Arizona Phoenix

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Moving to Phoenix, Arizona

As one of the largest cities in the United States, Phoenix boasts a population of over 1.4 million, with more than 4.2 million residents in the metropolitan area. This dynamic city seamlessly blends urban amenities with a rustic charm. From deserts and stadiums to exhibits and theaters, Phoenix offers a wide range of experiences. You can enjoy the bustling city life while still capturing the breathtaking landscapes of the West. Whether you want to embrace the rugged terrain, explore your artistic side, or indulge in luxury at a five-star spa, Phoenix has something for everyone. 

Phoenix by the numbers

1.65 Million

City population

#32

City rank of cost of living

$455,485

Median home price

Phoenix_AZ_Downtown_from_airplane_(cropped)

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Discover Phoenix: Top Attractions and Things to Do

Local Experiences

Local Experiences

Phoenix offers a wealth of local experiences that cater to a variety of interests. From exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene to indulging in the diverse culinary offerings, there's something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in the city's numerous parks and green spaces or take a stroll through the historic neighborhoods to appreciate the unique architecture. For those interested in history and science, Phoenix's museums and educational centers provide enriching experiences. Whether you're a foodie, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, Phoenix has plenty to offer for an unforgettable local experience. 

Outdoors:

Camelback Mountain, a prominent landmark in Phoenix, Arizona, offers an exhilarating hiking experience with its two main trails: Echo Canyon and Cholla. Both trails promise breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert landscape. The hike is challenging, with steep ascents and rocky terrain, making it ideal for seasoned hikers seeking adventure. As you climb, you'll encounter unique desert flora and fauna, adding to the natural beauty of the journey. Remember to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and start early to avoid the midday heat. Reaching the summit rewards you with a stunning vista, making the effort truly worthwhile.

Visiting the Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden is a mesmerizing experience, where the vibrant hues of desert flora contrast beautifully against the arid landscape. As you wander through the trails, the unique cacti and succulents offer a glimpse into the resilient beauty of desert life, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Visiting the Phoenix Art Museum offers a captivating journey through diverse artistic expressions, from contemporary masterpieces to timeless classics. The museum's thoughtfully curated exhibits and serene atmosphere provide an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Sports and Recreation

Sport and Recreation

Phoenix is a playground for sports lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Catch a Phoenix Suns basketball game at Footprint Center or cheer on the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. For outdoor fun, hike the iconic Camelback Mountain or explore over 16,000 acres of desert beauty at South Mountain Park and Preserve. Golfers will love the city's world-class courses like TPC Scottsdale and Papago Golf Club, while adrenaline seekers can hit the trails on a desert ATV tour with Desert Dog Offroad. Whether you're into pro sports or scenic adventures, Phoenix has something for every kind of explorer.

Adventures

Adventures

Phoenix is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable desert adventures. Just a short drive away, you can kayak the cool waters of the Salt River or float peacefully while spotting wild horses. Take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert with Rainbow Ryders for sunrise views you won’t forget. For a taste of the Old West, explore the historic mining town of Jerome, or ride the rails through red rock country on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Closer to the city, wander through the cactus-filled trails at the Desert Botanical Garden or experience Native American culture at the Heard Museum. From quick getaways to all-day excursions, Phoenix offers endless ways to explore the desert and beyond.

Seasonal Events

Seasonal Events

Phoenix offers a vibrant array of seasonal events and activities for both residents and tourists. Here's a breakdown of some of the key events and attractions across different seasons:

Community Resources

Healthcare
Hospitals and Medical Centers

Phoenix is home to several hospitals and medical centers offering a range of healthcare services. Below is a list of notable facilities:

Major Hospitals in Phoenix:
Consistently ranked as the No. 1 hospital in Arizona by U.S. News & World Report, Mayo Clinic in Phoenix is nationally recognized for excellence in 10 adult specialties. The hospital features 368 licensed beds, 33 operating rooms, and a comprehensive emergency department.

A leading academic medical center, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix is nationally ranked in geriatrics, nephrology, and urology. It serves as a hub for clinical care, research, and medical education.

Operated by Dignity Health, St. Joseph’s is renowned for its Barrow Neurological Institute, one of the world's largest neurosurgical centers. The hospital also offers comprehensive services in cardiology, oncology, and trauma care.

As one of the largest pediatric healthcare systems in the U.S., Phoenix Children’s Hospital provides specialized care in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. It is a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center with 433 beds.

Education
Schools and Learning Institutes

Here's an overview of K-12 schools, high schools, and colleges in Phoenix:

K-12 Schools:
Public Schools:
Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) Serving over 27,000 students across 23 high schools, PXU is one of the largest high school districts in the U.S. It offers comprehensive, specialty, and micro schools, including:​

Phoenix Elementary School District #1:

This district serves grades Pre-K through 8 and includes schools such as:


Charter Schools:
Phoenix is home to over 200 charter schools, offering specialized curricula and flexible learning environments. Notable charter schools include:

Public Resources
Regional Services and Agencies

Phoenix offers a variety of utilities, government agencies, and public resources to serve its residents. Below is an overview:

Utilities:
Electricity:
Phoenix, Arizona is primarily served by two electric utility providers: Arizona Public Service (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP). APS covers most of the city, offering residential and commercial energy services with a focus on solar and renewable integration, while SRP supplies electricity to parts of central and eastern Phoenix, known for its reliable service and water management. Both providers offer tools for energy efficiency, billing assistance, and outage tracking.

 

Water:
Phoenix’s water is managed by the City of Phoenix Water Services Department, one of the largest water utilities in the Southwest. The city sources its water from the Salt, Verde, and Colorado Rivers, as well as local groundwater, and is known for its innovative water conservation programs to ensure long-term sustainability in the desert environment.


Government Agencies:
Phoenix is served by a wide range of government agencies that manage city operations, public safety, infrastructure, and community services. Key departments include Phoenix Police and Fire, Public Works, Planning and Development, and the Human Services Department, all coordinated under the leadership of the Mayor and City Council.


Community Services:
Phoenix offers a variety of community services to support residents’ well-being, safety, and quality of life. The Human Services Department provides resources like senior centers, youth programs, family shelters, and emergency rental assistance. The Neighborhood Services Department helps with housing rehabilitation and neighborhood revitalization, while libraries, community centers, and food banks offer free educational, recreational, and basic needs support. 

Libraries:
Phoenix boasts a robust public library system known as Phoenix Public Library, comprising 16 branch libraries and the central Burton Barr Central Library. The central library, located at 1221 North Central Avenue, serves as the flagship location and administrative headquarters, offering an extensive collection of resources and services to the community.

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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.