Living in Glendale Arizona - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Glendale Arizona Like?
Glendale, Arizona, located in Maricopa County, is home to approximately 250,000 people. Situated just outside of Phoenix, Glendale provides easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, golfing, and exploring the nearby White Tank Mountains. The city is conveniently located near major highways, such as Interstate 17 and Loop 101, allowing for easy travel to other cities and attractions in the area. Glendale embodies the desert lifestyle with its beautiful cacti-filled landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and proximity to the Sonoran Desert. Residents and visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as biking, horseback riding, and visiting the popular Westgate Entertainment District. The Best of Glendale includes a vibrant downtown area, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with stunning views of the surrounding desert scenery.
One of the main attractions in Glendale, Arizona, is the Westgate Entertainment District, a vibrant shopping and entertainment destination that offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to gather and enjoy live music, sporting events, and dining experiences. Another attraction in the area is the Desert Botanical Garden, which showcases a stunning collection of desert plants and offers guided tours and educational programs. Glendale also has several parks, including Sahuaro Ranch Park and Thunderbird Conservation Park, which provide opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. These attractions and parks offer residents and visitors plenty of options to enjoy Glendale, Arizona's beauty and outdoor activities.
The cost of living in Glendale, Arizona, is slightly lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in the Southwest. Today, the average home value in Glendale stands around $400,000, making homeownership accessible for many individuals and families living in Glendale, Arizona. If you want to rent, you'll find the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Glendale is around $1,300 a month. A variety of housing options are available to suit the budgetary and lifestyle needs of those living in Glendale, Arizona, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments.
If you're looking for a medium-sized town with easy access to bigger cities, a charming downtown, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Glendale, Arizona, would be the perfect place for you! Keep reading to learn more about what living in Glendale, Arizona, is like, including details about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in Glendale, Arizona. This information should help you determine whether living in Glendale, Arizona, is the right choice for you.
Are You Thinking About Buying a Home in Glendale Arizona?
Would you like to buy a home in Glendale, Arizona? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Glendale area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Glendale, Arizona, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Glendale, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Glendale Arizona?
If you're exploring a move to Glendale, Arizona, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Glendale, Arizona, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Glendale, Arizona, and rent, you would need to make $42,000 a year. To live in Glendale, Arizona, and buy a home, you would need to make $60,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Glendale Arizona Tips/Info/Blog Posts
23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE
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WANT TO KNOW WHEN A HOME MATCHING YOUR CRITERIA GETS LISTED? SIGN UP FOR LISTING ALERT > CLICK HERE
MORTGAGE INFO > CLICK HERE
FREE HOME OWNERSHIP GUIDE > CLICK HERE
Top Neighborhoods in Glendale Arizona
Welcome to Glendale, Arizona, a vibrant city known for its diverse neighborhoods and thriving communities. From the historic charm of Downtown Glendale to the modern allure of Westgate Entertainment District, each neighborhood offers a unique blend of housing options, parks, attractions, and businesses, making it an enticing place to call home.
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Arrowhead Ranch: Arrowhead Ranch is a well-established and affluent neighborhood in Glendale. It primarily features single-family homes with spacious yards and modern amenities. Residents enjoy a serene atmosphere and easy access to the Arrowhead Country Club's golf course and recreational facilities. The neighborhood boasts several parks, including Thunderbird Conservation Park, offering hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Arrowhead Towne Center provides residents with abundant shopping and dining options.
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Historic Downtown Glendale: This charming neighborhood is filled with historic homes dating back to the early 20th century. The area exudes a vintage vibe, with tree-lined streets and well-preserved architecture. Besides single-family homes, you'll find some converted historic buildings now serving as apartments and townhomes. The neighborhood's main attraction is the Historic Downtown Glendale, featuring antique shops, boutiques, and local restaurants. Regular events and festivals make this area vibrant and lively.
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Westgate Entertainment District: If you're looking for a more modern and bustling atmosphere, Westgate is the place to be. This mixed-use neighborhood offers a variety of housing options, including apartments and condos. The area is known for its entertainment venues, including the State Farm Stadium (home to the Arizona Cardinals) and the Gila River Arena (hosting concerts and sports events). Westgate is also dotted with trendy bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a go-to spot for nightlife and leisure activities.
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Sierra Verde: Sierra Verde is a family-friendly neighborhood known for its excellent schools and recreational opportunities. The housing options here primarily consist of single-family homes, perfect for those seeking a suburban lifestyle. The neighborhood features multiple community parks, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas for residents to enjoy. Sierra Verde's proximity to Thunderbird Paseo Park provides additional green space for outdoor activities and relaxation.
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Maryland Heights: Maryland Heights is a well-established community with a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is conveniently located near the I-17 freeway, making it easy to commute to other parts of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Maryland Heights Park offers residents a place to unwind and enjoy various recreational activities. There are also numerous dining options and small businesses within close reach.
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Glen Eden: Glen Eden is a serene and peaceful neighborhood known for its well-maintained homes and friendly atmosphere. The housing types are primarily single-family homes, providing a sense of privacy and space for residents. While the neighborhood is more residential, it offers easy access to shopping centers, dining options, and local businesses. Nearby parks like Sahuaro Ranch Park and Manistee Ranch Park offer beautiful green spaces, walking trails, and historical sites.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Glendale Arizona
Living in Glendale Arizona Pros
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Affordable Housing: Glendale boasts a relatively affordable housing market compared to other cities in the Phoenix metropolitan area, making it an excellent choice for homebuyers and renters.
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Diverse Neighborhoods: The city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and amenities, catering to various lifestyles and preferences.
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Year-Round Sunshine: Glendale enjoys a sunny climate year-round, with mild winters, making it an ideal location for those who prefer warmer weather.
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Sports and Entertainment: With the State Farm Stadium and Gila River Arena, Glendale is a hub for sports and entertainment events, hosting NFL games, concerts, and other exciting performances.
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Parks and Recreation: The city offers a wealth of parks and recreational facilities, providing opportunities for outdoor activities, picnics, and sports for residents and visitors.
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Shopping and Dining: Glendale is home to several shopping centers, including Arrowhead Towne Center and Westgate Entertainment District, where residents can enjoy a wide variety of retail and dining options.
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Cultural Attractions: The Historic Downtown Glendale area preserves its rich history with antique shops, art galleries, and regular cultural events that celebrate the city's heritage.
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Excellent Education: Glendale is served by quality school districts and higher education institutions, providing students with access to good education options.
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Proximity to Phoenix: Located just northwest of Phoenix, Glendale allows for easy access to the larger city's job opportunities, cultural events, and additional amenities.
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Family-Friendly Environment: The city is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, safe communities, and numerous family-oriented events and activities, making it an appealing choice for raising children.
Living in Glendale Arizona Cons
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Extreme Heat: Glendale experiences scorching summers with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be challenging for those sensitive to high temperatures.
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Limited Public Transportation: Glendale's public transportation system is not as comprehensive as in some larger cities, making car ownership a necessity for many residents.
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Traffic Congestion: The city's roads and highways can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, leading to longer commute times.
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Limited Walkability: Some neighborhoods in Glendale lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making walking and biking less convenient.
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Water Scarcity: Like much of Arizona, Glendale faces water scarcity issues, which can impact water usage and landscaping options.
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Summer Monsoons: The monsoon season can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and occasional flash floods, causing potential property damage and disruptions.
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Lack of Green Spaces: While Glendale has some parks, certain neighborhoods may lack green spaces and recreational areas.
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Crime Rates: While crime rates vary across neighborhoods, some areas may experience higher crime rates than others.
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Dust and Allergies: The arid climate in Glendale can lead to dust accumulation, which may trigger allergies for some individuals.
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Air Quality: During certain times of the year, the city's air quality can be affected by dust storms and particulate matter.
FAQs About Living in Glendale Arizona
What is Glendale Arizona known for?
Glendale, Arizona, is most known for its annual Glendale Glitters event, which takes place every December and celebrates the holiday season with a dazzling display of lights. The event attracts visitors from all over the state and features various activities such as live entertainment, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a holiday market. The sparkling lights that adorn the streets and buildings create a magical atmosphere and have become an iconic symbol of Glendale and its festive spirit.
What cities and attractions is Glendale Arizona close to?
Glendale, Arizona, is located in Maricopa County, part of the Phoenix metropolitan area in the southwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 9 miles northwest of downtown Phoenix and 20 miles northeast of the city of Peoria. Glendale is close to several other cities in the area, including Scottsdale, about 15 miles to the east, and Surprise, about 10 miles to the northwest. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as the White Tank Mountains, Lake Pleasant Regional Park, and the Sonoran Desert Preserve. Glendale's central location in Maricopa County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Glendale?
Living in Glendale, Arizona, you can expect hot weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 65°F to 70°F, and the average low temperatures range from 40°F to 45°F. The city rarely experiences any snowfall during the winter. Summers in Glendale are extremely hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 100°F to 105°F and occasional heatwaves reaching temperatures above 110°F. The city receives very little rainfall, with an average of only 9 inches of rain annually, and most precipitation occurring in the monsoon season during the summer months.
Does Glendale have good public schools?
There are multiple school districts serving students in Glendale, Arizona. Peoria Unified School District is the largest district and for school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks the Peoria Unified School District #9 among all school districts in Arizona, giving it an overall A rating. Glendale Union High School Districts is a large all high school district serving students in Glendale. The district was ranked #13 in the state and got an A- rating. With a diverse student population and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses, families residing in Glendale, Arizona, can be assured that their children will receive a high-quality education attending schools in Glendale, Arizona.
Is Glendale Arizona safe?
Living in Glendale, Arizona, you'll find it a relatively safe place. Property crime rates in Glendale are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Glendale has a crime rate lower than 61% of all US cities. Glendale, Arizona, residents should feel relatively safe in their daily lives.
What is there to do living in Glendale Arizona?
Living in Glendale, Arizona, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Sonoran Desert and the White Tank Mountains, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Glendale boasts several parks, including Thunderbird Conservation Park and Sahuaro Ranch Park, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Glendale Glitters holiday lights display, which attracts visitors from around the state, and the Glendale Chocolate Affaire, offering sweet treats, live music, and artisan crafts. If you're looking for a day trip, Glendale is located near attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Glendale, Arizona.
Who are the large employers in Glendale Arizona?
If living in Glendale, Arizona, some of the top employers include Banner Health, which employs over 10,000 workers, the Glendale Unified School District, which employs over 4,000 people, and the City of Glendale, which employs over 3,000 individuals. Other notable employers in Glendale include Midwestern University, Arrowhead Towne Center, and various manufacturing companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Glendale can find opportunities in healthcare, education, retail, and more.
How is the healthcare in Glendale Arizona?
Living in Glendale, Arizona, puts you near the Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, which is a level III trauma center and has 555 beds. This hospital would likely be able to provide you with most of your medical needs. If looking for a specialist and can't find them in the Glendale area, you're around 20 miles away from the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, which is one of the top hospitals in the country.
Is living in Glendale Arizona good for retirees?
If you're retired or thinking of retiring, Glendale, Arizona, can be a good choice for many reasons. The weather in Glendale is one of its primary attractions, with its warm, sunny climate providing an inviting environment for retirees seeking to escape colder regions. The abundance of outdoor activities, such as golfing, hiking, and exploring nearby natural wonders like Thunderbird Conservation Park, ensures retirees can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Taxes can be a big consideration, especially in retirement. Arizona does not tax Social Security benefits, the state's income tax rates are relatively moderate, and the sales tax isn't high, providing some financial relief for retirees. Property taxes can vary depending on the specific county in Arizona, but overall, property taxes in Arizona are fairly low. Glendale's pleasant weather, diverse recreational activities, and affordable tax policies make it an appealing destination for retirees seeking a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
Is Glendale Arizona a good place to live?
Glendale, Arizona is a great place to live due to its warm climate and abundance of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and golfing. Additionally, the city offers a strong sense of community, with numerous family-friendly events and a thriving arts and culture scene.
I want to relocate to Glendale Arizona. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Glendale Arizona. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Arizona where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Glendale area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Glendale Arizona, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.