Living a College Town Lifestyle in Phoenix, Arizona

The city of Phoenix, Arizona  has leaped beyond its borders to become the 5th largest city in the U.S.  Although it is not primarily a college town, there are many colleges both in the town and in neighboring suburbs. Tempe, home of Arizona State University, lies at the southern edge of the city.  Thunderbird School of International Management is in Glendale. Phoenix, a metroplex of over 1.5 million people, has engulfed communities like rural Glendale, as well as more posh communities like Paradise Valley, Carefree, Mesa, Peoria, Surprise, and Scottsdale.  Phoenix is in Maricopa County.

Where to Retire in Phoenix and Home Prices

Phoenix gives retirees  the option of living in any type of environment – big city, suburbs, active adult community, assisted living, or in one of the smaller towns in the area. As a large city the choices are wide and so are the budget ranges. Retirees considering the area should come here and visit to get a feel for the many different communities and neighborhoods. There is undoubtedly one that is right for you.
According to the National Association of Realtors, the median sales price of a home in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale area was $496,000 during the 2nd quarter of 2022.

What Is Special about Phoenix

Beautiful setting in a desert surrounded by hills and mountains and is in close proximity to the natural wonders of Arizona, such as the Superstition Mountains. Arizona State University gives it the college town atmosphere. Retirement is big business in Phoenix, and the Metroplex has everything to offer. There is also every type of professional sports team located here.

What Is Not Special about Phoenix

Traffic is intense at times and most people travel by car. Mass transit is historically poor but now somewhat improved with the addition of Valley Metro Rail. Summers are really hot. Over development is a way of life. Big City life. Will there be enough water in the future, is an important question.

Climate and Physical Environment

Phoenix is situated in a flat plain and surrounded by conical hills and mountains on all sides. Winters are temperate but not as warm as southern Florida. Summers are brutally hot with endless days of 100+ degrees.

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Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Phoenix has all the cultural opportunities of a large city. Phoenix has more than a dozen major hospitals, including the Mayo Clinic and the Arizona State Hospital. Institutions include the Phoenix Symphony Hall (opera and ballet), Orpheum Theatre (home to the Phoenix Metropolitan Opera), US Airways Center, Jobing Arena, and the Dodge theatre. The Heard Museum is world renowned for its collection of Native American art, but it is just one of many museums in Phoenix.

Crime

The crime rate is slightly above the U.S. average.

Medical Facilities

Phoenix has more than a dozen major hospitals, including the Mayo Clinic and the Arizona State Hospital.

Transportation

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is one of the country's top airports.The city is one of the few in the U.S. without an AMTRAK station. Valley Metro Rail is a 28.2-mile light rail line serving the cities of Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa in Arizona, USA. There are 38 stations and a connection to the Sky Train and the Sky Harbor Airport.

Valuable Links

For more information go to Retire in Phoenix. 

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