If you’re considering moving to Florence, Arizona, there are a few important factors to keep in mind.
While the town may not be the best fit for everyone, with its limited diversity and economic opportunities, there are still some appealing aspects to consider. Florence boasts a charming National Historic District, opportunities for outdoor activities, and a growing population.
However, it’s important to be aware of the challenges that come with living in the desert, such as extreme heat and potentially dangerous wildlife.
Demographics
The demographics of Florence, including the racial composition and population growth rate, provide insight into the town’s diversity and changing population. As you consider moving to Florence, it’s important to understand the makeup of the community.
The racial composition of the town is diverse, with a majority of the population being white at 71.53%. Other races such as Black or African American, Native American, and Asian are also represented in the community.
Additionally, Florence has experienced a population growth rate of 2.32% since the last official US Census in 2020, with a projected total population of 27,437 in 2023. This growth indicates a changing and evolving population, making Florence an interesting and dynamic place to live.
Cost of Living
Considering the cost of living, it’s important to understand the expenses associated with relocating to Florence, Arizona.
The total cost of living for a single adult in Florence is $39,077 per year, which is higher than the annual cost of living for Arizona ($37,091) and similar to the national average ($38,433).
The median home value in Florence is $142,600, lower than the national median home value. Renting is a lower cost alternative, with a rental rate of 24.40% compared to the national rate.
The median household income in Florence is $49,674, which is 2.9 times the median home value in the area.
Transportation costs in Florence are estimated to be $10,904 per year, higher than the national average.
Out-of-pocket healthcare costs for a single adult in Florence are $5,672 per year, higher than the national average.
The average annual cost of childcare for two children in Florence is $17,159, higher than the average across Arizona.
Crime Rate
In terms of safety, it’s worth noting that Florence, AZ has a low crime rate compared to other communities in Arizona. According to recent data, the total crime rate in Florence is 6.20 per 1,000, which is less than half of any other Arizona community’s rate.
The violent crime rate in Florence is 11.3, lower than the national average. The property crime rate is also lower than the US average at 15.1. With these statistics, you have a relatively low chance of being a victim of violent crime in Florence.
People who live in Florence generally consider the northwest part of the city to be the safest. So, if safety is a concern for you, Florence may be a good option to consider.
Economy
If you’re looking for economic opportunities and job growth, Florence may not be the ideal location for you. According to Best Places, the town has an unemployment rate of 7.3% and has seen a relatively small job market increase of 3.1% over the past year. Furthermore, future job growth in Florence is predicted to be only 11.5% over the next ten years, which is significantly lower than the national average of 33.5%.
These statistics suggest that Florence may not offer the same level of economic potential as more established areas. Additionally, the cost of living in Florence is relatively cheap, with most people paying around $1,000-$1,200 for homes with ample land and at least 4 bedrooms. While this may be appealing for some, it’s important to consider the limited economic opportunities and slower job growth in the town.
Education
You may be interested to know that Florence, Arizona has a B overall grade for education according to Niche.
The town is home to 7 public elementary schools and 3 high schools, providing a range of educational options for families. Some of the top-rated schools in Florence include Circle Cross K8 Stem Academy and Skyline Ranch Elementary School.
Additionally, there are several colleges near Florence, such as Central Arizona College – San Tan Campus, Central Arizona College – Florence Center, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and Arizona State University Polytechnic Campus. These institutions offer opportunities for higher education and skill development.
Whether you have children or are seeking to further your own education, Florence provides access to quality schools and nearby colleges to meet your educational needs.
Healthcare
Now that you’ve learned about the education options in Florence, let’s talk about healthcare.
Florence has a few healthcare options to meet your medical needs. One option is Florence Hospital, a campus of Mountain Vista Medical Center, which offers a range of medical services. Another option is Sun Life Health, providing healthcare services to the community.
If you’re in need of urgent care, there are several urgent care centers near Florence, such as HonorHealth | FastMed Urgent Care and NextCare Urgent Care.
Additionally, there are hospitals near Florence, including Florence | A Steward Family Hospital and Banner Ironwood Medical Center. These healthcare facilities ensure that you have access to quality medical care in the area.
Moving to Florence means having healthcare options readily available to take care of you and your family’s well-being.
Housing Market
There are several affordable neighborhoods in Florence. Some of these include Wild Horse Estates, Desert Gardens Hwy 79, and Crestfield Manor. These neighborhoods offer a range of homes with different bedrooms and bathrooms for various prices.
Wild Horse Estates is a neighborhood that offers homes with 3 to 4 bedrooms and 2 to 3 bathrooms. The prices for these homes range from around $150,000 to $200,000. This neighborhood is conveniently located near the Florence Municipal Airport and has a low crime rate.
Desert Gardens Hwy 79 is another affordable neighborhood in Florence. The homes in this neighborhood typically have 2 to 3 bedrooms and 1 to 2 bathrooms. The prices for these homes range from around $100,000 to $150,000. This neighborhood is close to the Florence Golf Links and has a moderate crime rate.
Crestfield Manor is a suburban area in Florence. The homes in this neighborhood feature 3 to 5 bedrooms and 2 to 4 bathrooms. The prices for these homes range from around $200,000 to $250,000. However, it is important to note that Crestfield Manor has a high crime rate.
Overall, these affordable neighborhoods in Florence offer a variety of housing options for different budgets and needs.
Job Market
The job market in Florence, AZ offers a range of opportunities in various industries and professions. According to my research, the largest industries in Florence are Public Administration, Educational Services, and Health Care & Social Assistance.
If you’re looking for higher-paying jobs, the Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, Transportation & Warehousing, and Utilities industries are worth exploring. Some of the jobs in high demand in Florence include Unarmed Detention Officer, Correctional Officer, and Math Teacher.
Additionally, the most common job groups in Florence are Office & Administrative Support Occupations, followed by Management Occupations and Business & Financial Operations Occupations. If you’re interested in specific roles, some examples include Pilot with an average salary of $75,248 per year, Aeronautical Engineer with an average salary of $86,058 per year, and Architect with an average salary of $88,189 per year.
With a population of 26,205 as of July 2021, Florence offers a diverse job market with opportunities for various skill sets and interests.
Public Transportation
If you’re living in Florence, you’ll find that public transportation options are limited. There are no bus services in Florence, so relying on public transportation can be challenging. The town does not have a tram or train system either.
The nearest airports, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, are about 30 and 60 miles away respectively. While there are shuttle services available in Florence, such as AZ Elite Transportation and Pinal’s Best Shuttle Service, they may not cover all your transportation needs.
Renting a car is an option, as car rental services are available at both airports. However, it’s important to note that Florence’s main historic center is small and easily navigable on foot. Using a car in Florence is not advisable due to limited parking, pedestrian-only streets, and one-way streets.
Consider alternatives such as renting a bike or using shuttle services if you don’t have a car.
Tax Rates
Public transportation options in Florence are limited. There are no bus services, tram, or train system available. This means that if you’re planning on moving to Florence, you’ll need to rely on private transportation or find alternative ways to get around.
The lack of public transportation can be challenging, especially if you don’t have your own vehicle. It might require you to walk long distances or find rides from others.
Additionally, without a reliable public transportation system, commuting to other towns or cities for work or leisure activities can be more difficult.
It’s important to consider these transportation limitations when deciding if Florence is the right place for you to move to.
Weather and Climate
When you live in Florence, AZ, you’ll experience a hot desert climate with average high temperatures of 104°F in July and mild winters with average high temperatures of 64°F in January.
The summers in Florence can be scorching, with temperatures reaching triple digits and very little rainfall. It’s important to stay hydrated and take precautions against the extreme heat, such as wearing sunscreen and staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
In contrast, the winters in Florence are relatively mild, with cooler temperatures but still comfortable enough to enjoy outdoor activities. Snowfall is rare in Florence, with only an average of 0.27 inches in February.
Overall, the weather in Florence is characterized by hot and dry summers, making it important to be prepared for the heat, and mild winters that allow for enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Pros and Cons
Considering the pros and cons, you’ll find that living in Florence, AZ has its advantages and disadvantages.
On the positive side, Florence offers a low crime rate and affordable housing options. The proximity to Phoenix provides access to a larger city with more amenities and job opportunities. The diverse population creates a welcoming and inclusive community, and the charming small-town feel adds to the overall appeal. Additionally, the sunny and warm climate of Arizona is perfect for outdoor activities, with hiking trails, parks, and lakes nearby.
However, it’s important to note that living in a rural area like Florence means a slower pace of life and limited job opportunities. You may have to travel for work and services, and there are fewer amenities compared to larger cities.
Ultimately, the decision to move to Florence depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Bars and Restaurants
If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite or enjoy a drink, there are several bars and restaurants in Florence.
The town offers a variety of local eateries that cater to different tastes. For a hearty breakfast or comforting food, head to the Florence Cafe, known for its delicious comfort food.
If you’re in the mood for Greek, American, or Italian cuisine, Mount Athos Restaurant and Cafe is a great choice. Lidias Cocina at Old Pueblo Restaurant is the place to go for flavorful Mexican dishes like enchiladas and carne asada. Chen’s Chinese Bistro offers an authentic Chinese dining experience.
If you prefer a more casual setting, options like Your Behind BBQ, River Bottom Bar and Grill, and Florence AM Pizza will satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal, fast food, or food trucks, Florence has something to offer for everyone’s taste.
Things to Do
To make the most of your time in Florence, you’ll find plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained.
Start by visiting the McFarland State Park Visitors Center, located at 24 Ruggles St. This center represents the transition between Sonoran and Anglo-American architecture and is constructed using native materials like adobe brick walls and a wood-shingled pitched roof.
Another must-visit is St. Anthony’s Greek Orthodox Monastery, established in 1995 in the Sonoran Desert. It’s home to approximately 42 monks and welcomes both Orthodox and non-Orthodox visitors.
Don’t forget to explore downtown Florence, designated as a National Historic District. Here, you can experience the authentic sense of place while enjoying new growth and revitalization.
Lastly, make sure to check out the Tom Mix Memorial and the Pinal County Historical Museum to learn more about Florence’s rich history.
Best Neighborhoods
Now that you’ve learned about some of the things to do in Florence, let’s talk about the best neighborhoods in town.
Florence offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. If you’re looking for a vibrant and family-friendly community, Queen Creek might be a great option with its median income of $89K and a median age of 33.
On the other hand, if you value a low crime rate and scenic surroundings, Eloy could be the perfect fit for you. If you prefer a more basic lifestyle with potential for growth, Coolidge might be worth considering.
And if you’re drawn to shopping and dining options, Arizona City could be a great choice, with its proximity to the US/Mexican border and beautiful sunset scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a tight-knit community or a place with plenty of amenities, Florence has a neighborhood that suits your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re considering moving to Florence, Arizona, there are several factors to keep in mind.
While the town may lack diversity and economic opportunities compared to larger cities, it offers a rich historical district, outdoor activities, and cultural events.
However, living in the desert can present challenges such as extreme heat and potentially dangerous wildlife.
Ultimately, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and decide if Florence aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.