Relocating to AZ? You might want to consider Peoria

One of my favorite things about being a realtor in Arizona is the chance to play tour guide for clients who are relocating into our great state! And one of the most frequently asked about cities in AZ is Peoria, a major suburb of Phoenix with a population just shy of 200,000. I get tons of questions about this city, and for good reason. It definitely has a lot to offer, but like anywhere, it’s not perfect. Buckle up and come along with me as I dive into the pros and cons of calling Peoria home! 

Photo credit: https://vistancia.com/

The Sunny Side Up: Why People Love Peoria

Let's start with the good stuff, because there’s plenty of it!

Sunshine Galore: Okay, this one’s a no-brainer for Arizona, but Peoria really soaks it up. If you're tired of gloomy days, Peoria is your sunshine sanctuary. This abundance of light isn't just good for the soul; it means you can enjoy outdoor activities pretty much year-round. Hiking, biking, golf – you name it, Peoria has the perfect weather for it most of the time.

Outdoor Adventures at Your Doorstep: Speaking of outdoors, Peoria boasts some fantastic natural spaces. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a huge draw, offering boating, fishing, kayaking, and stunning desert scenery. There are also plenty of well-maintained parks and trails within the city itself, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find yourself right at home here!

Family-Friendly Vibes: Peoria is consistently ranked as one of the best places in Arizona to raise a family, and I can definitely see why. The city is considered to have excellent schools, a low crime rate compared to some other areas, and plenty of family-oriented activities and events. From community festivals to sports leagues, there’s always something for kids to do.

A Growing and Vibrant Community: Peoria isn't some sleepy desert town. It's a dynamic city with new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment options popping up all the time. The Westgate Entertainment District is just a short drive away, offering a plethora of dining, shopping, and nightlife. Plus, the P83 Entertainment District in Peoria itself is a hub for fun, with a spring training stadium, restaurants, and more.

Relatively Affordable Housing (Compared to Some): While the entire Phoenix metro area has seen housing costs rise, Peoria still offers a range of housing options at various price points. Compared to some of the more central or Scottsdale-adjacent areas, you can often find more home for your money in Peoria. This is obviously a big draw for families and first-time homebuyers.

Convenient Location: Peoria offers a good balance of suburban tranquility with easy access to the rest of the Valley. Major freeways like the 101 and I-17 are close by, making it relatively easy to commute to Phoenix, Scottsdale, or other parts of the metro area for work or leisure.

The Flip Side: Things to Consider

All those benefits aside, I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t also talk about some of the potential downsides of living in Peoria. Honesty is the best policy! 

Commuting Can Be a Drag: While freeway access is good, traffic in the Phoenix metro area can be challenging, especially during peak hours. If your job is located further south or east, your daily commute could be significant. Factor in travel time and potential traffic congestion when considering Peoria.

It's Still Suburban: While Peoria is growing, it still has a predominantly suburban feel. If you're craving a super vibrant, walkable, urban environment, you might find Peoria a bit more spread out and car-dependent. While there are pockets of activity, it's not the same as living in the heart of a major city.

Limited Public Transportation: While there are some public transportation options, Peoria isn't known for its extensive bus or rail system. Owning a car is pretty much a necessity for getting around conveniently.

Dealing with Desert Pests: Living in the desert means you might encounter some interesting critters. Scorpions, spiders, and other desert insects are part of the ecosystem. While most are harmless, it's something to be aware of and take precautions against.

Is Peoria Right for You?

So, what’s the verdict? That’s up to you to decide! Peoria offers a fantastic quality of life, especially families and those who love the outdoors. The sunshine, community feel, and relatively affordable housing are major benefits. However, the potential for long commutes are things to consider.

As your local Arizona tour guide realtor, I always tell my clients to weigh the pros and cons carefully based on their individual needs and lifestyle. If you value a family-friendly environment, love outdoor activities, and don't mind the Arizona heat, Peoria could be the perfect place to put down roots.

Ready to explore Peoria further? Give me a call! I'd be happy to answer any more questions you have and help you find your dream home in this sunny corner of Arizona.