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
| Median home sale price | $425,000 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,519 |
| Walk Score | 40/100 |
| Transit Score | 34/100 |
| Bike Score | 57/100 |
1. Pro: Abundant sunshine
Glendale is known for its abundant sunshine, having over 300 sunny days a year. This makes it an ideal location for outdoor lovers who enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The consistent sunny weather also means fewer disruptions to daily life due to inclement weather. Additionally, the ample sunshine can have a positive impact on mental health, providing residents with a natural mood booster, making Glendale a good place to live.
2. Con: Extreme summer heat
While the sunshine is a major draw, the extreme summer heat can be a significant downside. 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 house cool in extreme heat.
3. Pro: Sports and entertainment
Glendale is home to several major sports and entertainment venues, including the 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. Con: Limited transportation options
One of the drawbacks of living in Glendale is the limited public transportation options. The city is primarily car-dependent with a transit score of 34, which can be inconvenient for those who do not own a vehicle. The lack of extensive public transit can also contribute to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and major events.
5. Pro: Plenty of outdoor activities
Glendale offers a wealth of outdoor activities, making it an attractive place for an active lifestyle. The city boasts numerous parks and recreational areas, such as Thunderbird Conservation Park, where hiking and wildlife viewing are popular pastimes. Additionally, residents can enjoy year-round golfing at premier courses like Arrowhead Country Club.
6. Con: Suburban expansion
Glendale has experienced significant growth over the years, leading to urban sprawl. This expansion can result in longer commutes and a loss of green spaces as new developments take over previously undeveloped land. The spread-out nature of the city can also make it difficult to access certain amenities and services without a car.
7. Pro: 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. Con: Water shortages
Living in Glendale comes with the challenge of water shortages, a significant concern in this desert region. Residents often face water conservation measures and restrictions, impacting daily activities like gardening and car washing.
9. Pro: Proximity to natural attractions
Glendale’s location offers easy access to a variety of natural attractions, including the nearby White Tank Mountain Regional Park and Lake Pleasant. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, boating, and camping. The proximity to these natural attractions allows residents to enjoy the beauty of the Arizona landscape and engage in a range of outdoor activities without having to travel far from home.
10. Con: Limited nightlife
While Glendale has a range of dining and entertainment options, its nightlife scene is relatively limited compared to larger cities like Phoenix. Residents seeking a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and late-night events may find Glendale’s offerings somewhat lacking.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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