Anthem, Arizona: A Master-Class in Master-Planned Communities

Nestled amidst the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape, Anthem, Arizona, is a picture perfect example of a master-planned community, and I might be biased, but it’s also one of the absolute best places to live in AZ. Located north of Phoenix by about 35 minutes, Anthem offers a unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and one of the strongest senses of communities I’ve ever experienced.

If you're considering a move to the Valley of the Sun, Anthem might just be the perfect place for you to call home like it was for us! Let's dive into what makes Anthem so special, exploring its pros, cons, amenities, attractions, and what it's truly like to live here.

The Pros: What Makes Anthem Shine

• Exceptional Community Spirit: Anthem fosters a strong sense of belonging. Regular community events, from concerts in the park to holiday celebrations, create opportunities for residents to connect and build relationships. The Anthem Community Council plays an active role in organizing these events and maintaining the overall quality of life.

• Abundant Outdoor Recreation: For those who love the outdoors, Anthem is a paradise. The community boasts numerous parks, walking and biking trails that weave through the desert landscape, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. And if you appreciate more of an athletic challenge, Daisy Mountain Preserve offers more challenging hiking opportunities just a short drive away.

• Top-Rated Schools: Families with children are drawn to Anthem for its highly-regarded schools within the Deer Valley Unified School District. These schools consistently receive excellent ratings, providing a strong educational foundation for students, and I can 10/10 back this up. My girls LOVE their school!

• Master-Planned Convenience: Anthem is designed for convenience. Shopping centers, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and essential services are all easily accessible within the community, reducing the need for frequent long drives.

• Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert is on full display in Anthem. If you move here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking sunsets, diverse desert plants and wildlife, and the majestic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. I truly wake up wondering if I’m still in a dream sometimes.

• Safety and Security: When considering a move, safety is key! Anthem consistently ranks as one of the safest communities in the Phoenix metro area, providing peace of mind for residents.

  
  

The Cons: Considerations Before Moving

• Distance from Phoenix: While Anthem offers many amenities, it's located a bit north of the main Phoenix metropolitan area. Commuting to downtown Phoenix or other central locations can take time, especially during high traffic hours.

• HOA Fees: As a master-planned community, most areas in Anthem have a Homeowners Association (HOA) with mandatory fees. While these fees contribute to maintaining the community's amenities and aesthetics, they can be a significant monthly expense.

• Older Homes: Most homes in Anthem are now 20-25 years old, which means they're more sturdy than a more modern new build but you may need to do some updating depending on your aesthetic style!

• Limited Nightlife: While Anthem has a growing restaurant scene, those seeking a vibrant and diverse nightlife might find the options somewhat limited compared to central Phoenix. Anthem is best suited for young families or those looking for a calmer day-to-day experience.

• Can Feel Isolated to Some: For individuals who thrive in a bustling urban environment, Anthem's more suburban feel might feel a bit isolated.

  
  

Amenities: What Anthem Has to Offer

Anthem boasts a ton of amenities designed to enhance residents' lifestyles: A water park, year-round heated lap pool and diving well, pickleball and tennis courts, and 13 miles of desert walking and biking trails – just to name a few! Here are several more:

• Anthem Community Park: This expansive park features a 63-acre community park with sports fields, playgrounds, a splash pad, a train ride, and a fishing lake.

• Anthem Civic Building: A central hub for community events, meetings, and activities.

• Anthem Community Center: Offers fitness facilities, a gymnasium, swimming pools, and various classes and programs.

• The Shops at Anthem: A large outdoor shopping center with a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

• Golfing: Anthem is home to two championship golf courses at the Anthem Golf & Country Club.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: Miles of well-maintained trails wind throughout the community and connect to the surrounding desert.

  
  

Attractions: Things to See and Do In and Around Anthem

Beyond the community amenities, Anthem and the surrounding area offer a variety of attractions:

• Daisy Mountain Preserve: As noted above, this Mountain Preserve offers hiking trails with stunning views and opportunities to explore the natural desert landscape.

• Outlets at Anthem: A popular destination for bargain hunters with a wide selection of designer and brand-name outlet stores. (You’ll catch me here often shopping for staging items!)

• Pioneer Living History Museum: Located a short drive away, this museum offers a glimpse into Arizona's territorial past.

• Lake Pleasant Regional Park: A large recreational lake offering boating, fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.

• Easy Access to Northern Arizona: Anthem's location provides a convenient starting point for exploring the scenic wonders of Northern Arizona, including Flagstaff, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon, so you can be close to the sights without living in a tourist town.

  
  

What It's Like to Live Here: A Resident's Perspective

Living in Anthem offers a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. I absolutely LOVE the strong sense of community we’ve found here. The well-maintained infrastructure, beautiful landscaping, and abundance of parks and recreational facilities contribute to a high quality of life. While the summer heat is a factor, the rest of the year offers beautiful weather perfect for outdoor activities. For those seeking a close-knit community with excellent amenities and a connection to nature, I truly cannot recommend Anthem highly enough! 

Is Anthem Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to live in Anthem depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value a strong sense of community, outdoor recreation, top-rated schools, and master-planned convenience, Anthem is definitely worth a spot at the top of your list. However, it's important to weigh the distance from Phoenix, HOA restrictions, and summer heat before making your decision. Visiting Anthem, exploring the community, and talking to current residents (like me!) can provide valuable insights to help you determine if this desert town is the right place for you to call home.