Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Phoenix, AZ
Thinking about moving to Phoenix, AZ? Home to over 1.6 million people, Phoenix offers affordable living with a median home price around $410,000 and average rents near $1,650. Commutes average just 27 minutes, and you'll enjoy an impressive 85% sunny days each year. While the city has a higher crime rate than the national average, residents benefit from major healthcare centers and a variety of education options. With its youthful vibe, diverse community, and year-round warmth, Phoenix is a dynamic place to call home.
Demographics - Phoenix, AZ
Demographics - Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a diverse and vibrant city with a population of over 1.6 million and a median age of 34.2, reflecting its youthful atmosphere. The community features a balanced gender ratio and a rich mix of cultures, with nearly 28% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity creates a dynamic environment for newcomers seeking a welcoming and multifaceted city.
Population:
1,644,409
Density:
3,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
27.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
42.6%
Black:
7.3%
Asian:
3.8%
Others:
46.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Phoenix, AZ?
Living in Phoenix is relatively affordable compared to other major cities, with a median home value of $410,000 and average monthly rent of $1,650. The overall cost of living index is just above the national average, and utilities and groceries are similarly priced, making it a practical choice for families and professionals alike. State income taxes are moderate, contributing to manageable monthly expenses.
Median House Value:
$410,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,490
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$560
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
103.2
Grocery:
99.5
Housing:
107.7
Utilities:
107.8
Transportation:
102.1
Health Care:
98.9
Miscellaneous:
101.7
Crime
Is Phoenix, AZ a safe place to live?
Phoenix experiences higher crime rates than the national average, with a notable rate of property crimes and a 1 in 148 chance of being a victim of violent crime. While this is something to consider, many neighborhoods are proactive about safety and community engagement. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local crime trends and take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
676
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,785
Crime Index:
3,461
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 148
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Phoenix, AZ year-round?
Phoenix is renowned for its sunny, warm climate, boasting around 85% sunny days each year and only about 8 inches of rainfall annually. Winters are mild with highs in the upper 60s, while summers can be extremely hot, often exceeding 100°F. The consistently dry and sunny weather makes Phoenix ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F

Spring
Min:
58°F
Max:
85°F

Summer
Min:
81°F
Max:
106°F

Fall
Min:
62°F
Max:
91°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
8.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
85%
Neighbors
Phoenix neighborhoods feature a median household income of around $72,000 and a poverty rate of 16.7%, reflecting a mix of working professionals and families. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times average under 27 minutes. The community is diverse, with over a quarter of residents speaking a non-English language at home.
Median Income:
$33,500
Household Income:
$72,000
Family Income:
$78,000
Per Capita Income:
$33,500
Income Male:
$40,700
Income Female:
$34,200
Poverty Rate:
16.7%
Non English Speakers:
27.8%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
26.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
83.9%
Bachelors or More:
31.4%
Education
How are the schools in Phoenix, AZ?
Phoenix is home to a range of educational opportunities, from highly rated public and private schools to major universities like Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University. Local schools offer diverse programs and manageable student-teacher ratios, supporting student success at every level. Families benefit from access to both K-12 and higher education institutions within city limits.

Public Schools
Name:
Phoenix Union Bioscience High School
Street:
512 E Pierce St
Phone:
602-764-5600
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Name:
North High School
Street:
1101 E Thomas Rd
Phone:
602-764-6500
Students:
2,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.3

Private Schools
Name:
Xavier College Preparatory
Street:
4710 N 5th St
Phone:
602-277-3772
Students:
1,200

Colleges
Name:
Arizona State University – Downtown Phoenix Campus
City:
Phoenix
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
11,500
Name:
Grand Canyon University
City:
Phoenix
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
23,500
Healthcare
Phoenix offers strong healthcare options, including major hospitals like Banner – University Medical Center and Mayo Clinic Hospital. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 86% health insurance coverage, residents have good access to medical services. The city’s robust healthcare network supports a healthy lifestyle for individuals and families.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix
Address:
1111 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Phone:
(602) 839-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mayo Clinic Hospital
Address:
5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85054
Phone:
(480) 515-6296
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.9%
Health Care Index:
70.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Phoenix, AZ?
Phoenix’s housing market is competitive yet accessible, with a median home price of $410,000 and about 55% owner occupancy. Rental options are plentiful, with average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,650 and a vacancy rate of 7.5%. The market has seen steady appreciation, making Phoenix appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$410,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Phoenix residents can access DMV services through the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located on W. Jefferson Street. Services include vehicle registration, licensing, and title transfers, with resources available online for added convenience. The office provides comprehensive support for new and current residents.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1801 W. Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone:
602-255-0072
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.