*article courtesy of AZ BigMedia
As one of the fastest growing cities in America, it’s no wonder the flood of inbound migration is bringing middle-class families to Phoenix, where they can sweep up jobs and housing that’s far more affordable than many other major metropolitan areas. The great thing about Phoenix – there are many neighborhoods where you can find a job and purchase a home that is close to work, shopping, dining and schools. In this story, we explore six of the best neighborhoods to work in Phoenix.
Job Growth
The unemployment rate in Phoenix is around 3.6% – nearly half of the U.S. average. Nicknamed the “Silicon Desert,” the area’s economic growth is dynamic, with more than 700,000 new jobs forecasted by 2030. Technology, IT, healthcare, education, travel and tourism are several industries putting Phoenix on the map as one of the fastest growing tech hubs in the nation. For example, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is building a $35 billion campus on Phoenix’s north side and Intel is creating two major campuses in the East Valley.
Affordable Phoenix Neighborhoods
When businesses establish their brick-and-mortar presence in developing areas, people move in, creating thriving neighborhoods. Below, we share a handful of neighborhoods that are great to live and work in, each sharing commonalities of low crime rates, good schools, access to shopping, dining, entertainment and recreation.
32nd Street Corridor
Median home sales price: $590,000
Central Phoenix is undergoing a massive revitalization, specifically along the 32nd Street Corridor, which is bustling with new businesses, housing and infrastructure. Since 2016, a massive effort has been underway to develop new housing, single-family homes and apartment complexes. New restaurants, grocery stores and family entertainment are breathing new life into this area. This urban pioneer neighborhood is perfect for families who want to be a part of an exciting change in the city.
Garfield
Median home sales price: $419,000
This affordable historic district is culturally and architecturally rich. Garfield is within walking distance to downtown, making it a prime place for local entrepreneurs to establish startups. Coworking offices are becoming common, and the Center for Entrepreneurial Innovation is based here, supporting over 80 startups to-date. Spurred by economic growth, many studios, businesses and restaurants call Garfield home, and you can too – especially if you love remodeling historic fixer-uppers.
Encanto
Median home sales price: $445,000
The popular historic neighborhood of Encanto includes the city’s Uptown and Midtown districts. The area’s robust healthcare industry is expanding and there are plenty of jobs available at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, WCUI School of Medical Imaging and Lifewell. The area is also home to budget-friendly apartments, condos, and single-family houses.
