Looking for a place to call home that’s filled with sunshine, community spirit, and endless opportunities? Well, look no further because Peoria, Arizona is the perfect destination for you!
Who needs rain when you can have over 300 days of sunshine each year? In Peoria, you’ll find a thriving city with a diverse population, excellent schools, and a family-friendly atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
And let’s not forget about the incredible amenities, like the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts and the Peoria Public Libraries, that are sure to keep you entertained. Plus, with nationally accredited city departments, you can rest assured knowing that high-quality services are just a phone call away.
So pack your bags, embrace the irony of moving to a place with perfect weather, and get ready to start a new chapter in the beautiful city of Peoria, Arizona!
Key Takeaways
- Peoria is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southwestern U.S. and offers a convenient location for commuters, families, and retirees.
- The city is known for its family-friendly community, great schools, parks, and dining options.
- Peoria hosts numerous city-sponsored special events and cultural festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant and inclusive community.
- The city provides essential services for new residents, such as education, transportation, utilities, and voter registration.
Demographics
If you’re considering moving to Peoria, AZ, you’ll find a diverse population. The city has a population of 200,916 as of 2023, with an annual growth rate of 1.53%. The median age is 40.3 years, and the average household income is $92,916.
Peoria spans over 179 square miles and has a population density of 1,142 people per square mile. The racial composition is varied, with 79.97% White, 5.57% Asian, 3.16% Black or African American, and 5.58% Two or more races.
Peoria is a welcoming city that embraces diversity and offers a vibrant community for those considering moving to Peoria, AZ.
Cost of Living
With a median home value higher than the national average and cheaper rental options, residents in Peoria can choose the housing option that fits their budget. When considering the cost of living in Peoria, keep in mind these key points:
- Affordable housing: The median home value in Peoria is $248,700, which is higher than the national median. However, renting is a more affordable option, with a median monthly rent of $1,205.
- Income vs. expenses: The median household income in Peoria is $73,039, which is 3.4 times the median home value. This indicates that residents have a decent income-to-housing cost ratio.
- Transportation expenses: A single person in Peoria spends an average of $9,553 per year on transportation, which includes gas, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.
- Healthcare costs: Health care costs in Peoria are higher than the national average, with an average cost of $6,246 per year for a single adult.
Overall, while Peoria’s cost of living may be slightly higher than the national average, it offers a range of housing options and a decent income-to-housing cost ratio, making it an attractive place to live.
Crime Rate
Despite its growing population and thriving community, Peoria, AZ has a crime rate that is higher than 64% of cities and towns in Arizona, making it important for residents to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions.
According to FBI crime data, Peoria’s crime rate is higher than the state average. However, compared to other communities of a similar size, Peoria’s crime rate is noticeably lower. The total crime rate in Peoria is 1,767.1 per 100,000 people, which is lower than the national average.
People living in Peoria generally consider the north part of the city to be the safest. While the crime rate in Peoria may be higher than average, taking steps to stay safe and being mindful of your surroundings can help ensure a positive living experience in this vibrant community.
Economy
To fully immerse yourself in the vibrant community of Peoria, you’ll find a thriving economy with diverse industries, offering opportunities for growth and success.
Moving to Peoria means joining a city that is experiencing positive job growth and has a future job growth rate of 32.5%. With an unemployment rate of 5.8%, Peoria offers a range of employment possibilities in industries such as healthcare, retail, insurance, education, construction, and manufacturing.
The median household income in Peoria is $69,589, indicating a strong economic foundation. Moreover, local businesses like Bloomin’ Blinds of Peoria and Lish Nail Salon demonstrate the entrepreneurial spirit and success of the Peoria community.
Whether you’re interested in starting your own business or seeking employment in established industries, Peoria’s thriving economy provides ample opportunities for individuals and families looking to make their mark in this growing city.
Education
Peoria’s education system boasts top-rated schools, with an average ranking of 8/10, placing them in the top 30% of Arizona public schools. If you’re relocating to Peoria, you can feel confident in the quality education your children will receive.
Some of the top-rated public schools in Peoria include Candeo Schools, Great Hearts Academies – Archway Glendale, Happy Valley School, Parkridge Elementary School, and Terramar Elementary School. These schools excel in academic performance and equity, ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality education.
Additionally, there are several universities and colleges near Peoria, providing opportunities for higher education. Whether you have young children or are looking to further your own education, Peoria offers a strong educational foundation.
Healthcare
With top-rated hospitals and urgent care centers in the area, you can feel confident in the quality of healthcare available in Peoria, AZ. Peoria is home to several healthcare facilities, including Valleywide Comprehensive Health Center and Dignity Health Arizona General Hospital. Additionally, there are numerous urgent care centers such as Banner Urgent Care, Concentra Urgent Care, HonorHealth Medical Group Urgent Care, Rapid Care Center, and Good Night Pediatrics. These facilities provide a range of medical services, ensuring that residents have access to the care they need. Whether you are seeking routine check-ups or specialized treatments, Peoria offers a variety of healthcare options. This, combined with the city’s family-friendly atmosphere and diverse community, makes Peoria an excellent choice for those considering moving to the area.
Housing Market
The housing market in Peoria is on fire right now, with prices skyrocketing and rents reaching new heights. The median rent for all bedrooms and property types in Peoria is $2,175, up $25 since last month.
If you’re looking for an apartment, Steeplechase Apartments offers 2-3 bedroom units with a rent range of $808-920. Quail Run Apartments provides 1-2 bedroom apartments with a rent range of $625-650. Rancho Del Sol Apartments offers 2-4 bedroom units with a rent range of $1,026-1,286. For affordable rents based on income, Ironwood Estates Apartments is a great option.
If you’re in the market for buying a home, Gainey Ranch has a median home price of $1,548,821 with a median rent of $1,902. Old Town Scottsdale has a median home price of $1,500,000 with a median rent of $2,083. Desert Mountain has a median home price of $1,500,000 with a median rent of $2,237. Pinnacle Peak offers a median home price of $664,642 with a median rent of $1,817.
The housing market in Peoria is competitive, so be prepared to act quickly and potentially pay higher prices.
Job Market
Looking for job opportunities? You’ll be pleased to know that the job market in Peoria, AZ is booming with a variety of industries and high-paying positions available.
The city is leading the way in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and other sectors, attracting companies like Cigna, HonorHealth, TYR Tactical, and Novembal. This has brought high-paying professional jobs to the area.
The most common job groups in Peoria include Office & Administrative Support Occupations, Sales & Related Occupations, and Management Occupations.
According to data scientists at Zippia, the highest-paying job in Peoria is a gastroenterologist with a median salary of $225,838.
Some of the top employers in Peoria include AntiguaWear, CCV, City of Peoria, Freedom Plaza LP, and OakCraft.
With a growing job market and diverse industries, Peoria offers great opportunities for career growth and success.
Public Transportation
Fortunately, getting around Peoria is a breeze with its convenient and reliable public transportation system.
Peoria’s Transit Division oversees all public transit services, including bus service, Dial-a-Ride, and ADA service. The city also offers the POGO Destinations local bus route, a free service that connects residents to Peoria’s points of pride.
For those without a car, there are transportation options available. Valley Metro provides regional bus and light rail systems, as well as alternative transportation programs. Airport Shuttle of Phoenix offers 24/7 transportation to and from the airport.
While Peoria is spread out and having a car is recommended, FlixBus and Greyhound are affordable alternatives for traveling between Arizona’s larger cities. Additionally, both Uber and Lyft operate in Peoria, providing convenient and safe rides around the city.
Tax Rates
Navigating through the tax rates in Peoria is like unraveling a colorful tapestry of financial obligations and opportunities. In Peoria, the sales tax rate is 8.1%, which includes 5.6% Arizona state sales tax, 0.7% Maricopa County sales tax, and 1.8% Peoria tax. This means that when you make a purchase, you will be paying an additional 8.1% in taxes. Additionally, the median property tax in Arizona is $1,356 per year for a home worth the median value of $187,700. Counties in Arizona collect an average of 0.72% of a property’s assessed fair market value as property tax per year. To find more information about sales tax and business licenses, you can visit the City of Peoria Sales Tax and License page on the official City of Peoria website.
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Arizona State Sales Tax | 5.6% |
| Maricopa County Sales Tax | 0.7% |
| Peoria Tax | 1.8% |
Weather and Climate
Now that you’ve learned about the tax rates in Peoria, let’s talk about the weather and climate in this vibrant city.
When you move to Peoria, Arizona, get ready for long, hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, the average temperature ranges between 74.8°F (23.8°C) and a scorching 100.6°F (38.1°C). June and July are particularly sweltering, with temperatures reaching as high as 101.8°F (38.8°C).
However, winters in Peoria are relatively mild, with temperatures staying above 50°F, even at night. The coldest month is December, with an average temperature of 56°F. Snow is a rare sight in Peoria, as the city only receives an average of 0 inches of snow per year.
So, get ready to embrace the hot desert climate and enjoy the year-round outdoor activities that Peoria has to offer.
Pros and Cons
Peoria, Arizona offers a vibrant lifestyle with its year-round outdoor activities and mild winters, but there are also some drawbacks to consider.
One of the major advantages of living in Peoria is the abundance of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed throughout the year. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, you can explore the beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park, enjoy hiking and biking trails, or play a round of golf at one of the many golf courses in the area.
The mild winters are another plus, allowing residents to continue outdoor activities without extreme cold temperatures. However, it’s important to note that the summers in Peoria can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching highs around 110°F. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, and residents may need to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated.
Overall, Peoria offers a great lifestyle with its outdoor activities and mild winters, but the hot summers should be taken into consideration.
Bars and Restaurants
As you step into the culinary scene of this vibrant city, you’ll find a treasure trove of bars and restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
While Peoria may not have the same culinary notoriety as cities like San Francisco or New York, it is known for its underrated dining scene and hidden gems.
From authentic Mexican cuisine at Tacos Calafia and Caminero Mexican Restaurant to Neapolitan-inspired pizzas at Fabio on Fire and Char Pizzeria Napoletana, there is something to suit every palate.
If you’re in the mood for sushi, Nagoya Sushi offers fresh and affordable options.
For a unique dining experience, check out Revolu Modern Taqueria + Bar, where you can enjoy delicious tacos and guacamole flights.
And don’t forget about the local breweries like Peoria Artisan Brewery, where you can sip on a craft beer while enjoying sophisticated small plates.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a great meal, Peoria has plenty of options to choose from.
Things to Do
Looking for some exciting activities to fill your days in this vibrant city? Peoria, AZ offers a wide range of things to do for residents and visitors alike. Here are four options to consider:
- Explore Lake Pleasant: Just 45 minutes north of Phoenix, this scenic water recreation area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy camping, hiking on more than 10 miles of trails, boating, fishing, and even classes like Paddleboard Yoga and Kayaking.
- Catch a game at Peoria Sports Complex: As the Cactus League spring training home to the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners, this complex offers a fun experience for sports fans. Enjoy local flavors, craft beer, and upscale patio seating, as well as a shipwreck-themed playground and water play area.
- Visit the P83 Entertainment District: This district provides a mix of sports, theater, shopping, and dining options. From casual to upscale, restaurants cater to various tastes. Additionally, there’s an 18-screen movie theater for film lovers.
- Explore Old Town Peoria: Home to historic buildings, artwork, and museums, this area is a must-visit for history buffs. Don’t miss the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, offering an intimate theater experience.
With these options and more, Peoria has something for everyone to enjoy!
Best Neighborhoods
When it comes to finding the perfect neighborhood in this vibrant city, residents have plenty of options to choose from. Peoria, AZ offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly community, a quiet suburban area, or a bustling urban environment, there’s a neighborhood in Peoria that will suit your needs. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Peoria:
| Neighborhood | Description | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Cottonwood Ranch | A peaceful neighborhood with tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. | Community pool, parks, and walking trails. |
| Sun Town | An active adult community with resort-style amenities and a close-knit atmosphere. | Golf course, clubhouse, and fitness center. |
| Pinecrest | A family-friendly neighborhood with top-rated schools and a strong sense of community. | Playground, sports fields, and community events. |
| Foxwood | A suburban neighborhood with spacious homes and a welcoming atmosphere. | Walking paths, green spaces, and nearby shopping. |
No matter which neighborhood you choose, you’ll find a welcoming community and a range of amenities to enjoy in Peoria, AZ.
Conclusion
So, if you’re thinking about moving to Peoria, AZ, you’re making a great choice! With its thriving community, excellent schools, and diverse population, Peoria offers a wonderful place to call home.
The city’s nationally accredited departments ensure top-notch services, and the affordable cost of living makes it even more appealing.
Plus, with an average of over 300 days of sunshine annually, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. And here’s an interesting statistic: Did you know that Peoria’s population has grown by over 20% in the last decade? This shows just how popular and desirable this city has become.
So, pack your bags and get ready to join the vibrant and inclusive community of Peoria, AZ!