**The Good, The Bad, The Ugly**

**The Best Thing About Phoenix?**  Making Hay While The Sun Shines
300 days of sunshine a year make it the sunniest major city in the country. While some of those days are obscenely toasty the great majority are just plain nice. Which makes it hard to not enjoy being outside hiking, or biking, or outdoor yoga, or poolside cocktails, or whatever it is people do when it is nice out all the time. If you like a casual lifestyle of shorts and t-shirt this is going to be your nirvana. 

**The Worst Thing About Phoenix?**   Sprawl

All the boom Phoenix experienced had to end up somewhere. People come here in part for the same reason people have been coming west for hundreds of years: lots of space. Which means that as far as the eye can see the homes and commercial strips stretch out into the dessert. Phoenix lacks green, and trees, and many tall buildings so this sprawl is visually striking and detracts from the sense of Phoenix having character. 

**How You Living?**   In A Pool

Not surprisingly the way most people live in Phoenix is in an air-conditioned condo downtown or one of the home styles most friendly to beating the heat in the rest of the city. The Art District of Roosevelt is filled with historic bungalows, and the Coronado Historic District and Arcadia neighborhood are notable for flat-roofed Pueblo Revival homes. Regardless of the neighborhood or style you can count on your home having a pool. Nearly 50% of homes in Phoenix have them and so nearly everything is designed to accommodate the 300+ days of sunshine. 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?**  Take Down Your Temp

Even though Phoenix has boomed it remains an extremely inexpensive option for a big city. Much of the stress that goes with trying to slug it out in one of the other big cities comes down here. The economy is good, the cost of living is low, there are no city taxes, and the lifestyle is healthy. That makes it perfect for youngsters looking for an inexpensive place to get a start or raise a family, and ideal for empty nesters or retirees looking to stretch a relatively fixed buck. 


Phoenix

The Spicy Chicken

**The Good, The Bad, The Ugly**

Tuscon is great for outdoorsy people. It’s a biking city but there’s also hiking, climbing, running -- lots of fresh air and wide open space and, of course, mountains in every direction, the Sonoran Desert and the classic Saguaro Cactus. You can be in the city but feel far away at the same time. And, the downtown has undergone a pretty great revival recently (Rio Nuevo District -- which includes a streetcar). Hope you like ghost peppers! You get four seasons plus a bonus monsoon season -- think thunderstorms. If all that is not enough, if you’re a college sports fan, you’re in heaven and you will be a wildcat.

**The Best Thing About Tucson?**

Tucson comes alive in the evenings. It’s got some legit gastronomical cred and the blazing sun keeps most people indoors during the day so the city blooms at night.

**The Worst Thing About Tucson?**  June

The summer temps are off the charts. Don’t buy the swamp cooler thing. And if you don’t like critters -- gila monsters, tarantulas, black widows, scorpions you might have a hard time.


**How You Living?**

Unless you opt for the modern, loft-inspired condominiums in the downtown area, (or, older neighborhoods like Sam Hughes, and scattered throughout neighborhoods in North Tucson) you’ll probably live in some kind of house. MidCentury Modern mixes with Pueblo (Sonoran) style (Barrio Anita, Barrio Santa Rosa, and El Presidio) and Spanish Colonial (Historic neighborhoods Aldea Lindman and Blenman) including Modern Ranch. Miramonte (just outside downtown) features newer homes in the Spanish/ Mediterranean Revival style. Tucson is a retiree’s dream and you’ll see plenty of sprawling, new construction.

**Why You Should Move Here Now?**

It’s on the upswing. Tucson is a growth city. But you should get while the getting is good. 


Tucson

Keep Tucson Podunk!

**The Good, the Bad and The Ugly**

Tempe is in the Phoenix Metro Area and home to ASU. It’s a short drive up the highway to Scottsdale but a world away in terms of demographics. It’s college kids and university staff and the residents like the nightlife, they like to party. Tempe, Arizona is basically a college town smack in the middle of one of the United State’s most sprawling metropolitan areas, Phoenix, Arizona. It has its fair share of hip urban things like nice coffee shops,, delicious craft beer, and excellent local, affordable dining. Politically, Tempe is considered to be a liberal enclave within the valley, otherwise the Phoenix area is visibly conservative. 

Frank Loyd Wright designed some of the University’s buildings and nearby Papago Park is very near campus for recreation and beautiful visages. The “main drag” in Tempe leads directly into the heart of Scottsdale just a fifteen minute drive away and Scottsdale is a hub of upscale shopping, golf resorts and horse riding locations. 

**The Best Thing About Tempe?** 

It’s pretty easy to get around the city without a car. The light rail ferries students around with ease. North of Route 60 is good public transport, South of Route 60, not so much. 

**The Worst Thing About Tempe?** 

Unless you’re 18 to 22 years old, you are bound to feel somewhat out of place. It’s a young town filled with young people doing young people things. In ASU’s case, this means throwing up on Mill Ave. Also, you’d better have a pool. 

**How You Living?** 

Tempe is built all around Arizona State University and its 90,000 students and employees so if you want to attend classes there, people there are attracted to the college style of living; sports, etc. It’s easy to be from out of town here as many of the city’s residents are.
South Tempe appeals to those who like to be just out of reach of the college scene but close enough to partake should the spirit move them. 
If you’re a student look at renting a house with some roomies west of campus. Alternatively, there are a number of apartment complexes close to the light rail along Apache. Stay west of McClintock to avoid overpriced student-oriented complexes. 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

The Phoenix Metro Area (known as The Valley) is hard to beat for value and comfort and Tempe is probably the most walkable part of Arizona and the cost of living here is quite low for a young person just starting out -- it is not difficult to get by in Tempe,


Tempe

You're Already Saying It Wrong

**The Good, the Bad and The Ugly**

Scottsdale is still a snowbird haven for wealthy retirees who like to play golf but tons of young people are moving there (some even following their retiree parents there). While the classic, country club conservatism persists, it’s a practical conservatism. People don't care what their neighbors do in their bedroom, they care about how they keep up their property and how it affects their own property values. Still, the young people think they’ve found a hidden gem. Many more people are moving into Scottsdale than moving out. The fact that It’s extremely family-friendly with good schools and becoming a hotbed for IT jobs isn’t hurting.

**The Best Thing About Scottsdale?** 

Old Town (or South Scottsdale) is where the fun is with plenty of local spots. Best of all, it has  kept the old-fashioned ambiance with narrow streets, small storefronts and quaint boutiques. It has plenty of entertainment and nightlife but the authenticity has been retained. They don’t cater to chain restaurants for example.

**The Worst Thing About Scottsdale** 

The summer is scorching. Like unlivable hot. Like don’t go outside or you might die, hot. 120 degrees is not uncommon. AZ is the skin cancer capital of the world. The wealthy people (of which there are many) leave and the born-and-bred people are used to the survival workarounds (save up for summer A/C, pools, early morning/late night grocery shopping, windshield shades, carry sunscreen at all times and getaways to Flagstaff and Prescott.)

**How You Living?** 

North Scottsdale (newer construction) is more conservative than South Scottsdale (Old Town). South Scottsdale is more liberal, more LGBTQ friendly and more vibrant (and it’s closer to the airport) but even so, the demographics are 30+. The twenty-somethings are in Tempe (Mill Avenue.)

Many people believe Scottsdale is overpriced and Phoenix is a better way to go. Scottsdale has cultivated a certain pristine vibe that plays well with a snobbier mentality. Probably why the younger folks stick around Tempe, West Mesa or Gilbert (which are in Phoenix btw.) They think Scottsdale is a luxury shopping/golfing destination and that it is a predominately white, upper-middle-class exurb with lots of massive shopping centers that are only accessible by car. Not exactly the Gen Z way of life. 

Aside from all of Arizona being a haven of mid century modern architecture, many of the upmarket homes in Scottsdale are contemporary (Spanish/Mediterranean/Pueblo/Ranch.) Some, smaller, older homes can be found closer to Old Town and the rental market is relatively reasonable.

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

Home prices aren’t low (and they’re on the way up) but if you’re coming from a big city and you have a gameplan for the summer heat, you might be able to snuggle in somewhere in a much bigger home, get your kids tucked into a good school, enjoy the winters and maybe even move in near your babysitting parents.


Scottsdale

Smaller, Cheaper, Warmer

**The Best Thing About Mesa?** - The Great Outdoors (For 9 Months)

Mesa is one of those places that feels more like an outdoor haven that has access to a city rather than a city that happens to have access to the outdoors. Out here in Arizona, warm weather means you can enjoy trips to the river in t-shirts while relatives out east huddle around fireplaces. Legendary Usery Mountain Park gets the most attention due to beautiful landscapes, and 3,500+ acres of outdoor adventures including long backpacking trips, horseback rides and family bbq spaces. Nearby Saguaro Lake and a host of local parks fill out the options for spending your time away from the fireplace. 

**The Worst Thing About Mesa?** The Damn Desert (For The Other 3 Months)

If you can’t handle summer temps that consistently clip 110 Fahrenheit/ 40 Celsius, Mesa is not for you. If you think you can handle those days on account of the shady neighborhood walks you’re used to back home, be warned you are in the desert. We’re not well acquainted with things such as shade & nothing is growing here. The air quality also isn’t great, in part due to fact everyone needs a car to navigate the city sprawl. Mesa is one of the poster children for unsustainable desert cities (Come on SOLAR POWER!). Those inclined to think about environmental sustainability probably aren’t considering moving here though as Mesa is one of the most right-leaning cities in the country.

**How You Living?** - A House with AC

The warm weather in states like Arizona leads to an economy driven by real estate, and Mesa is no different. There are plenty of solid housing options within a variety of price ranges. The northeast side of the city is known as one of the best places to raise a family in the whole state. The southeastern corner of Mesa is home to Eastmark, rated one of the most well-planned neighborhoods in the country, with amenities such as swimming pools, sizable homes, and year-round community events. This gives Eastmark, like most of Mesa, the feeling of a suburban paradise.

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** - Working Remotely?

If you just switched to working remotely, Mesa should be on your list of places to check out. It’s warm year round, and comes with plenty to do: a beautiful Arts Center, museums, Spring Training Baseball games at Hohokam Stadium, 25 golf courses, and as noted a ridiculous amount of outdoor options. The warm weather, solid housing market, and proximity to Phoenix are extremely appealing to recent retirees and those with growing families. Mesa has a little something for everybody… if you’re comfortable with the heat and the politics.


Mesa

Seriously Red

**The Best Thing About Glendale?** 

Many of the advantages of Phoenix and Scottsdale without the price tag. And, they have lots and lots of antique shops.

**The Worst Thing About Glendale?** 

Unemployment is high (but Phoenix is close-- 20 minutes). 
Let's go with the insufferable Arizona desert heat. 

**How You Living?** 

Glendale is part of the Phoenix Metro Area so you’ll be just outside of Phoenix..

North Glendale is home to what are considered the good neighborhoods. These are affluent, suburban neighborhoods near parks, shopping and job hubs that draw many families, business executives and professional athletes. It’s a higher-education hub as well. This neighborhood is centrally located on metro Phoenix’s west side. Freeway access is easy.

West Deer Valley, Union Hills Drive, College Park, North Litchfield, and West Augusta are some of the safest neighborhoods in the Glendale, AZ area.

Arrowhead Ranch, West Pinnacle Peak, and Sunset Vista are some of the best neighborhoods in Glendale for education.

Westgate, Arrowhead Ranch, and Arrowhead Lakes are considered prime locations and upscale. Westgate has some nightlife and is better for younger people. Arrowhead Ranch and Arrowhead Lakes are planned communities that are known for being family friendly. Arrowhead Ranch is one of the West Valley’s most sought-after addresses. Built on acres of orange groves, the community has million-dollar homes and a country club and golf courses. A large shopping center and hospital can be found here, too. Loop 101 runs through this area.

Westgate Entertainment District, is a bustling complex with casual restaurants and sports bars, plus open-air shopping at specialty stores. Rock concerts and NHL hockey games take place at Gila River Arena, while the neighboring State Farm Stadium hosts the Arizona Cardinals NFL team
Hillcrest Ranch is sandwiched between two large preserve areas. Homes are newer here and on bigger lots. There’s still room for new development here.
There are complaints about Downtown seeing rising crime and homelessness but the historic districts, Old Town and Catlin Court are charming and popular areas where antique shops and boutiques are plentiful. Downtown Glendale also boasts a Broadway theater, space center, and botanical garden.

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

 It's one of the more affordable places to live in Arizona and Phoenix is 9 miles away. 

One of the reasons that so many people love living in Glendale is the school system. There are many high rated schools -- 10/10 on Greatschools.com.  Some of the popular ones are Legend Springs, Sierra Verde, and Copper Creek, which are all elementary schools. For middle school, Hillcrest Middle is rated well. And for high school, Mountain Ridge High School is a popular one.


Glendale

You Belong Here? Maybe

Chandler

Yes, Ostriches

Gilbert

Kindness?

Surprise

Boomtown

Peoria

No, The Other One

Goodyear

The Wingfoot

Flagstaff

Dark Sky City

# About the Program

[AZ is Home](https://housing.az.gov/general-public/programs-homebuyers) down payment and closing cost assistance (DPA) is now part of the Home in Five Advantage program. Eligible homebuyers obtain 30-year, fixed-rate FHA, VA, and either Fannie Mae HFA Preferred or Freddie Mac HFA Advantage conventional loan financing and can choose DPA options of 3%, 4%, 5%, or 6% with a 7-year forgivable second loan.

The [Home in Five Advantage](http://homein5advantage.com/) program allows qualified homebuyers to receive up to 7% assistance for a down payment and closing costs, plus a loan with a competitive interest rate. Military personnel and veterans may also receive an additional 1% assistance based on certain qualifications.

***

**Homebuyer Requirements**

* Maximum credit qualifying income cannot exceed $131,520 for all borrowers.
* Must be a first-time homebuyer (buyers who have not owned a residential property in the last three years).
* Must be residents of Arizona and have been for a minimum of six (6) months.
* Buyers must have a minimum FICO credit score of 640.
* Standard loan guidelines for qualification must be met (i.e., adequate income, acceptable credit and down payment requirement).
* Payment of a 1% origination fee, plus customary closing costs, is due at loan closing.
* Buyers must occupy the home as their principal residence within 60 days of closing.
* All homebuyers must attend an 8-hour homebuyer education course through an [approved housing counseling agency located within Arizona](https://hud4.my.site.com/housingcounseling/s/mapresults?optionPage=false\&queryTerm\&selectedOptionValue\&selectedStateValues=Arizona\&agencyName\&selectedLanguagevalues\&pageSize=10\&selectedDistanceValue=900\&selectedCounselingmethodsvalues\&language=en_US) and obtain a certificate of completion. The homebuyer education course may be in-person or on-line. Upon completion of an online class, homebuyers must provide their lender with a co-branded certificate with the local agency’s name and/or logo. The following agencies have provided us with links to their approved online course offerings:
  * [Administration of Resources and Choices (ARC)](https://www.ehomeamerica.org/arc)
  * [ACCE's Make Your Move with Take Charge America](https://www.mymprogram.com/)
  * [CPLC](https://cplc.org/programs/housing-counseling)
  * [Money Management International](https://www.moneymanagement.org/education/online-homebuyer-courses)
  * [Newt own CDC](https://newtowncdc.org/what-we-do/online-homebuyer-education.html)
  * [Trellis](https://trellisaz.org/homebuyer-education-classes/)&#x20;
* If multiple borrowers are participating in the same online education course, both borrower names should appear on the completion certificate. To prompt this formatting, please enter the names as shown below in  the name fields when enrolling. 
  * **First Name:** Owen & Olivia
  * **Last Name:** Anderson

***

**Program Requirements**

* Home must be located in Maricopa county.
* New purchases only (no refinancing).
* New or existing houses, condominiums, PUDs or townhouses.
* No purchase price limit.

***

**Additional Details**

Down payment assistance is provided as an interest-free, forgivable second mortgage. No payments are required unless the home is sold, transferred, or refinanced before the 84th month.

Connect with and apply for a home loan through a [Participating Lender](https://homein5advantage.com/find-a-lender/) to see if you are eligible for the program. Participating lenders will provide homebuyers with details for applying and the Annual Percentage Rate (APR).

The second loan cannot be subordinated or assumed.

***

## Thinking About Arizona?

You've learned about the program. Now explore communities across Arizona to find the place that's the best fit for you.

Explore:

* LookyLOO Reviews of Arizona cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools
* Lifestyle
* Save cities to your Movebook

[**Explore Arizona →**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/arizona)

Arizona is Home Purchase Incentive Program

# About the Program

The Arizona Commerce Authority’s Venture Start, Venture Raise, and Venture Scale programs were developed to support startups ready to take their businesses to the next level. 

***

## Arizona Venture Start Program

The Arizona Commerce Authority is proud to partner with the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University to launch the Venture Start Summer 2026 Cohort, a high-energy, week-long entrepreneurial bootcamp designed to help aspiring founders rapidly transform ideas into viable ventures.

\*\*\*\* 

This immersive program is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs, recent graduates, innovators, and individuals exploring entrepreneurship during the summer months. Participants will engage in five consecutive days of hands-on workshops, expert-led instruction, practical venture-building activities, and access to Arizona's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

\*\*\*\* 

Hosted in a hybrid format at ASU 1951@SkySong in Scottsdale, Venture Start combines structured entrepreneurial education with a collaborative founder experience that encourages creativity, accountability, and rapid action.

\*\*\*\* 

Participants who complete the program will be recognized as Venture Start Summer 2026 Founders, receive a certificate of completion, and have the opportunity to showcase their ventures during the Venture Start Graduation and Pitch Showcase.

[**LEARN MORE**](https://www.azcommerce.com/start-up/venture-programs/venture-start/ "Venture Start")

***

## Arizona Venture Raise Program

Venture Raise is a multi-step program designed for startups that have a product in the market and early users/customers. At the end of the program, founders will have a better understanding of funding options, fundraising planning, and how to ask for funds. All program graduates will have access to the ACA’s Founders Forum, a peer-to-peer networking group, as well as access to investor services. 

[Learn More](https://www.azcommerce.com/start-up/venture-programs/venture-raise/ "Venture Raise")

***

## Arizona Venture Scale Program

To participate in Venture Scale, startups must apply to the Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC), the nation's largest business plan competition. AIC awardees will participate and graduate from Venture Scale (previously known as Venture Ready).

Venture Scale is a six-month-long accelerator that provides founders with customized consultation sessions and deep dives into product-market and scaling. Each founder is paired with an Entrepreneur-in-Residence, an entrepreneur who is in the most experienced ranks of the ACA Venture Development Mentorship program. As AIC Awardees and future Venture Scale Alumni, graduating founders have a number of chances to improve their pitch, their team and opportunities to pitch in front of an increasing number of funders.

[Learn More about AIC](https://www.azcommerce.com/start-up/arizona-innovation-challenge/ "Arizona Innovation Challenge")

***

## Explore Arizona Communities

You've learned about the program. Now explore Arizona communities to see what it's like to live and work in the places where your business could grow.

**Explore:**

* LookyLOO Reviews of Arizona Cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools & Quality of Life
* Save Cities to Your Movebook

[**Explore Arizona →**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/arizona)

Arizona Commerce Authority Venture Programs

# About the Program

The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC), one of the largest business plan competitions in the country, is designed to advance innovation and technology commercialization in Arizona by helping early-stage ventures scale. All applicants receive feedback on their business plan from experienced entrepreneurial judges. AIC semifinalists and finalists who do not become AIC awardees gain access to [Venture Raise](https://www.azcommerce.com/start-up/venture-programs/ "Venture Programs"), a 12-week hybrid accelerator that will prepare startups for funding.

AIC awardees receive a minimum of $50,000 of non-dilutive funding and three months of customized support with an ACA Entrepreneur-in-Residence.

***

## Arizona Innovation Challenge&#x20;

### Eligibility

Companies must meet certain criteria to participate in the Arizona Innovation Challenge. Judges will screen each application to ensure all qualifications are met and all materials submitted through the proper format. If not met, applications will be removed from the competition, and notifications will not be made until the end of the first round.

 

***

### Industry

All companies must be fit into one of the industries listed below:

* Advanced Materials
* Advanced Manufacturing
* Aerospace / Defense
* Bio / Life Sciences
* Clean-tech / Renewable Energy
* Information Technology – Hardware
* Information Technology – Software

***

### Innovative Ideas & Solutions

All applicants must have or be moving towards commercialization of a unique, innovative technology or a scientific solution to a marketplace issue(s) in an industry. Companies may not simply be involved in re-selling or expanding an existing technology. Typically, a retail, real estate, or professional services business will not qualify for participation unless their service or product embodies a unique technology solution. The standard typically used to help make this determination is if the company could or should pursue or have a patent on the technology, whether or not it chose to do so (for eligibility purposes, pursuing or having a patent is not required).

***

### Corporate Status/Structure

All companies must be an existing, for-profit corporate entity such as a corporation, limited liability company or a partnership at the time of application. Sole proprietorships are not eligible. Companies that win the AIC will be required to provide requested documentation such as e-Verify compliance, being in good standing with the Arizona Corporation Commission, etc.

***

### Number of Employees

Applicants must have at least two but no more than 29 employees. The points below further refine the definition of an “employee” for the purpose of the AIC, in that the minimum number of two employees must meet the following criteria:

* Must be non-administrative (person’s sole responsibility is not administrative in nature);
* Must be full-time (working at least 35 hours/week for this company, paid or unpaid);
* The two-employee minimum may include founders or active investors who otherwise meet these criteria;
* In general, members of a board of directors or advisory boards, who are otherwise full-time employees of another company, may not be included as part of the two-employee minimum requirement;
* Having more than one part-time employee add up to one or more full-time equivalent employee(s) to try to meet the minimum two-employee rule is not acceptable.
* It is up to ACA discretion to determine the final qualifications of any applicant company.

 

***

### Assets

Companies may not have more than $10,000,000 in net assets, excluding capital from investors.

***

### Location

It is possible for an applying company to be located outside of Arizona, but that company must plan to relocate or build a significant portion of its operations to Arizona as well as commercialize its products/services in Arizona within the 12-month award period. The awardee's CEO/Founder must be able to participate in the Venture Ready program in person during the 12-month performance period. Additionally, for all companies, the awarded funds must be spent to increase jobs, revenue, and capital spending in Arizona.

***

### Commercialization Timing

Applications must demonstrate that the products or services being considered for AIC grant funding are likely to begin generating commercial or licensing revenue for the company within 12 months of the company's receipt of funding, if the company is selected as an awardee. Grant funding received by the company is not considered revenue for the AIC. At the ACA's discretion, applicant companies that are unlikely to generate revenue within 12 months, but otherwise meet all eligibility requirements, may still participate, be evaluated, and receive feedback.

***

## Explore Arizona Communities

You've learned about the program. Now explore Arizona communities to see what it's like to live and work in the places where your business could grow.

**Explore:**

* LookyLOO Reviews of Arizona Cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools & Quality of Life
* Save Cities to Your Movebook

[**Explore Arizona →**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/arizona)

Arizona Innovation Challenge

# About the Programs

The accelerateAZ programs are designed to help high-potential startups accelerate commercialization by connecting founders with major corporate partners, pilot opportunities, experienced mentors, and Arizona's innovation ecosystem. Participants receive structured accelerator programming and access to relationships that can lead to enterprise customers, strategic partnerships, and future investment opportunities.

***

## accelerateAZ Manufacturing Program

The accelerateAZ Manufacturing program supports startups creating solutions in workforce training, supply chain visibility, predictive maintenance, robotics and automation. The three-month program partners startups with innovative partners across the semiconductor, aerospace and mobility industries.  

***

## accelerateAZ Sustainability Program

The accelerateAZ Sustainability program supports startups in the areas of renewable energy, water resiliency, sustainable mining, circular materials and carbon neutrality. The program accelerates two batches of startups per year, connecting them to leading corporate partners to foster collaborations.

Plug And Play AccelerateAZ

Arizona

California

Michigan

Iowa

New Jersey

New York

Maine

Alaska

Minnesota

Colorado’s appeal is multilayered. Of course, there are the Rockies—snow-capped peaks, ski resorts, and Instagrammable vistas—but beyond the obvious, the state reveals itself in its micro-regions and quirks.

Denver has grown into a full-fledged metro, attracting industries from aerospace to fintech. Neighborhoods like RiNo and Cap Hill pulse with murals, independent bookstores, and some of the best third-wave coffee west of the Mississippi. Yet, 20 minutes outside the city, you’ll find Golden, a once-sleepy brewery town now thriving with young families, hikers, and mountain bikers—all while still housing Coors’ giant facility.

Boulder, perched between rugged wilderness and intellectual ambition, is equal parts Patagonia fleece and startup pitch decks. It’s home to Naropa University (the country’s only accredited Buddhist-inspired school) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, reflecting the state’s unique mix of spiritual curiosity and scientific rigor.

To the north, Fort Collins flies a little under the radar but boasts Colorado State University, a jumping historic downtown, and enough breweries to rival cities twice its size. Meanwhile, Colorado Springs feels like a different state altogether—home to multiple military installations, it leans more conservative but surprises visitors with epic natural landmarks like Garden of the Gods and the quirky artist enclave Manitou Springs, where mineral springs bubble out of old-timey fountains.

Then there are the mountain towns that get less attention than Aspen or Vail:

- Salida: An artsy river town known for whitewater festivals and a historic downtown dotted with galleries.
- Paonia: Tucked on the Western Slope, it’s where organic farmers, artists, and winemakers coexist—a quieter, greener slice of Colorado.
- Crested Butte: A former mining town turned "wildflower capital of Colorado," still fiercely local despite its world-class skiing.
- Leadville: The highest-elevation incorporated city in the U.S., with Wild West vibes, antique shops, and a reputation for producing ultra-endurance athletes.

- Even Pueblo, long dismissed as a steel town, is experiencing a mini-renaissance—check out its green chile scene, which locals claim beats New Mexico’s any day.


**Lifestyle**

Colorado is all about the blend: high-intensity outdoor pursuits and laid-back social life. People measure days by powder totals or trail mileage, but they’re equally serious about craft beer, local music, and farm-to-table brunch.

There’s a statewide obsession with gear—ski racks are practically standard issue—and the unspoken dress code skews toward Patagonia puffer jackets, trail runners, and trucker hats. Even at upscale restaurants, you’ll find Gore-Tex mingling with linen.
Summer weekends revolve around farmers' markets, mountain festivals (like Telluride Bluegrass), and patio culture, where people sip IPAs while their dogs lounge nearby. Yes, 
Colorado is one of the most dog-friendly states in the country—don’t be surprised to see pups on brewery patios, hiking trails, and even paddleboards.

The weed industry is fully mainstream here—legal since 2012, dispensaries now sit next to yoga studios, and CBD drinks are common on menus. Despite the outdoor glamour, winters can drag, especially along the Front Range, where weeks of “brown season” (dry, gray winter days) test your patience if you’re not skiing every weekend.


**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Outdoor Diehards: Skiers, mountain bikers, climbers, and trail runners all build their lives around nature’s calendar.

- Remote Workers: Many are now settling in places like Buena Vista, Pagosa Springs, or Ouray for mountain views and coworking spaces that offer reliable fiber internet.

- Young Professionals: Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins attract college graduates seeking startup jobs in tech and a social scene that is outdoorsy and active.

- Families: Suburban areas such as Louisville, Superior, and Castle Rock provide excellent schools, greenbelts, and proximity to both the city and the mountains.

- Military & Veterans: Particularly in Colorado Springs, where military bases and VA services have a significant presence.

- Artists, Creatives, and Off-Gridders: These individuals are moving to smaller towns like Paonia, Crestone (known for its spiritual retreats), and Trinidad, where former mining towns are being transformed into vibrant art communities.

**Worklife** 

**Major Industries:**

- Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and dozens of military installations fuel this sector.

- Tech & Startups: Boulder leads, but Denver is fast catching up with expansions from Google, Amazon, and a strong venture capital scene.

- Healthcare & Life Sciences: Anchored by the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and countless health-tech startups.

- Outdoor Rec & Tourism: A massive industry—from ski resorts to bike gear startups like Yeti Cycles.

- Renewable Energy & Green Tech: Solar farms, wind energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure are booming, especially east of Denver.

- Craft Beer & Cannabis: Both industries are major employers and cultural forces. Denver’s Great American Beer Festival draws thousands annually.

The work culture here is serious about productivity but just as serious about play. Flex hours are common—so is the “Friday early out” to chase powder or head to the hills. People here don’t brag about work hours—they brag about the number of 14ers climbed.

**Why Move Here Now?**

Colorado’s mix of economic opportunity and lifestyle remains hard to beat, but the secret’s long been out. Housing costs—especially in Denver, Boulder, and mountain towns—are steep. Still, the “live where you vacation” dream is possible, especially if you’re strategic about location.

Remote work has made previously overlooked places—think Montrose, Rifle, or Florence—more appealing. These towns offer affordability, mountain access, and emerging arts scenes without the crowds or costs of Summit County.
Meanwhile, climate-conscious infrastructure investments and Colorado’s renewable energy push are attracting a new wave of green tech talent. If you’re looking for a place where your weekends feel like a vacation, your weekdays pay the bills, and your backyard is the view—Colorado still delivers.

Just be ready for the quirks: expect your weather app to lie, brace for spring hailstorms, and know that people here take their green chile—and their Broncos—very seriously.

Colorado

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Illinois

Indiana

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Virginia offers a little bit of everything—beaches, busy cities, historic towns, mountain views, and adventures for the outdoorsy types.  Families can find charming colonial neighborhoods to settle in or a tech-driven suburb, and young professionals (or families) will find cities known for culture and lifestyle (tons of breweries) —and none of it feels out of place.

Northern Virginia cities like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax get a lot of attention for their young professional scene, government jobs (shaky right now but still), and shiny high-rises. But head west, and things shift—Charlottesville, Richmond, and Roanoke are growing fast, thanks to lower housing costs, beautiful scenery, and thriving food and arts communities.
And yes, Virginia’s got beaches. Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer a relaxed coastal lifestyle while still keeping you within driving distance of larger cities.
Lifestyle 

Virginia balances history and modern life better than most. There are amazing historic landmarks and battlefield tours, but it’s also a growing tech hub, home to a solid craft beer scene, and packed with outdoor activities—from hiking in the Shenandoah Mountains to kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay.

Public schools, especially in Northern Virginia, are notably strong, with Thomas Jefferson High School (TJ)  in Alexandria frequently rated the #1 public high school in the country. You get four distinct seasons, plenty of small-town festivals, and easy access to both mountains and beaches. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home.


**Who’s Moving to Virginia?**

- Families: Especially to Northern Virginia and Richmond suburbs for the schools, safety, and space.

- Young professionals: Drawn to government (prepare for this to change), tech, and consulting jobs in DC-adjacent areas like Arlington and Alexandria.

- Retirees and second-home buyers: Looking for less expensive mountain views or coastal living.

- Military families: With large bases in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Quantico.


**Worklife**

Virginia has a strong job market with several major industries driving growth:

- Government and defense: Big in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads although federal jobs are disappearing. 

- Tech and data centers: Amazon HQ2 in Arlington and Loudoun County’s “Data Center Alley”

- Healthcare and education: UVA, VCU, and major hospital networks

- Tourism, shipping, and military: Especially along the coast

The state consistently ranks as one of the best for business. Salaries are strong, especially near DC, though the cost of living is higher there too. Farther south or west, your money goes a lot further.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Virginia is hitting a good stride—a strong economy, a cultural boost in mid-sized cities, and more opportunities popping up beyond the DC suburbs. If you want East Coast energy without New York or Boston prices, Virginia’s a great option.
There’s a lot to like: solid job prospects, a wide range of places to live, and easy access to nature. Remote workers are starting to notice cities like Charlottesville and Richmond for their charm and affordability. And if you’re in tech, Amazon’s expansion means even more jobs on the horizon.

Bottom Line: Move for the jobs, stay for the mountain views, farmers markets, and the fact that you can hike on Saturday and hit the beach on Sunday. Virginia’s got space for you


Virginia

Massachusetts

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Mexico

North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, driven by a combination of economic opportunity, natural beauty, and a more reasonable cost of living than many large metro areas on the East Coast. For people looking to bail on expensive cities like New York, Boston, or D.C., North Carolina’s growing mid-sized cities hit a sweet spot—offering urban energy without the overwhelming cost or scale.

Charlotte and Raleigh remain the fastest-growing hubs, but what’s fueling the state’s appeal are cities like Durham, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville. These places have seen significant investment in arts, culture, and local businesses, creating vibrant downtowns and neighborhoods while maintaining accessibility and affordability. Wilmington, with its historic riverfront and proximity to beaches, adds a coastal option with similar momentum.

North Carolina offers a blend of lifestyles—from dense city cores to suburban communities and small mountain or coastal towns—all within a state that delivers four distinct seasons and easy access to both the Atlantic and the Appalachians.

**Lifestyle** 

Living in North Carolina means having access to almost every kind of landscape and lifestyle you can imagine. The mountains of western North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge and Smokies, draw hikers, climbers, and people looking for small-town life with incredible scenery. Asheville anchors the region with a nationally recognized food scene, music venues, craft breweries, and a progressive arts community—all surrounded by nature.
Along the coast, places like Wilmington, New Bern, and the Outer Banks offer a completely different pace of life—historic charm, beach towns, and maritime culture.

In between, North Carolina’s mid-sized cities have grown into dynamic cultural hubs. Durham, once defined by tobacco warehouses, is now a food, music, and startup center, balancing grit and growth. Greensboro and Winston-Salem have embraced their history while building arts districts, indie music venues, and foodie scenes that attract newcomers looking for quality of life without the price tag of bigger cities.
Outdoor recreation is baked into the lifestyle—weekends are often spent hiking, kayaking, hitting the coast, or exploring dozens of state parks. Meanwhile, urban centers keep adding restaurants, music festivals, museums, and farmers markets that make daily life feel rich and varied.

Housing costs have risen, particularly in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville, but remain notably more reasonable compared to cities like D.C., New York, or Boston. Mid-sized cities and suburbs still offer affordable homeownership options, which continues to draw families, young professionals, and retirees.


**Who’s Moving to North Carolina?**

Young professionals and remote workers: The combination of job opportunities and lifestyle has put places like Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte on the map. Increasingly, mid-sized cities like Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville are drawing remote workers who want cultural amenities without the high price tag.

- Families: Good schools, growing suburbs, and attainable home prices make North Carolina a top choice for families leaving higher-cost states. Suburban areas around Raleigh and Charlotte, like Cary or Huntersville, are growing fast.

- Retirees: North Carolina is a retirement destination—particularly western towns like Asheville, Hendersonville, and Boone, or coastal towns like New Bern and Southport, where people are drawn to the mild climate and slower pace of life.

- Tech, biotech, and finance workers: Raleigh-Durham’s Research Triangle remains a major driver of growth, along with Charlotte’s powerhouse banking sector. Mid-sized cities are seeing a ripple effect as people seek affordability near these job centers.


**Worklife** 

North Carolina’s economy is diverse, which has helped it stay resilient and attractive to new residents:

- Tech, biotech, and healthcare: The Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) is home to major universities, research parks, and a growing number of startups and tech companies. This area competes nationally for talent.

- Finance and banking: Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the U.S., home to Bank of America and major offices for Wells Fargo, Truist, and others.

- Education: With strong public universities and private colleges, education remains a huge employer, feeding into the region’s research and innovation economy.

- Tourism, arts, and service industries: The mountains and coast pull in millions of visitors each year, supporting a growing tourism economy that fuels restaurants, shops, and creative industries in cities and small towns alike.

- Remote work is also changing the landscape, as people relocate from expensive markets to cities like Asheville or Wilmington, seeking a better work-life balance without sacrificing culture or community.


**Why Move Here Now?**

North Carolina is in that rare window of growth where the state feels exciting but still livable. While housing costs are rising, they remain manageable compared to the Northeast or West Coast. Newcomers are often surprised at how much house—or quality of life—they can afford here.

The job market is strong, especially in tech, biotech, finance, and education, and there’s momentum in the arts, food, and cultural scenes, particularly in mid-sized cities that still feel accessible.

If you’re looking for a place that offers career opportunities, space to explore, and a more affordable cost of living—all without sacrificing culture—North Carolina’s cities, especially its rising mid-sized ones, are worth a serious look.


North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Puerto Rico

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Maryland might be one of the smallest states by land area, but it feels expansive in the variety of places, landscapes, and cultures you’ll find here. Locals sometimes call it “America in Miniature”—and it fits. Within a few hours, you can go from the crab houses and maritime history of the Eastern Shore to the rolling farmland and horse country of Howard and Carroll counties, then up into the Appalachian foothills in Western Maryland.

Baltimore—gritty, beautiful, and still deeply local—anchors the state with its historic brick row houses, growing arts scene, and a complicated but evolving identity. It’s a city of neighborhoods, from the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the indie shops and music venues in Hampden. Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland draw researchers, students, and healthcare workers, while the Port of Baltimore keeps the city tied to global trade.

The DC suburbs—places like Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, and College Park—are among the most diverse in the country. They’re fast-paced, career-driven, and home to major employers in tech, healthcare, defense, and international policy. Montgomery County consistently ranks high for public school systems, while Prince George’s County—once overlooked—is booming with development and homeownership among Black professionals.

Then there’s the Chesapeake Bay—arguably Maryland’s emotional center. Fishing villages, waterfront towns, and a deep-rooted culture of crabbing and boating shape life here. In places like St. Michaels or Solomons, watermen traditions meet weekenders from DC.


**Lifestyle** 

Maryland is a state of contrasts:

- Outdoors: Summers bring locals out for blue crab feasts, sailing regattas, and Eastern Shore beaches like Ocean City or Assateague Island, where wild ponies roam. Hikers find solace in the Catoctin Mountains or the Maryland stretch of the Appalachian Trail. In the fall, leaf-peeping in western Maryland rivals New England.

- Suburban Professional: Many Marylanders are commuters, with highways like I-270 and the Capital Beltway packed every weekday. Work-life here often revolves around careers in government contracting, federal agencies, or research labs.

- Cultural: Baltimore punches above its weight in music, art, and food. It's home to quirky traditions like the annual HonFest, while the nearby suburbs offer concert venues, museums, and some of the country's best public libraries.

- Education-Focused: With several nationally ranked school districts, plus colleges like UMD College Park, Loyola, and St. John’s in Annapolis, education drives many families’ choices.

The cost of living is high in the DC metro area—Montgomery County and Howard County are expensive but offer great schools and amenities. Meanwhile, Baltimore City and parts of the Eastern Shore remain relatively affordable, though income disparities can be stark.


**Who’s Moving to Maryland?**

- Government and Defense Professionals: With NSA, NIH, and countless government contractors, Maryland is a hub for federal careers.

- Healthcare and Biotech Workers: The state’s economy is built around giants like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland Medical System, and a growing biotech corridor around Gaithersburg and Rockville.

- Families: Strong school systems, safe suburbs, and access to both urban and rural life make it a prime target for families.

- Nature and Water Lovers: The Bay, mountains, and access to the Atlantic draw people who don’t want to choose between city life and nature.


**Worklife**

Maryland boasts some of the highest median incomes in the country, but it comes with a cost. Key industries include:

- Government, Defense, and Cybersecurity (Fort Meade, NSA, countless Beltway contractors)

- Healthcare and Life Sciences (Johns Hopkins, NIH, biotech firms in the I-270 corridor)

- Port and Shipping (Baltimore’s port is one of the busiest on the East Coast)

- Education (Universities, research centers, and public school systems)

Maryland’s job market tends to be resilient especially near D.C.—especially in recession-proof industries like healthcare, science, and in prior administrations, federal government work. High wages can offset higher living costs, particularly in areas like Montgomery County.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Baltimore is changing -- neighborhood revitalization, a growing arts scene, and affordable historic homes make it a city to invest in. The DMV’s tech and biotech boom means Maryland’s share of the tech and life sciences boom is growing fast, especially in Montgomery County and the suburbs along I-270.

Waterfront and small-town charm aplenty, with coastal towns offering an escape that feels worlds away from DC but still within reach for weekends or remote work. Finally, access without total commitment: Maryland lets you plug into DC’s energy, Baltimore’s grit, or nature’s calm—all without fully committing to just one lifestyle.


Maryland

Washington is not what most people around the country think if their view is based solely on the Emerald City. You’ve got Seattle, yes — the tech hub with glassy towers, expensive lattes, and endless cranes reshaping the skyline. But Washington’s story is bigger and weirder than that.

Head east and you hit the Cascades, where towns like Leavenworth lean hard into their Bavarian cosplay — full-on Alpine architecture and Christmas markets, even in summer. Cross those mountains and the state turns dry, golden, and wide open — apple orchards, hops fields, and wine country roll through the Yakima Valley and Walla Walla. It’s a different state over there, one that cares more about rodeos and crop yields than whatever Seattle’s latest zoning fight is about.

There’s also the pocket-sized, artsy cities people don’t talk about enough — Bellingham, tucked up near the Canadian border with its crunchy, outdoorsy vibe and a local ski hill just 30 minutes up the road; Olympia, the capital, where the punk music scene still has a pulse and the farmers market is the real social center; and Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport town known for wooden boat festivals and a whole lot of ghost stories.

What keeps people here is the geography — Puget Sound, the Olympics, Mount Rainier looming massive. There’s a certain stubborn pride about how many people own a kayak and know how to dig their clams. You don’t have to go far to find someone who will try to convince you their corner of Washington is the best — whether that’s a foggy coastal town, a moss-draped mountain pass, or a sunny plateau east of the mountains. And honestly, they’re all kind of right.



**Lifestyle** 

Living here means you learn to live with the weather — or love it. Western Washington’s gray season lasts months, but the long, golden summer days make up for it. The east side flips the script — hot, dry summers and winters that mean snow.

People are big on the outdoors, but not in a performative way. It's less Instagram hiking and more “this is just what we do.” Mountain biking in the Cascades, skiing at Stevens Pass, trail running in the Issaquah Alps, or mushroom hunting when the rains come — the connection to nature runs deep.

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here — it’s baked in. You’ll see people line up to return compost buckets at the farmers market or debate which salmon run needs protecting. There’s a hyper-local food scene, from oyster farms like Hama Hama to foraged nettles making their way into restaurant menus.

Housing is a mixed bag. Seattle and the Eastside (Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland) are expensive, with median home prices well above $900k. But smaller cities like Spokane or the Tri-Cities offer more space and sunshine without completely unplugging you from the economy.



**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Tech folks chasing jobs at Amazon, Microsoft, and the sprawl of startups. The Eastside suburbs — Bellevue, Kirkland, Sammamish — are full of transplants figuring out the PNW way.

- Families looking for good schools, parks, and the rare suburban neighborhood where you can still walk to a coffee shop (Issaquah and North Bend, looking at you).

- Outdoor types — climbers, paddlers, skiers — folks who want a job and mountains in their backyard. Bellingham and Wenatchee both punch above their weight for this crowd.

- Healthcare and education workers — UW, WSU, major hospital systems, and growing biotech hubs keep the state anchored beyond tech.

- And increasingly, people just looking for a lifestyle shift — artists, remote workers, folks burned out on California or Texas sprawl — are finding their way here.



**Worklife**

The job market stays solid, especially if you’re in:

- Tech: Seattle’s core, Bellevue’s new skyscrapers, and a growing remote scene

- Aerospace: Boeing’s still big, even if quieter than it once was

- Healthcare: especially in Seattle and Spokane

- Agriculture: apples, cherries, hops, and wine rule Eastern Washington

- Shipping and trade: major ports in Seattle and Tacoma keep global goods moving

The interesting thing is how the economy balances — world-class tech and scrappy farming towns coexist, sometimes uneasily, but it works.



**Why Move Here Now?**

Washington’s still growing, but in ways that give you choices. Yes, Seattle’s pricey, but places like Spokane, Bellingham, and even Bremerton are growing fast without feeling like polished suburbs yet. The access to nature is unbeatable, but what might surprise people is how distinct each region feels.
You could live where you’re skiing before work, or where you’re sipping wine on your porch at sunset. You could be downtown for an Amazon meeting or out in the San Juans watching orcas. Washington has range — that’s the real sell.


Statewide incentive programs in Arizona

Arizona Commerce Authority Venture Programs

Arizona Innovation Challenge

Arizona is Home Purchase Incentive Program

Plug And Play AccelerateAZ

Phoenix, AZ

The Spicy Chicken

look score 87

Tucson, AZ

Keep Tucson Podunk!

look score 86

Tempe, AZ

You're Already Saying It Wrong

look score 90

Scottsdale, AZ

Smaller, Cheaper, Warmer

look score 94

Mesa, AZ

Seriously Red

look score 85

Glendale, AZ

You Belong Here? Maybe

look score 83

Chandler, AZ

Yes, Ostriches

look score 87

Gilbert, AZ

Kindness?

look score 89

Surprise, AZ

Boomtown

look score 83

Peoria, AZ

No, The Other One

look score 86

Goodyear, AZ

The Wingfoot

look score 84

Flagstaff, AZ

Dark Sky City

look score 90