Best brunch spots in Phoenix?

Santiago M. Mar 24, 2026

Alright, I'm going to write the reply I wish someone had written for me when I was researching Phoenix.

Background: 39, family with kids, moved from New York 6 years ago for a fresh start. Currently in Tempe.

**Housing:**
The market is decent right now. We went with Tempe because close to work. Paid /mo starting out, now at /mo. If I could do it again, I'd look at South Mountain - it's up-and-coming and the value is better.

**Work:**
tech jobs are tough here. I was worried coming from New York but the market is better than expected. Salary-wise, expect about 10-15% less than coastal cities.

**Social Life:**
This was my biggest worry. First 11 months were tough. Then I found my people through a co-working space. Now I have a solid group. Phoenix people are down-to-earth once you break through.

**Day to Day:**
- Groceries: reasonable
- Traffic: depends entirely on your commute route
- Dining out: decent but not world-class
- Entertainment: plenty to do on weekends

**Would I move here again?**
The {industry} scene here is really picking up.. For retirees, I'd give it a 7/10.

Feel free to DM me with specific questions - happy to help fellow newcomers.

34 upvotes

Piper Allen Apr 5, 2026

As someone who lives in Scottsdale, Honestly the biggest downside is {downside}.. That said, parking can be a real pain.

29 upvotes