Why Phoenix Brought Us Out to the Edge of the Valley and What Led to Our Departure

To me, the answer to why we left Phoenix is clear. We live at the extreme edge of the valley, where the road ends at our subdivision. There is nothing between us and Gila Bend but two cattle ranches and a 25-mile stretch of undeveloped desert. The nights are filled with a starry sky, the roads are less crowded, and our streets are home to native wildlife. The crime rate is almost non-existent, allowing us to feel safe and secure. However, all of these benefits come at the cost of a 30-minute drive to major stores and an hour to downtown Phoenix.

The Benefits of Living at the Edge of the Valley

Our decision to live on the edge of the valley was driven by several attractive factors:

A sky filled with stars, providing a peaceful and breathtaking nighttime view. Roads with minimal traffic, making our daily commutes smoother and less stressful. Pristine streets that are now a walkway for native wildlife, adding a unique charm to our neighborhood. An almost non-existent crime rate, keeping us safe and secure. Lower property costs that allowed us to build more houses on our land.

The drawbacks of our decision were significant, including the 30-minute drive to major stores and the hour-long commute to downtown Phoenix. However, we consider these to be negligible costs compared to the many benefits we enjoy. Since we are retired, the convenience of shopping within a short driving distance is not as critical to us.

The Challenges of Living in Phoenix

As Phoenix has evolved, it has presented new challenges:

The summers are getting hotter, and the frequency and intensity of summer storms are increasing. Electric bills have skyrocketed, with air conditioning running constantly from April through October. The extreme heat limits outdoor activities, making warmer months less enjoyable. Cost of living is rising, but wages have not kept up. The political landscape is increasingly polarized.

Despite the challenges, we acknowledge that the region is not without its unique pleasures. However, Phoenix is not a place for the poor or lower middle class. Those who do not make money elsewhere first may find it challenging to succeed here. Wealthy retirees from the Midwest, Canada, and "snowbirds" (people who move to a warmer climate during the winter) are the only ones who can afford to live well here.

The Decision to Leave Phoenix

I left Phoenix for a new job opportunity in another city. However, while I was living there, Phoenix remained a great place to call home. The challenges we faced were worthwhile challenges, and the benefits of living at the edge of the valley continue to outweigh them for us.

Conclusion

From a distance, Phoenix may have looked like a paradise. However, the closer we got, the more we realized the trade-offs. Our experience serves as a reminder that every location has its advantages and disadvantages. We are fortunate to find a place that offers us the lifestyle we desire, despite the occasional downside.