Hello, Born and raised here. Crime rate is something to consider -San Tan Valley sits at 127.7 per 100K. The median home value here is around $365,900, which seems about average. Poverty rate is 5.9%, which is pretty low. It's a a mid-size city city with about 105K people. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Thoughts? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
50 upvotes
13 Replies
Barbara P.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Clara Hall
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 8 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
35 upvotes
Mia Green
great question, following
32 upvotes
Nolan Moore
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 7 years. Moved from Seattle for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is tough - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are surprisingly good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Winters are long and cold. Chain restaurants dominate. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Paisley W.
Moved here from Dallas about 11 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to walkability but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
Luke Clark
lol so true
29 upvotes
John M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 15 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
27 upvotes
Katherine Gutierrez
this is the way
25 upvotes
William Alvarez
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
25 upvotes
Kennedy D.
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Mason Mendoza
couldn't agree more
11 upvotes
Bryan C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 56, moved here 8 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Springfield and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The safety situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Tampa, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
6 upvotes
Quinn P.
Bought a house here in 2023 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
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