What’s Driving Families to Relocate to Phoenix Right Now

Thinking About Moving Your Family?

If you’ve been hearing a lot about Phoenix lately, you’re not alone. Families across the U.S. are packing up and heading to the Valley of the Sun. But what’s the big attraction? Let’s break down why so many families are choosing to move to Phoenix—and why it might be the right move for you too.

1. Affordable Housing Compared to Big Cities

While housing prices have risen in recent years, Phoenix still offers better value than places like California, Seattle, or Denver.

Why it matters for families:

You can get more space for your money—think larger yards, extra bedrooms, and bonus rooms.

Many Phoenix suburbs have new developments with family-friendly layouts and amenities like parks, trails, and splash pads.

Popular areas: Gilbert, Chandler, Peoria, Queen Creek, and Laveen.

2. Excellent School Options

Education is a top priority for families—and Phoenix delivers.

What families love:

Highly rated public, charter, and private schools across the valley.

STEM programs, dual-language immersion, and gifted programs are widely available.

Close proximity to major universities like Arizona State University opens doors for higher education.

Fun fact: Arizona is known for offering school choice, which gives families more flexibility to find the right fit.

3. Outdoor Fun All Year Long

Forget snow days—Phoenix offers sunshine nearly 300 days a year!

Family-friendly outdoor activities:

Hiking trails like South Mountain, Papago Park, and Camelback Mountain.

Kids love the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, and splash pads everywhere.

Spring and fall are perfect for outdoor play, barbecues, and neighborhood block parties.

Bonus: Pool season can last from April through October.

4. Strong Job Market and Growing Economy

Phoenix is booming when it comes to job opportunities—and not just in one field.

Fast-growing industries:

Tech and software

Healthcare and medical research

Construction and real estate

Education and manufacturing

Why it matters: Dual-income families and remote workers find it easier to land jobs or relocate here with confidence.

5. A Slower Pace of Life with Big City Perks

While Phoenix is one of the largest cities in the U.S., many suburbs feel like small towns—calm, quiet, and safe.

What families appreciate:

Less traffic and shorter commutes (especially in the suburbs)

A focus on parks, green space, and community events

A friendly, welcoming culture for newcomers

Plus, you still get access to world-class dining, sports, concerts, and shopping without the chaos of larger metros.

6. Diverse and Welcoming Communities

Phoenix is home to people from all over the country and around the world.

Why families feel comfortable here:

Cultural festivals, farmer’s markets, and family-focused community centers make it easy to connect.

Churches, clubs, sports leagues, and neighborhood Facebook groups help new families settle in quickly.

Many neighborhoods even organize regular get-togethers and seasonal block parties.