If you are visiting Phoenix, Arizona, considering moving to Phoenix, or even if you've lived here for 20 years, there are some things about Phoenix that you might not know. Some of these items are important when evaluating a community. Some of these facts are downright useless, but fun nonetheless! Please keep in mind that statistics vary greatly depending upon the time they were obtained, the source and the exact population measured. Therefore, none of these numbers represented here are exact, but are merely the most recent and reasonable numbers I have been able to collect.

Phoenix, Arizona has been known for many things. This city receives much recognition for being in the top ten cities in the country. For instance, it is one of the ten largest cities in the country. It is considered a 'business hot spot' being ranked one of the top ten cities to relocate or start a new business. Greater Phoenix was one of the top ten metro areas for jobs, based on both the percentage increase and the real increase in the number of jobs. The Chandler Ostrich Festival has been ranked one of the ten best festivals in the country. Phoenix is one of the top ten most misspelled cities in the country. Arizona State University in Tempe of one of the top ten largest universities in the country. And the list goes on. Some of our claims to fame are, well, not that positive. For instance, Phoenix is known for having one of the highest (if not THE highest) vehicle theft rates in the country

Phoenix is Arizona's state capitol. When people refer to Phoenix, they are often discussing the greater Phoenix area, which includes about 23 cities and towns of the metropolitan area. Phoenix is one of the fastest growing cities in the country, and with its size and growth it has developed into a major city--with all the advantages, and many of the disadvantages. Many people are surprised to learn that Phoenix is the sixth largest city in the United States. 

Phoenix Tidbits: Phoenix was incorporated as a city in 1881. Geographically, Phoenix covers about 470 square miles.  Phoenix Vital Statistics (as of 2000 Census) The population of Phoenix at the last census was about 1.3 million. Only 11% of the people in Phoenix are over the age of 60, and 49% are between the ages of 25 and 59. Almost 23% of the population of Phoenix has at least one college degree. The median household income in Phoenix is about $41,000. 

Phoenix Major Attractions: There is a great deal to see and do in Phoenix. Some of my favorite attractions are the Arizona Science Center, the Heard Museum, the Desert Botanical Garden, Bank One Ballpark, The Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix Art Museum and the Phoenix Symphony.