Tempe is a mid-sized city located in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area in Arizona. With its proximity to Phoenix and Scottsdale, Tempe provides residents with access to big city amenities, while still maintaining a cozy college town vibe.
Economically, Tempe benefits from its location within the Sun Corridor mega-region. Major employers in Tempe include Arizona State University, financial services companies like State Farm, and technology companies such as GoDaddy. The median household income in Tempe is around $55,000, slightly above the national median. Unemployment tends to track with the overall economy, but typically remains below 5%.
The Tempe Union High School District serves most of the city. There are also numerous charter and private school options. Arizona State University provides resources for dual enrollment for high school students looking to earn college credits. Schools in Tempe generally perform well on standardized tests, with above average graduation rates.
When it comes to entertainment, Tempe offers something for everyone. For sports fans, Tempe is home to the Arizona Cardinals football team and Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team. The downtown Tempe area offers trendy bars, nightclubs, and music venues to experience the city’s lively nightlife. Family-friendly activities can be found at places like the Arizona Science Center, Golfland Sunsplash water park, and Tempe Town Lake, where you can go kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding.
Foodies will enjoy the diverse dining options, ranging from casual spots like Four Peaks Brewery to upscale restaurants like Kai. Tempe is especially well-known for its Mexican restaurants like Rito’s and Tempe Taqueria. For shoppers, Tempe has unique boutiques in neighborhoods like Mill Avenue and renovated malls like Tempe Marketplace. The Tempe Festival of the Arts, held each December, is one of many popular annual events that provide community engagement.
With a sunny climate and proximity to major attractions, Tempe is a convenient base for Arizona activities like hiking Camelback Mountain, checking out the Heard Museum in Phoenix, or exploring the red rocks of Sedona. Affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, a lively atmosphere, and amenities typically found in much larger cities make Tempe a desirable place to live in the Valley of the Sun.
