Moving to Phoenix – Everything You Need to Know

Phoenix, Arizona, offers a stark contrast to life in the UK, from its sprawling desert landscapes to its year-round warmth. Whether you’re moving for work, to be with family, or to start a new chapter, the city offers endless opportunities, from new adventures to vibrant culture. 

Offering an affordable cost of living, stunning desert landscapes, and plenty of outdoor activities, moving to Phoenix from the UK offers something unique for everyone.

Knowing how to prepare for such a drastic change is vital. In this blog, we’ll aim to prepare you for everything you need to know about moving to Phoenix. From the challenges of living in the desert to the cost of living, we cover it all. 

Why Move to Phoenix?

Home to over 1,650,000 people, Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the U.S. Often referred to as the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix is located in the Sonoran Desert, offering year-round sunshine. From warmer weather, good cost of living and a strong job market, we can see why over 70,000 people move there each year.

Year-Round Sunshine 

Phoenix boasts year-round sunshine, with approximately 300 days of sunshine each year. It’s one of the sunniest states in the U.S. and sees only 8 inches of rain annually. It’s a haven for outdoor activities, golf enthusiasts, and retirees seeking warmth and minimal weather disruptions.

Affordable Cost of Living 

Compared to other large cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, Phoenix has an affordable cost of living. The cost of rent is significantly lower than in other large cities. Groceries, public transport, and utilities are all on par with the national average and much lower than big cities. 

Stable Job Market

The increasing population and a diverse economy are the reasons the Phoenix job market is experiencing growth. It’s a major hub for many industries and there are many opportunities on offer, particularly in the tech, healthcare, finance, and logistics sectors. The unemployment rate is low at around 3.3%, which is below the national average.

Challenges of Living in Phoenix

Living in Phoenix does come with certain challenges to be aware of. The extreme heat, limited public transport, and desert-related issues are important to note. 

Extreme Summer Heat

Phoenix is known for its extreme summer heat due to its desert climate, regularly reaching 38°C during the summer months, with highs of 43°C plus. Heat is dry, which can lead to dehydration, so it’s vital to stay safe and prepared. It can feel hotter in Phoenix due to the Urban Heat Island effect. This is when concrete and buildings absorb and retain heat, making the city hotter than surrounding rural areas. 

Limited Public Transport

Public transport is limited in Phoenix due to the city’s sprawling layout and car-oriented infrastructure. There is a public transport system but it does not cover the entire metro area, especially in more rural areas. Bus and trains run an infrequent service, which is why many residents rely on their cars. Although there are plans to improve this, it is worth being aware of the current situation.

Desert Issues 

Living in the desert produces many challenges. Water scarcity from prolonged periods of drought and limited rainfall is common. Phoenix also experiences other desert-related issues such as haboobs. These are dust storms that can reduce visibility, create respiratory problems, and disrupt daily life. It’s important to research desert living and be prepared for your new daily life.

Securing Your US Visa for Phoenix

Securing a U.S. visa for Phoenix, Arizona, or any other U.S. city involves a series of steps that depend on the type of visa you are applying for. There are different visa categories, including tourist visas, work visas, student visas, and family-based visas. The most common visas for moving to the USA are as follows:

Family Visas

• Fiancé(e) Visa (K1 Visa): The K1 Visa allows foreign-citizen fiancé(e)s of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. to marry your U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival. They can then apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident.
• Spouse Visas (IR1, CR1, K3): The IR1, CR1, and K3 Visas, also known as the Marriage Green Card, allow spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to live as permanent residents in the U.S.

Work Visas: 

• Speciality Occupations (H1B Visa): The H1B Visa is a work visa for workers in a speciality occupation, such as IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, medicine, etc.
• Employment-based Immigrant Visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5): These visas are for workers in a variety of situations, from “priority workers” with extraordinary abilities or multinational executives (EB-1) to skilled workers and professionals (EB-2 and EB-3) and even immigrant investors who are investing a large amount of capital into a U.S. enterprise (EB-5).
• Intra-company Transferee (L1 Visa): The L1 Visa is for managers, executives, or specialised knowledge employees transferring to their employer’s U.S. office.

Student Visas: 

• Student Visas (F1 or M1 Visa): These visas are for individuals who wish to study in the U.S. F1 visas are for academic students, while M1 Visas are for vocational students.
• Exchange Visitors (J1 Visa): The J1 Visa is for individuals approved to participate in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs.

Investor Visas:

• Trader/Investor Visas (E1/E2 ): These are for people who conduct significant trade between the U.S. and their home country (E1), or who are investing a significant amount of capital in a U.S. business (E2). 

To learn more about U.S. visas, read our detailed guide on Moving to the USA From the UK.

Applying for a U.S. Visa

You should apply well in advance of your move as visa applications can take a few months. Here are the key steps to follow:

1. Determine the Right Visa – Research the right visa for the purpose of your stay. 
2. Apply for a Visa: you’ll have to complete the visa application form relevant to your category. This is typically under the category of an immigrant visa for long-term stays or through a Green Card. 
3. Schedule a Visa Interview: You’ll need to have an in-person interview either at the U.S. Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast.
4. Prepare Documentation: Gather the essential documents such as your passport, visa application confirmation, visa fee receipt, and any supporting documents (e.g., job offer, financial proof, or educational enrollment).
5. Await Response: Your interview, documents, and application will be reviewed and you will be informed of the outcome.

Where to Live in Phoenix

Where you choose to live in Phoenix will depend on your preferences, budget, and lifestyle. Phoenix offers diverse neighbourhoods that will offer something to suit all circumstances. Whether you’re after family-friendly areas or want to be close to the hustle and bustle, we’ve listed a few popular options for places to live in Phoenix.

Chandler 

Chandler is located in the southeast part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, just a 30-minute drive from Phoenix. Chandler is ideal for families seeking a suburban area. It’s home to excellent schools such as Chandler Unified School District and plenty of family-friendly amenities and activities like the Chandler Ostrich Festival, making it a family-orientated city. The city has great parks, shopping centres, and a lower crime rate, making it an attractive option for many. 

In the Downtown area, you can find boutique shops, farmers’ markets, and art galleries. It’s also an economic hub, commonly referred to as Arizona’s Silicon Desert. Home to large tech firms such as Intel, Chandler offers excellent job opportunities, particularly in areas like engineering, technology, and healthcare. 

The cost of living ranges from moderate to high but remains more affordable compared to other big cities such as Scottsdale or Arcadia. 

Downtown Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is a bustling area of Phoenix, famous for its urban vibe, cultural attractions, and central location. Boasting historic charm with modern development, Downtown Phoenix offers a unique living experience for residents who enjoy city life. It’s also near the desert landscapes and hiking trails for those wanting to escape the hustle of living in a city. 

Ideal for young professionals, there is a growing number of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues in the area. Downtown Phoenix is well connected, with public transport being frequent compared to most areas of Phoenix, making it easier for commuters to travel to and from the city. The technology, healthcare, and finance sectors​ are thriving, with plenty of job opportunities on offer.

The cost of living can be high, especially for those living in newer apartments or condos. You can expect to find apartments, lofts, and condos, with the average house price for these property types ranging from $300,000 to $650,000. The average median house price in Downtown Phoenix is $599,000.

Maryvale

Maryvale in West Phoenix is known for having affordable housing options, with the average house price falling lower than Phoenix’s average at around $337,000. Rental prices are also low, attracting many young families to the area. The neighbourhood also benefits from its proximity to major freeways like the I-10 and Loop 101, providing easy access to downtown Phoenix and other areas.

One of the largest neighbourhoods in Phoenix, there is a large Hispanic community in Maryvale, presenting a family-friendly, community feel to the town. Maryvale is home to a variety of public and chartered schools, but many families tend to look at other districts for higher-rated schools. 

There are also plenty of parks and sports facilities for families to spend time outdoors, including Maryvale Park and the American Family Fields of Phoenix, home of the Milwaukee Brewers in the Spring.

The overall cost of living in Maryvale is 3% lower than Phoenix and the national average, with healthcare and groceries being more affordable in this neighbourhood. 

Sun City 

Located Northwest of Phoenix, Sun City is a popular area for retirees. There is an age-restricted community, so most residents must be 55 years or older. It offers an excellent community feel, offering many recreational activities for its residents. There are nearby golf courses to keep active and recreation centres where residents can enjoy swimming pools, gyms, arts and crafts rooms, and theatres.

Housing is affordable and is catered to retirees, so expect to see single-level homes, condos, and age-restricted developments. The average house price ranges between $250,000 and $350,000, depending on size and location. Sun City does not have a municipal government, so many properties come with minimal property taxes. 

It’s a well-connected community with easy access to nearby cities via highways like Loop 101 and Grand Avenue (US-60). There are plenty of local shops and restaurants, with even more choices in nearby Peoria and Glendale.

Renting or Buying in Phoenix

Most residents own their homes in Phoenix in 2024, meaning 54% are homeowners while the remaining 46% of people rent. Fortunately, foreign nationals do not need to be U.S. citizens or residents to purchase property and there are no restrictions, unlike in some countries. You can secure a mortgage through U.S. lenders but typically will have to pay a larger down payment (deposit).

The average property price in Phoenix is $424,000, remaining more affordable than other major U.S. cities as well as nearby Scottsdale, but more expensive than Tuscan. You must pay the relevant taxes such as property tax and potentially income tax if renting out the property. Buying property is more beneficial to those who plan on living in Phoenix long-term. 

Renting is a popular option for those who may be living in Phoenix temporarily for work or other reasons. It offers more flexibility if you are finding your feet in the area and is less of a financial commitment. A 2-3 bedroom property costs around $2,350 a month in rent. You typically have to pay a security deposit which is usually 1 month’s rent upfront. Most landlords require copies of your passport or visa and you may have to show proof of income. 

Cost of Living in Phoenix

The cost of living in Phoenix is affordable, especially compared to larger U.S. cities. It’s 29% lower overall than in London, but groceries are 1.9% higher. It’s estimated that a family of four living in Phoenix should budget around $3,907.9 (£3,080.4) per month for living costs, not including rent or mortgage costs.  

Rent prices are especially lower than in the UK, with the average monthly rent being 42.8% lower than in London. They are also lower than nearby Scottsdale at around 21.5% cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, water, and heating are priced around $252.91 a month, which is on par with the national average and other nearby cities. It’s important to note that utilities might cost more in the summer months due to the cost of air conditioning, especially compared to cooler cities. 

Healthcare costs tend to be lower than the U.S. average, with a doctor’s visit costing around $120. Other essential items like gas are similar to the national average, with prices around $3.40 per gallon​. The cost of groceries is similar to the national average but is 7% cheaper than in nearby Tuscon. Milk costs $0.88, bread $3.68, and 1kg of chicken breasts is $9.79.

Finding a Job in Phoenix 

Phoenix’s job market is diverse, offering a range of opportunities across many sectors. In recent months, there’s been a significant increase in job vacancies, especially in the construction and financial sectors. The main industries that drive the economy are healthcare, professional services, trade, transportation, and utilities. Phoenix’s recent job growth has helped attract talent across the state, including professionals in the tech sector and health services. 

Phoenix is a hub for healthcare roles due to the expansion of major healthcare providers like Banner Health System. It’s home to many top hosptials and research institutions like the Mayo Clinic, which sees a consistent demand for healthcare professionals. The city is also a haven for tech professionals, with established companies like Intel, Dropbox, and Go Daddy with bases there.

As a new resident in Phoenix, it’s important to know where to look to find work. Phoenix Chamber of Commerce post regular job openings and supports businesses looking to hire, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and tech. Arizona’s Job Connection is a state-run website with job listings mainly in the government or public sector areas. There are also local job fairs and networking events like Phoenix Tech Council and Greater Phoenix Economic Council to help make connections in your field.

Getting Around Phoenix 

Phoenix’s public transport system is well connected in the city, but those in the suburbs and outlying areas face challenges with a lack of reliable services. The system isn’t as complex as other big cities like New York, but there is ongoing work to improve and expand the public transport system throughout Phoenix. Here are some popular transport methods to get across the city.

Driving

Due to limited public transport across Phoenix, most of its residents drive. The city has a well-maintained road system, including major freeways like I-10, I-17, and Loop 101. Most people will use their car to commute or run daily errands as it is often easier, quicker, and avoids waiting for public transport in the heat. 

Valley Metro Bus System

The Valley Metro Bus system connects key neighbourhoods and districts through 100 routes. There are limitations when it comes to areas in the suburbs or remote locations, so always check the route before you travel. Main lines run every 15-30 minutes, with the service getting less frequent during non-peak times, evenings, and weekends. Tickets are affordable at $2 for a single or $4 for a day pass. 

Valley Metro Rail

The Valley Metro Rail covers downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, stopping at key destinations such as Arizona State University and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Trains are scheduled every 12 to 20 minutes and tickets cost just $2 for a single fare.

Phoenix Sky Harbor Sky Train

The Phoenix Sky Harbor Sky Train is a free automated train that connects Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport terminals with the Valley Metro Rail and nearby parking areas. This is an ideal method to save money when travelling for work, or when you first arrive in Phoenix after moving. The service runs 24/7.

Rideshares

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are common, particularly in the evenings and nights when public transport is limited. The convenience of using an app for instant bookings helps many residents after visiting bars or restaurants in the city, particularly those who do not own a car. They generally service most areas of Phoenix, including those that are not covered by public transport.

Can I Ship My Car to Phoenix?

Yes, you can ship your car from the UK to Phoenix through our sister company Autoshippers. Costs vary depending on your exact destination and type of vehicle. The closest port to Phoenix that we ship to is San Diego and the average cost to ship a standard saloon car is £1,756.

Autoshippers have been shipping cars from the UK to the U.S. for over 25 years so have the essential experience and knowledge. Autoshippers offer Roll on Roll off services for cars, SUVs, autos, motorhomes, trucks, vans and buses. All sailings are direct from the UK ports of Liverpool or Southampton to many ports in the USA including New York, Galveston, and Brunswick.

Schools and Education in Phoenix

Education in Phoenix is managed by districts, from elementary schools to high schools. There are also excellent charter, private, and higher education facilities throughout Phoenix. 

Public Schools 

Public education in Phoenix is managed by school districts that oversee elementary and high school levels. The Phoenix Union High School District is one of the largest districts in the U.S. and covers high school students in central Phoenix. Some good elementary districts include Madison, Creighton, Alhambra, and Washington Elementary School Districts. There are also unified school districts that cover all grade levels within a single system. Some examples include Scottsdale Unified, Paradise Valley Unified, and Deer Valley Unified.

Charter Schools

There are also charter schools in Phoenix that are publicly funded but governed by private organisations, making them fully independent. This means they are more flexible with the curriculum they offer and don’t have to adhere to typical regulations other public schools have to. They are typically focused on specialised subjects, such as the arts or science. Some popular charter schools in Phoenix include BASIS Charter Schools and Great Hearts Academies.

Higher Education

There are several highly regarded universities and colleges in Phoenix such as Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, University of Phoenix, and Maricopa County Community Colleges. There are also vocational and technical institutions for specific careers such as Western Maricopa Education Center, UEI College, and Arizona College of Nursing.

Healthcare in Phoenix

Like the U.S. as a whole, healthcare in Phoenix is not free. However, most residents can get health insurance through their employer. There are also financial schemes in place to help those with low incomes and who are uninsured to access free or low-cost U.S. healthcare.

Healthcare Systems

There are many healthcare networks operating in Phoenix, most notably Banner Health, one of the largest nonprofit systems in the U.S. Banner Health has the Banner Desert Medical Center facility which specialises in oncology and paediatrics. Other notable healthcare systems in Phoenix include HonorHealth which operates 6 hospitals in the area, and the Mayo Clinic which helps with complex medical cases.

Financial Help 

Arizona’s Medicaid, Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, provides free or low-cost healthcare for eligible low-income residents. This covers the cost or the majority of the costs of doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, and more. KidsCare provides free or low-cost services for children of families who don’t qualify for Medicaid and can’t afford insurance. There is also Medicare that helps those over 65 with certain disabilities. 

Healthcare Costs

For those who are uninsured, it’s important to know the costs of basic healthcare services in Phoenix. A standard doctor visit typically costs between $100-$300, diagnostic tests are typically between $200 – $1,000, and emergency room visits often exceed $1,000.

There are community health centres and clinics that offer free or sliding-scale services for uninsured or low-income residents. These include Mountain Park Health Center, Circle the City, and Neighborhood Outreach Access to Health.

Weather in Phoenix

Many people are attracted to Phoenix because of its year-round sunshine, offering 300 sunny days per year. Phoenix is known for its extreme heat in the summer months, experiencing many heatwaves, dust storms, and flash flooding as a consequence. Humidity levels are low for most of the year, enhancing the dry, desert feel. During summer monsoons, the humidity rises and makes the heat feel more hotter and intense. 

Summer – Hot and Dry

The temperature in Phoenix during the summer months regularly exceeds 38°C during the day and cools down slightly during the night to around 27°C. July is the hottest month, with temperatures as high as 43°C. 

Winter – Mild and Comfortable

Winter days in Phoenix remain high, especially compared to UK winters. Temperatures range from 18–24°C, offering mild and comfortable conditions after extreme summers. The nights can get cold, with lows of around 4°C.

Spring – Warm and Pleasant

Temperatures start to cool down in Spring, but remain high, especially compared to the UK’s weather in Spring. It remains warm but bearable, with temperatures ranging from 24–32°C, making it an ideal time to partake in outdoor activities. 

Autumn – Cool

It starts to cool down in Autumn, with temperatures ranging between 21–27°C in November. During September and October, temperatures remain hot, with highs of 37°C. It’s one of the best seasons to go hiking or golfing, with sunny days that aren’t filled with extreme heat. 

Things to Do in Phoenix

Phoenix offers an array of activities and entertainment suitable for all ages. 

Sports and Entertainment 

There is a thriving sports scene in Phoenix, with teams representing all major leagues from basketball and baseball to hockey and golf. The Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix is home to the NBA team Phoenix Suns. The Arizona Cardinals, an NFL team, play at State Farm Stadium in the Glendale suburb. If hockey is your thing, you can catch the Arizona Coyotes at the Mullett Arena based on the Arizona State University campus. Phoenix is also home to the Arizona Theatre Company and Herberger Theater Center which host live musicals and plays throughout the year.

Food and Drink

Phoenix offers a vibrant food and drink scene, taking influence from the Southwest and Mexico, as well as offering contemporary innovative dishes. Sonoran Hot Dogs are a staple and involve a bacon-wrapped hot dog and pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, mayo, and jalapeños. You’ll also find Mexican influence across many restaurants and street food trucks including enchiladas, tamales, carne asada, and tacos. There is a good mix of casual spots, food trucks, cafes, and fine dining restaurants. Phoenix is home to Arixona’s only AAA Five Diamond restaurant called Kai Restaurant. Phoenix is also big on its craft beer, with craft breweries including Four Peaks Brewing Company and Huss Brewing Co.

Outdoor Activities

As Phoenix is situated in the desert, it offers an array of outdoor activities, from hiking, camping, and boating, to kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding. South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., where you can go on stunning hikes, bike, or simply drive through the scenic route. You can give kayaking, paddleboarding or tubing a go in Salt River or go fishing and camping in Lake Pleasant. If it’s panoramic views you’re after, then the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is for you. 

Museums

There is a rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene in Phoenix, which is reflected in the many museums there. The Heard Museum showcases Native American art exhibits, and the Phoenix Art Museum has many contemporary art collections. In Downtown Phoenix you can find Roosevelt Row, which is an art district filled with murals, galleries and cafes. 

How Much Will it Cost to Move my Personal Belongings to Phoenix?

When shipping household goods and personal effects to Phoenix, your moving costs will vary depending on the size of your move and final address in Phoenix.

Here are the average costs for moving from UK to Phoenix:

• Small Move: £ 974.00
• 1 bed flat: £1,192
• 2 bed flat: £2,120
• 3 bed house (20 ft container): £5,627
• 4+ bed house (40 ft container): £7,425

About our international moving services to Phoenix

1st Move International can safely ship your household and personal belongings to Phoenix from the UK. We offer a guaranteed weekly shipping service that ships directly to multiple ports in the U.S. Our safe packing and shipping techniques provide full protection to your items. 

Visit our International Removals page and find out more about our great range of packing, shipping, and insurance options or you can a moving overseas quote, tailored for your individual moving requirements.

You can also check out our online international moving costs calculator here.

For more details on our packing process and the benefits of shipping with commercial co-loaders see our Faster Shipping, Safer Packing and Smarter Billing pages.