The state of Arizona has become an increasingly popular place to live in recent years. Migration to the state started in the 1990s, as many people from all over started moving to the area for its great weather and low cost of living. 

Today, many communities in Arizona boast fabulous art (the art district), good jobs, and plenty of things to do for all ages. If you are thinking about moving, it would be a great idea to scope out different areas to see which one, or few may be a good fit. You may learn that Arizona has much to offer.

Phoenix

The Phoenix metro area is one of the most densely populated areas of the state. While this means a lot of people, it also means that this is one of the many areas with lots to do. Phoenix boasts two major league sports teams, multiple museums, and plenty of entertainment venues featuring performers worldwide. You'll also find a wide variety of fantastic dining options.

Like most other areas surrounding Phoenix, Arizona is in the middle of a desert, making its annual climate warm and dry. 

Mesa

Located on the east side of Phoenix, Mesa is the third most populated city in the state. That means it feels a lot less crowded than the big city, but it still has plenty of essential services such as healthcare, good schools, and shopping. You'll also find a wide variety of farmer's markets and restaurants throughout this part of the valley.

You'll also be in close proximity to outdoor attractions such as the Superstition Mountains, where you can hike unique and exciting trails such as Flatiron Peak and Weavers Needle. Cool off by visiting Saguaro Lake and Salt River Rafting.

Chandler And Gilbert 

These two family-oriented towns are so close to each other that it only makes sense to group them together. Both are located just outside of Mesa and, in many ways, function as suburbs for the larger city. You'll find golf courses, beautiful homes, and great schools in the area.

Glendale

Located on the west side of Phoenix, most people are familiar with Glendale because it is where many major league baseball teams do spring training. Beyond the sports, however, you'll find great shopping, including outlet malls. Glendale is also home to a small water park.

Scottsdale

On the other side of Phoenix is the town of Scottsdale. Scottsdale is close enough to Phoenix that many people are able to make day trips into the city but far enough away to avoid the traffic and other issues.

The town has seemingly sprouted up around the base of a large mountain and, as such, boasts numerous ski lodges and nature trails. There are also several golf courses.

Tempe

Directly south of Scottsdale is the city of Tempe. This quiet town is mostly known as the home of Arizona State University. As a college town, there is a large nightlife as well as numerous bars and restaurants.

The Tempe town lake is a great place to meet up with friends and go kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, or participating in other outdoor water sports. You may also want to check out the thriving artist communities. 

Surprise

Surprise is a relatively small town located northwest of Phoenix. At least, it was a relatively small town until it was discovered as an ideal place for Spring Training by several MLB teams. The town is full of paved walking and bike paths, fishing and duck ponds, and nature trails. You'll also find golf courses, tennis courts, and a lot more.

Fountain Hills

Fountain Hills is another great place to live in Arizona for retirees. It was originally built around an iconic fountain that was built in the middle of a lake in an area now known as Fountain Park. In fact, when the fountain was first built in 1970, it held the world record for the tallest fountain until 1980. Fountain Park also includes beautiful walking paths, playgrounds, and splash pads. The community was built to be walkable, and many residents chose to get around with only a golf cart.

Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley is a community just outside of Phoenix that boasts plenty of high-end restaurants, coffee shops, golf courses, and country clubs. Be aware that Paradise Valley is probably the most expensive community in Arizona, and there are many neighborhoods of large homes on several acres of land. 

Tucson

Tucson is the second largest city in Arizona. Located about two hours southeast of Phoenix and about an hour north of the U.S.-Mexico border, the city is famous for its multicultural heritage and cuisine. This is an ideal place for anyone who loves Tex-Mex and South American food.
While smaller than Phoenix, Tucson has its own unique art scene. As the home of one of the largest universities in Arizona, many people describe Tucson as being a town within a town. The university and arts scene function almost as their own communities inside the larger city.

Flagstaff

North of Phoenix is the city of Flagstaff, home of the tallest mountain in Arizona. Humphreys Peak is more than 12,600 feet tall, and its size greatly affects the local climate. Residents of Flagstaff enjoy cooler temperatures than the rest of the state, and it's possible to experience all four seasons in the city. Near the top of the mountain is the Lowell Observatory. While not open to the public, Flagstaff carefully controls light pollution in the area, and the mountain is perfect for stargazing.

Prescott

The city of Prescott is a smaller city, but it is well-known among aviation enthusiasts. It's home to one of the main campuses of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and is home to many amateur and professional pilots.

Remember when deciding to relocate it to any place, do your research! And, if you are in the market to purchase or sell a home reach out to a realtor like myself, or one who you trust!