Welcome to Phoenix: Your Guide to Living in Phoenix, AZ
Congratulations on moving to Phoenix, Arizona! “The Valley of the Sun” is one of the nation’s hottest (no pun intended) places to visit and live, and for good reason. With growing job opportunities (including here at U-Haul headquarters in Phoenix; apply today), booming real estate, lower cost of living, and a desirable year-round climate, it’s no wonder Phoenix had the largest population increase of any city in the U.S. from 2010 to 2020, and it continues to grow.
But it’s tough to be new in town, especially in such a sizeable area. To help you and movers like you get settled, we’ve put together this guide to living in Phoenix, AZ that covers all the basics.
About Phoenix, AZ
The capital of Arizona, Phoenix has a population of just under 1.7 million people (about twice the population of Delaware). That makes this growing metropolis the fifth most populous city in America, having recently passed Philadelphia in 2021. In fact, Phoenix is the most populous capital city in the entire U.S. It’s also the only state capital with a population that exceeds one million (Austin, TX is next on the list).
Clearly, Phoenix is big. When you include the surrounding suburbs, "Greater Phoenix” is massive. Greater Phoenix includes suburbs like Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert on the east side and Peoria, Surprise, Buckeye, Goodyear, and Glendale on the west side. By the numbers, Greater Phoenix has more than 4.5 million residents and covers more than 14,000 square miles. It’s okay if it takes you some time getting your bearings.
Living in Phoenix
If there’s one thing Phoenix is known for, it’s the climate. Particularly, the warm climate, which boasts more than 330 sunny days each year on average. The summers are hot, with highs regularly exceeding 110 degrees. But the winters are comfortable, with daily averages in the mid-to-high 50s, and spring is a desirable mid-70s to mid-80s on average. With less than 10 inches of rainfall per year, rain isn’t a common sight for Phoenicians. Unless of course it’s monsoon season, where a “haboob” dust storm is sure to make an appearance as well.
How to Get Around
One thing Phoenix isn’t known for is mass transit. But with the introduction of the Valley Metro Rail in 2008, progress has been made. The “light rail,” as it's known by locals, stretches from Downtown Mesa in the East Valley, through the heart of downtown Phoenix, and into the northwest Valley, making it a practical means of transportation, particularly if you’re heading downtown. There’s also the Valley Metro bus system which has many stops throughout the entire Valley, as well as the Tempe Streetcar.
Given the limited mass transit options, the heat in the summer, and overall sprawl of Greater Phoenix, travel is mostly done by automobile. In fact, don’t expect to do much walking. The good news is, Phoenix is thought to have some of the best freeways in the country, according to a 2013 report, so residents don’t mind hopping in the car and avoiding the heat (not including getting in your car in the summer).
Where to Eat
The influx of people from all over the country over the years has made Phoenix a melting pot of culture and cuisine. Though the primary offering is authentic Mexican food, there are a wide variety of dining options. Throughout Greater Phoenix, you’ll find hole-in-the-wall favorites, trendy breweries, upscale restaurants, quick bites, and so much more. Here are a few of our favorites.
Downtown
Like the city itself, the food scene downtown has taken off in the last decade. For a little food and fun, Copper Blues near Chase Field and Footprint Center features classic America fare alongside live entertainment – a perfect stop during a night on the town. For some authentic Arizona flavors, try Cocina 10 or El Norteño. Other favorites include Cornish Pasty, Hanny’s, and Cibo for eats, and Gracie’s Tax Bar, Valley Bar, and Seamus McCaffrey's Irish Pub for drinks.
Central Phoenix
Central Phoenix is home to plenty of long-time staples, as well as new favorites. Little Miss BBQ in the Sunnyslope neighborhood smokes up award-winning barbecue flavors. If you’re in the mood for spicy over sweet, Dick’s Hideaway serves some of the hottest New Mexican inspired green and red chile dishes in the city. Over on 7th Street in Midtown, take your pick from newcomers like Culinary Dropout, Pubblico Italian Eatery, Neighborly Public House, Mora Italian, and REVOLU modern taqueria + bar.
Scottsdale/Arcadia
The Scottsdale/Arcadia region of Greater Phoenix is home to many delicious dining options. Start with Steak 44, a well-known upscale steakhouse in the Arcadia neighborhood. Nearby, the Vig Arcadia and Postino dish out quality pizza, hamburgers, cocktails, and other classic fare. Over in Old Town Scottsdale, upscale eating and drinking options are not hard to find. Citizen Public House and AZ88 are modern and sleek, while Los Olivos Mexican Patio and The Mission supply more regional flavors.
East Valley
There's a lot to do and even more to eat across Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and other East Valley suburbs. Starting in Mesa, Drunken Tiger is a must-try for its signature Korean street food, cocktails, and karaoke. Nello’s Pizza is a family-owned staple featuring award-winning pies. In Gilbert, Arizona Wilderness has plenty of craft beers on tap to go with its traditional pub grub. Not far from there, historic staple Joe’s Real BBQ, as well as Zinburger and others, headline downtown Gilbert’s offerings.
West Valley
Hot soup might not sound appealing in the summer months, but the pho at Little Saigon in Glendale and Pho 602 in Phoenix is worth the sweat. Another Glendale favorite is Haus Murphy’s, known for its German cuisine and appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Guy Fieri also gave his seal of approval to La Piazza Al Forno in Old Town Glendale, if you’re a fan. Over in Surprise, Irish Wolfhound Pub is an excellent choice for friendly gatherings and meeting new people.
Places to Visit in Phoenix
There are plenty of attractions and places to visit. Downtown, the Phoenix Symphony delights music lovers with year-round performances and events. Nearby, the Phoenix Art Museum is a must-see for fans of everything from Renaissance to modern art. Next door, the Heard Museum is renowned for its American Indian Art and historical exhibits.
For a glimpse of Arizona’s natural beauty, there is no better place to visit than the Desert Botantical Garden. The garden features 140 acres of Arizona wildflowers, native cacti, and other colorful vegetation. It’s a must-visit for newcomers who assume the desert is one big pile of dirt. Elsewhere, in Gilbert, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch highlights the state’s unique ecology, wildlife, and other natural environments throughout the walkable park (it’s free, by the way).
Things to Do in Greater Phoenix
After you’re settled, you’re probably wondering what there is to do around here. Good news: there is no shortage of options, no matter what your interests are.
Hiking & Outdoor Recreation
Hiking is a popular activity among locals. You won’t have to travel far to find a trail head, either. Camelback Mountain is a famed hike in the heart of Phoenix. If you can make it to the top (it’s not easy), you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the city. For an easier jaunt, try Papago Park in Tempe. For something in the middle, explore the winding trails on South Mountain or Piestewa Peak.
For something a bit more relaxed, Salt River Tubing is a go-to outdoor activity for locals and visitors alike and has been for nearly 50 years. Kick back and enjoy the sunshine while you float along the Salt River in your inner tube. You might even spot the true AZ locals: the Salt River wild horses.
If you’re a golfer, you’re in luck. Greater Phoenix is also home to some of the best golfing in the country, due mostly to the desirable, year-round sunshine and comfortable climates. Choose from dozens of golf courses across the Valley. If you’re on the east side, Scottsdale is home to several of the most highly rated golf courses in the entire state, including Estancia and Scottsdale National Golf Club.
First Friday Art Walk
On the first Friday of every month, Roosevelt Row and Grand Avenue in downtown Phoenix become a hub for art, dance, music, and more. The monthly celebration is free to join and is a staple of the downtown scene. The fun begins after dark. More than 70 local galleries, venues, and boutiques open their doors allowing visitors to take in the city’s cultural offerings. It’s also a terrific way to experience some local street food, stop in a bar, or checkout downtown’s restaurants.
Arizona Sports
Phoenix is a sports town on the rise. In the fall, the Arizona Cardinals claim the attention of millions as they take on opponents at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. In the winter and spring, Arizona’s oldest team, the Phoenix Suns, hit the hardwood at Footprint Center downtown, while the Arizona Coyotes dish out hard hits at Mullet Arena in Tempe. Escape the heat during the summer and take in a ballgame at Chase Field downtown, home of the 2001 World Series Champion Arizona Diamondbacks.
Whether you’re a big sports fan or not, Spring Training is a blast. During March, 15 Major League Baseball teams call the Valley “home” as they fine-tune their swing for the upcoming season. Catch Cactus League exhibition games across Greater Phoenix nearly every day.
Arizona is also home to some of the country’s largest national sporting events. Most notably, the Phoenix Open sets up shop every year at TPC Scottsdale. Depending on the year, the Valley might be playing host to massive events like the Super Bowl, the NCAA March Madness tournament, or the FBS National Championship as well, so be on the lookout!
Shopping in Greater Phoenix
Phoenix has no shortage of excellent shopping opportunities. Old Town Scottsdale is likely at the top of the list, home to Scottsdale Fashion Square and not far from the Biltmore Fashion Park. Downtown, visitors enjoy the trendy offerings at CityScape, home to a handful of boutique shops. Other noteworthy shopping destinations in the valley include Chandler Fashion Center, Scottsdale Quarter, and Desert Ridge Mall.
Phoenix Day Trip Ideas
We know, you just got here. But when you’re ready for a quick trip out of town, you have options. Many are a short drive from Phoenix. A favorite among locals, Sedona is just under two hours away. Sedona is known for its striking Red Rock formations and vortexes. There is plenty to do once you’re there, including hiking, shopping, and plenty of guided tours of the unique landscape.
A bit farther north, you’ll find Flagstaff, home of Northern Arizona University. Flagstaff is the perfect destination when you’re ready for a break from the heat. Being a college town, you’ll find plenty of breweries, pubs, coffee shops, boutiques, and other fun places to drop in while you explore. Outside of town, there are also an abundance of dazzling hiking trails.
You’d be surprised how many Arizona locals have never seen the Grand Canyon. We recommend you don’t end up like them and make the trip to see this Natural Wonder as soon as you can. It’s about 3.5 hours from downtown Phoenix, so it’s a long day trip, but the views are well worth it.
If you’re in the East Valley, take a drive along historic Arizona 88 near Apache Junction and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. But that’s not all. You’ll also find Goldfield Ghost Town, home to shops, historic buildings, and the Mammoth Gold Mind. Eventually, you’ll reach Canyon Lake, home of the Dolley Steamboat, and the small western town of Tortilla Flat, a fun place to stop for lunch and a souvenir.