Living in Phoenix: the ultimate expat guide

Phoenix has emerged as one of the fastest-growing job markets in the United States, attracting major corporations and startups alike. The metropolitan area added over 52,000 jobs in 2024, representing a 2.2% increase compared to the national growth rate of 1.3%. Key industries driving employment include semiconductor manufacturing, healthcare, technology, aerospace, and logistics.

Key Industries and Employers

The semiconductor industry has transformed Phoenix into a global manufacturing hub. TSMC is investing $165 billion in facilities across North Phoenix, creating thousands of high-paying engineering and manufacturing positions. Other major employers include Banner Health, Intel, Honeywell Aerospace, American Express, and Amazon. The healthcare sector continues to expand, with institutions like Mayo Clinic and Phoenix Children's Hospital leading medical innovation in the region.

Work Permits and Visas

Foreign workers typically require employer sponsorship for the H-1B visa, which applies to specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelor's degree. The annual cap is 65,000 visas, with an additional 20,000 for those holding U.S. advanced degrees. As of September 2025, significant regulatory changes have been implemented. Employers seeking to hire international talent should consult with immigration attorneys for current requirements. The L-1 visa is another option for intracompany transferees from multinational companies.

The following table provides an overview of Phoenix's employment landscape:

Sources: Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Phoenix and its surrounding metro area offer excellent higher education options, anchored by one of the largest public universities in the United States. International students will find diverse programs, strong research opportunities, and pathways to employment through Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs.

Arizona State University (ASU)

Arizona State University is the centerpiece of higher education in Phoenix, consistently ranked #1 in the U.S. for innovation by U.S. News & World Report. With campuses in Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, West Valley, and Polytechnic, ASU enrolls over 158,000 students, including more than 14,600 international students from over 150 countries. The university offers 400+ undergraduate and 450+ graduate programs across 16 colleges, including the highly ranked W.P. Carey School of Business and Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

International undergraduate tuition ranges from $32,000 to $36,000 per year, with total annual costs including housing, meals, and expenses reaching approximately $50,000 to $55,000. Merit-based scholarships are available for qualified international students through the New American University Scholarship program.

Other Institutions

The University of Arizona in nearby Tucson offers additional options for research-focused students. Grand Canyon University provides private university education, while community colleges like Maricopa Community Colleges offer affordable pathways to four-year degrees. Thunderbird School of Global Management, part of ASU, is internationally recognized for business and management programs.

Sources: ASU International Admissions, ASU Tuition & Costs

Phoenix has long been a premier retirement destination, attracting seniors from across North America and internationally with its warm climate, affordable healthcare, and tax-friendly policies. The region offers specialized communities, excellent medical facilities, and endless opportunities for active retirement living.

Tax Benefits for Retirees

Arizona offers several tax advantages for retirees. Social Security benefits are not taxed at the state level. The state has a flat income tax rate of just 2.5%, one of the lowest in the nation. There is no state estate tax or inheritance tax. Property taxes are also relatively low compared to many other states, averaging around 0.6% of home value in Phoenix.

Healthcare and Senior Services

The Phoenix metro area is home to excellent healthcare facilities, including the Mayo Clinic, Banner Health network, and Honor Health. The city has numerous retirement communities ranging from independent living to continuing care, with options in areas like Sun City, Sun City West, and Surprise. Many communities offer resort-style amenities including golf courses, fitness centers, and organized social activities.

Medicare recipients can access comprehensive healthcare networks throughout the valley. Supplemental Medicare Advantage plans are widely available from major insurers. The warm, dry climate is particularly beneficial for those with arthritis or respiratory conditions, though summer heat requires air conditioning and careful hydration.

Sources: Arizona Department of Revenue, Medicare.gov

Families relocating to Phoenix will find a range of educational options, from public schools to private international institutions. Arizona's school system operates independently at the district level, offering traditional public schools, charter schools, and private academies to suit different needs and preferences.

International and Private Schools

The International School of Arizona (ISA) in Scottsdale is the premier bilingual education option in the metro area. This nonprofit, independent school offers French and Spanish immersion programs from 18 months through 8th grade, following curricula approved by the French Ministry of Education and the Spanish Instituto Cervantes. Tuition ranges from approximately $16,000 to $20,000 per year depending on grade level, with scholarships and tuition assistance available.

Other notable private schools include Phoenix Country Day School, Brophy College Preparatory, and Xavier College Preparatory. American curriculum schools in the area typically charge between $15,000 and $30,000 annually for tuition.

Public and Charter Schools

Arizona's public schools are organized into multiple districts across the metro area. Top-rated districts include Scottsdale Unified, Paradise Valley Unified, and Gilbert Public Schools. Charter schools offer tuition-free alternatives with specialized curricula, including STEM-focused and college preparatory programs. Enrollment in public schools requires proof of residency and immunization records.

Sources: International School of Arizona, Arizona Department of Education

Phoenix's housing market offers diverse options across a sprawling metropolitan area. From urban apartments in downtown to spacious suburban homes, newcomers can find accommodations to match various budgets and lifestyles. The rental market has seen slight decreases in 2025, making it an opportune time to explore options.

Rental Market Overview

As of late 2025, the median rent in Phoenix stands at approximately $1,280 per month across all apartment types. One-bedroom apartments average between $1,100 and $1,400 per month, while three-bedroom units typically range from $2,000 to $2,200. Rental prices have decreased by approximately 2-4% year-over-year, offering relief compared to previous years of rapid growth.

Popular Neighborhoods for Newcomers

Scottsdale attracts professionals and families seeking upscale amenities, excellent schools, and proximity to outdoor recreation. Tempe offers a vibrant atmosphere near ASU with walkable neighborhoods and light rail access. Downtown Phoenix and Central Phoenix provide urban living with cultural attractions and nightlife. Gilbert and Chandler in the East Valley are family-friendly suburbs with strong schools and growing job centers. North Phoenix offers more affordable options while maintaining access to hiking trails and mountain preserves.

Rental procedures typically require proof of income (usually 2-3 times the monthly rent), credit checks, and security deposits equal to one month's rent. Many landlords accept international applicants with additional documentation such as employment letters or larger deposits.

Sources: Apartment List, Numbeo

Phoenix offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and entertainment options throughout the year. From world-class museums to stunning desert landscapes, the city provides activities for every interest and age group.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

The Heard Museum showcases one of the world's finest collections of Native American art and culture, with admission at $20 for adults. The Phoenix Art Museum houses works by Claude Monet, Georgia O'Keeffe, and contemporary artists, with admission at $24-$26. The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) features over 6,000 instruments from around the world with an innovative audio guide system. The Desert Botanical Garden displays thousands of desert plants across 55 acres, with adult admission at $39.95.

Outdoor Activities

Camelback Mountain offers challenging hikes with panoramic city views, gaining 1,200 feet in elevation. South Mountain Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the nation at 16,000 acres, provides over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Papago Park offers easier trails and is home to the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation, the Phoenix Zoo (admission $39.95), and the Desert Botanical Garden.

Entertainment and Sports

Phoenix hosts four major professional sports teams: the Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), and Arizona Coyotes (NHL). The downtown entertainment district around Chase Field and Footprint Center offers restaurants, bars, and live music venues. Old Town Scottsdale provides a mix of art galleries, boutiques, and nightlife options.

Sources: Visit Phoenix, Desert Botanical Garden

Daily life in Phoenix revolves around sunshine, outdoor activities, and a car-centric culture. While public transportation options have expanded significantly, most residents rely on personal vehicles to navigate the sprawling metro area. Understanding local customs and transportation systems will help newcomers settle in comfortably.

Getting Around Phoenix

Valley Metro operates the regional public transit system, including buses and light rail. The 38.5-mile light rail network connects Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, with recent expansions completed in June 2025. Fares are $2 per ride, $4 daily, $20 weekly, or $64 monthly using the Copper Card electronic payment system. The light rail provides convenient access to downtown, ASU campuses, and Sky Harbor International Airport via the PHX Sky Train connection.

However, Phoenix remains highly car-dependent due to urban sprawl. Most residents own vehicles, and major highways like the I-10, I-17, and Loop 101/202 facilitate commuting across the valley. Rideshare services including Uber, Lyft, and local option zTrip are widely available.

Lifestyle and Culture

Phoenix embraces a casual, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Mornings are popular for hiking and outdoor exercise, especially during summer months when temperatures exceed 100°F (38°C). The city has a growing food scene with influences from Mexican, Native American, and Southwestern cuisines. Shopping centers like Scottsdale Fashion Square and Biltmore Fashion Park offer retail therapy, while farmers markets provide fresh local produce year-round.

Sources: Valley Metro, City of Phoenix

Phoenix offers a moderate cost of living compared to major coastal cities, though expenses have risen in recent years. The overall cost of living is approximately 7% higher than the national average, with housing being the primary driver. Understanding typical expenses will help newcomers budget effectively.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

The following table outlines typical monthly expenses for a single adult living in Phoenix:

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Families should expect higher expenses, particularly for housing and childcare:

Sources: Numbeo, MIT Living Wage Calculator