In the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Glendale, AZ, is a vibrant city known for its rich heritage, thriving sports scene, and bustling entertainment districts. Home to the Arizona Cardinals and the annual Glendale Chocolate Affaire, the city offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban amenities. But is Glendale a good place to live? While the city offers numerous opportunities for adventure and a lively suburban lifestyle, it also presents its own set of challenges. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Glendale to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
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Quick Facts about Glendale
Average sale price of a home | $425,000 |
Average monthly income | $1,519 |
Walk Score | 40/100 |
Transit Score | 34/100 |
bike score | 57/100 |
1. Pro: plenty of sun
Glendale is known for its abundant sunshine, with more than 300 sunny days a year. This makes it an ideal location for outdoor lovers who enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling and golf. The constant sunny weather also means fewer interruptions to daily life due to inclement weather. Additionally, abundant sunlight can have a positive impact on mental health, giving residents a natural boost to improve their mood, making Glendale a good place to live.
2. Disadvantage: extreme summer heat
While the sun is a big draw, the extreme summer heat can be a major drawback. Temperatures in Glendale can soar above 110°F during the peak of summer, making outdoor activities challenging and sometimes dangerous. The intense heat can also lead to higher energy bills, as residents rely heavily on air conditioning to stay cool. To mitigate this, many homeowners invest in energy-efficient windows, install sunshades, and other ways to keep their home cool in extreme heat.
3. Pro: Sports and entertainment
Glendale is home to several major sports and entertainment venues, including State Farm Stadium and Gila River Arena. These venues host a variety of events, from NFL games to concerts and other large-scale performances. Residents have the unique opportunity to enjoy world-class entertainment and sporting events right in their backyard.
4. Disadvantage: Limited transportation options
One of the drawbacks of living in Glendale is the limited public transportation options. The city relies heavily on cars, with a traffic score of 34, which can be inconvenient for those without a vehicle. The lack of extensive public transportation can also contribute to traffic congestion, especially during rush hours and major events.
5. Pros: Lots of outdoor activities
Glendale offers a wealth of outdoor activities, making it an attractive location for an active lifestyle. The city has numerous parks and recreational areas, such as Thunderbird Conservation Park, where hiking and wildlife viewing are popular pastimes. Additionally, residents can enjoy golf year-round at premier courses like Arrowhead Country Club.
6. Disadvantage: suburban sprawl
Glendale has experienced significant growth over the years, leading to urban sprawl. This expansion may result in longer commutes and a loss of green space as new developments take over previously undeveloped land. The sprawling nature of the city can also make it difficult to access certain amenities and services without a car.
7. Advantages: educational opportunities
Glendale is home to several higher education institutions, including Glendale Community College and Midwestern University. These institutions provide residents with access to a variety of educational programs and opportunities for career advancement. The presence of these schools also contributes to the city’s lively and diverse community.
8. Disadvantage: water shortage
Living in Glendale comes with the challenge of water scarcity, a major concern in this desert region. Residents often face water conservation measures and restrictions, affecting daily activities such as gardening and washing cars.
9. Advantage: proximity to natural attractions
Glendale’s location offers easy access to a variety of natural attractions, including nearby White Tank Mountain Regional Park and Lake Pleasant. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, boating, and camping. Proximity to these natural attractions allows residents to enjoy the beauty of the Arizona landscape and participate in a variety of outdoor activities without having to travel far from home.
10. Disadvantage: limited nightlife
While Glendale has a variety of dining and entertainment options, its nightlife is relatively limited compared to larger cities like Phoenix. Residents looking for a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs and nighttime events may find Glendale’s offerings somewhat lacking.
Methodology: Median home sales price and average monthly rental data comes from Redfin data center. Walk Score, Transit Score, and Bike Score data come from Walk Score.
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