Alright, I'm originally from Phoenix and Median household income is $135,909, which feels pretty solid for the area. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Would love some local perspective.
14 upvotes
7 Replies
Landon A.
I'm a chef and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
Claire Morris
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
21 upvotes
Violet Harris
great question, following
19 upvotes
Natalie Patel
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 35, moved here 9 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Midtown and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for young professionals. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
9 upvotes
Sadie Morris
seconding this
9 upvotes
Benjamin Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 40, moved here 2 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Westside and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited shopping options
3. The job market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for singles. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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
Michael
Moved here from San Diego about 14 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to nightlife but Definitely worth checking out..