump of a kneeling camel. It’s not for the weak willed, there is a bit of challenge to see the amazing views from atop this mountain. The beautiful 360 degree views of the city are worth it.
MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain
Since 1938 this Phoenix diner has been serving egg creams and malts from a vintage soda fountain. You will be able to select tunes from the jukebox and slide into your wooden booth to enjoy a fun family setting full of nostalgia.
Chill Out at Fun Water Parks
The Phoenix summers can be warm. Enjoy the water at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, Golfland Sunsplash, and Big Surf. Cool down on fun water slides, lazy rivers and interactive play areas.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Getting a bird’s eye view of the stunning city and Sonoran Desert is a great way to experience Phoenix. This surreal way to start your day with a sunrise ride is an experience like no other. These majestic balloons are your colorful transport to seeing Phoenix from a different perspective.
Golf
For a golfing nirvana, Phoenix can’t be beat. Known for having 200 golf courses you can easily play varied rounds of golf with different scenery and challenge. Big name courses like Troon North and TPC Stadium should be on the bucket list. The Raven Golf Club at South Mountain, Wildfire Golf Club, and the Arizona Biltmore Resort – Links Course are just a few of the noteworthy courses offering plenty of challenge with beautifully maintained greens.
Desert Botanical Garden
Found in Papago Park the gorgeous Desert Botanical Garden is 140 acres of stunning desert flora. Photo ops await you with beautiful landscape and exhibits. Fun events will bring out the gardener in you.
Phoenix Zoo
This non-profit zoo is worthy of several visits to take in the majestic animals. Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! The habitats include savanna as well as Sonoran Desert. Get up close and personal with the giraffes or make attend one of the many events held each year.
Roosevelt Row
If it’s culture you’re after a visit to the Roosevelt Row will impress you. Located in the heart of Phoenix is a truly creative spot filled with the arts. Art galleries featuring the works of amazing artisans are found here.
Out of Africa Wildlife Park
This fabulous wildlife park allows you to be in and among exotic animals. Spacious habitats allow the animals to be in their natural environments while you observe. Adding to the excitement are fun shows like Tiger Splash. From zip lining to immersive experiences you can add to your visit to make it your own.
Shopping
Go shopping in Phoenix’s historic downtown!
With everything from antiques to boutiques, Phoenix provides a plethora of fun shopping experiences. Make frequent trips to farmers markets and shopping districts to find great treasures sure to please.
Melrose District
From upscale malls and shopping centers to great antique stores, the Melrose Shopping District offers unique finds. Located close to Indian School Road and Seventh Avenue, this hopping area is filled with fun antique stores, boutiques, specialty shops and more.
Looking for midcentury modern furniture or vintage clothing? From home décor to great holiday events this fun, eclectic district offers a great vibe and fun finds! Treasure hunters will be in heaven perusing the multitude of shops here. After shopping, enjoy some of the great eateries and coffee shops.
Baltimore Fashion Park
This upscale beautifully landscaped area has exceptional shopping with stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, William-Sonoma, Macy’s and Pottery Barn. Found in a visually stunning setting with fountains and beautifully maintained lawns, shoppers can find high-end clothing, home goods and more. The fabulous restaurants here add to the luxurious experience from mid-range to truly extravagant dining.
Old Town Scottsdale
For a unique and fun shopping experience be sure to visit Old Town Scottsdale. Fit right in to the theme with a purchase of a cowboy hat or some funky turquoise jewelry. This area is booming with great artists showcasing their wares at fun boutiques and art galleries.
After perusing the many shops, be sure to enjoy the nightlife with great libations, dancing and dining. If you’re looking for southwestern art or souvenirs, Old Town Scottsdale is the place to be!
Outlets
The Phoenix area is full of designer outlets sure to have you happy about savings. The Outlets at Anthem, Tanger Outlets Westgate and Phoenix Premium Outlets offer a variety of retail shopping with outstanding deals. These open air venues offer ease in finding everything on your list. With big savings on popular designer brands the outlets provide amazing retail therapy with convenience.
Places of Worship
Find the right place of worship for you and your family in Phoenix.
The Phoenix-Mesa Area is a diverse area, and has numerous places of worship that represent a wide range of faiths and religions.
Grace Bible Church of Phoenix
Grace Bible Church of Phoenix seeks to develop a committed group of followers of Christ, and has a number of mission orientated community outreach opportunities.
The Islamic Community Center of Phoenix
The Islamic Community Center of Phoenix serves a hub for Phoenix Muslims, offering religious services, a wide range of programs, and a religious school.
Beth El Congregation
Beth El Congregation is a Conservative synagogue that accepts all who want to have access to Judaism. It offers a welcoming place in its community, giving people access to a loving, like-minded support group.
Kadampa Meditation Center Phoenix
The Kadampa Meditation Center helps people in Phoenix learn more about modern Buddhism and offers a wide range of guided meditation classes.
Hindu Temple of Arizona
The Hindu Temple of Arizona is the hub of the Hindu community in the Phoenix Area, offering traditional and religious events and activities.
Beth Ami Temple
The Beth Ami Temple is an established Reform synagogue that serves the spiritual and social needs of its congregation.
West Valley Islamic Center
The West Valley Islamic Center is a convinient mosque that serves the thousands of Muslims in West Valley. It offers daily prayers and a range of community events.
Bharatiya Ekta Mandir of Arizona
The Bharatiya Ekta Mandir of Arizona is a traditional and peaceful Hindu temple that offers a wide range of Hindu religious activities all year.
Arizona Buddhist Temple
The Arizona Buddhist Temple is a Pure Land Shin Buddhism Dharma practice center where all members of the public can learn more about the teachings of the Buddha and take part in morning meditation classes.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church is a welcoming and inclusive Episcopalian church that offers a house of prayer for all people.
Other Arizona Resources
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Arizona
The 10 Best Places to Retire in Arizona in 2021
NewHomeSource Guide to Closing Costs in Arizona
Master Planned Communities Near Tucson, Arizona
10 Popular Master Planned Communities in Phoenix
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Arizona
Best Suburbs Near Phoenix, Arizona
Top 10 Safest Cities in Arizona
Moving To Phoenix? Our Relocation Guide Will Help
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.
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