City Profile

Phoenix, Arizona

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

Overall Score

Phoenix, often called the "Valley of the Sun," is the capital and most populous city in Arizona, known for its year-round warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. The city has a rich history rooted in agriculture and mining, evolving into a major metropolitan hub in the Southwestern United States. Its desert landscape, framed by mountains, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities. Phoenix attracts a diverse population, including retirees, young professionals, and families, drawn by its growing economy, relatively affordable cost of living compared to coastal cities, and a vibrant lifestyle.

About Arizona

Arizona offers a diverse landscape, from low-elevation deserts to mountainous regions, and is known for its abundant sunshine, averaging around 300 sunny days per year. The state's economy is moderately diverse, with major industries including manufacturing (especially aerospace, defense, transportation, and electronics), healthcare, real estate, tourism, technology, bioscience, agriculture (cotton, citrus), and mining (copper). While the cost of living in Arizona is generally higher than the national average, particularly for housing, the state's mild winters and opportunities for outdoor activities contribute to an appealing lifestyle for many.

Cost of Living Weather & Climate Jobs & Economy Quality of Life Safety Demographics Economy Transportation Healthcare Housing Nearby Cities Similar Cities FAQ

1,677,947

Population

$49K

Avg Salary

105

Cost Index

70.0

Quality Score

Performance

Quality Scores

Business

Livability

Affordability

Growth

Expenses

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Phoenix is approximately 5% higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing expenses. While some categories like groceries are slightly above the national average, healthcare costs tend to be lower. Utilities, particularly electricity for air conditioning during the hot summers, can be a significant expense. However, the overall cost remains competitive when compared to major metropolitan areas on the West Coast, making it an attractive option for those relocating from more expensive regions.

Average Rent

$1,492/mo

Groceries

$426/mo

Transport

$64/mo

Utilities

$391/mo

Healthcare

$380/mo

Gym membership (monthly)

$45.00

Cinema ticket

$14.00

Restaurant meal (mid-range)

$22.00

Monthly groceries

$426.00

Doctor visit (without insurance)

$150.00

Income

Salary Insights

Phoenix boasts a dynamic and growing job market, with a projected job growth rate of 0.7% in 2026 for the Phoenix Metropolitan Statistical Area. The region's economy is diverse, with professional and business services accounting for approximately 16% of total employment, and healthcare and social assistance close behind at 15%. Key growth sectors also include semiconductors, manufacturing, aerospace, and information technology, attracting significant investment and creating new opportunities. Phoenix is recognized as a supportive environment for small businesses and startups, ranking highly in national studies for entrepreneurial climate.

The average salary in Phoenix is $49,356 per year. You would need approximately $52,974 to live comfortably.

Employment

Top Industries

Information & Technology +2.50% Healthcare and Social Assistance +2.00% Professional and Business Services +1.50% Semiconductors and Manufacturing +3.00% Aerospace and Defense +1.80%

Weather

Climate

🌡️

Avg Temp

☀️

Summer High

❄️

Winter Low

🌧️

Annual Rain

💧

14.00%

Humidity

🌤️

Sunny Days

Mobility

Transport

Getting around Phoenix primarily relies on personal vehicles, with about 74.6% of residents driving alone. The average one-way commute time is approximately 26 minutes, slightly less than the national average. While the city has a walkability score of 41, indicating a car-dependent environment, specific neighborhoods like Downtown Phoenix are considerably more walkable. Public transit, managed by Valley Metro, is growing, with a transit score of 42 and increasing ridership, but it serves a smaller portion of the population compared to driving.

26 min

Avg Commute

42.00/10

Transit Score

41.00/10

Walkability

High

Car Dependency

At a Glance