Phoenix, Arizona
Considered one of the country’s newest cities, Phoenix, Arizona consistently ranks as one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities. Attracting a fresh wave of youthful culture and spirit, those moving to Phoenix will discover that the city is no longer the desert town and retirement community it once was. Thanks to the city’s emergent labor force, advantageous business environment, affordable housing and low cost of living, the city of Phoenix counties to grow at an unprecedented rate.
History:
In 1870, settlers named the town site Phoenix, a symbol of life rising from the remains of the past. The area grew steadily over the next 30 years. In 1900, the city had a population of just over 5,000. Phoenix was widely known as a railroad hub, the seat of Maricopa County and the territorial capital. Throughout the 1930s, the federal government assisted the city through New Deal programs that helped the city during the turbulent times. By 1955, manufacturing had become Phoenix’s main source of revenue; with farming and tourism make up the city’s largest economic contributors. Like many other Sun Belt cities, the city’s mass production of air conditioners attracted manufacturers and residents to the city in the late 50s. More than a million residents lived in the city of Phoenix by 2000. Today, the city is proud to be the sixth largest city in the U.S. As the city’s economic enterprise and Phoenix lifestyle continue to draw people to the area, Phoenix looks forward to a bright future.
Economy:
Today, tourism and manufacturing are the largest economic sectors in Phoenix. Tourism plays the largest roll in the local economy, with more than 10 million visitors from throughout the country visiting the area each year. The city’s airport (Phoenix Sky Harbor International) constantly seeks to improve its facilities as is demonstrated by the 80 ongoing projects costing the city upwards of $600 million. The airports projects create job opportunities in various sectors. Due to the city’s recent population growth, the local economy has taken on new dimensions in recent decades by shifting focus to the technology and service industries. Other sectors experiencing growth include financial services and banking. Today, several major processing and regional headquarters operations have decided to make Phoenix home, include Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America and American Express. High technology and aerospace firms provide a significant share of the city’s manufacturing jobs. Considered the heart of Arizona’s economy, more than a third of the state's entire labor force works in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Tourism:
For the outdoor enthusiast, Phoenix, Arizona offers miles of mountain trails, lakes and other outdoor adventure for residents and visitors to enjoy. Experience the cityscape from Piestawa Peak or take a hike on Camelback Mountain. Looking for more? Head over to South Mountain where you can get lost in over 50 miles of trails and remarkable landscapes. Phoenix museums and most popular attractions include the Desert Botanical Garden and the Heard Museum. The children in the group will enjoy the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the Arizona Science Center, where they will be fully engaged in science and exploration. If you are looking to unwind, relax in one of the award-winning spas located throughout the city. Next, do a little shopping at one of the city’s many unique shops and large retailers. At night, head downtown and experience Phoenix’s thriving night scene at one the city’s popular sports bars, urban clubs or upscale restaurants.
Colleges/Universities:
• Arizona State University
• Phoenix College
• University of Arizona College of Medicine
Interesting Facts:
• Greater Phoenix is home to more than 200 golf courses.
• With 1.4 million residents, Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the country.
• The city is home to South Mountain Park, the world's largest municipal park.
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International is the world's sixth-busiest airport.
Helpful Links:
• Phoenix Real Estate
• Phoenix Storage Facility
• Phoenix Insurance
• Phoenix Dental Offices
• Phoenix Moving Companies