Overview
Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the United States and the heart of the rapidly growing Phoenix metropolitan area. Known for its year-round sunshine, affordable cost of living compared to coastal cities, and booming job market, Phoenix attracts thousands of new residents each year from California, the Midwest, and beyond.
Why People Move to Phoenix
- Over 300 days of sunshine annually
- No state income tax on Social Security benefits
- Lower cost of living than California coastal cities
- Rapidly growing job market in tech, healthcare, and finance
- Easy access to outdoor recreation including hiking and golf
Average Moving Costs to Phoenix
| From | Studio/1BR | 2BR |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (370 mi) | $1,500-$2,500 | $2,500-$4,000 |
| San Diego (355 mi) | $1,400-$2,400 | $2,400-$3,800 |
| Denver (600 mi) | $2,000-$3,200 | $3,200-$5,000 |
| Chicago (1,750 mi) | $3,500-$5,500 | $5,500-$8,500 |
* Estimates for professional full-service moves. DIY moves with rental trucks typically cost 40-60% less.
Best Neighborhoods for Newcomers
Scottsdale
Avg Rent: $1,800-$2,800 (1BR)
Upscale area with excellent dining, shopping, and nightlife. Popular with young professionals.
Tempe
Avg Rent: $1,400-$2,200 (1BR)
Home to ASU, vibrant college town atmosphere with great restaurants and entertainment.
Gilbert
Avg Rent: $1,600-$2,400 (1BR)
Family-friendly suburb with top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods.
Downtown Phoenix
Avg Rent: $1,500-$2,500 (1BR)
Urban living with arts, sports venues, and growing restaurant scene.
Cost of Living in Phoenix
- Rent (1BR)$1,300-$2,000/month depending on area
- GroceriesAbout 5% below national average
- Dining out$12-$20 casual, $40-$80 upscale
- State income tax2.5% flat rate
Utilities & Services
Electric
APS or SRP
$150-$300/month (summer AC is expensive)
Internet
Cox, CenturyLink
$50-$80/month
Water
City of Phoenix
$30-$60/month
Gas
Southwest Gas
$20-$40/month
Job Market in Phoenix
- Major employers: Banner Health, Intel, State Farm, American Express
- Growing tech hub with companies like Uber, Waymo, and startups
- Healthcare sector expanding rapidly
- Financial services and insurance headquarters
Transportation in Phoenix
Public Transit
Valley Metro light rail and bus system. Monthly pass $64. Limited coverage, car recommended.
Car
Essential for most residents. Free parking widely available. Gas prices moderate.
Biking
Challenging in summer heat. Growing bike lane network. Best October-April.
Moving Tips for Phoenix
Best Time to Move
October through April when temperatures are mild. Avoid May-September moves when temps exceed 100°F regularly.
Things to Know Before Moving
- If moving in summer, schedule early morning delivery to avoid extreme heat
- AC is essential - ensure your new place has working cooling before move-in
- Car window tinting is highly recommended for the intense sun
- Pool access is a major perk for summer months
Pros and Cons of Living in Phoenix
Pros
- +Affordable compared to coastal cities
- +Excellent job growth
- +Year-round outdoor activities
- +No vehicle emissions testing in most areas
- +Low humidity
Cons
- -Extreme summer heat (115°F+)
- -Limited public transit
- -Urban sprawl requires driving
- -Dust storms (haboobs) in monsoon season
- -Water scarcity concerns