Ethan Wolvek Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 408.771.9199 ethan.wolvek@revinre.com maricopaskyhomes.com
welcome to ARIZONA With its captivating landscape, resort-like temperatures, booming business sector and growing art community, Arizona is a prime location for a fresh start. Boasting wide open spaces, majestic mountain ranges and sunsets that can’t be beat. Arizona is truly an oasis in the southwest.
Court was born in the small town of Duncan. Other major political players such as John McCain, Janet Napolitano, Barry Goldwater and G. Gordon Liddy hail from the nation’s Valentine State. THE GREAT OUTDOORS Home to The Sonoran Desert, The Coconino Forest and The Kaibab National Forest, Arizona offers a wide spectrum of landscapes and things to do. Residents can ski in Flagstaff, boat on Lake Powell, visit caverns in Benson, hike in Scottsdale, kayak on Tempe Town Lake, wine taste in Sonora, and tour a mine in Bisbee. Arizona is rich with adventure!
Arizona history dates back to 1539 when Friar Marcos de Niza explored the state on his quest to find the mythical seven cities of gold. Missions were established in the 1690’s and introduced Christianity to the region. Arizona was once part of New Mexico before The Arizona Organic Act was signed in 1863. In the 1700’s, prospectors flocked to Arizona to stake their claims on the state’s precious metals. Copper, lead, zinc, silver and gold have all been mined here. Mining continues to be a substantial player in Arizona’s economy. When gold was discovered in California in 1849, Arizona’s Gila Trail became a main route to the west coast. As this brought an influx of gold seekers unable to cope with the desert environment, the Tohono O’odham Tribe assisted the prospectors in surviving the unfamiliar climate. Arizona’s bid to make history continued. In 1930, former planet Pluto was discovered by an astronomer at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. Sandra Day O’Connor, who is the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme
Mountains and plateaus comprise more than half the state and Arizona is home to the largest ponderosa pine forest in the country. There is something for everyone here – world class resorts, backpacking or hiking in remote areas and family friendly communities. The cactus, orange blossoms, and Palo Verde trees provide a unique backdrop for new adventures and experiences. Bordering on California, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada, The Grand Canyon state encompasses a wide range of influences geographically, culturally, and politically. Formerly a mining and cattle territory, Arizona is now a contemporary industrial state with modern farms, large cities and emerging technologies. DESERT ORIGINS The name Arizona comes from the Native American word “arizonac” which translates to “place of the small spring.” It is the 48th contiguous state of the United States. This was declared on February 14th, 1912 thus earning the nickname of “The Nation’s Valentine.”
WELCOME TO ARIZONA
PHOENIX’S COLORFUL HISTORY The name “Phoenix” describes a mythical bird that lived from 600 to 800 years before building a nest of cinnamon twigs that it ignites, burning its nest and itself until both are reduced to ashes. But from the ashes, a new young phoenix arises to live again. That mythical story mirrors the colorful and cultural history of Phoenix itself, a city that had its beginnings more than 1,000 years ago when the Hohokam people lived on the land that would eventually become the vibrant city it is today. In 1868, the city was a small colony first named Swilling’s Mill and then changed to Helling Mill. It eventually became Mill City and then East Phoenix. It was Phillip Darrell Duppa, an early Arizona pioneer, who suggested the name Phoenix, since the new town would include the rebuilding and updating of the city’s ancient Hohokam canal systems – rebuilding anew from the proverbial ashes of the old. The City of Phoenix was officially recognized on May 4, 1868, when the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors formed an election precinct, and eventually incorporated in 1881. The state’s rich Native American cultural background informs its history, and Phoenix is no exception. There are 22 federally recog- nized Native American tribes in Arizona with a total population of about 300,000, many of whom reside in the Valley of the Sun. The area’s Pueblo Grande ruins, an ancient city occupied between 700 A.D. and 1400 A.D., embodies the city’s history where the wide Salt River ran through the Valley of the Sun. The city actually sits on the banks of the river, which is mostly dry today. The city’s location in central Arizona gave it preference as the state capital over Tucson or Prescott, and today it’s the only state capital with a city proper population of more than 1.4 million. It’s also the third-largest city in the western United States – just after Houston, Texas. The Phoenix metropolitan area includes the city itself, Maricopa County, most of Pinal County and parts of southern Yavapai County. The city’s combined metropolitan statistical area (MSA) population is just over
Experience Old Tucson Studios – a set for countless Western movies as well as a theme park. Built in 1938, it was revamped in 2011 with new sets, streets and buildings. While it’s still a must-see for any western die-hard, it also features “living history” presentations that feature educational programs about Hispanic, Chinese and Native American culture.
DEDICATION TO A LIVABLE CITY And the city is dedicated to making – and keeping – Phoenix a livable, safe city for its residents. For example, the City of Phoenix provides a School Safety program that is funded by a grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. That’s a commitment that continues with the Phoenix-area city of Goodyear winning the National Civic League-sponsored All- America City Award competition. Given since 1949, the award “recognizes civic excellence, honoring communities of all sizes in which citizens, government, businesses and voluntary organizations work together to explain how they are successfully resolving critical local issues.” The National Civic League has selected Phoenix as an “All-America City” five times. The All-America City award is given to communities across the United States that identify and tackle community-wide chal- lenges. Also, Businessweek.com identified Phoenix as, “…a magnet for Generation Y residents because of its history of having some of the nation’s best job opportunities.” Readers of TV Y Más magazine, a Spanish-language television guide, that year voted Phoenix as their “Best Place to Raise a Family,” and both Apartments.com and CbCampus.com rated Phoenix as number seven in its top 10 cities in the United States for recent college graduates. Valley Metro, an institution formed under the auspices of the Regional Public Trans- portation Authority, handles public transit in Phoenix and throughout Maricopa County, which is now more important than ever given the recent growing gas prices. It’s services include busing, local-area shuttles, Paratransit (for residents with medical challenges in need of transportation) and METRO — a new, 20-mile, $1.4 billion light-rail transit system that takes commuters though a metropolitan area that includes such major Valley of the Sun cities as Tempe and Mesa. Launched on December 27, 2008, future METRO plans include building 30 more miles of light rail lines by 2025. The bottom line is that Phoenix has a lot to offer, and has been recognized for its reason- able cost of living and universal appeal by national relocation companies and surveys.
PHOENIX
Phoenix and its more than 20 surrounding communities are known as the “Valley of the Sun” – and that’s not surprising, given Arizona’s climate and its blisteringly hot growth over the last several years. One of the leading regions of the Southwest during the real estate boom years of 2003 until about 2006, Phoenix and its neighboring communities have always benefited from an influx of relocating families, singles and retirees and continue to do so today. In 2022 the Phoenix area added 56,831 new residents, more than any other metropolitan area in the nation per a 2023 U.S. Census Bureau report. The U.S. Census Bureau has also estimated that by 2030 the population of Phoenix will reach 2.2 million with the metro area reaching about 6.3 million. Currently the Phoenix metropolitan area is home to over 4 million people. The Phoenix - Casa Grande - Tucson corridor is anticipated to be one of the fastest growing areas in the United States. Phoenix residents are not alone in recog- nizing the city’s appeal. The city has been praised by other organizations, including receiving the National Community Recycling Leadership Award from the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), a non- profit public service organization dedicated to recycling rechargeable batteries and cell phones. The city is a diverse and exciting combination of factors – from its status as Arizona’ capital city and home to several major professional sports teams to its incredible scenery – the city is surrounded by mountains on all four sides – and a demographic that appeals to young singles to retirees and everyone in between. It’s true that there’s really something for everyone!
WELCOME TO ARIZONA
“ There is something for everyone [in Arizona] – world class resorts, backpacking or hiking in remote areas and family friendly communities. ”
4 million and includes the communities of Anthem, Avondale, Buckeye, Carefree, Cave Creek, Chandler, El Mirage, Fountain Hills, Gila Bend, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Guadalupe, Litchfield Park, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Phoenix, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Sun City, Sun City West, Sun Lakes, Surprise, Tempe, Tolleson, Tonopah, Wickenburg and Youngtown in Maricopa County. And, in Pinal County, communities include Apache Junction, Arizona City, Casa Grande, Coolidge, Eloy, Florence, Kearny, Mammoth, Maricopa, Oracle, Picacho, Picacho Peak, Red Rock, San Manuel, and Superior. PHOENIX’S ARTS SCENE: MUSIC, FILM, TV AND CULTURE The arts thrive in Phoenix, thanks in part to an active creative and civic community. For example, the City of Phoenix Office of Art and Culture is a great source of information on all things arts and culture, including theater and performing companies, music, art galleries, museums, dance and much more. The city’s Office of Arts and Culture offers many programs that continue to nurture and support the arts on a regular basis, including an Arts Grants program and Career Devel- opment grants, a Public Art program, a thriving community of Phoenix arts organization websites and partner agencies, and the monthly First Friday Artwalk that attracts residents and visitors alike to the city’s downtown art galleries. All total, more than 130 nonprofit organiza- tions provide arts and cultural experiences, including a symphony orchestra, opera and ballet companies, producing and presenting theater and dance organizations, art and history museums, a science center, zoo, botanical garden, and countless festivals.
In fact, there’s such a rich concentration of arts and culture spanning the city’s unique and interesting communities that there are major annual festivals in almost every Phoenix-area city. Take the family and explore the Arizona Renaissance Festival, the Arizona Scottish Highland Games, the Dia de los Muertos Festival, Matsuri – A Festival of Japan, the Native American Fine Art Invitational, the Scottsdale Arts Festival, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival, the Tempe Festival of the Arts, the Harvest Festival, the Family Cornfest and Arts and Crafts Fair, or Way Out West Oktoberfest! Museums and galleries celebrate Southwest art and culture, as well as classic art genres. The Phoenix Art Museum, which opened in 1959, is known for its diverse visual arts collection, including exhibitions and permanent collections that include such artists as Rembrandt, Norman Rockwell, Annie Leibowitz and Monet. The museum also includes more than 18,000 works of American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design. The Arizona Science Center in Phoenix features hands-on exhibits and a planetarium, and the Arizona State Museum is the oldest and largest anthropology museum in the Southwest. For a list of cultural and creative arts opportunities, visit www.visitphoenix.com/events. PHOENIX’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY Phoenix is also home to a thriving busi- ness community, with major private sector employers calling the city home, as well as corporate and regional headquarters for such well-known Fortune 500 companies as Avnet, Freeport-McMoran, Republic Services and PetSmart. Fortune 1000 companies that call the Phoenix area home include Swift
Transportation, Apollo Education Group, Sprouts Farmers Market and Pinnacle West Capital. In addition, many other major corporations have significant operations in the Phoenix metro area, including Intel, U-Haul International, Honeywell, and Boeing, to name a few. Phoenix is also among the nation’s fastest- growing regions and has been recognized for strong job growth and entrepreneurial environment, especially for aerospace, high-tech and bioscience companies. Not surprisingly, the local job market continues to grow at a steady rate. As of 2023, Moneygeek noted that Phoenix was one of “The Top Cities for U.S. Job Seekers in 2023.” The city also sported an unemployment rate below the national average of 3.4 percent. Arizona State University, the University of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University and the internationally recognized Thunderbird School of Global Management graduate school, located in nearby Glendale, also provide a talented and educated workforce and entrepreneur community. NATURAL BEAUTY – AND PLENTY OF OUTDOOR FUN The Phoenix area’s natural beauty is just another reason for the city’s appeal – and that has nurtured an active outdoor lifestyle, including beautiful places to swim, hike, cycle, boat, golf, and much more. and sports activities – and they certainly do, thanks to more than 325 days of sunshine each year, mean high temperature of 85 degrees, and just 7.66 inches average annual rainfall. It’s no surprise that golf is a big sport every- where in Arizona, including the Phoenix metro area. With more than 200 golf courses,
WELCOME TO ARIZONA
has its share of top-notch healthcare facilities for residents.
including many municipal courses and a host of private links and country clubs, including a number of world-class courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and others, there are golf greens for every skill level. There are also seven lakes within an hour of the greater Phoenix metro area that offer fishing, boating, water skiing, picnic areas and camping, plus three major mountains that surround the Phoenix area that offer perfect terrain for hiking, climbing or just enjoying nature. Peaks in the Phoenix Mountain range complex include Lookout Mountain, Camelback Mountain, Stony Mountain and Piestewa Peak, among others. Prefer spectator sports? You’re in luck here! Greater Phoenix is one of 10 metropolitan areas that have most major professional sports represented, including Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB) and Cactus League (MLB) baseball; Phoenix Suns basketball (NBA); Firebird International and Phoenix International Raceways; Arizona Cardinals football (NFL); Phoenix Coyotes hockey (NHL); and Phoenix Mercury women’s basketball (WNBA). Annual sports events include the Safeway International LPGA Tournament; FBR Open Golf Tournament; The Tradition Senior PGA Tour; The Waste Management Phoenix Open; and the Arizona Men’s Tennis Classic. Other sports events include the Senior Pro Rodeo; Coors Light World Finals Drag Boat Racing; NHRA World Series of Drag Racing; the; and the Checker O’Reilly Auto Parts 500, plus Cactus League Spring Training and the Fiesta Bowl Football Classic. The Thunderbird Classic Hot Air Balloon Race also attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to see hundreds of colorful hot air balloons in the Arizona skies. FINE FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT AND SHOPPING Just like its diverse terrain, Phoenix has an equally diverse offering of restaurants and dining options for every palate. While signature Southwestern and Mexican dishes dominate the city’s culinary landscape at such top restaurants as Vincent’s Market Bistro and Rancho Pinot Grill, there are flavors to suit every craving, including Asian, Italian, Mediterranean, and of course the classic steakhouse.
Try Alice Cooperstown – the namesake restaurant of the famous rock star and Arizona resident Alice Cooper – with its classic American dishes and great barbeque, or the Papago Brewing Company with its 30 tap bar and full menu. Kai is an elegant – and pricey – classic American restaurant at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort on the Gila River Indian Community reservation that’s been rated five diamonds by AAA Arizona, while Christopher’s French restaurant has earned wine accolades from both Gourmet and Wine Spectator magazines. For entertainment, Copper Square, in the heart of downtown Phoenix, is the place to be. This 90-square- block, revitalized district around the Convention Center has plenty to do and see, including nightclubs, shopping and dining. It’s also home to Chase Field, where the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team plays their home games. As for shopping, there’s no shortage of places to browse and buy. The huge Scottsdale Fashion Square is a shopping and entertainment paradise that includes such luxury store brands as Burberry, Hugo Boss, Kate Spade new york, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., St. John, Max Mara, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus, while Biltmore Fashion Park offers even more luxury shopping with Saks Fifth Avenue, Hyde Park Jewelers, Escada, Ralph Lauren, Stuart Weitzman and Cole Haan. Malls in the Phoenix area include Metrocenter Mall; Phoenix Spectrum Mall; Desert Ridge Marketplace; Kierland Commons; Arrowhead Towne Center; Tempe Marketplace; and Paradise Valley Mall. And don’t miss the charming boutiques and shops on Mill Avenue in Tempe, or the vintage and antique shops in Glendale, or the galleries and boutiques in nearby Scottsdale. For outlet shopping, this area can’t be beat, whether you head to the huge Arizona Mills Mall and Outlet Center off Interstate 10 in Tempe; the Outlets of Anthem just north of the metro Phoenix area; or the Phoenix Premium Outlets just east of Phoenix in Chandler, Arizona. HEALTHCARE IS TOPS IN PHOENIX Arizona has long been known as a place to heal because of its warm, dry climate, so it’s no surprise that the Phoenix metropolitan area
Statewide, Arizona has more than 100 hospitals. Of the medical facilities in the state many of the hospitals rank in the U.S. News Best Regionals Hospitals list, meaning that they meet or exceed high requirements in the regards to the healthcare industry. Phoenix is home to many of these honored hospitals. Phoenix is also a progressive city when it comes to healthcare policies and procedures – and became the second city in Arizona (after Tucson in 2003) to allow hospital visitation rights to unmarried gay or straight couples that live together. NO PLACE LIKE HOME There’s no doubt that Phoenix is a great city, and its variety of neighborhoods only add to the area’s desirability. Choose from charming inner city history to downtown loft living to lush developments around the city to quiet suburban neighborhoods – there’s no shortage of diverse housing in Phoenix. Thanks to the nation’s ongoing economic recovery, the overall average home price in Phoenix remains very affordable. The April 2023 average price of a home in the Phoenix area was $400,644, down 3.1% from the prior year, according to the Zillow Group, Inc. Nationwide, the median price of existing homes decreased 1.69 percent to $388,800 from April 2022 through April 2023. Offerings range from classy downtown condos to elegant old homes to modern showplaces to friendly suburban neighborhoods to countryside ranches and farmhouses on the outskirts of town. Wherever you choose to live in the Valley of the Sun, you’ll find a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Welcome to a city that residents and visitors adore – and that you will, too. As you explore the Relocation Guide, Phoenix will surely become a treasured home in which to live, enjoy life, and prosper!
and economy BUSINESS
The business climate of Arizona is rich, expansive and ever growing. Opportunities for education in every field imaginable are available throughout the state.
of Arizona (headquartered in Tucson) and Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff), also maintain a presence in Phoenix with small campuses supporting medical and non- medical academic disciplines. Other post-secondary education institutions in the Phoenix area – University of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University, American Indian College, Art Institute of Phoenix, University of Advanced Technology, Collins College, DeVry University, Argosy University, the Phoenix School of Law, Fortis College, Maricopa County Community Colleges, Western Governors University and the inter- nationally recognized Thunderbird School of Global Management graduate school – provide a talented workforce and an entre- preneurial community.
The business sector of Phoenix is rapidly accelerating in areas such as renewable energy, biomedicine, manufacturing and distribution, aerospace, and aviation. Not to be overshadowed, the city of Tucson is also experiencing rapid growth in key industries such as bioscience, solar energy, transporta- tion and logistics, aerospace, and defense. With a small state government and modest taxes, Arizona offers emerging businesses inexpensive operational costs. Additional benefits include refundable tax credits, reimbursable grants as well as property tax reductions creating an ideal environment for start-ups or existing businesses. Arizona is known for its educated work force. Large universities as well as smaller, specialized schools foster a learned commu- nity of executives, employees and new hires. This high concentration of educational institutions drives Arizona’s research and development activities. Statewide, Arizona
is a fantastic place to start a new career or business. Every year, industry leaders find a new home in the desert of the Wild West.
PHOENIX
Phoenix is tops for companies and people moving to the area – and it’s no wonder. With its healing climate, low cost of living and quality of life, Phoenix ranked second among top metros for “The Strongest Six- Figure Job Growth” according to a 2021 article by Forbes. That’s not surprising, given the wealth of highly educated graduates from the Valley of the Sun’s many post-secondary education institutions. Arizona State University, one of the largest public universities in the United States with just over 72,000 enrolled students, boasts four separate campuses across the Valley. Arizona’s other two post- secondary public institutions, the University
BUSINESS AND ECONOMY
Downtown Phoenix. Photo by Robert Silberblatt courtesy of Visit Phoenix
Convention Center Photo courtesy of Visit Phoenix
fastest job growth in 2023. The Greater Phoenix area ranks among the top major metropolitan employment centers in the U.S. in 2023. Top industries in Arizona include: aerospace and defense, technology, renewable energy, bioscience and health, optics/photonics, manufacturing and advanced business services.
LABOR & UNEMPLOYMENT Phoenix’s long business history started in the 1800s, when citrus and agriculture became a burgeoning industry – resulting in the construction of the Roosevelt Dam to ensure ample irrigation during the state’s hot months of the year. That wherewithal still exists today. One of the nation’s fastest-growing regions, Phoenix has long been recognized for its strong job growth, especially for aerospace, high-tech and bioscience companies. Intel is one of the area’s largest employers, as are Fortune 500 companies like Boeing and Honeywell Aerospace. Manufacturing and tourism are also important to the city’s economy, with more than 22 million visitors flocking to the area each year, visiting the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, enjoying the charm of towns like nearby Sedona, and relaxing at such luxury resorts as the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, Legacy Golf Resort, Arizona Grand Resort and the recently remodeled Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Amidst slow economic recovery, the local job market continues to grow at a strong rate. According to The Common Sense Institute Arizona, the state ranks 9th in the nation for
The Maricopa Community College District – one of the largest higher education systems in the country with 10 colleges and two skill centers – is Arizona’s largest provider of job training, serving more than 200,000 students each year. Business Insider ranked Arizona number 7 in “Best U.S. States to Start a New Business” in a 2023 article. Arizona’s large availability of employees and relatively low cost of living are contributing factors. Arizona also has a high volume of start-up companies, indicative of a climate that is strong for potential enterprise. Phoenix is also known as a great place to live. CNN Money named four Phoenix communities – Chandler, Scottsdale, Peoria and Gilbert – as best small cities to live. With all those accolades, it’s easy to see why greater Phoenix is among the nation’s fastest- growing regions, consistently recognized for its strong job growth and entrepreneurial environment. The city’s location in the southwest United States, boasting a dry and temperate climate, has turned it into a top choice for business, especially for aerospace, high-tech, bioscience, advanced business and sustainable technology companies.
PHOENIX: NURTURING BUSINESS GROWTH
People and businesses from around the country and the world continue to flock to Phoenix. Besides the city’s beautiful and scenic surroundings, Phoenix has a long history of spearheading business development efforts. In fact, business owners organized the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce in November 1888. Now known as the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce (www.phoenixchamber.com), the Chamber is committed to making the “Valley of the Sun” a great place to live, work and do business. That commitment also includes funding and assistance for business development in the form of incentive programs and other resources. Assistance for business development in Phoenix is available through such organi- zations as the Small Business Enterprise Program through the City of Phoenix (SBE – phoenix.gov), Business Development Finance Corporation (www.bdfc.com), Southwestern
BUSINESS AND ECONOMY
Symphony Hall Lobby. Photo courtesy of Visit Phoenix
SPORTS: CARDINALS, SUNS, THE DIAMONDBACKS AND MORE With just about every major sport represented, sports tourism is big business in Phoenix.
newly built, or on the horizon the number of jobs available to those in the healthcare sector will continue to rise. The Valley of the Sun also houses major data centers and technology companies. Top technology employers in Phoenix include Intel, Honeywell, Boeing and some defense contractors. Where do people go when its 20-below? Phoenix has become the go to place to relax, unwind and enjoy weather like you won’t find elsewhere. Looking to spend a day at the spa? There are approximately 450 hotels in the Phoenix area, employing and running at full steam. Need to hit the green? Phoenix has numerous golf courses to keep golfers putting away and the industry humming alongside it. THE ARTS Arts and cultural organizations are also big contributors to the local economy, with an estimated economic impact of over $300 million. Arts activity generates state and city tax revenue and contributes to job growth in critical support industries like restaurants, hotels and retail businesses. The City of Phoenix is one of 182 commu- nities that participated in Arts & Economic Prosperity III, the most comprehensive study of its kind, which documents the economic impact of the nonprofit arts and culture industry in 139 cities and counties, 31 multi- county regions, and ten states—representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Business Financing Corp.(www.swbfc.com), the Phoenix Industrial Development Authority (PIDA – www.phoenixida.com), the federal Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR – www.sbir.gov), and the Arizona Commerce and Economic Development Commission (www.azcommerce.com). PHOENIX & INDUSTRY: DIVERSITY ALL AROUND With origins in agriculture, evolving to manufacturing and then high-tech, Phoenix businesses include a wide array of industries, including financial, healthcare, and technology and tourism. American Express and JPMorgan Chase have a big presence here, and there are branch offices for numerous brokerage firms, plus a host of financial planners, wealth managers and other financial companies. In all, the Phoenix area is home to nearly 600 bank and credit union branches—from small, local financial institutions to such international powerhouses as Chase, Wells Fargo, Wachovia and Bank of America—all of which are eager to do their part in helping launch and nurture incoming Phoenix-area businesses. Phoenix is also home to several top healthcare systems, including Scottsdale Health, Catholic Healthcare West and Banner Health – all of which are big area employers. Arizona hospital employment growth has significantly outpaced the annual employment growth of hospitals nationally. With new hospital facilities being
Consider that: •
Greater Phoenix has more than 200 golf courses; The Valley of the Sun stadiums hosted Super Bowls XLII, XLIX and LVII; Cactus League spring training baseball attracts 1 million fans each year; and The Waste Management Phoenix Open annually attracts the largest galleries of any golf tournament in the world.
•
•
•
In fact, the Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority, which owns and operates the University of Phoenix Stadium, funds the promotion of tourism in Maricopa County, the construction and renovation of Cactus League Spring Training facilities, and the youth and amateur sports projects. Sports tourism activities contribute close to $2 billion annually to the area economy, according to a report by AZ Business Magazine. It’s clear that Phoenix is an exciting and vibrant place to do business with a thriving entrepreneurial spirit and industries of all kinds. We’re glad you’re here!
PHOENIX AREA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
Ahwatukee Chamber of Commerce
480-753-7676
www.ahwatukeechamber.com
Carefree-Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce
480-488-3381
www.carefreecavecreek.org
Chandler Chamber of Commerce
480-963-4571
www.chandlerchamber.com
Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce
480-837-1654
www.fountainhillschamber.com
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
480-892-0056
www.gilbertaz.com
Glendale Chamber of Commerce
623-937-4754
www.glendaleazchamber.org
Mesa Chamber of Commerce
480-969-1307
www.mesachamber.org
North Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
602-482-3344
www.northphoenixchamber.com
Peoria Chamber of Commerce
623-979-3601
www.peoriachamber.com
Phoenix Chamber of Commerce (Greater)
602-495-2195
www.phoenixchamber.com
Empowerment Networking Organization (Phoenix Metro)
480-664-0077
www.phoenixmetrochamber.com
Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
480-888-1709
www.queencreekchamber.com
Scottsdale Chamber
480-355-2700
www.scottsdalechamber.com
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260
www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Tempe Chamber of Commerce
480-736-4280
www.tempechamber.org
San Tan Chamber of Commerce
480-626-7757
www.santanchamber.com
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692
www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
ARIZONA’S COST of LIVING
Anyone planning to relocate needs to know just how far their paychecks will stretch in their new, adopted city. After all, if you’re used to inexpensive mortgages or rental prices, reasonable grocery bills and affordable health care, you don’t want to be surprised if the bills skyrocket when you choose to move to another city. The good news is that, in Phoenix and Tucson, when compared to cities that are about the same size, your hard- earned dollar will likely stretch a bit further – and that attracts people to the area. In fact, since 2015, Phoenix and Tucson have experienced thriving population growth leading the way with the highest and second-highest growth rate of any Arizona city or town! The Cost of Living Index (COLI) ranks a range of living expenses in major cities. Compiled by the Council for Community and Economic Research – a national organization dedicated to economic development and
policy research – the index measures differences between areas in the cost of consumer goods and services, minus taxes and non-consumer expenditures. The index also measures relative price levels for consumer goods and services in participating areas, like groceries, housing, utilities and more. The average for a participating place – both metropolitan and non-metro – is 100, and each participant’s index is read as a percentage of the average for all places. In Phoenix and Tucson, you’ll find yourself paying about the same for transportation, utilities, health care, and other goods and services as with other, similar sized cities. And when it comes to necessities like housing and groceries, Phoenix and Tucson prices remain affordable. Whether you’re thinking about moving here, or are already here, it’s easy to see that Arizona measures up not only in terms of quality of life, but also with its affordability.
When it comes to overall cost of living, Phoenix and Tucson are still quite affordable places to live and work. Here’s how they ranked in comparison to other major U.S. cities (2023 1st Quarter).
City
Composite
Grocery 15.73%
Housing
Utilities 9.06%
Transportation
Healthcare
Misc.
100% 109.4 129.4 153.4 107.4
28.1%
8.53% 122.7 109.9 131.8 138.5
4.83%
33.75%
Atlanta Austin Boston Chicago Cleveland
98.8 96.7
112
103.6
98.8
99.8
159.6 260.6
99.1
101.6
100.4 129.1 107.3 104.4 105.2 102.8 149.4 100.1
111.4
116.8
89.7
97.2 93.5 99.1
99.1 23.1 92.9
92.8 94.9
88
72.3
90.5
82.8 98.1 83.9
Dallas/Ft. Worth
101
100
117.1 116.1
Denver
127.8 221.4 108.7 102.4
101.9 120.4
184.3
96.2
New York (Manhattan)
520
150.3 101.8
161
125.1
Phoenix
97.3
103.5 118.5 596.2
117.9
92.5 94.8
Raleigh
100.6 116.6 108.7
99.1 97.5 68.8 99.4
88.6
98.1
San Francisco
244
158.2 137.5
114.9
120.5 120.1
Seattle
167.8
309
88.2 85.4
Tucson
95.7
95.5
80.4
96.6
103
ARIZONA’S by the NUMBERS
FROM ONE PAYCHECK TO THE NEXT Want to know how living in Phoenix or Tucson compares to other cities in terms of how far your paycheck will get you? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house in in one of the cities, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help us figure out the rest. For example, if you made $60,000 after taxes in Los Angeles, CA, you’d need to make just $41,526 in Phoenix and $41,287 in Tucson to maintain the same standard of l iving. Here are the results:
Assuming a $60,000/year salary ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you’re moving
In PHX you’d need to make…
If you’re moving
In PHX you’d need to make…
from here…
from here….
Atlanta
$61,594
Los Angeles
$41,526
Baton Rouge
$64,582
Miami
$51,891
Boston
$41,804
Minneapolis
$63,276
Chicago
$52,020
New York City
$36,173
Cleveland
$66,645
Pittsburgh
$62,331
Dallas
$61,054
Portland
$50,346
Denver
$56,633
Raleigh
$65,120
Detroit
$60,000
San Franciso
$35,000
Houston
$67,948
Seattle
$41,748
Las Vegas
$61,960
St. Louis
$72,514
Source: Bankrate.com
in ARIZONA EDUCATION Settled in the corner of the Southwest, Arizona is home to over 690 school districts. The state places a high importance on learning from early education through post-secondary education. Local college and university graduates keep the economy flourishing. Arizona recognizes the value of a globally competitive education and strives to keep its best and brightest students in the state.
To that end, Arizona has recently introduced programs to keep students engaged and active during summer breaks. The Arizona Education Association offers discounted continuing education for teachers further enhancing the educations of their students. In 1983, The Arizona Educational Found- ation began working with schools in order to reinforce educational standards and design challenging and stimulating curricu- lums. The Education Coalition of Arizona strives to improve parental and community involvement within schools and generate tax revenue for educational purposes. Educational development has a number of allies in The Grand Canyon State so Arizona legislators are consistently introducing new legislation to improve learning facilities and
create new programs for students. Arizona continues to be a rich environment for its students to grow, learn and thrive.
well as more than 180 charter and private schools that serve students from kinder- garten through 12th grade. The Phoenix metropolitan area includes the city itself, Maricopa County, most of Pinal County and parts of southern Yavapai County. The Valley of the Sun is home to Mesa Public Schools, the largest school district in the state. Serving the cities of Mesa, Tempe and Chandler, the district serves some 57,900 students in traditional grades K-12, as well as alternative schools based on non-traditional curriculums. In all, education is a priority in Phoenix and throughout the state – and it shows. In the past decade The Arizona Department of Educat- ion reported that Arizona students exceeded
PHOENIX:
Like many growing cities, education is a central component when it comes to attracting residents, and Phoenix is no exception. With 35 school districts, a wealth of higher education choices that include Grand Canyon University, the University of Phoenix, and a variety of trade, technical, private and parochial schools, there are plenty of educational opportunities for residents.
There are more than 325 public schools in Phoenix in both large and small districts, as
EDUCATION IN ARIZONA
national averages on Arizona’s Measure- ment of Education Readiness, marking a consistently upward trend. Arizona students have scored well above average in Reading, Writing, Mathematics and Science. Addi- tionally, Arizona continually ranks above the national average on SAT scores. COMMITTED TO EDUCATION No matter where you’re moving – and whether or not you have children – educa- tion is an important consideration for anyone considering relocation. The quality of education in a community affects every- thing from resale value to the schools in your neighborhood. With the area’s tremendous growth over the last several years, school districts have increased accordingly to accommodate more students, and the city has adopted several initiatives to foster educational excel- lence. One is the city’s Youth and Education Commission, which, in partnership with the Human Relations Commission, offers grants to Phoenix schools through its Focus on Results grants initiative. Each year, the mayor and Phoenix city council support the Phoenix Youth and Teen Services to fund the programs and activi- ties that provide constructive activities for teens. The city has also created The Dropout Prevention Program working with national, state and local organizations to encourage kids to stay in school, pursue post-secondary education or careers, and provide after- school activities. Phoenix is also known for its higher education opportunities. Area colleges and universities include the Arizona State University (in nearby Tempe), University of Phoenix, Argosy University, Maricopa Community Colleges/Phoenix College (plus several other major campuses), Grand Canyon University, Western International University, and the internationally renowned Thunderbird – The Garvin School of Inter- national Management. In particular, the Arizona State Univer- sity has over 310 undergraduate and more than 355 masters and graduate degree programs in 18 colleges and schools. One of the largest research-heavy institutions in HIGHER EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
“ Like many growing cities, education is a central component when it comes to attracting residents, and Phoenix is no exception. ”
the U.S., Arizona State University annually devotes over $390 million in research and development expenditures. And, the huge Maricopa Community Colleges network features 10 colleges that specialize in university transfer, continuing education, career and job training programs. Phoenix College, the system’s main campus, is nationally known for its programs in gerontology, dental hygiene, fire science, emergency medical technology, mathe- matics, art, graphic design, creative writing, and administration of justice. Recent research comparing Arizona to states of similar size found that Arizona ranked second for average Arizona student test scores on the ACT college entrance exam, and that Arizona is also ranked second among states of similar size for the number of bachelor’s degrees in natural sciences and engineering.
TESTING OUR STUDENTS Tests are part of school life anywhere you live, and it’s no different in Arizona, where standardized testing to gauge student progress is taken seriously to encourage student success. According to the Arizona Department of Education, the statewide educational assessment program includes the Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS)test and the AzMERIT test, which are broken out into several tests, depending on grade level, and is designed to measure each student’s progress in learning the Arizona Academic Standards. These particular standards define what students should know and be able to do in reading, writing and mathematics through the course of a student’s K-12 education, and are grouped into Readiness (Kindergarten), Foundations (grades 1-3), Essentials (grades 4-8), Proficiency (grades 9-12), and Distinction (9-12). For more information about the AIMS test, include a description of content, guidelines and sample tests, visit www.ade.state.az.us/standards/aims. For information on the AzMERIT test, including content, guidelines and sample tests, visit www.azed.gov/assessment/azmerit.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Arizona’s steady growth has an impact on education – and the result is public school districts of all sizes that have earned strong reputations for both academic and extracurricular programs. With 59 school districts in three metropolitan Phoenix counties – Maricopa, Pinal and Yavapai – and 43 school districts in Tucson (Pima County) as well as the two nearest major counties – Cochise and Santa Cruz – there are plenty of educational options for those relocating to Arizona.
The following is an overview of school districts in Phoenix and Tucson. We’ve included a brief description of each district, including number of students; number of schools by category (where applicable); and coverage area where available. Also, many districts have their own website; if available, those are also listed with each district’s information. Statistics reflect data from the latest year available (2022-2023). For comprehensive information on each district, contact the Arizona Department of Education, at 800-352-4558, 602-542-5393 or visit www.azed.gov.
PHOENIX:
(623) 772-5000 | www.avondale.k12.az.us 9 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8 The Avondale Elementary District serves more than 5,770 students in Maricopa County.
Founded in 1921, the Cartwright Elementary District in Maricopa County serves over 14,520 students.
Agua Fria Union High School District #216 Mark Yslas, Superintendent 1481 N. Eliseo Felix Jr. Way, Avondale 85323 (623) 932-7000 | www.aguafria.org 6 Schools | Grades 9 - 12 Established in 1955, the Agua Fria school district serves more than 9,195 students in the communities of Goodyear, Buckeye, Avondale, Waddell and Litchfield Park. Aguila Elementary District #63 Andrew Wannemacher, Superintendent 50023 N. 514th Ave, Aguila 85320 (928) 685-2222 | www.aguilaschool.org 2 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8 The Aguila Elementary school district serves over 125 students in grades K - 8.
Cave Creek Unified District #93 Dr. Cort Monroe, Superintendent 33016 N. 60th St, Scottsdale 85266 (480) 575-2000 | www.ccusd93.org 8 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12
Balsz Elementary District #31 Dr. George J. Barnes, Superintendent 4825 E. Roosevelt St, Phoenix 85008 (602) 629-6400 | www.balsz.org 6 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8
The Cave Creek Unified District includes the communities of Cave Creek, Carefree, Maricopa County, North Phoenix and Scottsdale, and serves more than 4,840 students in Pre-K - 12th grades.
Founded in 1890, the Balsz Elementary District covers six square miles east of downtown Phoenix and serves over 2,230 students.
Buckeye Elementary District #33 Dr. Kristi Wilson, Superintendent 25555 W. Durango St, Buckeye 85326 (623) 925-3400 | besd33.org 9 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8
Chandler Unified District #80 Frank Narducci, Superintendent 1525 W. Frye Rd, Chandler 85224 (480) 812-7000 | www.cusd80.com 45 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12
Alhambra Elementary District #68 Dr. Cecilia Maes, Superintendent 4510 N. 37th Ave, Phoenix 85019
The Buckeye Elementary District in Maricopa County serves more than 5,670 students in K - 8th grades.
The Chandler Unified District, located in the southeastern part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, serves over 43,800 students in grades Pre-K - 12. Creighton Elementary District #14 Dr. Donna Lewis, Superintendent 2702 E. Flower St, Phoenix 85016 (602) 381-6000 | www.creightonschools.org 11 Schools | Preschool - Grade 8 Founded in 1884, the Creighton Unified District is located in Maricopa County and serves more than 5,280 students in grades Pre-K - 8.
(602) 336-2920 | www.alhambraesd.org 18 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8 Founded in 1888, the Alhambra Elementary District serves more than 10,100 students.
Buckeye Union High School District #201 Dr. Steven Bebee, Superintendent 1000 E. Narramore Ave, Buckeye 85326 (623) 269-1002 | www.buhsd.org 5 Schools | Grades 9 - 12 The Buckeye Union High School District, also in Maricopa County, serves over 5,150 students in grades 9 - 12. Cartwright Elementary District #83 Dr. LeeAnn Aguilar-Lawlor, Superintendent 5220 W. Indian School Rd, Phoenix 85031 (623) 691-4000 | www.csd83.org 23 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8
Arlington Elementary District #47 Chad Turner, Superintendent 9410 S. 355th Ave, Arlington 85322 (623) 386-2031 | arlingtonelem.org 1 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8
Located in Maricopa County, the Arlington Elementary District serves more than 270 students.
Deer Valley Unified District #97 Dr. Curtis Finch, Superintendent 20402 N. 15th Ave, Phoenix 85027
Avondale Elementary District #44 Dr. Betsy Hargrove, Superintendent 295 W. Western Ave, Avondale 85323
EDUCATION IN ARIZONA
(623) 445-5000 | www.dvusd.org 41 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12
(623) 707-4500 | www.fesd.org 8 Schools | Preschool - Grade 8
2935 S. Recker Rd, Gilbert 85295 (480) 279-7000 | www.husd.org 16 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 12
The Fowler Elementary District, located in Maricopa County, serves over 3,730 students in grades Pre-K - 8.
One of the largest school districts in Arizona, the Deer Valley Unified District covers 373 square miles and serves more than 33,300 students in grades K - 12 in Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Anthem, New River, Cave Creek and unincorporated areas of Maricopa
The Higley Unified District, located in Maricopa County, serves some 13,000 students in grades K - 12.
Gila Bend Unified District #24 Dr. Robert Varner, Superintendent 308 N. Martin Ave, Gila Bend 85337 (928) 683-2225 | www.gbusd.org 2 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12
Isaac Elementary District #5 Dr. Mario Ventura, Superintendent 3348 W. Mcdowell Rd, Phoenix 85009 (602) 455-6700 | www.isaacschools.org 13 Schools | Kindergarten - Grade 8 The Isaac Elementary District, which covers 6.8 square miles in Maricopa County, serves about 5,090 students in grades K - 8.
Dysart Unified District #89 Dr. Jim Dean, Superintendent 15802 N. Parkview Pl, Surprise 85374 (623) 876-7000 | www.dysart.org 26 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12
Founded in 1887, the Gila Bend Unified District, located in Maricopa County, serves more than 450 students in grades Pre-K - 12.
The Dysart Unified District covers 140 square miles and serves over 23,520 students in grades Pre-K - 12 in part of El Mirage, Glendale, Surprise, Youngtown and Maricopa County in the Northwest Valley.
Gilbert Unified District #41 Dr. Shane McCord, Superintendent 1016 N. Burk St, Gilbert 85234 (480) 497-3300 | www.gilbertschools.net 38 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12 The Gilbert Unified District had 14 “A+ Schools of Excellence” awarded schools in 2023 and serves more than 33,640 students in grades Pre-K - 12.
Kyrene Elementary District #28 Laura Toenjes, Superintendent 8700 S. Kyrene Rd, Tempe 85284 (480) 541-1000 | www.kyrene.org 26 Schools | Preschool - Grade 8
East Valley Institute of Technology District #401 Dr. Chad Wilson, Superintendent
Founded in 1888, the Kyrene Elementary District serves some 15,090 students in grades Pre-K - 8 from the cities of Tempe, Guadalupe, Phoenix and Chandler, as well as students from the Gila River Indian Reservation. Laveen Elementary District #59 Dr. Jeffrey Sprout, Superintendent 5001 W. Dobbins Rd, Laveen 85339 (602) 237-9100 | www.laveenschools.org 10 Schools | Preschool - Grade 8 The Laveen Elementary District, located in the southwest portion of Phoenix between the South Mountain Range and the Estrella Mountains in Maricopa County, serves over 7,520 students in grades Pre-K - 8.
1601 W. Main St, Mesa 85201 (480) 461-4000 | www.evit.com 42 Schools | Grades 9 - 12
EVIT is a public school district that serves students from 10 East Valley school districts, including Apache Junction, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Tempe, Higley and J.O. Combs. Students spend half their day at EVIT an
Glendale Elementary District #40 Cynthia Segotta Jones, Superintendent 7301 N. 58th Ave, Glendale 85301 (623) 237-7100 | portals.gesd40.org 16 Schools | Preschool - Grade 8
The Glendale Elementary District is in the northwest Metro Phoenix area and serves over 9,860 students in Pre-K - 8th grades.
Fountain Hills Unified District #98 Robert Allen, Superintendent
16000 E. Palisades Blvd, Fountain Hills 85268 (480) 664-5000 | www.fountainhillsschools.org 4 Schools | Preschool - Grade 12 The Fountain Hills Unified District, located just east of Scottsdale and west of the McDowell Mountains, covers 19 square miles and serves about 1,280 students in grades Pre-K - 12 from the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and surrounding communities
Glendale Union High School District #205 Brian Capistran, Superintendent 7650 N. 43Rd Ave, Glendale 85301 (623) 435-6000 | www.guhsdaz.org 12 Schools | Grades 9 - 12 Founded in 1911, the Glendale Union High School District encompasses 60 square miles and serves more than 16,650 students from Phoenix and Glendale.
Liberty Elementary District #25 Dr. Lori Shough, Superintendent 19871 W. Fremont Rd, Buckeye 85326 (623) 474-6600 | www.liberty25.org 8 Schools | Preschool - Grade 8
Fowler Elementary District #45 Nora Ulloa, Superintendent 1617 S. 67th Ave, Phoenix 85043
The Liberty Elementary District, located in Maricopa County, serves more than 4,220 students in grades K - 8.
Higley Unified District #60 Dr. Dawn Foley, Superintendent
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs