Between 2010 and 2020, Phoenix, Arizona, was the fastest-growing big city in the United States, seeing an 11.2 percent population increase. That makes it the 5th most populous city in the US at almost 5 million people in 2020! With millions of people making Phoenix their new home, it’s hard not to wonder: what are the pros and cons of living in Phoenix? Read on to find out!
What You Should Know About Moving to Phoenix, Arizona
Also known as “The Valley of the Sun,” Phoenix is the capital of Arizona. The Hohokam people occupied the area for more than 2,000 years, and they built an extensive system of irrigation canals – many of which were utilized in modern projects to make the area’s hot, arid climate arable and liveable. They were followed by the Akimel O’odham, Tohono O’odham, and Maricopa tribes, who still live in the metropolitan area today.
Phoenix is located on the Sonoran Desert’s northern edge, which stretches from Baja California in Mexico to Palm Springs in California. This gives Phoenix a hot desert climate, presenting unique benefits and challenges to its residents. Keep reading to learn more about what desert life looks like for Phoenicians!
Industries in Phoenix
Though Phoenix was founded on “the 5 C’s” of copper, cattle, citrus, climate, and cotton, Phoenix is now home to four Fortune 500 companies and many corporate headquarters of various industries, from U-HAUL International to Honeywell’s Aerospace division.
Arizona has a lower cost of living than neighboring California, so many healthcare and technology companies are relocating to the area. Additionally, the city has the country’s second most reliable energy grid, which draws many businesses in the manufacturing and energy sectors.
Things to Do in Phoenix
Almost endless sunshine means that outdoor activities can be a huge draw for many residents. Here are a few top attractions in the Phoenix area:
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is 140 acres, showcasing the beauty of the Sonoran Desert and desert life worldwide. Explore thousands of varieties of cacti, flowers, and more while learning about the Sonoran Desert’s rich history. Year-round events, including Día de Muertos, Las Noches de las Luminarias, art exhibits, and more, make the Desert Botanical Garden a can’t-miss for visitors and a return attraction for locals.
Golf courses
The Greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, is well known for its almost 200 golf courses, which draw visitors worldwide. From private courses like the renowned Estancia to resorts and public courses like We-Ko-Pa, there’s something for everyone in the Phoenix area. And if you’re more of a spectator, you can’t miss the Waste Management Phoenix Open on the PGA tour!
National Parks
There are four extraordinary National Parks within about 4 hours of driving from Phoenix – Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, Saguaro, and Petrified Forest. Expand your radius to 7 hours, and you’ll get the wonders of Zion, Death Valley, and Mesa Verde.
Outdoor recreation
Phoenix’s location means you can enjoy not only Arizona’s natural beauty but also that of nearby Southern California, Colorado, and Utah. Flagstaff, Sedona, St. George, and Moab’s recreation hubs lay within a half-day drive, putting world-class skiing, rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking in your metaphorical backyard.
And if you’re looking for something even closer, Camelback Mountain is a distinctive landmark on the Phoenix city skyline and an extremely popular hike! It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy your new city.
Summer and Winter in Phoenix
It’s finally time to address the giant saguaro in the room: Phoenix is hot. But how hot, exactly? Check out this data from U.S. Climate Data:
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Avg High (ºF) | 67 | 71 | 77 | 85 | 95 | 104 | 106 | 104 | 100 | 89 | 76 | 66 |
| Avg Low (ºF) | 46 | 49 | 53 | 60 | 69 | 78 | 83 | 83 | 77 | 65 | 53 | 45 |
| Days with Precipitation | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| Hours of Sunshine | 248 | 244 | 314 | 346 | 404 | 404 | 377 | 351 | 334 | 307 | 267 | 236 |
So what do these numbers mean for day-to-day life? Summer is very hot, and most residents hop from one air-conditioned building to another. As is standard with a desert climate, the nighttime brings relief, often with a 20-30ºF drop in temperature.
On the other hand, winter in Phoenix is mild and comfortable while still being quite sunny!
Don’t confuse the abundant sunshine for boring weather, though. Phoenix is a great place to experience the meteorological event known as the Arizona Monsoon. Shifting winds and extreme temperatures can cause massive, albeit brief, thunderstorm outbreaks from late June through September.
Should I Move to Arizona?
Whether your job is relocating, you’re considering moving for school, or just looking for a change of scenery, Phoenix has caught your eye. What else is there to consider? The cost of living in Phoenix is almost 40% lower than desert neighbor Los Angeles and only about 8% higher than the median in the United States, making it a comfortable place for many people.
Phoenix has great educational options, including Arizona State University. Growing business sectors, including tech and healthcare, present new employment opportunities.
While visiting Phoenix is the only way to decide if it’s the best place for you, it’s a great place to land if you can stand the heat!
Furnish Your Phoenix Apartment With CORT
Students, the career-minded, retirees, and young families flock to Phoenix every year. New businesses are springing up all over the Valley of the Sun, and the city continues to expand rapidly. So, if you’re eyeing Phoenix as a potential destination, you’re not alone!
Whether your Arizona dreams are driven by work, school, or a fresh start, pack your sunscreen – but you don’t have to pack up all your furniture. With CORT Rental, you can furnish your new Phoenix home ahead of time with high-quality, classic furniture without the commitment of buying. CORT’s national footprint means that you can plan ahead of your move and have your new desert home ready to move in as soon as you arrive!
Start shopping today at CORT.com or find your local showroom and plan your next move ahead of time, build your package, and set a delivery date. Our team will deliver and assemble your furniture, so you don’t have to lift a finger. Then, when you’re ready, set a pickup date, and we’ll take care of the rest. Get started at your local CORT or online today!
