15 yrs here: I’ll tell you good & bad; CONTINUED…
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9/15/2006
15 yrs here: I’ll tell you good & bad; CONTINUED…I apologize to the BestPlaces.net people for going over the word limit, so this is the continuation of previous posting;
Con3) Unemployment.
Pro3a) Where?? There is no such thing in this city. If you have experience in anything & a good work ethic, you’re home free. There are new businesses looking for new employees all the time. But your best bet is to get in with a stable corporate company whose headquarters are in Phx. There are plenty of those (try PetSmart, Honeywell, Dial, to name a few).
Con4) Entertainment/theater/arts sucks.
Pro4a) That’s true, Phx should offer more considering its size, but it also depends largely on which suburb you live. Some areas have improved quite a bit in the last 10 years, especially Tempe, central & northeast (Scottsdale). But, it’s showing improvement in other areas as well, specifically the west area now, w/the new Glendale arena (Cardinals), hosting 2007 Super Bowl & Coyotes hockey season.
Con5) Crime is heavy.
Pro5a) Yes, crime is a problem. But name 1 city this big where crime isn’t a problem. It’s all about where you live, just like any other big city. Use common sense; don’t live in a crime-ridden area, like south-central Phx, & east (exceptions noted – no offense to those living there). Rule of thumb: try north-north, northwest, northeast or west-west. Bottom line, check out the area (crime statistics via internet) & make a smart move.
Con6) Air pollution & water shortage.
Pro6) This is an increasing concern. Car pooling or finding a company that allows telecommute 1 day/wk are good alternatives. Water shortage is not a problem now, but it will be so keep this in mind if you plan to move/live here w/children. During your child’s lifetime, water shortages will need to be addressed.
If you have any questions, I will do everything I can to answer them. For the person who asked about I-17, yes, try to avoid this interstate – it’s too small for the traffic & not expected to widen any time soon. If you’re planning to move here, your best option is the west-west, with a job north/northwest.
I hope I have helped. Every time I touch down at the Phx airport, I exhale & feel glad I’m home. With all of its faults & (more) charms, I do love it here.
Lya | Surprise, AZ