peoria
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Moving is not about finding a new house. It is about finding a place that feels like home. Peoria, located in Arizona, is one of those places. It is a place where breathtaking desert sunsets meet friendly neighbors, and weekends are spent on the water at Lake Pleasant.

Peoria gives you space to breathe—literally and figuratively. The streets are clean, the schools are excellent, and the job market is strong. This city has something for you, whether you are building a career or looking for a fresh start.

The best part is that life here is easy. There are no endless traffic jams and no bitter winters. The place boasts warm sunshine, great food, and a tight-knit community that makes you feel welcome from day one.

If you’re thinking about making Peoria your home, you’re in for something special. Let’s explore everything this city has to offer.

QuickFacts

Quick facts to know before moving to Peoria

  • Peoria was originally established as an agricultural town and has grown into a vibrant suburb of Phoenix.
  • It is currently one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona.
  • Peoria is known for its strong sense of community and quality of life.
  • The city serves as a residential and economic hub in Maricopa County.
  • Peoria Unified School District is one of the largest employers in the area.
  • Surrounded by desert beauty and close to Lake Pleasant, Peoria is one of the most scenic cities in the state.
  • With safe neighborhoods, great schools, and parks, Peoria is a great place to raise a family.

Top 10 things to know before moving to Peoria

  • The cost of living is slightly higher than the US average, but the quality of life makes up for it.
  • The city is growing quickly yet maintains a tight-knit community feel.
  • You’re close to the big-city benefits of Phoenix without being in the middle of the hustle.
  • Summers are hot, but winters are beautiful and mild.
  • Lake Pleasant is a popular weekend destination for boating, fishing, and relaxing.
  • Peoria has some of the top-ranked schools in Arizona.
  • Job opportunities are abundant, especially with access to the Phoenix metro area.
  • Spring training baseball is big here – the Mariners and Padres train in Peoria.
  • There’s a wide range of neighborhoods, from cozy to luxurious with mountain views.
  • Peoria consistently ranks as one of the safer cities in Arizona.

Is Peoria, AZ, a good place to live?

Peoria offers a high quality of life with sunshine year-round, great schools, and a strong housing market. The city attracts families and professionals with its safe neighborhoods, abundant recreational options, and diverse job opportunities. Its suburban charm and modern infrastructure make it a fantastic place to call home.

Is Peoria expensive?

Living in Peoria comes with a slightly higher cost of living – around 14% above the national average. The median home price is approximately $441,400. While daily expenses like transportation and groceries are higher, residents enjoy access to excellent services, parks, and community events that make the cost worthwhile.

Why are people moving to Peoria, AZ?

Peoria draws people in with its mix of suburban peace and access to Phoenix’s economic opportunities. It has a median household income of about $30,000, and key employers include the Peoria Unified School District and the city government. The city offers a family-friendly environment, diverse communities, and strong infrastructure.

What’s the population of Peoria, AZ?

Peoria is home to approximately 201,001 residents with a balanced gender ratio of 48.1% male and 51.9% female. The median age is 41.4 years, and the city is racially diverse with 64.3% White (Non-Hispanic), 5.4% Asian, 9.36% White (Hispanic), and 20.6% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.

To know the population better, here are a few stats.

  • Peoria’s total population is 201,001.
  • Approximately 48.1% are males and 51.9% are females.
  • The median age is 41.4 years.
  • Racial makeup: 64.3% White (Non-Hispanic), 5.4% Asian, 9.36% White (Hispanic), 20.6% Hispanic or Latino.
  • The median household size is 2.1 persons.
  • 66% of households are married couples living together.
  • 14% of households are single parents with children.

Despite its growth, Peoria still has manageable traffic and open space. The average one-way commute time is 28.1 minutes, slightly above the US average but still relatively efficient compared to many large cities.

Here’s how Peoria residents commute to work:

  • About 80.3% drive their car alone
  • About 9.9% carpool with others
  • About 6.8% work from home
  • Approximately 0.6% take mass transit

What is the weather like in Peoria, AZ?

Peoria enjoys a desert climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Summers are hot with temperatures in the 100s, while winters are mild and pleasant. The city is ideal for outdoor activities almost year-round.

Here are some climate highlights for Peoria:

  • Over 300 sunny days per year, perfect for outdoor living.
  • Rainfall is minimal – most of the year is dry.
  • July is typically the hottest month; January is the coolest.
  • The weather supports hiking, biking, boating, and year-round patio dining.
move to Peoria, AZ

Top Reasons to Move to Peoria, AZ

Peoria, AZ, is a vibrant city with a lot to offer to residents of all ages. Peoria provides a unique combination of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Here are the top reasons to move to Peoria if you are planning to call this place home.

  • Low crime rates and safe neighborhoods

    Peoria is known for its safe and family-friendly environment. Many neighborhoods in the city offer low crime rates and strong community involvement, making it a great place to raise a family.

  • Strong community policing

    The Peoria Police Department is deeply involved in the local community through outreach programs, neighborhood watch groups, and proactive policing strategies that promote safety and trust.

  • An abundance of parks and outdoor recreation

    Peoria boasts over 30 parks, hiking trails, and recreational areas. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a highlight, offering boating, fishing, camping, and scenic views just minutes away from the city center.

  • Convenient shopping and dining

    Residents enjoy a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options. Whether you prefer local boutiques or national chains, Peoria has everything within reach including the popular P83 Entertainment District.

pros and cons Peoria, AZ

Pros and Cons of living in Peoria, AZ

The pros and cons of living in the city aren’t exactly the same for everyone. What seems to be a pro for some might be a con for others.

Pros of living in Peoria, AZ
  • Lower property taxes
  • Properly-planned neighborhoods
  • Easy access to Lake Pleasant
  • A perfect city for baseball fanatics
  • Less congested than Phoenix
  • Ideal for stargazing
  • Strong arts and cultural scene
Cons of living in Peoria, AZ
  • High summer utility costs
  • Few entertainment options
  • Dust storms
  • Limited public transportation options
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Best Neighborhoods in Peoria

If you're considering moving to Peoria, living in the best neighborhoods in the city should be among your top priorities.

We at MoverJunction have compiled a list of the top ten neighborhoods in Peoria. Here is what you must know about the top neighborhoods.

Rank Neighborhood Average Home Rental Average Home Value
1 Pleasant Valley $1,823 $839,655
2 Tierra Del Rio $1,823 $629,187
3 Vistancia $1,823 $542,000
4 Fletcher Heights $1,692 $495,788
5 Westbrook Village $1,658 $495,788
6 Desert Harbor $1,557 $495,788
7 Thunderbird North $1,557 $495,788
8 Sky View Place $1,584 $495,788
9 Country Meadows $1,602 $495,788
10 Foxfire $1,602 $495,788

Cost of Living in Peoria

The cost of living in Peoria is 10% lower than the US national average. You have to spend $4,000 monthly if you are relocating to Peoria with your family. Here is a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Peoria.

We provide the latest details of the costs here which will also help you realize the amount you would need to shell out here to have a happy life.

Living Expense Peoria, AZ Arizona US National Average
Overall 113 106.8 100
Grocery 97.3 96.1 100
Health 95.2 95.2 100
Housing 123.3 107.8 100
Median Home Cost $488,427 $349,300 $338,100
Utilities 100.1 102.7 100
Transportation 107.0 107.0 100
Miscellaneous 99.5 98.8 100

How is the Job Market in Peoria, AZ?

Moving to a new city means weighing many factors—one of the biggest is finding a job that fits your skills and goals. Peoria, AZ, has seen positive job growth, increasing by 20.5% over the past decade. The city hosts a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, and retail, offering diverse employment opportunities. Peoria provides a promising environment to find work that aligns with your life, whether you are seeking stability, a fresh start, or a better paycheck.

  • The job growth in Peoria is 20.5% over the last decade.
  • Jobs have increased by 4.2% over the past year.
  • The average salary in Peoria is $44,109.
  • The median home cost in Peoria is not provided.
  • The unemployment rate here is 2.9%.
Indicator Peoria, AZ United States
Income per Capita $46,712 $41,290
Household Income $97,296 $77,315
Unemployment Rate 2.9% 6.0%
Recent Job Growth 4.2% -2.0%
Future Job Growth 32.5% 33.5%

Fastest Growing Jobs in Peoria, Arizona

Peoria’s job market is on the rise. The city is offering exciting opportunities for those looking to start fresh or grow their careers. Healthcare and tech are booming, but other industries are picking up speed, too. If you’re moving here, knowing which jobs are in high demand can make a big difference. Peoria has room for you, whether you are a skilled professional or just starting. Here are some of the fastest-growing jobs in the city.

Rank Job title % Growth Average salary
1 MRI Technologist 101% $75,000
2 Dental Hygienist 97% $78,500
3 Interventional Radiology Tech 95% $80,000
4 Physical Therapy Aide 93% $31,860
5 Software Engineer 90% $110,000
6 Operations Analyst 88% $85,000
7 Marketing Internship 85% $40,000
8 Occupational Therapy Assistant 82% $60,000
9 Diagnostic Medical Sonographer 80% $70,000
10 Licensed Practical Nurse 78% $58,500

Top Career Options in Peoria

Peoria, AZ, offers a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. There are plenty of high-paying jobs to consider, whether you are looking to work in healthcare or education. Understanding the best career options in Peoria can help you plan for a successful future in the area. Below, we highlight some of the top-paying career paths you may want to pursue in this growing city.

Rank Job title Average salary Entry level salary
1 Construction Project Manager $125,000 $75,000
2 Aerospace Engineer $115,000 $80,000
3 Healthcare Administrator $110,000 $65,000
4 Senior Software Engineer $120,000 $85,000
5 Elementary School Principal $95,000 $60,000
6 Physical Therapist $90,000 $55,000
7 Sales Director $105,000 $65,000
8 Financial Analyst $95,000 $60,000
9 Registered Nurse (RN) $85,000 $55,000

Major Industries in Peoria

For those landing in Peoria, knowing the major industries provides insight into the local business landscape. Here are some of the major industries in Peoria:

  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Retail

Best Companies to Work for in Peoria, AZ

Choosing a company with employee-friendly policies is crucial. Here are some top-rated companies in Peoria that rank high in employee satisfaction:

  • Peoria Unified School District
  • City of Peoria
  • HonorHealth
  • Abrazo Arrowhead Hospital
  • Walmart Distribution Center
  • Peoria Ford
  • CVS Health
  • Banner Health
  • Paloma Community Health Center
  • Target Regional Distribution

Average Salary & Income in Peoria, AZ

As you approach the final stages of your move, having an idea about average salaries is important for a comfortable life. Here are some informative points related to the average salary and income in Peoria:

  • Peoria’s average annual pay for jobs is $44,109.
  • Peoria’s average hourly pay is approximately $21.21/hour.
  • Peoria’s average weekly pay is about $848/week.
  • Peoria’s average monthly pay is approximately $3,676/month.
  • Peoria’s top earners (90th percentile) make over $90,000 annually.

How is the Housing Market in Peoria, AZ?

Median Home Prices in Peoria, AZ

Peoria’s housing market is a mix of affordability and long-term value. Home prices have risen significantly over the past decade. This makes it a strong market for homeowners. With a median home price near $488,000, it is higher than the national average but still reasonable compared to other Phoenix suburbs.

The home appreciation rate has increased by 141.94%. In Peoria, 26.2% of homes are occupied by renters. On the other hand, 73.8% of homes are occupied by owners.

The average home value in Peoria is $488,427, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.3% over the past year.

The typical property in Peoria is approximately 21 years old. It indicates a mix of established homes and newer developments.

We’ve got a few housing facts that will help you:

  • Peoria’s median home cost is $488,427.
  • The median age of Peoria real estate is 21 years old.
  • The city’s home appreciation in the last 10 years has been 141.94%.
  • Renters make up 26.2% of the Peoria population.
  • About 1.9% of houses and apartments in Peoria are available to rent.

Average Rental Prices in Peoria, AZ

Finding a place to rent in Peoria is all about balance—affordability, space, and convenience. Peoria offers options for every budget, whether you are looking for a simple studio or a larger home for your family. Prices have risen in recent years, but compared to other Phoenix suburbs, Peoria still delivers good value. Here is a look at what you can expect to pay.

  • Studio Apartments: The rent of a studio apartment is approximately $1,218 per month. These apartments are a great option for singles or minimalists.
  • One-Bedroom Apartments: The rent of a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,404 per month. It is perfect for young professionals or couples.
  • Two-Bedroom Apartments: The rent of a two-bedroom apartment is $1,656 per month. These apartments provide extra space without breaking the bank.
  • Three-Bedroom Apartments: The rent of a three-bedroom apartment is $1,800 per month. These apartments are ideal for small families or roommates.
  • Four-Bedroom Apartments: The rent of a four-bedroom apartment is $2,275 per month. These apartments provide plenty of room for growing families.

What are Taxes Like in Peoria, Arizona?

When thinking about moving to Peoria, Arizona, it’s not just about the beautiful sunsets and warm weather—it’s also important to understand the local taxes and how they’ll affect your everyday life. While taxes are a reality we face, knowing what to expect can help you plan and make informed decisions about your future.

  • Sales Tax: In Peoria, the total sales tax rate is 8.6%. This is a little above the national average, so when you're out shopping for necessities, keep in mind that you'll be paying a bit more.
  • Income Tax: Arizona’s state income tax ranges from 2.59% to 4.5%, depending on your earnings. The average rate here is about 3.4%, which is lower than the national average so you may find more room in your budget.
  • Property Tax: If you're thinking about buying a home, you'll be happy to know that Peoria’s property tax rate is 0.72%, lower than the national average. This means you’ll have a bit more breathing room when it comes to owning your own home.

What are the Best Things to do in Peoria, Arizona?

Peoria is not a place on a map—it is a community that feels like home. There is a certain warmth in the air here. You will discover a mix of adventure and tranquility. Peoria has a way of making you feel like you belong, whether you are out on the water, enjoying a lively game, or spending time with loved ones. Here are ten ways to experience the heart of this beautiful city.

  • Relax at Lake Pleasant Regional Park

    The sparkling waters and peaceful surroundings will make you feel like you have found your little oasis.

  • Catch a Game at Peoria Sports Complex

    The buzz of fans and the crack of the bat is an experience that will leave you cheering long after the game ends.

  • Hike the New River Trail

    The desert landscape stretches out before you. It will remind you that beauty can be found in the simplest of moments.

  • Make Memories at Pioneer Community Park

    The laughter of kids, the picnic lunches—this park is where families come to reconnect with each other and with nature.

  • Treat Yourself at P83 Entertainment District

    It is a place where you can unwind and enjoy the little things, whether it is enjoying a delicious meal or browsing through shops.

  • Discover Art at the West Valley Art Museum

    You will walk away not just having seen something beautiful but feeling something meaningful.

  • Unwind at the Rio Vista Recreation Center

    Sometimes, all you need is a quiet place to sit and reflect. This park gives you just that.

  • Stroll Along the Arizona Canal Trail

    You will feel the peace of the desert and the calm of the flowing water with every step.

  • Explore the Challenger Space Center

    It is not a usual museum—it is an invitation to dream and think about the possibilities.

  • Experience Live Performances at Peoria Center for the Performing Arts

    There is nothing like live theater to remind you of the power of shared experiences.

How Safe is Peoria, Arizona?

The crime rate in Peoria is 15.21 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average. The city’s property crime rate stands at 13.07 per 1,000 residents. It is also below the national median of 19. Peoria is safer than 29% of US cities, and many residents feel secure in their neighborhoods. However, crime rates vary by area, with some parts of the town being safer than others. Here are some updated crime stats in Peoria.

  • Peoria’s violent crime rate is 2.14 per 1,000 residents, lower than the national median of 4.09.
  • The property crime rate is 13.07 per 1,000 residents, below the national average of 19.
  • Peoria’s total crime rate is 15.21 per 1,000 residents.
  • The city is safer than 29% of US cities.
  • Your risk of being a crime victim is 1 in 21 in some areas and 1 in 40 in the safer parts of Peoria.

Best Schools & Universities in Peoria, AZ

Whether you're still schooling or have school-age kids or not, if you're moving to Peoria, AZ, you'd most likely be interested in the best schools in the state. Here we've made a list of the best elementary, middle, high, and colleges in Peoria. Check out the list below:

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