As an expert on city living, I have been asked numerous times about the cost of living in Scottsdale, Arizona. And my answer is always the same: yes, Scottsdale is an expensive city to live in. Located in the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metropolitan area, Scottsdale is known for its luxurious lifestyle and high-end amenities. But with that comes a price tag that is 13% higher than the national average cost of living. And when it comes to housing, Scottsdale takes the cake with a whopping 42% higher cost compared to the rest of the country. According to the Department of State, Scottsdale ranks 59th out of 273 U.
S. cities in terms of cost of living. And according to the Community and Economic Research Council (C2ER), the cost of living in Scottsdale is estimated to be 103.8% of the national average. This puts it in the category of an average American city. But what makes Scottsdale so expensive? Well, for starters, it's a highly desirable place to live.
With its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and abundance of outdoor activities, it's no wonder people are willing to pay a premium to call this city home. But it's not just the lifestyle that drives up the cost of living in Scottsdale. The city also boasts a strong economy with a thriving job market. This means higher salaries and more disposable income for residents, which can lead to increased demand for housing and other goods and services. Another factor contributing to the high cost of living in Scottsdale is its location. As part of the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metropolitan area, residents have access to all the amenities and opportunities that come with living in a major city.
However, this also means higher taxes and fees, which can add up over time. Despite the high cost of living, many people still choose to call Scottsdale home. And for good reason. The city offers a high quality of life with top-rated schools, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community. Plus, with its close proximity to other major cities like Phoenix and Tempe, residents have endless options for entertainment and cultural experiences. But what about those who are on a budget or looking to save money? Is Scottsdale still a viable option? The answer is yes.
While the cost of living may be higher than the national average, there are still ways to make it work for those on a budget. One way to save money in Scottsdale is by taking advantage of the city's public transportation system. The Scottsdale trolley system offers free rides throughout the city, making it easy and affordable to get around without a car. Another way to save money is by taking advantage of the city's many free or low-cost activities. From hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to visiting the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, there are plenty of options for entertainment that won't break the bank. And let's not forget about the famous spring training season in Scottsdale. Every year, the San Francisco Giants, Colorado Rockies, and Arizona Diamondbacks train in the city, bringing in tourists and boosting the local economy.
This is just one example of how Scottsdale's high cost of living can also bring in opportunities for savings and economic growth. In conclusion, as an expert on city living, I can confidently say that yes, Scottsdale is an expensive city to live in. But with its desirable location, strong economy, and high quality of life, it's no surprise that people are willing to pay a premium to call this city home. And for those on a budget, there are still ways to make it work and enjoy all that Scottsdale has to offer.
