Living in Peoria Arizona - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Peoria Arizona Like?
Peoria, Arizona, located in Maricopa County, is home to approximately 175,000 people. Situated northwest of Phoenix, Peoria provides easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and boating on Lake Pleasant. The city is conveniently located near Loop 101, a major highway that connects to other cities and attractions in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. Peoria embodies the Arizona lifestyle with its warm climate, stunning sunsets, and proximity to the Sonoran Desert. Peoria residents and visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as exploring the Peoria Sports Complex, shopping at the Arrowhead Towne Center, and taking in the natural beauty of the nearby White Tank Mountains. The Best of Peoria includes a vibrant downtown area, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
One of the main attractions in Peoria, Arizona, is the Challenger Space Center, an interactive museum and educational facility that offers simulated space missions and hands-on exhibits, making it a great family-friendly attraction. It is a popular spot for anyone visiting or living in Peoria, Arizona. Another attraction in the area is Lake Pleasant Regional Park, which offers boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities. The park also has picnic areas and a visitor center that provides information about the park's history and wildlife. Peoria also has several other parks, including Rio Vista Community Park and Pioneer Community Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
The cost of living in Peoria, Arizona, is slightly higher than the national average but lower than other cities in the Phoenix Metro Area, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in the Southwest. Today, the average home value in Peoria stands at around $480,000. If you are looking to rent, you'll find the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Peoria is around $1,400 a month. If you are living in Peoria, Arizona, you'll find various housing options to accommodate your lifestyle and budget, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments.
If you're looking for a small town with easy access to bigger cities, a charming downtown, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Peoria, Arizona, would be the perfect place for you! Keep reading to learn more about what it's like to live in Peoria, Arizona, including details about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in this lovely city. This information should help you determine whether living in Peoria, Arizona, is the right choice for you.
Are You Thinking About Buying a Home in Peoria Arizona?
Would you like to buy a home in Peoria, Arizona? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Peoria area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Peoria, Arizona, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Peoria, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Peoria Arizona?
If you're exploring a move to Peoria, Arizona, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Peoria, Arizona, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Peoria, Arizona, and rent, you would need to make $45,000 a year. To live in Peoria, Arizona, and buy a home, you would need to make $64,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Peoria Arizona Tips/Info/Blog Posts
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Top Neighborhoods in Peoria Arizona
Discover the diverse neighborhoods of Peoria, Arizona, each offering a unique blend of housing options, community features, and local attractions. From family-friendly environments with excellent amenities to active adult communities and scenic desert landscapes, Peoria has something to offer just about any budget or lifestyle:
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Vistancia: Vistancia is a master-planned community known for its family-friendly environment and excellent amenities. The neighborhood primarily offers single-family homes, including various architectural styles and sizes to suit different preferences. Vistancia boasts community parks, playgrounds, and sports fields, promoting an active lifestyle for residents. The centerpiece of the community is the Trilogy Golf Club at Vistancia, which provides golf enthusiasts with a picturesque course. Nearby, the popular Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers outdoor enthusiasts boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
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Westbrook Village: Westbrook Village is an active adult community catering to residents aged 40 and older. The neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and patio homes designed with older adults' needs in mind. The community offers several well-maintained golf courses and recreation centers, providing various social and fitness activities for its residents. Westbrook Village is conveniently located near shopping centers, restaurants, and medical facilities, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to live for retirees.
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Arrowhead Ranch: Arrowhead Ranch is a well-established neighborhood with a range of housing options, including single-family homes and townhomes. The area is characterized by tree-lined streets and proximity to shopping centers and schools, making it popular among families. The neighborhood features several community parks and green spaces, encouraging outdoor activities. Arrowhead Towne Center, a major shopping mall, offers abundant dining options and shopping opportunities for residents and visitors.
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Peoria Estates: Peoria Estates is a charming neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. The area exudes a suburban atmosphere with well-maintained properties and friendly neighbors. While Peoria Estates is more residential, residents have easy access to nearby amenities, including grocery stores and local restaurants. The neighborhood's proximity to Loop 101 makes it convenient for commuting to other parts of the Phoenix metro area.
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Sonoran Mountain Ranch: Nestled against the Sonoran Desert foothills, Sonoran Mountain Ranch offers scenic views and a tranquil setting. The neighborhood primarily features single-family homes with spacious yards, perfect for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with a touch of nature. The community has several parks and walking trails, allowing residents to explore the beautiful desert landscape. While Sonoran Mountain Ranch is more secluded, it is still close to shopping centers and dining options along Happy Valley Road.
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Peoria Village: Peoria Village is a well-established neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere and convenient location, providing easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and schools. Rio Vista Community Park, located nearby, offers playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails, enhancing the neighborhood's outdoor recreational opportunities.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Peoria Arizona
Living in Peoria Arizona Pros
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Family-Friendly Community: Peoria is known for its welcoming and family-oriented neighborhoods, making it an ideal place to raise children.
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Affordable Housing: The city offers a range of housing options at various price points, providing opportunities for homeownership and rental affordability.
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Outdoor Recreation: With proximity to Lake Pleasant Regional Park and various community parks, Peoria provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, and picnicking.
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Strong Economy: Peoria's diverse economy, including retail, healthcare, and technology sectors, provides residents with stable job opportunities.
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Entertainment and Sports: The Peoria Sports Complex hosts Major League Baseball spring training games, and the city offers a vibrant entertainment scene with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
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Excellent Schools: Peoria is served by reputable school districts, providing access to quality education for students of all ages.
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Pleasant Climate: The city enjoys a sunny and mild climate, making it an attractive location for those seeking warm weather year-round.
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Access to Phoenix: Peoria's proximity to Phoenix allows residents to enjoy the amenities of a larger city while still living in a suburban setting.
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Active Adult Communities: For retirees and older adults, Peoria offers various active adult communities with amenities and activities tailored to their needs.
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Growing Community: As a growing city, Peoria continues to see development and improvements in infrastructure, enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.
Living in Peoria Arizona Cons
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Extreme Heat: Peoria experiences hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be challenging for those sensitive to high temperatures.
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Traffic Congestion: Like many growing cities, Peoria can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, leading to longer commute times.
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Limited Walkability: Some neighborhoods in Peoria lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making walking and biking less convenient.
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Water Scarcity: Arizona, including Peoria, faces water scarcity issues, impacting water usage and landscaping options.
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Summer Monsoons: The monsoon season can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and occasional flash floods, causing potential property damage and disruptions.
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Air Quality: During certain times of the year, the city's air quality can be affected by dust storms and particulate matter.
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Property Taxes: Property taxes in Peoria can be relatively high compared to other areas in Arizona.
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Educational Funding: Funding for education in Arizona, including Peoria, has faced challenges, affecting some schools' resources.
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Dust and Allergies: The arid climate in Peoria can lead to dust accumulation, which may trigger allergies for some individuals.
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Urban Sprawl: Rapid urban development can lead to a loss of natural habitats and a more spread-out city layout.
FAQs About Living in Peoria Arizona
What is Peoria Arizona known for?
Peoria, Arizona, is most known for its annual Spring Training season, which takes place every February and March and celebrates the start of the Major League Baseball season. The city attracts baseball fans from all over the country and features various events and activities such as exhibition games, player signings, and fan festivals. The vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to see professional baseball players up close have made Spring Training in Peoria a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
What cities and attractions is Peoria Arizona close to?
Peoria, Arizona, is located in Maricopa County, part of the Phoenix metropolitan area in the southwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 13 miles northwest of downtown Phoenix and 150 miles southeast of the California border. Peoria is close to several other cities in the area, including Glendale, about 7 miles to the southeast, and Surprise, about 10 miles to the northwest. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as Lake Pleasant Regional Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, and the Sonoran Desert Preserve. Peoria's central location in Maricopa County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Peoria Arizona?
Living in Peoria, Arizona, you can expect hot weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 65°F to 70°F, and the average low temperatures range from 40°F to 45°F. The city rarely experiences snowfall during the winter. Summers in Peoria are extremely hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 100°F to 105°F and occasional heatwaves reaching temperatures above 110°F. The city receives very little rainfall, with an average of 9 inches of rain annually, and most precipitation occurring in the monsoon season during the summer months.
Does Peoria have good public schools?
Students in Peoria, Arizona, attend public school in the Peoria Unified School District, which serves the city of Peoria and some surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks the Peoria Unified School District #9 among all school districts in Arizona, giving it an overall A rating. The district is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education, including a strong emphasis on STEM programs and extracurricular activities. It offers a wide range of opportunities for students with different interests and abilities. The district has a diverse student population and maintains strong partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. Families residing in Peoria, Arizona, can be assured that their children will receive a high-quality education within the public school system.
Is Peoria Arizona safe?
Living in Peoria, Arizona, you'll find it a remarkably safe place. Property crime rates in Peoria are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Peoria has a crime rate lower than 68% of all US cities. Peoria, Arizona, residents should feel exceptionally safe in their daily lives.
What is there to do living in Peoria Arizona?
Living in Peoria, Arizona, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Sonoran Desert and the Bradshaw Mountains, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Peoria boasts several parks, including Rio Vista Community Park and Pioneer Community Park, which feature playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Peoria Arts and Cultural Festival, which showcases local artists and performers, and the Peoria Sports Complex, which hosts spring training for several Major League Baseball teams. If you're looking for a day trip, Peoria is located near attractions like Lake Pleasant Regional Park and the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Peoria, Arizona.
Who are the large employers in Peoria Arizona?
If living in Peoria, Arizona, some of the top employers include the Peoria Unified School District, which employs over 4,000 workers, the City of Peoria, which employs over 2,000 people, and the Arrowhead Towne Center, which employs over 1,500 people. Other notable employers in Peoria include the Peoria Sports Complex, Huntington University, and various healthcare facilities. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Peoria can find opportunities in education, government, retail, and healthcare.
How is the healthcare in Peoria Arizona?
Living in Peoria, Arizona, puts you near the Banner Boswell Medical Center, which is a level III trauma center and has 501 beds. This hospital would likely be able to provide you with most of your medical needs. If looking for a specialist and can't find them in the Peoria area, you're around 20 miles away from the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, which is one of the top hospitals in the country.
Is living in Peoria Arizona good for retirees?
If you're retired or thinking of retiring, Peoria, Arizona, can be a good choice for many reasons. The weather in Peoria is one of its primary attractions, with its warm, sunny climate providing an inviting environment for retirees seeking to escape colder regions. The abundance of outdoor activities, such as golfing, hiking, and exploring nearby natural wonders like Lake Pleasant, ensures retirees can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Taxes can be a big consideration, especially in retirement. Arizona does not tax Social Security benefits, the state's income tax rates are relatively moderate, and the sales tax isn't high, providing some financial relief for retirees. Property taxes can vary depending on the specific county in Arizona, but overall, property taxes in Arizona are fairly low. Overall, Peoria's pleasant weather, diverse recreational activities, and affordable tax policies make it an appealing destination for retirees seeking a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
Is Peoria Arizona a good place to live?
Peoria, Arizona is a great place to live due to its excellent quality of life, with a low crime rate, top-rated schools, and a wide range of recreational activities. Additionally, the city offers a thriving economy, affordable housing options, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to call home.
I want to relocate to Peoria Arizona. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Peoria Arizona. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Arizona where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Peoria area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Peoria Arizona, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.