Things To Know Before Moving To Tempe, AZ

Moving to a new city always brings a blend of excitement and nerves. You’re stepping into unfamiliar territory, hoping it becomes a place that feels like home. If you’re considering moving to Tempe, AZ, there’s a lot to look forward to, but also a few things you should be aware of before making the leap.

Tempe is more than just another city in the Phoenix metro area. It has a vibrant culture, a young and energetic vibe thanks to Arizona State University, and a lifestyle that blends desert beauty with city convenience. But before you pack your bags and book a U-Haul, take a moment to get to know what living in Tempe is really like.

A College Town at Its Core

One of the most defining aspects of Tempe is that it’s home to Arizona State University (ASU), one of the largest universities in the U.S. The student presence is huge, and that shapes the city’s energy, nightlife, and even housing market.

You’ll find college bars, affordable eateries, frequent live events, and a generally youthful atmosphere. If you’re a young professional, entrepreneur, or student, moving to Tempe, AZ can feel like landing in the middle of the action.

The Summer Heat is No Joke

If you’re moving to Tempe, AZ from a cooler climate, brace yourself. Summer temperatures often soar above 110°F, and it’s not a one-day fluke, it’s weeks, sometimes months of relentless sunshine and scorching pavement. The locals will tell you it’s a “dry heat,” which is true (it’s not humid), but it’s still intense.

Plan your outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the evening, and invest in good air conditioning. And don’t forget to hydrate, Tempe summers are not forgiving.

Cost of Living

Tempe is relatively affordable compared to cities like Los Angeles or Seattle, but it’s not as cheap as it used to be. The cost of housing has been steadily rising, especially with the growth of Phoenix and ASU’s expansion.

As of this year, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tempe is around $1,500. Home prices hover in the mid-$400,000s, depending on the neighborhood. Utilities are manageable, but your electric bill will skyrocket in the summer.

It’s smart to set a budget before making the move and look into different areas of the city to find what suits your lifestyle and wallet best. If you need help relocating your belongings, it’s a good idea to hire movers in Tempe who know the area and can manage the Arizona heat efficiently.

Public Transportation and Walkability

Tempe is one of the more walkable and transit-friendly cities in the Valley. The Valley Metro Light Rail runs through Tempe, connecting downtown Phoenix and Mesa, which is a huge plus for students and commuters.

Tempe also has a free circulator bus called Orbit that serves many neighborhoods. And if you’re into biking, you’ll love the city’s investment in bike lanes and paths. In fact, Tempe is considered one of the most bike-friendly cities in Arizona.

A Thriving Job Market

Tempe has seen serious growth in its job market over the past decade. With tech companies like GoDaddy, Insight, and NortonLifeLock having headquarters or major offices here, there’s a strong economy anchored in innovation.

ASU also contributes significantly to job opportunities in education, research, and administration. Tempe’s location within the Greater Phoenix area also means you have access to jobs across Scottsdale, Chandler, and downtown Phoenix with an easy commute.

If you’re moving to Tempe, AZ for work, the city is a great place to build a career in tech, education, or healthcare.

Tempe’s Vibe

This isn’t a sleepy retirement town. Tempe is energetic, open-minded, and full of cultural events, art, food festivals, and a nightlife scene that doesn’t quit. It’s also a diverse city where people from all backgrounds live, work, and study.

From live music at Tempe Beach Park to outdoor yoga on the lakefront to indie coffee shops filled with creatives, Tempe feels alive, especially for younger transplants looking to make new connections.

Outdoor Fun and Tempe Town Lake

You might not associate the desert with lakes, but Tempe Town Lake proves that wrong. This man-made lake is the heart of the city’s outdoor recreation. People kayak, paddleboard, jog, and relax here year-round.

Papago Park and the Desert Botanical Garden are just minutes away and offer stunning desert hikes with unforgettable sunsets. If you’re the type who needs nature close by, moving to Tempe, AZ will give you plenty of reasons to head outdoors.

Proximity to Everything in Phoenix Metro

One of Tempe’s best advantages is its central location. You’re just 15 minutes from downtown Phoenix, 20 from Old Town Scottsdale, and even closer to the airport. That makes travel, work commutes, and weekend fun a breeze. It also means you get all the perks of a major metropolitan area without living in the busiest part of it.

Housing

Not all neighborhoods in Tempe are created equal. Some are buzzing with college activity, while others are quieter and more residential.

• Downtown Tempe (Mill Avenue area) is great for nightlife, walkability, and city vibes, but it can get noisy and crowded.
• South Tempe offers more space, family-friendly communities, and upscale homes.
• North Tempe gives you quick access to the lake, the 202 freeway, and ASU.

If you’re not sure where to start, talking to locals, or better yet, movers in Tempe who know the area, can help you choose the right neighborhood for your lifestyle.

Schools and Education

Tempe is in the Tempe Elementary and Tempe Union High School Districts, both of which are decent by Arizona standards, though not nationally top-ranking. Charter schools and private schools are also options, and of course, there’s ASU for higher education.

Families with young kids should research specific schools in advance, as academic ratings vary by neighborhood.

You’ll Learn to Love Desert Life

Cactus, sand, and sunset skies, it might sound cliché, but there’s something magical about desert living.

The arid climate means no snow, minimal rain, and tons of sunny days. But it also comes with unique landscaping (goodbye green lawns), native plants, and desert wildlife.

Over time, you might find yourself falling for it, especially when you realize you haven’t scraped ice off your windshield in years.

Events, Festivals, and Live Music

Tempe knows how to have a good time. There’s the Tempe Festival of the Arts, ASU football games, Oktoberfest at Tempe Beach Park, and tons of live music at the Marquee Theatre. From indie street festivals to food truck nights and yoga in the park, there’s always something happening.

And because the city draws a younger crowd, it’s never short on energy. You’ll find your social calendar fills up quickly after moving to Tempe, AZ.

Politics and Culture

Tempe leans more liberal than other parts of Arizona, largely thanks to ASU’s influence and its younger population. It’s a city that values inclusivity, art, and education.

If you’re coming from a progressive area, you’ll likely feel comfortable here. On the flip side, Tempe still respects its Arizona roots with a blend of Western charm and laid-back Southwest vibes.

Things You Might Miss

No place is perfect, and Tempe has its quirks.

If you love lush greenery, seasons, or cold weather, you may struggle here. You also won’t find a huge variety in architecture; many neighborhoods look similar, especially in newer developments.

And yes, you might deal with scorpions or roof rats depending on where you live. It’s the desert, after all.

Don’t Skip the Moving Logistics

Arizona’s extreme heat, dry air, and long distances mean your move needs planning. That’s why working with movers in Tempe can save you a ton of stress. They’ll know how to protect your belongings from the sun, manage move-ins during sweltering days, and navigate the neighborhoods without a hitch.

If you’re coming from out of state, especially from cooler or more humid climates, it’s worth leaning on local professionals who’ve seen it all.

Should You Move to Tempe, AZ?

Moving to Tempe, AZ is more than a relocation, it’s stepping into a vibrant, youthful, and fast-growing community in the heart of the desert. Whether you’re heading here for school, a new job, or just a change of scenery, you’ll find a city that balances college-town fun with real-world opportunities.

Be ready for the heat, explore the neighborhoods, and tap into the local lifestyle. And when it’s time to make the move, don’t go it alone, trust experienced movers in Tempe to help you start your next chapter with ease.