Looking to move to a peaceful and scenic town near Phoenix? Consider Fountain Hills, AZ. With its breathtaking mountain views and friendly community, Fountain Hills offers a tranquil escape from the city.
The town is famous for its iconic fountain, attracting visitors from all over. Enjoy a variety of recreational activities, nearby attractions, and convenient access to major cities.
Discover the demographics, cost of living, crime rate, economy, education, pros and cons, bars and restaurants, things to do, and best neighborhoods in our detailed guide to moving to Fountain Hills, AZ.
Demographics of Fountain Hills Az
The demographics of Fountain Hills, AZ are diverse. The town has a population of 24,047 residents, with a racial composition that is primarily Caucasian at 92%.
If you’re considering moving to Fountain Hills, you’ll find a small town atmosphere with a quiet and friendly community. The population tends to decrease during snowbird season, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle.
The town is known for its majestic mountain views. It is surrounded by the picturesque McDowell Mountain Range and an Indian Reservation border. The famous Fountain, one of the world’s tallest, is located in a man-made lake and surrounded by 35 acres of turf.
The location of Fountain Hills is also convenient. It provides easy access to major cities and attractions. You’ll have a balance of peaceful living and proximity to urban areas.
What is Cost of Living in Fountain Hills?
With a cost of living 25% higher than the Arizona average, Fountain Hills offers a unique small town atmosphere and majestic mountain views.
The total cost of living for a single adult in Fountain Hills is $37,592 per year, which is similar to the annual cost of living for Arizona and the national average.
Housing costs in Fountain Hills are higher than the national median, with a median home value of $404,800. However, the typical renter in Fountain Hills spends less on housing compared to the national median.
Transportation costs in Fountain Hills are similar to the national average, with an average commute time of 27.2 minutes.
Health care costs in Fountain Hills are higher than the national average, with average out-of-pocket costs of $6,133 per year for a single adult.
Despite the higher cost of living, Fountain Hills offers a peaceful living environment and easy access to major cities and attractions.
Does Fountain Hills has higher Crime Rate?
Despite being a small town, Fountain Hills has a crime rate that is higher than 54% of cities and towns in Arizona. However, compared to other communities of similar population size, Fountain Hills has a noticeably lower crime rate than the average.
The rate of crime in Fountain Hills is 29.51 per 1,000 residents during a standard year. This means that Fountain Hills has a lower crime rate than 60% of cities in the United States.
People who live in Fountain Hills generally consider the north part of the city to be the safest. In this area, your chance of being a victim of crime is as low as 1 in 57. However, in the southwest neighborhoods, your chance of being a victim of crime may be as high as 1 in 19.
Diverse economy of Fountain Hills
For a small town, Fountain Hills offers a diverse economy with opportunities in various industries. While the population may be smaller compared to other cities, there are still plenty of businesses and job prospects to explore.
The dominant industries in Fountain Hills include healthcare, retail, technical services, and business professionals. Top employers in the area include Fountain Hills Medical Center, American Express, Southwest Airlines, Intel, and the U.S. Air Force.
With a median household income of $76,729 and an average salary that is 30% higher than the national average, Fountain Hills provides a favorable economic environment.
Although there are no colleges or universities within the town, there are ample job opportunities for residents, and the close proximity to Phoenix allows for easy access to additional employment options.
Does Fountain Hills has good education?
The education system in Fountain Hills includes top-rated schools such as McDowell Mountain Elementary School and Fountain Hills Middle School. These schools are highly regarded for their academic programs and commitment to student success.
McDowell Mountain Elementary School offers a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on core subjects as well as art, music, and physical education.
Fountain Hills Middle School provides a challenging and engaging learning environment for students in grades 6-8, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development.
Additionally, there are several colleges and universities within a 20-mile radius of Fountain Hills, including Arizona State University, Scottsdale Community College, and Mesa Community College, offering a wide range of educational opportunities for residents.
Healthcare options
Fountain Hills offers multiple healthcare options for residents. One option is Fountain Hills Medical Center, a physician-owned outpatient medical center. This facility provides 24-hour freestanding emergency services and a medical clinic. Another option is HonorHealth Medical Group – Fountain Hills – Primary Care, which offers lab services at this location and other locations throughout the Valley. Lastly, Fountain Hills Medical Clinic is a medical group practice that specializes in family medicine and nursing, offering comprehensive healthcare services. With these options available, residents of Fountain Hills have access to quality healthcare close to home.
Learning housing Market before moving to Fountain Hills
The housing market in Fountain Hills, AZ offers a variety of options for residents. According to Zillow, the average rent for an apartment in Fountain Hills is $2,016 as of January 2023. The average apartment size is 1,008 sq. ft.
If you’re looking to buy a house, the median house price in Fountain Hills is $478,397, which is higher than the national and state averages. Some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Fountain Hills include Downtown Fountain Hills with a median listing home price of $625K, Firerock with a median listing home price of $1.2M, and Sunridge Canyon with a median listing home price of $1.3M.
On the other hand, some of the most expensive neighborhoods are Eagle Mountain with a median listing home price of $1.4M, Crestview with a median listing home price of $2.2M, and Firerock Country Club with a median listing home price of $2.5M.
Looking for job opportunities in Fountain Hills?
You’ll be pleased to know that there are several industries with high demand for workers. Some of the key industries in Fountain Hills include financial services, healthcare, and start-ups.
Many well-known companies in the finance and insurance industry have found success in Fountain Hills, such as Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, and MidFirst Bank.
The town is also home to the Fountain Hills Medical Center and Honor Health Urgent Care and Primary Care.
In terms of job openings, there are several positions in high demand, including Tire and Lube Technician, Caregiver/Home Care Aide, Retail Jewelry Sales Associate, Border Patrol Agent, Hair Stylist, Club Accountant/Human Resources, and Concierge.
Additionally, some of the highest paying jobs in Fountain Hills include Border Patrol Agent, with a salary range of $52,921 – $95,192 per year.
Some of the top employers in the area include Fountain Hills Unified School District, Rural Metro Corporation, and Target Stores Inc.
Available public Transportation
If you don’t have a car, there are several transportation options available in Fountain Hills, AZ. These include buses, shuttles, taxis, and even public transportation to Phoenix.
The town provides a free shuttle service called the ‘Fountain Hills Express’. This service operates on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Additionally, there are private transportation services like Quality Transport Services of AZ and Phoenix EI Transportation.
You can also take public transportation from Fountain Hills to Phoenix by bus or light rail.
If you’re looking for airport shuttles, Fountain Hills Luxury Transfers is a highly recommended option.
Getting around Fountain Hills without a car is possible by taking the line 515 bus or using a taxi.
And if you prefer ride-sharing, both Uber and Lyft are available in Fountain Hills.
Tax Rates
To find information about tax rates in Fountain Hills, you can visit the official website for the town.
The sales tax rate in Fountain Hills is 9.2%. This includes a 5.6% Arizona state sales tax, a 0.7% Maricopa County sales tax, and a 2.9% Fountain Hills tax.
Unlike many other communities, Fountain Hills does not have a primary property tax. All property taxes, both primary and secondary, require approval by the voters.
For a complete list of taxing districts, you can refer to your specific property tax bill, which is available on the Maricopa County Treasurer’s official website.
The official website for Fountain Hills also has a dedicated page for property tax information.
Weather and Climate
The weather in Fountain Hills, AZ is known for its hot summers with average temperatures around 100°F and mild winters with average temperatures around 60°F.
The summer months bring scorching heat, so be prepared for high temperatures and the need for air conditioning.
Winter in Fountain Hills is much milder compared to other parts of the country, with chilly but not freezing temperatures. Snow is a rarity in Fountain Hills, so you won’t have to worry about shoveling driveways or dealing with icy roads.
The pleasant winter weather allows for outdoor activities like hiking and golfing.
Overall, Fountain Hills offers a climate that is ideal for those who enjoy warm weather year-round and want to escape the harsh winters.
Pros and Cons of moving to Fountain Hills
Living in Fountain Hills, AZ has its advantages and disadvantages.
On the positive side, you can enjoy mild winters, hot summers, and abundant sunshine throughout the year. The low cost of living and low crime rate are also appealing factors. Additionally, the thriving art scene in Arizona, including Fountain Hills, offers a unique cultural experience.
However, there are some challenges to consider. The scorching hot summers can be difficult to handle, lasting for months at a time. Rising housing prices make it challenging to buy a home in this area. Furthermore, Fountain Hills is prone to unpredictable challenges like dust storms and natural disasters.
Despite these drawbacks, the community in Fountain Hills is known for its unique and colorful characters, and there are plenty of local events, dining, shopping, and entertainment options to enjoy.
Bars and Restaurants
If you’re looking for a night out, there are plenty of bars and restaurants in Fountain Hills to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for Greek cuisine, American favorites, Italian dishes, or something unique, you’ll find it here.
Alexanders Greek Kitchen offers a traditional Greek menu with a Greek Island ambiance and a view of Fountain Lake. All American Sports Grill is the ideal spot for sports fans with its covered patio, energetic happy hour, and live music. Arrivederci Cucina Italiana provides a sophisticated atmosphere with signature dishes like pappardelle bolognese and lasagna.
For a unique dining experience, you can visit Cielo Restaurant at Adero Scottsdale Resort, where you’ll enjoy outstanding views and artfully prepared meals. Fountain Hills has a diverse range of dining options, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every taste and preference.
Things to Do in Fountain Hills
Looking for activities to do in Fountain Hills? You’re in luck! This charming town offers a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Start by visiting the famous Fountain Park, where you can marvel at the world’s tallest fountain surrounded by 35 acres of lush greenery.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Fountain Hills Botanical Gardens or explore the scenic Dixie Mine Trail for a taste of nature.
If you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll be delighted by the five golf courses available in the area.
For a dose of culture, check out the Fountain Hills Artists Gallery or immerse yourself in local history at The River of Time Museum.
With so many options, you’ll never run out of things to do in Fountain Hills!
Best Neighborhoods to live in Fountain Hills AZ
Now that you know about the exciting activities and attractions in Fountain Hills, let’s explore the best neighborhoods in the area.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home, Fountain Hills has a variety of options to suit different preferences. Firerock, Eagle Mountain, and Sunridge Canyon are popular neighborhoods known for their stunning views and upscale homes.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, Crystal Ridge and Scottsdale Mountain offer a peaceful residential setting.
For those who prefer a central location, Town Center is a bustling neighborhood with easy access to amenities.
Whether you’re searching for a close-knit community or a secluded retreat, Fountain Hills has a neighborhood that will meet your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re considering moving to Fountain Hills, AZ, you’ll find a friendly and peaceful community with stunning mountain views and a unique environment.
With its iconic fountain and a variety of recreational activities, there’s always something to do.
The town’s convenient location allows for easy access to major cities and attractions, making it a great place to live.
While the cost of living may be higher compared to other areas, the benefits of the beautiful scenery and tight-knit community make it worth it.
So why wait? Start planning your move to Fountain Hills today!