Are you considering moving to Glendale, Arizona? Maybe you are, or maybe you haven’t even heard of it. Perhaps you are thinking about moving to Phoenix, but the valley is huge, and there are so many neighborhoods that you’re struggling to choose one to move to. How can you possibly know which Phoenix neighborhood is the best for you?! You know you’re attracted to the beautiful landscape, wonderful weather, and seemingly affordable cost of living, but what exactly does Glendale, Arizona have to offer?
We’re diving into what it’s like to live in Glendale, AZ, and sharing what you need to know if you’re considering moving here.
Where is Glendale Located?
Glendale is located in what’s referred to as the “West Valley” region of the Phoenix area. Here you’ll also find Peoria, a quickly growing suburb of Phoenix, as well as Sun City West, if you continue Northwest, away from Phoenix. Many know the West Valley to be home to the Cardinals and Coyotes, but there are many other landmarks in the Glendale area.
Located in Maricopa County, Glendale is only about twenty minutes from Phoenix, and the 101 runs right through the Glendale area, making travel a breeze getting in and out of the city. Some of the largest areas of Glendale are Westgate and the University of Phoenix Stadium; always bustling with sporting events, festivals, or concerts.
Nearby you’ll find an outlet mall golfing areas, and plenty of fun things to do in historic Glendale. The Arrowhead Towne Center on the northern end of Glendale is a massive shopping center. It’s replete with everything a shopper could need, and plenty of dining options for those hungry shopaholics! Like so many of the small communities surrounding the Phoenix Metro Area, you’ll find so much to do here. So much so that you rarely even need to go into Phoenix if you don’t want to!
Learn More: Pros & Cons of Living in Phoenix, Arizona
What is the Cost of Living in Glendale, AZ?
One of the most attractive aspects of living in Glendale is the affordability it offers; especially considering what residents can get here. As the Arizona population grows annually, the cost of living throughout the entire state is rising as well. No longer is Arizona just a windswept desert state full of retirees. Commerce is booming, industries are growing, medical campuses are popping up everywhere, and the largest demographic moving into the state each year is millennials.
So, for those expecting to move to Arizona and find it to be dirt cheap, think again. The higher-than-average cost of living, however, is compared to the entire nation. When you remove all other factors and compare Glendale to other cities near a large metropolis (such as Los Angeles or Chicago), it’s extremely affordable. All while still offering the residents of Glendale the opportunities and privileges of both living near a big city and living in a state as desirable as Arizona.
Learn More: Living in Arizona vs California
Sure, the cost of living outside of Lincoln, Nebraska, is probably lower but it somehow doesn’t offer quite the same lifestyle as you would get living in Glendale, AZ. It’s also worth noting, that the main category that consistently seems to bump Glendale over the national average when it comes to cost of living, is transportation. Most likely this is due to Arizona’s unfortunately rather exorbitant vehicle registration and insurance costs for each vehicle. Take it or leave it, but it’s expensive to own a car in The Grand Canyon State.
Best Things to Do in Glendale
Entertainment Options in Glendale
We’ve mentioned Glendale is affordable and has so much to offer, but what exactly does it offer? If you enjoy getting out and about in the temperate Arizona weather, you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Glendale.
The Historic Glendale area is constantly offering year-round activities. And even if you aren’t visiting during a festival or other fun event, you can lose yourself in the countless cozy shops and antique stores; there’s probably a treasure in one of them right now just waiting for you! You’ll also find locally owned coffee shops and outdoor dining, perfect for a nice happy hour after you’ve shopped all day.
If antiques and kitschy coffee shops aren’t quite your speed, the Arrowhead Shopping Center is full of department stores and nationwide chains. Perhaps you enjoy attending concerts, sporting events, festivals, and other large gatherings. Look no further than the Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale. Westgate always has something going on, and living in one of the excellent neighborhoods nearby (arguably some of the best neighborhoods in all of Glendale are right outside of Westgate) you’ll never have to worry about terrible event parking!
Glendale is so up-and-coming that Super Bowl LVII was held at Westgate in 2023. We know Arizona can get hot, but luckily for Glendale residents, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is nearby, with plenty of cool water for the entire family to beat the heat!
While there’s plenty to do in Glendale itself, let’s not forget how close you are to Phoenix if you’re interested in anything going on there, such as events at the convention center, or on the college campus.
Recreational Things to Do in Glendale
Entertainment is great, but in general, costs money. Dining out, going to amusement parks, shopping all of it takes a toll on your bank account. But there are so many things to do in Glendale that cost close to, or absolutely nothing!
Just in Glendale alone, you’ll find over 75 parks. That’s a lot of space open to the public! You can check these parks out online to find one that is closest to you, has the best walking paths if you’re a walker or runner, or has a great playground for the kids. Some of them even have swimming pools, dog parks, hiking paths, and more! If you’re a swimmer (or want to become one) Glendale has a beautiful aquatic center that offers classes. Maybe you have teenagers hoping to be the next Tony Hawk? The Foothills Skate Park offers plenty of exciting terrain and a safe environment.
It almost goes without saying that if you’re looking for hiking paths, you’ll find plenty in Glendale, as well as most of the Phoenix area. Most of these hiking areas can be found on Glendale’s city website, offering information on times of day in which the trails are open, if dogs are allowed on leashes, and the ability level needed for each hike.
But before you leave the house, please remember that every year, more than 200 people are rescued from the hiking areas in Arizona, so pay attention, and know your ability! There’s something for everyone, and if you read up before you go, you can find a trail perfect for you, or your friends and family.
Are you one of those who find Arizona’s biggest appeal to be the year-round golf season? Come enjoy any of the three golf courses in Glendale: Desert Mirage, Arrowhead Country Club, and The Legend at Arrowhead.
As you can see, Glendale offers everything from great entertainment options, to an excess of recreation opportunities, to affordable housing and cost of living rates that invite you to come and stay awhile! Whether you are looking to buy, rent, or just come check things out for yourself, you’re sure to find everything you need and then some, in Glendale, AZ! Call or email us so we can help you get started on finding the perfect place for you in Glendale.
