While Phoenix has a thriving retirement community, many young families have moved to the city for its affordable housing and expanding job opportunities. Public education in the Phoenix area is provided in over 30 school districts. The Phoenix Union High School District operates most of the public high schools in the city, and Charter schools such as North Pointe Preparatory School also exist.

Phoenix is divided up into 15 urban villages. Inside some of the villages are well-known neighborhoods, or districts. These urban villages are: Ahwatukee Foothills; Alhambra; Camelback East; Central City; Deer Valley; Desert View; Encanto; Estrella; Laveen; Maryvale; North Gateway; North Mountain; Paradise Valley; South Mountain and Rio Vista. Rio Vista was created as New Village in 2004 and is currently very sparsely populated, with little development expected in the near future.

Commonly referred-to Phoenix regions and districts include Downtown, Midtown, West Phoenix, North Phoenix, South Phoenix, Biltmore Area, Arcadia, Sunnyslope, Ahwatukee.

Ranch-style homes are common in Phoenix. These ranches are typically constructed of red brick, with roofs stretching out beyond the walls to provide shade and protection from the desert heat. But modern-style homes are becoming more abundant in the Phoenix area as well, particularly in upscale and foothills neighborhoods. These more modern designed homes utilize large glass panels along the homes facade and walls. The ceilings are typically high and the floor plans tend to be more open. The median home price in the city is $237,000, while moderate luxury homes can go for $600,000 to $800,000.

The locals in Phoenix love taking advantage of the Arizona Opera, Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park and any number of world class restaurants and shopping venues spread throughout the Valley. This Southwest gem truly offers something for everyone, so start your Phoenix real estate search today!

Sources and more information:
http://www.arizonaguide.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix,_Arizona
http://phoenix.gov/