Ultimate Guide to Moving to Phoenix AZ - Everything You MUST Know Before You Move

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MOVING TO THE PHOENIX AREA (WHAT NO ONE TELLS YOU)

Thinking about moving to the Phoenix area? You’ve probably realized one thing quickly: Phoenix is huge — and much more than just Scottsdale. With sprawling suburbs, diverse landscapes, and a variety of lifestyles, it can feel overwhelming to figure out where to live and why. That’s exactly why we put together this ultimate relocation guide covering everything you need to know before making your move — from the greenest neighborhoods and best mountain views, to schools, food scenes, outdoor recreation, and lifestyle insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

WHERE THE GREENEST AREAS ARE — EVEN IN THE DESERT

Yes, Phoenix is a desert. But if green neighborhoods with lush lawns, shade trees, and outdoor living are a priority, there are several places that feel surprisingly verdant compared to classic desert landscapes.

TOP GREEN COMMUNITIES

1. Ocotillo (Chandler)

A mature master-planned community with abundant trees, rolling grass, lakes, and a golf course, Ocotillo feels cooler and greener than most places. It was built in the ’90s when landscaping was done differently — and it shows.

2. Morrison Ranch (Gilbert)

Modern and walkable, Morrison Ranch offers tree-lined streets, well-maintained lawns, and a community lake. The homes here skew newer and more contemporary compared to other green areas.

3. Power Ranch (Gilbert)

Affordable and family-friendly, Power Ranch boasts large green spaces, big trees, lakes, community events, sports facilities, and strong social activity. Home prices here start in the mid-$400Ks.

These areas are perfect if you want desert living without the stark dryness most people picture when they think of Arizona.

COMMUNITIES WITH GREAT MOUNTAIN VIEWS

If you’re embracing the desert but want scenery, Phoenix has plenty of options — though the quality and proximity of mountains varies widely by location.

BEST MOUNTAIN VIEW COMMUNITIES

1. Anthem (North Phoenix)

Feels like a standalone small city with grocery stores, amenities, and excellent family infrastructure. The mountain and desert views here are truly spectacular, and prices are still accessible compared to central Phoenix.

2. Estrella Mountain Ranch (Goodyear)

This community offers a peaceful lifestyle outside the urban hustle, big lakes, mountain views, and plenty of amenities — clubs, pools, restaurants, and family events. Just be cautious in certain newer sections where views may be interrupted by infrastructure like powerlines.

3. Verrado (Buckeye)

Arguably one of the most unique master-planned communities in the entire valley, Verrado combines walking-friendly downtown living with mountain views and a real sense of place. With restaurants, a Safeway, Costco, and entertainment popping up, this community is rapidly becoming a destination on its own.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS THAT STAND OUT

When families move, schools are always top-of-mind — and the Phoenix area delivers some excellent options.

Top School District Picks:

• Scottsdale Unified – Highly rated district that often tops local rankings.
• Chandler Unified – Known not just for strong academics and STEM/STEAM programs but also robust athletics and extracurriculars — a great all-around choice.
• Gilbert Schools – Riding demand from families relocating for quality of life and schools, Gilbert ranks just behind Chandler.

For students interested in technical and career paths, East Valley Institute of Technology offers programs from aviation to software design — another compelling reason families head to the East Valley.

JOBS, FREEWAYS & LONG-TERM VALUE

Phoenix isn’t just a great place to live — it’s a booming economic engine. Over the next decade, the valley is expected to add more than 1 million residents, creating demand for housing, jobs, and infrastructure.

Employment corridors are clustering near freeways, which means communities along these paths — especially the Southeast Valley (Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek) — will likely see strong long-term demand from buyers and renters alike. Interstate access is becoming one of the biggest predictors of future appreciation and livability — and should be a top consideration when choosing where to buy.

DINING, LIFESTYLE & EVERYDAY LIVING

One of the first things newcomers notice is the sheer number of restaurants. Seriously — food culture here rivals what you’d expect in major cities.

WHERE TO EAT & LIVE WELL

• Gilbert — Touted as the “new Scottsdale,” Gilbert offers a tremendous variety of dining options with a lifestyle that doesn’t carry the same price tag as Scottsdale proper.
• Downtown Chandler — A growing hub of arts, entertainment, farmers markets, live music, and great restaurants.
• Desert Ridge (North Phoenix) — If Scottsdale is too pricey but you crave access to high-end dining and luxury experiences, Desert Ridge delivers just that — plus world-class amenities nearby.

Healthy grocery options like Whole Foods and luxury markets like AJ’s Fine Foods are concentrated in the East Valley — around Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert — making that region especially appealing to health-conscious residents.

Farm-to-table experiences and local farms like Vertuccio Farms, Olive Mill, Schnepf Farms, and Agritopia are also easy weekend excursions — especially great if fresh, local produce matters to you.

OUTDOOR LIFE — HIKING, LAKES & RECREATION

Arizona’s outdoor lifestyle is undeniable.

WATER AND LAKES

While Phoenix doesn’t have coastal beaches, it does have lakes that are perfect for boating, jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and weekend camping — including:

• Lake Pleasant – Beautiful scenery and water activities.
• Salt River and Canyon Lake – Great for kayaking and paddleboarding, plus hiking areas.
• Roosevelt Lake – Ideal for houseboating and extended stays.

Make no mistake — you won’t be on the water like a coastal town, but the outdoor adventure possibilities here are incredible.

HIKING HOTSPOTS

• South Mountain – Over 50 trails with options for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
• Superstition Mountains – Stunning trails and gorgeous desert vistas.
• McDowell Mountains & White Tank Mountains – More hiking, climbing, and outdoor exploration.

If you’re outdoor-minded now, Phoenix will only amplify that lifestyle — and if you’re not yet, you probably will be soon.

Choosing the right place to live in the Phoenix area isn’t just about finding a pretty house — it’s about lifestyle, community, access, schools, jobs, and long-term value. Whether you want green neighborhoods, breathtaking mountain views, family-friendly suburbs, or vibrant dining and entertainment, the Greater Phoenix area has something for everyone.

And that’s exactly why having an experienced local guide matters — especially if you’re moving from out of state. There’s a lot to consider, and making the right choice now can make all the difference in your long-term happiness and investment.

Ready to talk through your move, ask questions, or get personalized advice?

Give us a call or send a message — days, nights, or weekends — we’ve got your back. Your next chapter starts here.