Peoria is a city located in Maricopa County, Arizona, about 15 miles northwest of downtown Phoenix. With a population of over 168,000 residents, Peoria is one of the largest suburbs in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
The economy of Peoria is driven by several key industries, including health care, retail, technology, and manufacturing. Many major companies have facilities in Peoria, providing ample job opportunities for residents. The median household income is around $77,000, which is higher than the national median. Unemployment is low at just 3.5%. New housing and commercial developments are constantly underway, signaling a strong local economy.
Peoria has a mix of public and charter school options for families. The Peoria Unified School District operates 20 elementary schools, 6 high schools, and 4 middle schools. Schools have received recognition for academic excellence, with standardized test scores generally above state averages. In addition, there are over 15 charter and magnet schools in the area. Higher education opportunities can be found at Glendale Community College’s Peoria campus.
For entertainment and dining, Peoria has many popular chain restaurants like Olive Garden, Chili’s, and In-N-Out Burger. The P83 Entertainment District offers shopping, dining, and a movie theater all in one destination. Local favorites for dining include Oregano’s Pizza Bistro, Floridino’s Pizza and Pasta, and Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill. For outdoor activities, residents can visit Rio Vista Recreational Park or Lake Pleasant Regional Park. Sporting events and concerts frequently take place at the Peoria Sports Complex.
Families living in Peoria have access to excellent city services like the public library system, recreational facilities, and youth programs. The city hosts many community events such as the Peoria Fine Arts Festival, Fourth of July fireworks shows, and Easter celebrations. Places like the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park provide fun excursions. With its family-friendly amenities, low crime rates, sunny weather, and growing economy, Peoria is an attractive suburb for raising a family.
In summary, Peoria offers residents a strong local economy, highly-rated schools, abundant shopping and dining options, recreational activities, and a great quality of life. The city provides a nice blend of suburban convenience with access to big city opportunities nearby in Phoenix. Both families and individuals can find that Peoria has a lot to offer as a place to call home.
