Are You an African American Who's Planning to Move to the Phoenix Area? Here's Your Guide ...
UPDATED as of May 11, 2011
A lot of out-of-towners have asked me about diversity and the best places to live in Phoenix. They basically want to know where you can find the most black people! Since I'm a native, I'll step up to the plate and offer my thoughts. You readers are welcome to comment - if I'm right on target, let me know! If I'm way off, set me straight!
Here we go ...
Laveen - I would move there for the affordability, the proximity to downtown Phoenix and the potential. I live just east of Laveen (in south Phoenix) and homes are very affordable. Great homes from 1300 sq. ft. and up. Shopping centers, restaurant and entertainment venues are coming, but right now Laveen has little night life.
You'll find a diverse community here - African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Caucasian, etc.
South Phoenix - You gotta pick your spots in south Phoenix! Some neighborhoods are beautiful, safe and affordable. Some of the more expensive, upscale neighborhoods offer great views of the Valley and they are safe. And then some of the neighborhoods ... uhhh ... wow ... hmmmm ... how do I say this in a nice way? Let's just say that you don't want to be caught dead in these neighborhoods after 8 p.m.!
I live in South Phoenix and I am proud of it. You can't beat the affordability, the proximity to downtown Phoenix and the potential. For the most part, the people are down-to-earth and friendly.
You can find affordable homes, shopping centers, restaurants and entertainment venues, but South Phoenix definitely has much room to grow.
The schools are the main drawback. Sorry to say ... I will probably send my kids to private school.
You'll find a diverse community here - African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Caucasian, etc. South Phoenix was once considered the "black part of town," but I think the Hispanic population is taking over.
However, South Phoenix is home to the majority of African Americans in the Valley.
Central Phoenix - Is my top choice for single people (no matter what race you are). If you move to central Phoenix, you'll be living near many of the cultural festivals, theatres, museums, nightclubs, live music spots, unique restaurants, historical landmarks and of course, the Light Rail. I advise all single people who move here to start out in central Phoenix and once you get comfortable in the Valley, then consider moving out to the suburbs. Some parts of central Phoenix are gorgeous, some parts are not very flattering ... you have to do your research before settling into your home. Please visit cenpho.com to learn more about all that central Phoenix has to offer! Great Website!
Chandler (or Gilbert) - Is my top choice for families. Great place to live and the homes are definitely affordable. Chandler has everything that a family would need - malls, restaurants, great schools, parks, etc. It's close to major companies like Intel, Freescale, etc. But Chandler is really spread out so you have to be careful. You could end up buying a home on the border of Mexico if you go too far south.
The East Valley does not have much diversity but more and more minorities are moving into Chandler and Gilbert.
Scottsdale - If you're a big-time golfer, Scottsdale is heaven. I love the nightlife in the Old Town area. Scottsdale is also home to my favorite Mexican restaurant - the Old Town Tortilla Factory! However, I've found that many Scottsdale residents are superficial and self-absorbed. There's a Website called Scottsdale-Sucks.com that will give you all the reasons not to move there. Scottsdale has little diversity and I think it will stay that way for many years to come.
Glendale - If you live in north Glendale, you'll be fine.
You'll be close to major stadiums - Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Coyotes. The nightlife is definitely getting better because of Westgate City Center and the Arrowhead district. Westgate City Center is a good home for those who are looking for an urban lifestyle - nice condos, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and sports venues all in one spot!
You'll also find that Glendale has everything that a family needs. Parks, malls, good schools, up-and-coming nightlife, restaurants, movie theatres - you'll get a great bang for your buck if you buy a home there - especially in the Arrowhead area.
I've found that the races seem to stick together in Glendale. The Hispanic population seems to have gravitated to the southern portion of Glendale and there's more diversity in the northern sector (but whites dominate here).
Peoria or Surprise - Too far out for me. Homes are affordable and big, schools are great, it's a haven for families.
Not much diversity here.
Northern Phoenix - Anthem/Boulder Creek was made for families. Great schools, affordable homes, more entertainment/restaurants are coming, but I read and saw news reports a year ago about the land not being stable. Owners are finding huge cracks in their homes and I've seen them with my own eyes. Bad cracks! Ask your realtor about the land that your house is built on.
Not much diversity here.
Goodyear, Avondale, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Fountain Hills, Maricopa ... they're just too far out for me, but these towns are also great for families. Not much diversity in these places though.
Obviously, I couldn't cover every nook and cranny in the Valley because there are too many little towns to name! If you have any suggestions on good or bad neighborhoods in the Phoenix metro area, let me know!
Also, if you want to specific information on home prices, I encourage you to contact local real estate professionals - the Arizona Association of Real Estate Brokers is a good place to start.
Hello all,
The suprise and Peoria area has had a tremendous surge in black pop. I have been here for seven years and the arrowhead area is great, many new black families.
Posted by: mars | January 13, 2012 at 10:08
Casa Grande Az is about 60 miles from Phoenix and 65 miles from Tucson. We sit in the middle of Tuscon and Phoenix. It has less than 50,000 population, but up to 75,000 when winter visitors are here.
My grandsons attend school here and the high school at Vista Grande High is the best and only 3 to 4 years old. There is only one large black church and that is Mt Hope Baptist Church. It is small in comparison to the black churches in the city of San Diego, where I moved from.
The weather is the same as the Phoenix area. We are the second largest city in Pinal County.
There are quite a few black families that have move here in the 2000. We moved here in 2004 and the population was only 27,000 at that time. My son and daughter found jobs that are pretty good. The city is still growing and we got this multi million dollar shopping center built in 2007, which created lots of jobs.
Posted by: Ann | January 09, 2012 at 13:29
I was born on the east coast Philadelphia, raised in the Choclolate city Washington DC, 85% black exciting place to be Job market is the best I have a home in DC and purchased a home in Buckeye,I make my own scene. I have friends an relatives in AZ,La Denver, Tex, Oklahoma New York I could keep naming. I fell in love with AZ I have had my home for 2yrs and still in DC will be there in Feb, most people look for things in all the wrong places. People are moving all over due to lost of jobs,home market, I wanted better weather,Looking for love relationships can be pleak all over! I met a beautiful brother on Black Planet somethng I didn't expect and we fell in love that has been 2yrs ago and he in AZ from Kansas Look for serenty where ever you are and find that in you first.Love actually will find you.
Posted by: Barbara Cooksey | December 22, 2011 at 13:38
Hello Dalonda,
I encourage our readers to share their Comments and I will pitch in with my own advice.
You can find Black churches by reading this article on PhxSoul.com: http://www.phxsoul.com/blackweblogs/2007/04/black_churches_.html.
You can find Black realtors in Arizona by visiting the Arizona Association of Real Estate Brokers Website: http://www.aareb.org/
Real Estate professionals are the people who can provide the most qualified answers to your questions.
Posted by: PhxSoul | December 10, 2011 at 19:21
Hi, My family and I plan to move to Phoenix this spring. I have a 4th grader and 9th grader. My main concern is finding a good school for them that is diverse and will welcome them. I want to make sure they are comfortable and happy. Does anyone have ny suggestions. I also want to live in a nice area safe with beautiful large homes. Please give me some areas to look at. If any realators happen to read this please feeel free to email me with info. I will also need a church. Pleas help! Thanks.
Posted by: Dalonda Grier | December 10, 2011 at 16:16
Hello all:
My name is Stephanie and I am relocating to the phoenix area in january. I am planning to open my business but am clueless to where and how. If there is anyone who can give me some advice or direct me to some resources/mentor that would be great.
Thanks
Stephanie W.
bossladieinc@yahoo.com
Posted by: Stephanie Watkins | June 22, 2010 at 15:14
Thank you for your opinions Maine/Phxsoul...but it is bleak in NC as well. . Competition here is fierce for jobs..even the part time jobs......NC is not all that...TRUST AND BELIEVE. A nice place to live but not a nice place to live life.
Posted by: westcoastbound | June 21, 2010 at 19:43
Black people move to Phoenix for many different reasons - jobs, affordable housing, good weather, peace and quiet, etc.
However, if you are moving here and expect Phoenix to have a large, united black community with a vibrant social/dating scene ... that may be too much to ask ... at least right now. You can easily research Census data or www.city-data.com to see that the Phoenix area only has a black population of 3-5 percent! Furthermore, Phoenix doesn't have a long history of African American influence ... this is a young, developing metropolis.
On the positive side, I believe there are people (like myself) who are working to make Phoenix a better place to live for African Americans. We are hosting many networking socials, fundraisers and community festivals to bring people together.
Phoenix has a long way to go before it becomes a "black mecca" but if you have patience and you are willing to be more proactive in creating an enjoyable life out here in the Valley of the Sun.
It would be even more helpful if more people would try to stay connected by reading black media like PhxSoul.com, the Arizona Informant or the Arizona Black Pages to stay in the know. We need more black people to actually participate in our events instead of sitting at home complaining and sulking!
You can find many activities and events here on PhxSoul.com! Take charge of your life and get in the game!
Posted by: PhxSoul | June 21, 2010 at 12:23
@ Westcoastbound... I myself am a single black female in my early thirties; I've been in Phoenix for about 4 years now and would definitely not recommend relocating here... especially if you desire NOT being single one day. Now I will admit that I'm better off financially--I relocated from the east coast and it's definitely more affordable in Phx; however I've found that the Phoenix area is seriously lacking in culture and dating opportunities for Black women interested in dating Black men (assuming you are seeking Black men). I hate to put a damper on your intentions but if I had it to do all over again I wouldn't have made the move and I'm actually planning on leaving ASAP. The Black population here in general seems to be very anti-social and it's like pulling teeth trying to find mature events that cater to the AA community. That being said, I'm sure you're basing your decision on more than just the social/cultural scene but just be advised... Phoenix leaves much to be desired. However, I wish you the best of luck.
Posted by: Maine | June 20, 2010 at 18:57
Hello, I am about to relocate to Casa Grande and I was wondering about the city. Any information about the area would be helpful.
Posted by: Snipes | June 17, 2010 at 19:29
Hello Phxsoul Family,
I am a SBF in late thirties that looking to relocate to the Phoenix area by the end of year...Looking to get opinions from people that have relocated there the last past of couple of years...Was it a good move? Are you better off there than where you moved from...economically and financially?..Please weigh in as your opinions will help me to solidify my move.
Posted by: westcoastbound | May 25, 2010 at 05:23
Hello, I am relocating to Phoenix area. I would like to know if this post still stands true. It has been 3 years and I wonder if any of the suggestion have changed?
Posted by: Tan | May 12, 2010 at 15:20
@George - Be sure to contact the Greater Phoenix Urban League ----> http://www.gphxul.org/housing.php
Posted by: PhxSoul | February 13, 2010 at 17:01
RETIRED PROFESSIONAL COUPLE LOOKING TO MOVE TO PHX. AREA FROM CHI.ILL. WANT TO GET THE LATEST INFO. ON HOUSING FOR BLACKS SINCE THE ECONOMIC DOWN TURN. WE HAVE BEEN TO PHX. BEFORE AND THE NO. MARYVALE AREA IS ONE OF THE CONSIDERATIONS.
Posted by: GEORGE FOSTER | February 13, 2010 at 15:46
Hello Locquacious One,
Good luck on your move to Glendale. Just a heads up, the Super Bowl will be taking place in Glendale in February 2008 so you'll be moving at an exciting time!
The Internet holds all of the answers to your questions:
Black population in Glendale:
http://www.idcide.com/citydata/az/glendale.htm
Yes, there are good and affordable apartments in Glendale:
http://www.forrent.com/
Posted by: PhxSoul | September 01, 2007 at 20:34
I'm looking to move to the Glendale area at the end of the year or early next year. Are there any good apartments in Glendale and how affordable are they? Also, how many black people live in Glendale???
Thanks!
Posted by: Locquacious One | September 01, 2007 at 20:20
Ahwatukee is a great area in Phoenix. Southeast tip of Phoenix, south of South Mountain and just on the eastern border of Chandler to the south and Tempe to the north. Great for families and one of the best school districts in the state. 80% white but quite a few blacks and the longer i've lived here (4 years), the black population seems to be growing. i came very close to moving to maricopa for bigger house for less money, but backed out at the last minute because of my love for ahwatukee.
Posted by: john | July 16, 2007 at 22:22
If you're looking for family oriented towns, Casa Grande and Queen Creek are good, but you won't see many black people and you won't have many entertainment options. You'll find many afforable homes in Casa Grande from the mid-150s, but you'll be at least 30 minutes south of Phoenix in the heart of the desert. Casa Grande is a small, dusty town. However, there are two decent outlet malls and a big movie theater complex is being built along Interstate 10. You won't see many black folks here. In Queen Creek, you'll see less black folks even though I have a couple of friends who live out there. It's a sleepy town about 30 minutes east of Phoenix. Homes are usually more expensive in Queen Creek.
Posted by: PhxSoul | May 23, 2007 at 10:15
Hello,I'm relocating to Phx area in June. I'm torn between Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek and Casa Grande. Since your from the area can you tell me a little about Queen Creek and Casa Grande.
Thanks
Posted by: Mia | May 21, 2007 at 21:14
Yes it does help! I'm staying up at 19th & Union Hills. So far so good, people seem nice, area seems quiet and wanted to get an opinion from someone who knows the area well!
Posted by: j_most | May 10, 2007 at 12:36
I grew up in north Phoenix (near 19th Ave and Greenway) so I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for the north side! Not sure where you are, but North Phoenix is a hit-or-miss part of town. Many neighborhoods are safe and beautiful, but some areas are rundown and scary. You'll find affordable apartments, condos and townhouses, but most of the single-family detached homes are pricey. You'll find a gang of restaurants, entertainment venues, malls, etc. However, you won't find much diversity in north Phoenix - mostly white and Mexican - but most people are friendly. Hope that helps!
Posted by: PhxSoul | May 10, 2007 at 08:53
Hello,
I recently moved to the N. Phoenix area (still in Phoenix, not Anthem, etc) what is your take on this area?
Thanks!
Posted by: j_most | May 09, 2007 at 22:49