Explore Phoenix

The Phoenix area can trace its history to approximately 200 AD, at which time the ancient Hohokam people lived there – until the mid-15th century. They created a canal system that brought water to the land and it was actually their understanding of the Southwest landscape and engineering that led to the Central Arizona Project of today, the extensive system that supplies much of the state with its water.

Today, this lively city beckons families, active older adults, young professionals, and the like who are seeking a pleasant climate with acres of outdoor recreation space, as well as plenty of arts, culture, dining, and shopping.

What to Love About Phoenix Real Estate

More than 300 days of sunshine a year
Ample shopping and dining opportunities
Many world-class golf courses
Close-knit, affluent neighborhoods
Outdoor recreation opportunities

Local Lifestyle

Your neighbors in Phoenix have come to town for the diversity of lifestyles, whether that’s older adults who come to spend the colder northern months in their upscale desert homes, young families seeking close-knit communities and great schools, or tech and start-up wizards who look forward to hatching ideas and partnerships on world-class golf courses. For luxurious resorts, fine dining, high-end shopping, and yes, that glorious golf, Phoenix is internationally appealing.

Those seeking downtown city life can choose from chic loft-style apartments in restored buildings right on the light rail, while anyone who prefers more space can decide between swanky suburban areas to the east. Sprawling ranch homes and elegant estates round out the home offerings.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

If there’s a shopping niche not available at The Shops at Norterra, we still haven’t found it. With more than 50 options for dining and shopping, the open-air lifestyle and retail center offers everything from upscale fashion to sporting goods, pilates classes to first-run films in the movie theater. Dine casually at Mellow Mushroom or more refined at Osteria Mia, with its ever-changing wine list featuring Italian varietals and hand-made pasta.

For the best-fried chicken in Arizona, in-the-know locals love Bobby-Q BBQ. Famous not only for its steaks, chicken, and BBQ, the restaurant is beloved for its warm, fast, and personable service. Indulge in a succulent pulled-pork sandwich, fill up on mac-and-cheese and shoestring fries, and don’t forget the jumbo, filled baked potatoes. Craving seafood? Reserve a table at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, where the enticing menu features Louisiana gumbo, crawfish etouffee, wild-caught mahi-mahi, and giant shrimp and grits.

Things to Do

From water parks to historic museums, Phoenix brims with activities for all ages and interests. Visit the Phoenix Police Museum on the first floor of the Historic Phoenix City Hall to learn about the city’s law-enforcement presence all the way back to 1881. Learn how the Arizona Rangers brought order to this last bastion of the West’s desperados, allowing the Territory to be considered for statehood.

Arts and culture take center stage in Phoenix, including the renowned Heard Museum, founded in 1929 and continuing to set the standard for collaboration with American Indian artists and tribal communities. Learn about the art and history of the region’s Native American cultures. At The Phoenix Art Museum, marvel at classic and contemporary works, as well as national traveling exhibits. Wander through the city’s walkable arts district, Roosevelt Row, home to the monthly First Fridays Art Walk and the M3F Music Festival.

Thrill-seekers are drawn to the Castle & Coasters Park, with its action-packed attractions, and Hurricane Harbor’s exciting water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

Schools

The Phoenix real estate market is home to a number of excellent educational opportunities, including:

Magnet Traditional School, K-8, highly rated public elementary and middle school
Augustus H. Shaw Montessori, K-8, highly rated public elementary and middle school
Barry Goldwater High School, 9-12, well-rated public high school