Author: Isabelle Justice

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Tucson, Arizona is home to the University of Arizona, a beautiful mountain landscape, and a vibrant Latino culture. These are its redeeming qualities. Besides the fact that it’s a college town, Tuscon has a bad reputation for safety, culture, infrastructure, politics, and opportunities outside of education.

17. College Students

Tucson, Arizona is home to the University of Arizona, founded in 1885. It is rated 103 of the Best National Universities in the United States. It is enrolled with over 40,000 students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. It has undergraduate degrees including but not limited to Psychology, Economics, Marketing, and Communications.

While the University of Arizona provides quality education and a good reputation, there are flaws within the system. There is confusion with tuition and hidden fees, strict parking, and a large undergraduate class, which makes it hard to create professional and productive relationships with professors.

Not to mention that if you’re not a fan of college students or sporting events, Tucson may not be the place for you. There is a lot of pride in the University of Arizona in the Tucson community, and you will be expected to participate in spirit events and attend football and basketball games.

16. High Retired Population

Because of Tucson’s warm and vibrant weather, the community is not only comprised of the 21-year-olds that study at the University of Arizona. There are also many retired couples that have vacation homes in this desert valley. With the drastic difference in the ages of neighbors, many find it hard to get along, and many noise complaints are made to the police department.

If you do not have an affinity for young college kids or old married couples that have a lot of time on their hands, steer clear of Tucson, Arizona.

15. A Transient Community

A transient community simply means that people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds come together in a community for a limited period of time. Most transient communities are just college towns. What makes Tucson so different is that this transient community consists of those college students and old vacation homeowners I spoke about earlier. Additionally, Tucson is close to the border of Mexico, so there is a lot of travel between countries.

Because everyone is coming and going, it can be hard to develop a sense of community in this populated desert city. If you want to make friends that will likely live near you for years to come, you may not want to move to Tuscon.

14. High Homeless Population

There are a lot of homeless people in Tucson, Arizona. If you don’t want to encounter homeless people often, you likely won’t want to move to this city.

The homeless population of Pima County, where Tucson is located, is estimated to be 15% of the state’s total population. This percentage was lower in 2021 compared to 2020 when the population was 19% of the state total. However, with the recent inflation in the United States economy, that number is expected to drastically increase.

13. High Poverty Rate

Related to the homeless population, there is a high poverty rate in Tucson. 20.8% of Tucson’s population was in poverty in 2021. The total population of Tucson, Arizona is about 548,073, which means that about 113,999 people are in poverty. With Tucson being the second most populated state in Arizona, that is definitely not a good statistic.

12. High Crime Rate

In conjunction with a high homeless population and poverty rate, there is also a high crime rate. This includes incidents of violence and assault. Priority 1 calls for the Tuscon Police Department have gone up 35% from nearly 1,900 to 2,500, and there were about 87 murders in 2021 – a personal record for the highly populated city.

The residents of Tucson have a 1 in 20.2 chance of becoming a victim of property crime. While Tuscon was the 5th most dangerous city to live on this list, it has been first in previous years. If you choose to move to Tuscon, make sure you invest in a high-quality security system for your home and have items with you at all times that you can use to protect yourself.

11. High Vehicle Theft

According to the Tucson Police Department, in October of 2021, about 22 cars were stolen in Tuscon. In 2017, there were 452 car thefts in Tucson, and in 2018, there were 478 cars stolen in this city. This is a stark contrast from an all-time high in 2001 where 1,423 cars were stolen or 1,233 in 2005, but Tuscon still has a higher car theft average than the national average. In 2018, an average of 267 cars were stolen in the state of Arizona compared to the national average of 229, which is not comforting.

While numbers have improved, Tuscon is still not considered a car-safe city. People will scratch or hit cars and not leave a note, and cars will be stolen if you leave your keys in your car – more so than in other cities.

10. Understaffed Police Force

With all the social issues happening, it’s no surprise that you don’t want to be a cop that works in Tuscon. Sources show that the Tuscon Police Department is short about 122 officers. The workload that is demanded from the officers and the overtime required is draining on the Police Department and police officers. There is a high turnover rate with 8 or 9 officers quitting or transferring each month.

Additionally, the response time is at an all-time low. In 2016, the response time was 66%. In 2021, the response time was 48%. Assistant Chief Kevin Hall of the Tuscon Police Department explains that if there is a serious injury collision, a shooting, a stabbing, or an assault there is a guaranteed response. Hall explains that officers are intentional about the situations they engage in to reduce life-threatening situations.

9. Rustic, Not Refined

Tucson is not a glamorous town. The city website itself is candid about Tuscon’s rustic nature, but that might be because there’s no going around it. What makes Tucson unique is its incredible food and nightlife, but that may not be everyone’s cup of tea if you are looking for something fancier. Roads are trashed, neighborhoods are not well kept by the city or residents, and besides the beautiful landscape and colorful buildings, it’s not very pretty.

8. Few Established Neighborhoods

When some hear HOA or Home Owners Association, they are viewed as the group of people that tells you “no” or “that’s not allowed” when you want to do things to or around your home like paint or build a fence. While this can be frustrating, in a city with a high crime rate, understaffed police, and poor city infrastructure, more Home Owners Association may be needed for a nicer-looking neighborhood.

To put it simply, a lot of Tuscon neighborhoods are badly taken care of, specifically others’ yards. There are very few established neighborhoods and no Home Owners Association regulations, which makes for a lot of nasty yards. If that bothers you, it may be hard to find a neighborhood in Tuscon that fits your standards. If you manage to find a home that meets your standards, it will likely be out of your budget. Be prepared to do a lot of yard work to improve the area around your home if you move to Tuscon and want a nice garden or yard space.

7. Poor Water Drainage

Arizona is home to the monsoon season or a period of time during the summer when there are multiple thunder and lightning storms. This season runs from about June 15 to September 30 every year, and the storms are at their worst in mid-July and mid-August.

Tucson, while charming, is not highly developed. Sure, there are some nice spots in town, but due to poor water drainage systems and drains that are often blocked, when a monsoon hits, many homes are flooded.

The biggest portion of flooding occurs because of drains that are nonregulated (non-public water drains). They can also be caused by neighboring drains, which can cause nearby feuds. Tucson may not be the fanciest place in Arizona, but you probably don’t want to live somewhere where flooding is a yearly concern.

6. Inadequate Roads

In places like Utah, there is a freeway that runs straight through the state and gives easy access to neighboring towns or cities. In Tucson, that’s not the case. I-10, or Interstate 10, runs through parts of Tucson, but to really get anywhere, you will need to utilize surface streets. Because of this, it can take 20 to 30 minutes to get places.

Additionally, there is a lack of money for road repairs. Pheonix is usually first priority for road repairs and is able to take most of the road improvement taxes, thus denying what Tucson needs financially. Tuscon also has a lower income, so taxes that are taken from locals is not enough to reconstruct roads that need it.

There is also no maintenance done on the side of roads or highways, so there is a lot of garbage and they are not very pretty. It does not reflect the natural beauty Tucson has to offer.

5. Lots of Crosswalks

Bad roads and a lack of funding to fix them means there are a lot of crosswalks. There are lights for cars to stop and most people utilize them. However, if you’re a driver and are constantly in a hurry, the crosswalks, beeping slights, and slow pedestrians will get on your nerves. It will also add a few minutes to your drive time, so you will really need to plan things out in advance.

4. Poor City Council

There is a poor city council in Tuscon, Arizona, or at least for those working for them. The job itself is demanding, pays less than minimum wage due to hours that are needed, and the members have not gotten a raise in 20 years. Tucson has a lot of needs, a lot of people, and not enough money to support it.

Regina Romero is the current mayor of Tuscon and her term ends December 4, 2023. She is extremely qualified, with a bachelor’s in Communication and a certificate in state and local government from Harvard University. Even with her background, there have been few improvements done to the city during her candidacy.

3. Higher Taxes

As money is a big issue, the City of Tucson asked voters to extend the existing half-cent sales tax for an additional 10 years. This extension does not increase the 2.6% sales tax rate but will build $740 million to be used solely for neighborhood street improvements and other road safety situations. There is high doubt this tax increase will ever be let go.

However, Pima County has the highest sales tax in Arizona at 11.1%. Maricopa county, where Gilbert and Mesa are, has a 10.3% tax. Mohave County has the lowest tax rate at 8.6%. A higher sales tax may generate more improvements for the community but can be hard on college students and low-income families alike.

2. Poor Job Market

In Tuscon, because there is a lack of money, people are not paid a lot of money, even if they have good jobs. The highest paying jobs are professors that earn about $100K a year. There are a lot of options for college jobs, but for something more sophisticated, Tuscon doesn’t have a lot of options. The median income is $37,000 per year.

1. Lack of Affordable Housing

Like in other places in the United States, inflation hit this bustling city hard. Home prices are predicted to rise 8% in 2022. The median price for a single-family home is $385,000 and has increased 3.5% year after year.

Additionally, in 2021, Tuscon was ranked as the 8th least affordable city in the United States. Tuscon was previously thought of as a very affordable place to live in 2016, but home prices have increased, leaving families that make $30,000 to $40,000 a year struggling to pay the bills.

Newport Beach, California is often thought of as a popular tourist destination for Utah and Arizona locals, but there is more to this town than Fourth of July parties and a busy boardwalk. Newport Beach is considered to be one of the gems of southern California, especially for those who live here year around. From perfect temperatures, gorgeous sunsets, and the beach that truly lives at your front door, here are 17 reasons why you should consider moving to Newport Beach.

1. A Healthier And Happier Beachfront Lifestyle

This is the first thing that attracts visitors to Newport Beach, and one of the main factors as to why people choose to move here is because they crave the beachfront lifestyle. This lively coastal community has a population of nearly 87,000 residents in 2020, and many locals that spent their childhood years will leave Newport for a time and then choose to move back home because they can’t get enough of the beachfront living. What makes them so happy here?

Well, living a walk away from the beach means that there is truly always something to do! And daily activities or plans can help combat depression. For those with families, you can have an idea that your children will be running towards the beach and ocean waves with their friends versus battling virtual pals with a gaming tablet. In fact, studies have shown that people who live closer to the coast or beachfront have better health. This could be due to living near water means the unintentional exercise of walking, swimming, surfing, or running. For whatever reason, the ocean lifestyle can make others happier, and there are few other places that do it like Newport Beach, California.

2. Nearby Shopping Centers

California is the center of social media trends, pop stars, influencers, and the picturesque American lifestyle. Because of this, Newport Beach subsequently has some of the best shopping in the west of the United States! Here are some of the best places to go shopping in or near Newport Beach.

Fashion Island

Right in the heart of Newport Beach just away from the coast is the famous Fashion Island. Full of luxury and your favorite shops, Fashion Island has something for everyone. Whether it be a family dinner, shopping for the Prom, or even if you just need a refreshed wardrobe, Fashion Island has your back.

Downtown Huntington Beach

Okay, this may not be right in Newport Beach, but Huntington is just next door, approximately 6 miles away and an 8-minute drive hypothetically, or a 10 to 15-minute drive when giving grace for possible traffic. Downton Huntington has plenty of surf shops, such as Volcom, Hurley, and Billabong, There are also local vendors and over 50 dining options.

Newport Beach Boutiques

Scattered strategically throughout Newport Beach are plenty of local surf shops and boutiques. These are located right next to the boardwalks where you are sure to find your new favorite store. Stores include local places such as Luna Boutique, Stevie Sister, ivy & pine boutique, Common Thread, and many more.

3. Quality And Uplifting Schooling Options

Although Newport Beach is a city that comes from an abundance of money and inheritance (because after all, it is California), there is quite a laid-back culture here. Locals report that when their children are in high school, their classmates may come from money and nice cars, but they wear beach and surfer clothes just like anyone else. One Newport Beach local reported that the kids that go to the same high school he did, do not look much different than his own graduating class. At the end of the day, these are just high school kids going to school and surfing on the weekends.

Public schooling in Newport Beach sits comfortably at the national United States average. For schooling with higher ratings, there are in fact more private schools than there are public schools in Newport Beach. In fact, there are 3 public schools serving nearly 900 students in Newport Beach, California, and 9 private schools serving close to 2,100 students. Parents have options for their children’s education, giving another good reason to make the move to Newport Beach.

4. Fantastic Weather All Year

Newport Beach has nearly picture perfect weather throughout the entire year. In fact, Newport Beach can be a little cooler than the rest of the scortching southern west of the United States. This gives you and the locals their own sanctuary during the hot summer months and ever-increasing temperatures.

We created a table for the average Newport Beach temperatures below, which sit in the low 70s. Keep in mind that in the summer there are often days that can hit up to the mid-80s. August is the hottest average month in Newport Beach, and the misty beach mornings tend to be much chillier than what the day actually entails temperature-wise.

Month

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Hottest Average

64.4°F (18°C)

63.3°F (17.4°C)

64.8°F (18.2°C)

66.6°F (19.2°C)

67.6°F (19.8°C)

70.7°F (21.5°C)

75°F (23.9°C

76.6°F (24.8°C

76.1°F (24.5°C)

73°F (22.8°C)

68.5°F (20.3°C)

53.1°F (11.7°C)

Fahrenheit Range

53.6 to 64.4

52.3 to 63.3

52.4 to 64.8

54.9 to 66.6

56.8 to 67.6

58.6 to 70.7

63.5 to 75

64.9 to 76.6

64.2 to 76.1

62.1 to 73

57.9 to 68.5

53.1 to 62.4

Celcius Range

12 to 18

11.3 to 17.4

11.9 to 18.2

12.7 to 19.2

13.8 to 19.8

14.8 to 21.5

17.5 to 23.9

18.3 to 24.8

17.9 to 24.5

16.7 to 22.8

14.4 to 20.3

11.7 to 16.9

Newport Beach, California Average Annual Weather

5. Plenty of Local Businesses

Putting the local boutiques that I mentioned before aside, there are still plenty of local businesses from residents that have been here for years! One local favorite is Seaside Donuts and Bakery. They not only have delicious donuts, but they have great coffee and tea options! The local police officers love this place and the workers are extremely friendly. This is one of the many businesses you will find on the boardwalk.

6. A Friendly Transient Community

Newport Beach is known as a transient community, meaning that many residents have Newport Beach as their vacation or summer home, and live in other places the rest of the year. Because many people are simply coming and going as they please, neighbors that are here all year are used to newcomers and then saying goodbye. Many can assume because there is so much population traffic that there is not a sense of community in Newport Beach, but that is truly not the case here.

Everyone is truly so friendly and kind here and they are okay with new families moving in, such as yourself! You won’t be excluded from others simply because of where you are from or where are you going.

7. Suburban And Urban Feel

Newport Beach offers a kind of living that is hard to find elsewhere. It has a healthy mix of easy beachfront living that is quite suburban, as well as all of your favorite urban amenities such as plenty of shopping, quality grocery stores, and a somewhat fast-paced lifestyle. Newport can offer some tranquility and quiet for those who seek it, and a sociable, fast-paced atmosphere for those who prefer that. The truth to take away here is that Newport Beach can be a quiet suburban neighborhood with beach views or a playful and joyful city lifestyle. There is something here for everyone!

8. Community Events All Year

Newport Beach residents know how to have a good time! There are events that go on year around, such as the Newport Beach Jazz Festival, the International Film festival, the west coast Yacht and Boat Show, and the Christmas Boat Parade. There are also cultural opportunities, such as Broadway plays, musicals, ballets, operas, and of course, the Orange County Performing Arts Center.

9. Fourth of July Festivities

Speaking of community festivities, the Fourth of July is the most popular time to visit Newport Beach. Why is this? Either families will rent out beach houses with their little ones for a great beach vacation or high school graduates will join together on a beachfront rental for a true fourth of July rager. To give some perspective, the population grows by 20,000 people during the summer and can have a range of 20,000 to 100,000 daily tourists.

People love coming to visit Newport Beach, and because of this, some fantastic fourth of July holidays can be spent here! There are incredible firework shows put on by the city that you can watch on the beach with your loved ones.

10. Easy Access to Popular California Destinations

When you think of southern California, attractions come to mind such as Disneyland, Catalina Island, and Los Angeles. While Newport is not directly next door to each of these famous attractions, Newport Beach has some easy access to the highway. Plus, Newport Beach has some pretty nearby awesome weekend vacations!! I mean, Disneyland is only half an hour away!

11. Great Nightlife

As I mentioned before, plenty of college-aged students will take a road trip to Newport Beach as well as plenty of other California locals for a fun weekend. Don’t let the sound of tourists scare you off! When visitor levels are low and the scene is calmer, there is still some pretty great nightlife, such as bars, restaurants, and of course, the beach! Newport Beach has a very lively energy to it.

12. Housing Investments

It’s no secret that Newport Beach, California is extremely expensive. In fact, it is the most expensive place to buy a home in the United States! And it is no surprise. On August 31, 2022, the median home value in Newport Beach was a whopping $3,267,510. Due to 2022’s inflation, home values have skyrocketed 17.6% compared to the previous year. In the 2010s however, home values in Newport sat at about 2 million dollars. If you have a great deal for a home in Newport Beach or inherited a home, this could be a great investment opportunity.

13. Surfing

If you have ever wanted to learn how to surf and you are planning on moving to Newport Beach, then you are in luck! The ocean is right at your doorstep! Surfing is a big part of California’s culture and there are plenty of surf shops to buy boards and even swim guards. If you are interested in surfing, Newport Beach may be a great option for you!

14. A Popular Place To Retire

If you are looking at Newport Beach as a place to retire, you are in the right place. The beachfront, restaurants, and shopping, are enough to persuade some families to live here. However, this is a retirement dream! Newport Beac has plenty of luxury senior living communities, and if you get in contact with a realtor, you can even find quiet communities to move to. There, you can have a perfect beachfront sanctuary where your grandkids can come visit!

15. Beachfront Entertainment

In Newport Beach, there is plenty of beachfront entertainment, such as places for a bonfire, whale and dolphin watching, crab hunting, and collecting sea shells. For the simple-minded child or someone looking for a way to spend time on the beach, Newport Beach is a great option to research!

16. Harbor Area

Newport Beach has the largest recreational harbor on the west coast, such as cruises or stand-up paddleboarding. There are plenty of resorts, cottages, or rental properties to choose from for visitors and plenty of locals come here for a fun weekend adventure. This harbor was formed in the early 1900s and started booming. Today, it has approximately 9,000 boats and is a popular place for personal sailing, fishing, and other water activities.

17. Quality Healthcare

Newport Beach is the host of one of the best regional hospitals in the area known as the Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian. It was named one of the best by the U.S. News. This is great for those who may be concerned about their or their loved ones health, as well as those who have children.

Montana is an icon of the “Old West”, with state parks, towering mountains, and hiking from every corner. Nicknamed the “Magic City”, Billings is the capital and largest city in the state of Montana with a population of 109,705 residents. Is Billings, Montana a good place to move to, and what kind of families live here?

Here are 17 reasons you should consider moving to Billings, Montana!

1. Largest City in the State of Montana

Billings is the epicenter of Montana’s economy, shopping scene, and culture. While Montana is sparsely populated and this city barely makes it over 100,000 residents, Billings is a great combination of a small-town feel with big-town amenities. If you are looking for the true “rural and urban experience”, the City of Billings is very much worth looking into.

If you live in Montana, you need to be prepared for no cell service and some handyman skills. It can be hard to connect with others when you need some help because so much of Montana is rural. However, because Billings is the biggest city with the most amenities, you won’t have to worry too much about this compared to other small towns in Montana.

2. Everyone Dresses Casual

They say that in the northern states no one really cares what you wear, how you look, and all the personal family drama. When I lived in the Pacific Northwest, this definitely was the case. It was rare when you dressed up, and dressing up meant a nice pair of pants, a nice t-shirt, and maybe some heels (depending on the rare occasion). Montana suffers the same fate, and for someone who has a hard time with the crowd, the noise, and the judgment from nosy neighbors, this sounds like a dream to me! If you like the quiet privacy of a rural community and want to be left alone, Billings is a fantastic spot to look into.

3. Friendly Neighbors

In Montana, there really aren’t a lot of people. A lot of areas are quite dispersed, meaning that if you grew up in the same small town, it’s likely you will become great friends and stick together because you’re out in the middle of nowhere together. That being said, Montanans are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Whether it is helping you carry your groceries to your car or making small talk in a cafe, you will get to know your neighbors. Even though it seems like everyone has been friends forever, you can easily make your way in.

Additionally, people in Billings, Montana are fiercely independent and love the land they are from. Everyone is very polite and will lend a hand if you need one. The people are hard-working, easy-going, honest, and genuine. Like I said before, they don’t care what kind of shoes you’re wearing or your hairstyle. To them, hard work and kindness are more adorable qualities.

4. Montana State University Billings

Establish in 1923, Montana State University Billings is a public school in the heart of Billings. It is the state’s third largest university with approximately 3,700 undergraduate students in the spring of 2021. Quite smaller than Montana State University’s main campus with nearly 17,000 students! This university underwent a few name changes, from Eastern Montana Normal School to Eastern Montana College, until it merged with the Montana University System in 1994 under its current name.

This University is a great and affordable option for local students. The acceptable rate is 100% and there is a mix of on-campus and online students. Many students described their school experience as non-traditional with a very friendly student body. It is also known as a small university with large connections!

5. Billings Logan International Airport

The largest and busiest airport in Montana is located in Billings. Known as the Billings Logan International Airport (or BIL for short), five major airlines fly out of this city. They include Allegiant, Alaska Airlines, Cape Air, Delta, and United. The Billings airport is also known for having cheap flights and will typically have 25 to 34 departing flights every day. This airport was opened in 1928 and is considered a quick and safe airport, especially for a small town.

Additionally, The Yellowstone County Museum is just across from the Terminal Building and has a scenic view of downtown Billings, a perfect way to pass the time while waiting for your flight.

6. Beautiful Scenery

Billings, Montana has another name besides the “Magic City”. It is also called the “City Beneath the RimRocks” and the Rimrocks, otherwise known as the “Rims”, are a sandstone formation that lay just above the city. Billings itself is actually divided by the Rimrocks. The Yellowstone River also runs in the southeastern part of the city.

7. Plenty of Outdoor Activities

As far as outdoor activities, Billing’s is a great place to be. There is hiking and biking just outside the city and the Rimrocks have plenty of trails here. One popular tourist activity is horseback riding, and family-owned business Bitter Creek Outfitters offers scenic horseback rides within 10 minutes of downtown Billings which you can find here. You can request picnics, birthday parties, anniversaries, and group photos.

8. Little to No State Sales Tax

You heard that right! In most cases, there is no state sales tax. Some major resort destinations will have state tax for land maintenance and other needed expenses or national park upkeep, such as Big Sky, Red Lodge, and West Yellowstone. Property taxes are more expensive and income taxes are at an average with the rest of the nation.

9. A Strong Rock Climbing Community

In Montana as a whole, there is a strong rock climbing community. This is thanks to the nearby and towering mountains, such as the Rims, the Pryor Mountains, and the Beartooth Mountains. Montana is known for its sandstone formations which many love to climb on. In fact, there is the Western Montana Climbers Coalition, a nonprofit organization who helps climbers of all ages and abilities find a community.

There is also indoor rock climbing at Steep World. Steep World offers birthday parties, events, yoga, fitness, and of course, indoor rock climbing. It truly is an all-in-one gym for the locals and tourists alike!

10. Dog-Friendly Community

As most mountain towns are, Billings, Montana is a very dog-friendly community. In 2019 at the public library, there was a “Read to a Dog” day where local children read to therapy dogs. For off-leash dog parks around town, there is the High-Sierra Dog Park or the Centennial Dog Park.

There is also the “Loveable Pets West End“, a local shop that caters to any pet needs. This can be pet grooming, pet food, treats, collars, leashes, cold weather gear, and harnesses. The shop has a self-serve pet wash, natural pet food, holistic pet supplements, and is next door to a dog-friendly park.

11. Plenty To Do

As I explained before, Montana is rather small. There is not a lot to do, but Billings has a different feeling. There is a great selection of stores and restaurants scattered throughout town and there are many outdoor recreation opportunities, such as rock climbing, hiking the Rimrocks, or going downtown.

12. Moss Mansion

One great attractiont that can help you get down to your Montana roots is the Moss Mansion that was built in 1903. This museum and mansion was designed by New York architect Henry Janeway Hardenburg and the home was inhabited by Melville Moss until the 1980’s. Moss was a great historical figure for Billings. He organzied the first dial telephone company in Billings, founded the Billings Gazette and help fund heating, water, and power companies for the towl. Today, the museum is used for tours and events such as weddings.

13. Pictograph Caves State Park

5 minutes from downtown Billings, nestled in the Rimrocks are three caves with remnants of rock art, also known as pictographs. This state park has had nearly 30,000 artifacts excavated from the area over the years. The art is over 2,000 years old and the hike is only a three quarter mile loop, making it a perfect journey for the whole family.

This landmark was dedicated in 1964 due to archeological significance. The rock art contains pictures of animals and warriors caves approximately 45 feet deep and 160 feet wide. Camping is not allowed, but the Pictograph Caves State Park is great for bird watching and family picnics.

14. Beartooth Highway Is Nearby

Billings has so many great escapes for locals that get exhaused from their 9 am to 5 pm jobs. Billings is alarmingly close to the mountains, with the iconic Beartooth Highway only 60 miles away from the downtown metro area. It is ofted dubbed as “the most beautiful roadway in America.” The entire drive is nearly three hours long from Yellowstone to Red Lodge. For motorcycle enthusiasts, it is a great and iconic road to drive!

15. Next to Red Lodge

Need to get out of Billings? Not only are there hiking and park oppurtunities in town, there are beautiful resort destinations not too far away. The first one I will cover is Red Lodge, Montana which makes its home just beneath the Beartooth mountains and the destination from the Beartooth Highway.

There is a plethora of activities here. You can schedule a day hike with a tour or even a fluffy llama companion! You can go skiing and snowboarding in the winter, outdoor rock climbing in the spring, whitewater rafting in the summer, and horseback riding in the fall. There is a getaway adventure for any member of the family year-round.

16. Skiing or Snowboarding in Big Sky

Big Sky is a bit of a drive from Billings, but is one of the best snow sport destinations in the world. It is known as “The Biggest Skiing in America” and has 5,850 skiable acres across four mountains. They also have events such as sleigh rides, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snow mobiling, and even snowshoeing if skiing and snowboarding isn’t your favorite thing. There are skiing and snowboarding lessosn for families and resorts for long trips.

17. An Epic Yellowstone National Park Trip

The last destination getaway if you’re living in Billings, Montana is its proximity to Yellowstone National Park. The drive is approximately 5 and a half hours, but the path from Billings to the world famous Yellowstone National Park is breathaking. This trip can be different depending on the path you take to get to Yellowstone, but here is one recommened by avid travelers that mention a few destinations outside Billings that we already talked about.

Go to Red Lodge, Montana

As mentioned before, Red Lodge is a quaint little town and is known as the gateway to Yellowstone. You can grad a bite to eat or spend the night in one of their many hotels.

Cross Beartooth Highway, Montana

To get to Yellowstone, the most scenic route is the Beartooth Highway which we described before. It is a 68 mile drive that leads you to the mouth of the north-east enterence. Make sure to plan your trip around the weather if you are taking the Beartooth Highway!

Enter through Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park

This is the closest entrance to Billings, Montana. Most of Yellowstone is located in Wyoming, and Lamar Valley is just over the Montana and Wyoming border. Here you will be greeted with bison and campgrounds.

Cross Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park

Hayden Valley is a great palce to look for coyotes, grizzley bears, and wolves. There are a multitude of lookout spots and rivers.

Visit Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

One of the most popular attractions at Yellowstone, Old Faithful was discovered in 1870 and helped the world’s first national park be born in 1872. Here, more than 3,700 gallons of water erupt in a duration of a minute and a half and will erupt abotu 20 times per day. The water is also a scaffoling 204 degrees! So make sure to stay away!

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Don’t let the beautiful acres of pine trees and pristine blue waters cloud your reasoning! While making the move to a beautiful destination can have its perks, moving to Coeur D’Alene, Idaho is not the wisest decision for a city-minded person who loves the warmth, shopping, diverse culture, and the mainstream media.

1. Moody Weather

For those who are not sure, Coeur D’Alene, Idaho is located near the northwest border of Idaho. This town is 30 minutes away from Washington and a 2-hour drive (or 105 miles south) of the Canadian border.

Because of its northern and borderline Canadian location, Coeur D’Alene is the centerpiece of moody weather. This means that Coeur D’Alene is cloudy and rainy until June, just to turn dark again in September. This leaves about 2 to 3 months of sunlight. Additionally, the lakes are stunning but often too cold to use, leaving you with no choice but to go back indoors. This contributes to seasonal depression, a running theme for Coeur D’Alene residents.

Normal snowfall for Coeur D’Alene winters is 69.8 inches. However, the winter of 2007 was recorded as the snowiest winter for northern Idaho with a whopping 172.9 inches. I was 6 at the time of this storm, and I still remember how we couldn’t leave our house because all the doors were completely blocked with dense snow. Of course, I was just happy that school was canceled! But looking back, it was a stressful time for young parents. The unpredictable weather can create true hazards for fragile populations such as children and the elderly.

2. It’s Politically Charged

If you are looking to move to Coeur D’Alene because you don’t mind the cold weather and you want to get some peace and quiet from the media, you are looking in the wrong place.

Coeur D’Alene is located in Kootenai County, which is considered to be very conservative. 70% of residents voted for the Republican party in the 2020 election, with only 27% voting democrat and 3% independent. To give context as to why these numbers are considered so high, Wyoming was voted as the most Republican or right-leaning state in the United States of America. Only 57% of residents identify as Republican, 18% unaffiliated, and 25% democrat.

This means that Coeur D’Alene has 13% more republican residents than the most right-leaning state in the country! But that’s not all.

As mentioned before, Coeur D’Alene is a short 30-minute drive from Spokane, Washington, which is the closest nearby city. As Republican as Coeur D’Alene is, Spokane is just as Democrat. Each city is highly political on opposing sides, creating tensions and inner contempt for their neighbors. Coeur D’Alene was politically divisive before it became the norm.

3. Religion is a Hot Button Topic

With political tensions close by, religion follows suit. Approximately 60% of people in Coeur D’Alene are religious and almost all are sections of Christianity. 36.1% are Catholic, 14% are the Assembly of God, 13.6% are the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6.5% are Lutheran, and 5.5% are Evangelical Lutheran.

While the sects of Christianity hold similar beliefs and are unified on paper, different groups of religions ultimately believe different things. Because of this, people in Coeur D’Alene are often condescending to those with differing beliefs, even if the people they are opposed to are predominately white and Christian. means that it can be hard to break into social groups once moving here. The groups are the church (or lack thereof), school, and families. If you don’t have those things, you will most likely be left out.

4. It Has a Simple Culture

The nice thing about north Idaho is that it does have its own culture, however diverse you feel it is not. Residents don’t care how you look, what you wear, or the material things that social media and states like California, Utah, or Arizona obsess over. They are extremely hardworking with little financial gain. Everyone has a job, but there is a lack of professionals. Residents tend to work a normal 9-5 job.

93.37% of residents are white, 3.37% are Hispanic, 2.74% are biracial, 1.83% are American Indian, 1.22% are Asian, and .26% are African American.

So, the culture in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho is white, conservative, somewhat redneck, Christian, and hardworking. It is people that love the land they live on and that will stand to protect it.

5. Small Town, Big Ego

North Idaho is known not to be highly populated and the people of Coeur D’Alene, they believe they are the exception. Most residents were born and raised in Kootenai County, just to stay there for the rest of their lives. They are fiercely conservative, ready to fight back against the radical left or any change to keep their loved town protected.

And these fears are backed up by statistics! Coeur D’Alene, Idaho had a 4.1% population increase from July 2020 to July 2021. This is a terrifying change, so as the population increases, so do egos.

6. Downtown Coeur D’Alene

With that ego in mind, residents think of the Downtown area as a big city, when in reality, the downtown metro is nothing compared to the expansive cities of New York or California. While Coeur D’Alene is beautiful and I have nothing but fond childhood memories of the place, it is by no means a cultural melting pot. Coeur D’Alene is special in its natural beauty, family-oriented community, and outdoor activities, but ordinary in the rest.

7. North Idaho College

Otherwise known as NIC, North Idaho College has an enrollment of about 2,000 undergraduate students. The acceptance rate is 100% and popular majors include Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Business. Their graduating starting salary is about 26,000 dollars and the price is about 7,000 per year with 89% of students receiving financial aid. Additionally, only 35% of students graduate but 83% of graduates are employed.

So what do these statistics mean? For starters, North Idaho College is by no means prestigious. However, North Idaho College is considered a great college by locals, but 11 out of 12 in the ranking of Idaho schools.

North Idaho College is a great transitioning point between high school and University institutions because it is a safe and (relatively) inexpensive place to learn. The campus is beside the Spokane River and protected by pine trees.

However, North Idaho College is located near the downtown area. This means that if you are older and looking for a quiet place to spend your retirement and you are dead set on Coeur D’Alene, you might want to move to Hayden, Idaho, or Post Falls, Idaho, which are two nearby cities. If college towns are not your thing, North Idaho College would be a reason not to move to Coeur D’Alene.

8. California Resentment

Because of the Coronavirus Pandemic, lockdowns, political turmoil, and societal restrictions, California’s culture has changed drastically. There are increased restrictions during and post-pandemic and Californian residents are wanting a change and a chase to the mountains. They want to experience a right-leaning atmosphere that is cheaper than California and nearby. Oregon and Washington are beautiful but similar politically, so Idaho is the raging opposite.

The population in Coeur D’Alene (while small) is rising, making it not the ideal “private getaway location”. In 2020, 80,000 people moved to Idaho, making the city grow by 21%.

9. Increasing Expenses

While Californians try to find their niche, newcomers are difficult for Coeur D’Alene residents. This is because this increase in population brings a rise in pricing, leaving the new residents to take over an Idahoan’s childhood town.

The average home price in Coeur D’Alene is 500,000 dollars, but in 2010, the average home price was 200,000 dollars. The truth is, prices are increasing and kicking out Coeur D’Alene locals.

10. Low Income

Another sad truth of Coeur D’Alene is that there is a low income that cannot combat these rising prices. The minimum wage in Idaho is 7.25, but most jobs that adults are working for are about 15 dollars an hour. Families are mostly dual-income who are just trying to get by and living paycheck to paycheck, or families are wealthy and enjoy their time here in the vacation town of Coeur D’Alene.

11. Home Quality

It can sometimes feel like the poor get poorer and the rich get richer in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. An average home is 500,000, which is cheaper compared to home markets in other parts of the states, but that is reflected in the quality of homes available to the average person.

There are beautiful homes in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho, but they are in the millions, reserved for the wealthy, or the famous. The average homes available are older, not of amazing quality, and not the most “Pinterest worthy”.

12. Poor Industry

Speaking of the economy, Coeur D’Alene, Idaho does not have a lot of growth to offer in terms of employment for the everyday person. Most adult jobs include restaurant hosts, teachers, grocery store workers, and trades.

There are not a lot of professionals, but the ones that are considered to be professional are doctors, who are still considered to be doing trade, and a few businessmen that milk the vacation market of Coeur D’Alene.

13. Limited Shopping

While the small business boom in Coeur D’Alene, there is not a lot of name-brand shopping. Silver Lakes Mall is the closest and only indoor shopping mall in Coeur D’Alene but was considered a “dead mall” for many years, meaning that it was still open for business, but was certainly not flourishing or had filled stores.

Today, Silver Lakes Mall has made a bit of a comeback but still features mostly small and local businesses. Name-brand stores in Silver Lakes Mall include Macy’s, Claires, Bath & Body Works, and Joanns Crafts.

Downtown Coeur D’Alene has a little more variety, but most boutiques are for weddings or expensive jewelry. There are skincare stores that sell handmade products, candy stores, an olive oil shop, and art galleries just to name a few.

13. Tourist Culture

As mentioned before, there is a flood of Californians moving to Coeur D’Alene, but that does not consider the tourists. As of 2017, there is an estimate of 2 million tourists per year. While Coeur D’Alene is growing, it is not densely busy. But if tourists just make you go crazy, Coeur D’Alene might not be the best pick.

14. Far From Home

While the Spokane Airport is just 40 minutes away from Coeur D’Alene, this means that if your family doesn’t live in Washington or Montana, you will be spending a lot of your time there. With prices for airplane tickets skyrocketing, there are times when you might skip the holidays with your family. Homesickness is a common issue with new Coeur D’Alene residents with a costly cure.

16. Wild Animals

Another factor of living in Coeur D’Alene is that you are living in the woods. But living in this kind of nature means bugs, arachnids, deer, moose, grizzly bears, pokey pine needles, spikey stickers, mosquitos, gray wolves, woodland caribou, and lynx cats.

The wild animals sound like out of a fairy tale, right? Well, not when you go into your basement to find it infested with bugs, to have a deer run into your car one late evening, or have to be concerned about bears when your children play near your backyard. Yes, these were all things that we had to worry about or have happened to us as a young family living in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho.

17. A History of White Supremacy

As the political atmosphere concerning race becomes more tumultuous, sounds of white supremacy groups make people run for the hills, especially if you are a person of color. And those dangers are real for Coeur D’Alene residents, as this place was once the center of white supremacist movements. While things have calmed down, I remember white supremacists marching in local parades. Being a child and watching these political and hateful movements, I felt confused and it wasn’t until I grew up that I understood the magnitude of those actions.

There is a Human Rights Education Insitute in Coeur D’Alene that is working to combat these small and hateful protests. Regardless, these movements are not completely shut down and this can be one of the biggest turn-offs when deciding to move to Coeur D’Alene, Idaho because it is a hateful, condemning, and awful factor.

17 Reasons Not to Move to Coeur D’Alene, Idaho

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Wyoming is what remains of the beautiful old American west. It is cradled by mountains, planes, wildlife, and ranches. For those who are interested in making Cheyenne, Wyoming their new home, specifically for retirement, be sure to keep these 11 things in mind!

1. Spirit of the Old West

Wyoming is considered the nation’s rodeo and railroad capital. It is home to a rich abundance of American history, great plains, and distant mountains. Cheyenne has a variety of historic hotels, mansions, steam engines, resorts, ranches, and western-themed attractions. If the old west is your style, Cheyenne, Wyoming will not disappoint you!

Below is a list of attractions to visit during retirement in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These places are great for a variety of ages and a perfect way to keep grandkids entertained.

Governor’s Mansion	This mansion was once the home of the Wyoming state governors but is now a fully-functioning museum. Admission is free.
Cheyenne Frontier Days	Every July, there is a 10-day festival with rodeos, food, vendors, western activities, and a grand city parade. it is a perfect family-friendly tradition.
Terry Bison Ranch	This ranch is world famous for its train ride through the prairie where you can see bison up close. There is horseback riding available and places to fish.
Cheyenne Botanic Gardens	This is the only botanical garden in the state! Wyoming is a challenging climate for gardening, but the Cheyenne Botanic Garden hosts beautiful plants, preservation tips, jobs, and scenery. It is also home to Wyoming’s oldest steam engine: Engine 1242. Admission is free.
Wyoming State Museum	This museum is great for children. There are hands-on activities, a place to roast smores and identify bones, and dinosaur exhibits
Cheyenne Depot Museum	This museum holds the history of the steam train. It features monuments, statues, community events, festivals, trains, and information on the transcontinental railroad.
Paul Smith Children’s Village	This attraction is perfect for when grandkids come and visit. It has education about the botanic garden and plant sustainability. However, it was built with children in mind. Visitors can play in teepees, and sand castles, hear stories, make crafts, and interact in the gardens. There is even a puppet theater! Admission is free.
Curt Gowdy State Park	24 miles away from Cheyenne, this state park has trails, fishing, cabin rentals, boating, fishing, water skiing, and affordable campsites for all ages.
Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum	5 minutes north of downtown, this museum is right where the Frontier Days are held. It has Native American history and places to learn more about the competition. It holds Frontier Days art, saddles, trophies, and carriages.
The Boots of Cheyenne	Cheyenne has lots of art downtown, but this is the most popular attraction. There are more than 25 sets of boots around town! They are hand-painted and first spotted around town in 2004.

2. A Below-Average Healthcare System

Wyoming’s healthcare system is nothing to write home about. In fact, according to the finance site WalletHub, Wyoming was ranked at the bottom for the best and worst American states for health care in 2020. Wyoming scored 38 out of the 51 locations ranked.

To find this score, WalletHub compared healthcare cost, accessibility, and outcome. The best states for healthcare were Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Minnesota. The worst states for healthcare were Oklahoma, Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi.

For those who are retiring and experiencing chronic health issues, this is something important to keep in mind. If you are set on retiring in Cheyenne, Wyoming and healthcare is a concern, find a healthcare provider you can depend on beforehand by doing your research and making the necessary phone calls.

3. Few places to eat and shop

While there is an abundance of free activities, there is a big lack of restaurants and shopping. Don’t get me wrong, there are great places to eat in Cheyenne! But it is limited to a few genres of food – American, Asian, and Italian. There is not a ton of options when it comes to food and shopping.

There is the Frontier Mall just in town, but the shopping options are very limited. There are a few more food options at the mall such as Chili’s, Olive Garden, Chipotle, Five Guys, Renzios Greek Food, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, and Crumbl Cookies.

In town, your chain store shopping options are Dillard’s, JCPenney, T.J. Maxx, and Ross.

4. Military, Republican, and Friendly City

Cheyenne, Wyoming is a somewhat conservative city. Its county, Laramie County, is strongly conservative. This city has an active United States Airforce base and the community has a deep appreciation for the military. The base houses approximately 4,000 service members and 5,000 family members off-base in the community.

Politics aside, Cheyenne itself is really friendly. Whether it is going to the grocery store, a local museum, or even a daily walk, you are bound to get to know your neighbors well. It is also a very family-friendly city, whether that be for grandparents or grandkids.

5. No Large Cities in the State

Despite being the state capital, Cheyenne has a population of only 65,000 residents! That’s a similar size to Idaho Falls, Idaho, or Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. So although you may be retiring in a new city, think of it more like a small town. Cheyenne, Wyoming is certainly beautiful, but it is small. Because the town is so small, there is little to no daily traffic, save it be community events such as Frontier Days. If you long to retire somewhere where you will not be bothered, Cheyenne is a great option.

The video below puts into perspective what life in small-town Cheyenne, Wyoming is like. The creator is able to describe just how small this city is all while showing his favorite spots in the city. This video is a great way to get a visual of what life in Cheyenne is like.

6. Near A College Town

If you are interested in taking classes in your free time from the state’s university, look into the University of Wyoming. The institution itself is very affordable and there is a student population of nearly 14,000. The campus is beautiful and there is a strong community. The school is located in Laramie and is a short 50-minute drive away.

There is also a strong sports spirit in Laramie for basketball, cross country, football, soccer, tennis, swimming, and gold. If you are interested in these teams, Cheyenne has a new sports team for you to cheer on; the University of Wyoming Cowboys!

7. Four Cold and Windy Seasons

The coldest month out of the year is, unsurprisingly, January at an overnight temperate of nearly 15 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest month of the year is July and the average daytime temperature rises to nearly 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Month	Low (Fahrenheit)	High (Fahrenheit)
January	14.8 degrees	37.1 degrees
February	17.2 degrees	40.5 degrees
March	22 degrees	46.4 degrees
April	28.7 degrees	54.4 degrees
May	38.3 degrees	64.4 degrees
June	47.5 degrees	75.4 degrees
July	53.4 degrees	81.9 degrees
August	52 degrees	79.8 degrees
September	42.9 degrees	70.3 degrees
October	32.5 degrees	58.2 degrees
November	22.1 degrees	44.5 degrees
December	16.1 degrees	38.1 degrees

8. Little Diversity

As most old western cities and states go, most of the population is of one race. In Cheyenne, Wyoming, 87.3% of citizens are white. 1.7 percent are Black or African American, while 1.5 percent are Asian and .6 percent are American Indian or Alaska Native.

9. There is no Retirement Income Tax

Those who want to retire in the state of Wyoming are in luck! Wyoming does not impose an income tax, state income tax, social security tax, or other retirement taxes. Wyoming also has one of the lowest property taxes in the nation, with a tax rate of nearly .6%.

10. Close to Colorado, Far From the Tetons

When many people think of Wyoming, they think of the towering Grand Tetons and Jackon Hole, Wyoming. However, that is across the state and is a brutal 7-hour drive. Cheyenne, Wyoming is located just next to Interstate 25 and the border of Colorado. It is more Colorado than it is Idaho or even Montana.

Thankfully, for easy travel, there is the Cheyenne Regional Airport. Tickets from Jackson Hole and Cheyenne are nearly $350 per person in 2022. So if you are not feeling up to the long drive to the Tetons, there is a quick 1-hour flight offered instead thanks to the local airport. This is also helpful if you have family or loved ones elsewhere in the country and want to make a quick visit.

11. Affordable Living

Cheyenne, Wyoming is one of the most affordable places to live in 2022. With inflation on the rise, there was a small 8% population boom since 2020 because of its affordability. The median average home price is over 300,000 dollars. If you live just outside of town on the beautiful ranches, home prices can easily be up to 1 million dollars. As you go north or west, houses are generally more expensive than in the south and the east of the city.

Nestled just west of Portland is Hillsboro, the fifth largest city in the state of Oregon. Hillsboro is a high tech and growing city that has been listed multiple times as the most affordable city in the state or the best place to live in the country. Is this too good to be true? Why is Hillsboro, Oregon such a great place to live, what kind of families live here, and is it the right fit for you?

1. The Most Affordable City In Oregon

Hillsboro, Oregon is considered one of the most affordable places to live in the state. In 2020, the average house price in the United States was $230,000. The average housing cost of the neighboring city of Portland, Oregon is $450,000. In Hillsboro in 2020, the average price of a house was $380,000!

Because of inflation from 2022, the average home price in Hillsboro, Oregon is $500,000 while prices in Portland are just under $600,000. This is a major jump from 2020, but even by today’s standards, it is still an affordable city to live in. In fact, living in Hillsboro is still less expensive than living in Portland by 6.7% less expensive than general living in Portland and is 9.5% less expensive than Portland’s housing costs. Monthly rent for an apartment comes in at approximately $1,500 per month.

2. A Strong Local Government

Hillsboro’s local government is quite strong and has clear communication with its citizens. For example, in June of 2022, Hillsboro announced its 2022 to 2023 Fiscal Budget. Projects and programs included were a year round emergency shelter, Hilight build out internet service, beginning stages of the new Police Department, Block 67 shopping development, an inclusive playground, Ron Ronkin Field expansion, continued development of the Willamette water supply system, a new 24/7 Fire & Rescue medic unit, continued construction for the Nueva Esperanza affordable housing project, and expansion of workforce development, including new internships.

Additionally in 2021, the City of Hillsboro was awarded the highest honor in governmental budgeting, proving that the city can create feasible goals and follow through with them.

3. Great Place to Raise a Family

Hillsboro is a great place to raise a family because of its suburban charm. Within the past 15 years, Hillsboro has seen new development because of all the tech jobs that are available. There are a plethora of new housing developments, or “cookie cutter neighborhoods”, if you will. These kinds of homes are really great for young families and are close in proximity to parks, grocery stores, nature tours, farm tours, quality schools, and family friendly events.

4. Large Technology Industry

What puts Hillsboro’s name on the map is its influence on the technology industry. In fact, large companies like Intel, Apple, and Google have offices in Hillsboro. In fact, Hillsboro is the fourth highest concentration of computer and electronics companies in the United States. Many families will move here because of job opportunities in the tech (or even agriculture) industry. The world is transferring to technology and the internet, and Hillsboro is ahead of the curve. That is one reason why so many people are moving here and why it is becoming the new family friendly suburb.

5. High Paying Jobs

Hillsboro, Oregon’s median income is $82,275 with over half of the population employed. This number is increasing yearly by 3.34%. Additionally, Intel is the biggest employer in Hillsboro and has 20,000 employees over the four Hillsboro Intel campuses in town. The sites are 100% fueled with renewable electricity and are the number one employer in the state of Oregon. The truth is, you get paid more in Hillsboro, and that is why it is considered such an affordable place to live! Additionally, the city is working on 150 affordable housing apartments for those who are struggling. Click here to view affordable apartments.

6. Rated As One of the Best Places To Live in America

According to Money Magazine’s list of “Best Places To Live In America” in 2020, Hillsboro was number 29 on this list! They congratulated Hillsboro on its technological innovations and growth of employment by 10% since 2015. Diversity was another winning factor for Money Magazine, and Hillsboro locals were proud to represent the Pacific North West on this national rating. Additionally, Livability ranked Hillsboro as number 7 in “2021 Top 100 Best Places to Live In America“. They congratulated Hillsboro on affordable health care, family farms, a strong art and culture scene, as well as the Hillsboro Symphony Orchestra and the Hillsboro Artist’s Regional Theatre.

7. Lowest Poverty Rate

Hillsboro is considered to be a “rich city” simply because of all the job opportunities available and great housing options, but it’s also more than that. Hillsboro has positive economic trends, one of which is a low poverty rate. There is a poverty rate of 9.27% and a 1 year decrease of 2.39%. The national poverty average is 12.8%, and Hillsboro is comfortably below that. Hillsboro is not only a safe town but also clean with plenty of economic opportunities.

8. 1% Of Property Tax

With housing being affordable, property taxes also run low here. In general, property taxes in Hillsboro can be as low as 1% of the property value. In Oregon, counties will collect approximately .91% of property’s value in taxes annually. In Hillsboro, that number sits comfortably at 1%. In 2017, the national average was 1.5%, meaning that Hillsboro has below average property taxes.

9. Urban Amenities and Rural Landscapes

Hillsboro is a great fit for families who want a rural feel and access to outdoor activities while still having the amenities of an urban lifestyle. Hillsboro also has a deep history tied to it that translates into these urban and rural spaces. Hillsboro was founded by pioneers David Hill, Isaiah Kesley, and Richard Williams who arrived in the Tualatin Valley in 1841.

While Hillsboro has a population of 108,026 residents, it still has a small town feel. There is not a lot of traditional retail shopping like in the big cities, but there are parts of the city that are more high density. The Orenco Station has a high density and city like feel, with easy access to the light rail, restaurants, bars, shops, and apartments.

But you can easily get away from the noise. Once you exit town and towards the suburbs, there are sweeping farmlands and an abundance of hiking trails for the whole family.

10. Pet Friendly

Like many cities in Oregon, Hillsboro is a very community driven place. As mentioned before, Hillsboro is family friendly, but what I failed to mention was that it is very pet friendly as well. There is the Hondo Dog Park, an off leash dog park that is well maintained and has three play areas, including a set one for small dogs.

To show just how important pets are to Hillsboro locals, an art studio known as Feathers and Fur helps you to create your very own pet portraits! The owner will paint the outlines of your pet onto a 10×10 canvas and will help you paint it step by step all while bonding with your pet.

11. A Young and Diverse Population

With technology being the main source of income, it’s no surprise the demographic here in Hillsboro is quite young. The median age of this town in 2020 was 33.9 years old, a .294% decrease from the previous year in 2019. Another great thing about Hillsboro is that it is very diverse compared to other cities in the nation. The majority race is white and that is 58.4% of residents. The next most populated racial group is Hispanic at 22.8%, then Asian at 11%. Hillsboro has a great diversity score of 95 out of 100 and is much more diverse than other cities in the United States.

12. Variety of Real Estate

Because of the change in the economy, there is a wide variety of real estate, or homes, available. There are the “cookie cutter neighborhoods” that we discussed earlier, but there are also antique or older homes from the 70’s and 80’s the closer you get east, or towards Portland. Hillsboro still has the charm and victorian style of houses that Portland is known for as well as affordable housing developments that many suburban families are looking for.

The truth is, Hillsboro is growing and real estate is booming. Since July 2021, Hillsboro has been a seller’s market, meaning that prices are a little higher and homes sell faster, and most homes are sold in under 30 days. Hillsboro is booming, but not unattainable. Beacuse there is so much free land, new homes are being, and will continue to be, build and sold. And it’s a great place to start a family! You just need to act fast.

Because of this market, there is an abundance of real estate agents looking for work, so even if you miss the home you wanted to purchase, you will be in good hands. The older homes may need a bit of love, but the market is eager to sell.

13. Hillsboro Hops

The Hillsboro Hops are a local minor league baseball team. Their first game was played in 2013 and the first win came later that year on June 17th. The name was given because of Hillsboro’s agricultural beginnings and baseball terminology. Hillsboro Hops merchandise has been a great economic factor for this minor league baseball team and is a great way to spend time with young families. If you are a baseball enthusiast, this may be a reason to move to Hillsboro.

14. 30 Minutes Away from Downtown Portland

As mentioned before, Hillsboro is a great mix between a rustic farming landscape and a nearby bustling metro area. However, Hillsboro is relatively close to the capital city of Oregon, Portland. This means that a weekend getaway full of arts, food, and entertainment is only a 30 minute drive away. Portland is known for its great food and charming amenities, so living just next to the action, but far enough away to have some peace and quiet, is where Hillsboro shines most.

15. This Is A Driving City

Unlike other cities in Oregon which are known for their walkability, Hillsboro is one of the least walkable cities. While public transportation in Oregon is top notch, especially for commuting to places such as Intel, it’s just easier to drive your car to get your groceries.

This can be a reason to move to Hillsboro! If you are a car dependent family and want to say that way, this may be a good move for you. If this reason makes you nervous, in developing neighborhoods, contractors are beginning to build grocery stores, parks, and other amenities near new homes. Because you would be moving to Hillsboro while it is just developing, you will be there to watch it blossom before your eyes. The city will become more walkable over time and is much more walkable than most American cities, maybe just not by Oregon’s traditional standards.

16. Comfortable Weather

The real secret about Hillsboro is that the summers are comfortable and cool. The average ranges from 70 degrees to 80 degrees, which is a blessing if you are moving from a hot desert state such as Arizona or Nevada. The record high for summer months is in the hundreds, but the average weather gets no hotter than 83 degrees. As climate change can affect weather, Hillsboro may be your safe haven for those steaming summer months.

17. A Growing City

Finally, because of all the technology companies moving to Hillsboro, the new housing developments, and the city’s effort to run a charming and clean city, Hillsboro is growing. It’s the perfect Oregon family suburb, hence why it’s so popular. The large population doesn’t mean it is crowded, far from it! Hillsboro is approximately 25 miles large and the fifth largest city in Oregon. This means that there is enough space for this growing city and you will not need to worry about it getting so conjested.

While you are thinking of moving to the beautiful desert and mountainous state that is Nevada, take a look at what the city of Reno is all about. With Lake Tahoe just at its side, a colorful and glowing skyline, all four seasons, and a strong sense of community, Reno may just be the place to move to next.

1. Closest Metro City to Lake Tahoe

One of the most attractive aspects of Reno, Nevada is Lake Tahoe. This spectacle of nature is a close 40 minutes away from the metro area of Reno. It is also what makes this city stand out against others in the country. Lake Tahoe is immensely deep, even deeper than the Empire State Building is tall! The lake is 1,645 feet deep, compared to the height of the Empire State at 1,454 feet.

Lake Tahoe’s water has been tested to be 99.994% pure. This is cleaner than most commercial distilled water and gives the city of Reno access to clean water. It is as blue as it is purified, and the shallow edges of the water sparkle an inviting sea green. Lake Tahoe has a deep history to it, tied back to the Washoe Native Americans, the Pony Express, the Transcontinental Railroad, and even the deadly Donner Pass.

Lake Tahoe also comes with some clever nicknames throughout history. In 1844, it was first named Bonpland. These names changed from Mountian Lake, Maheon, Big Truckee Lake, and even Bigler in 1853. There was also an unsuccessful effort to rename the lake Tua Tulia. Finally, in 1862, Ta-hoe was the of the suggested names which is the anglicization of a Washoe term “da ow a ga”. This means big water or water in a high place. It was not until nearly 100 years later when the name was officially changed from Bigler to Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe is a major part of Reno’s recreation scene. It is the perfect place for boating, camping, family reunions, or even a luxurious weekend out with a loved one. There are multiple state parks within Lake Tahoe’s area and areas to hike in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

2. A Car Enthusiast’s Mecca

The car scene is quite strong in Reno. The people love their cars! Every August, Reno has their annual classic car show known as Hot August Nights. While the activities differ slightly every year, typical events include live music, Motorsport Auction Group (MAG) auctions, controlled drag races and burnouts, Big Boy’s toy store, Dazzling Diva boutique, diners, and drive-ins. This event is truly fun for the whole family.

But that’s not all. In fact, there is The National Automobile Museum which is considered one of the best of its kind in the entire world. This museum opened its doors in 1989 and has set the standard for automobile museums since. It is proudly on the list of the 10 Best Automobile Museums in the United States.

This museum was originally a car collection from Bill Harrah who passed away in 1979. This vast collection was then purchased by Holiday Inn in 1980. In their attempts to sell the vehicles soon after, the public was outraged. These plans quickly turned into a nonprofit museum and were the largest corporate philanthropic gift at the time. With a generous donation from the City of Reno Redevelopment Agency, the State of Nevada, and other car enthusiasts, the museum was fully opened on November 5, 1989, and still stands today.

3. Wá∙šiw Tribe Culture

Casino culture aside, Native American history plays a big part in Reno’s land. The Wá∙šiw people were here long before the pioneers tracked through Reno. Their reservation is set just outside of the city of Reno and in the Lake Tahoe area. However, their culture plays a part in living in Reno, Nevada through outdoor recreation and protection.

The Wá∙šiw people, otherwise known as the Washoe tribe, have a strong sense of family. In the past, each member of the tribe had a different occupation depending on which part of their territory they came from. This tribe was split into 4 different bands, with subtle cultural differences and language patterns in each one. The Washoe’s summers were spent fishing for cutthroat trout and hunting game. Plant medicine was and still is actively practiced.

The fall was meant for hunting for winter, specifically tracking for rabbits. In the winter, the Washoe tribe would travel to the lowland valleys of the Sierra Mountains to bear through the harsh blizzards. As spring made its way back to the tribe, the people would travel upwards once more for hunting.

During the California gold and Nevada silver rush, immigrants and minors flooded into the area. They took over the Wá∙šiw lands, hurting their economy, culture, and living patterns. The logging industry snuffed forests, and a once bountiful area had become bleak. Today, the Washoe tribe stands strong as they rebuild their culture and infrastructure. It is now illegal to excavate, remove, deface, damage, alter or desecrate resources on Washoe Tribal lands. Again, the Washoe tribe sits just outside of Reno and has a highly developed culture. This is something you will see and appreciate as Reno locals.

4. The 2nd City With The Most Casinos

Reno has over 20 casinos to choose from and has the 2nd most casinos in the country, right behind Las Vegas which has 31 casinos. Reno is known as the best destination for those who love the sport of gambling but want a simpler environment to be in. Because of this, Reno is seen as the smaller and more relaxed version of Las Vegas.

As other states began to allow casinos, gambling was not Reno’s best source of income. Instead, Reno began to rebrand itself as an outdoor adventure destination, giving the nature surrounding Reno its due credit. This has given Reno the financial stability for new hotels and better restaurants. This goes to show that Reno is much more than a gambling gimmick, but a beautiful and well-thought-out city.

5. The Biggest Little City in the World’s History

One reason to make the move to Reno, Nevada is the rich history behind the city itself, as well as the opportunities it offers.

Every city has its own nickname, usually based on gilded age sayings or cultural affiliations. At the turn of the 20th century, smaller towns wanted similar action and financial gain as the bigger cities were getting. Many cities affectionately claimed the term “The Biggest Little City in the World“, such as Wichita, Memphis, Sioux Falls-South Dakota, and most notably, Reno, to gain tourists. This phrase reflected the city’s attitude, that while their population or structures are small, the people’s vision, opportunities, and pride are big. The nickname stuck, and Reno kept the nickname over the other before-mentioned cities.

In 1901 when this nickname was popular, the city had a population of 10,000 people. As of 2020, Reno has a population of close to 251,000 residents! This city may not be so little anymore, but culturally, the name stays as well as the town’s pride and opportunities.

6. Reno Has Lower Taxes

The state of Nevada has no individual income tax as well as a corporate income tax. There is a gross receipts tax and the state has a 6.85 percent state sales tax and together there is a local sales tax of 1.53 percent. In Reno, the sales tax rate is 0% and the county has a sales tax rate of 3.67%. Nevada is the 7th best state for tax systems in the country in the year 2022.

While this may not be the sole reason, it is a great benefit for those who make the move to Reno, Nevada!

7. There Is A Strong Nightlife

There is a strong nightlife in Reno, but it differs from Las Vegas. While Las Vegas is about escaping the world into a night of shows, gambling, and fantasy, Reno is about enjoying the world we are in by meeting others, spending time outdoors, and enjoying great food and music. As mentioned before, gambling is a good part of Reno’s economy and casinos correlate to a strong nightlife, especially here in Nevada. Outside of casinos, there are places such as the Mountian Music Parlor, Bluebird Nightclub, The Eddy Bar, and of course, Bundox Bocce, an outdoor recreation area.

8. Reno Has All Four Seasons

Just because Reno is in a desert state, its location has the ability for all four seasons! Its trees show the change of color in the fall, its mountains hold the snow in the winter, flowers bloom in the spring, and the sun beats down in the summer. Over the course of the year, temperatures vary from 23 degrees Fahrenheit to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Cloud concentration varies throughout the seasons, with the clearest months in June to October. The rain varies as well, with a wet season from October to April. Snow season goes from November to March, with snowfall f at least 1 inch.

9. University of Nevada – Reno

The Unversity of Nevada – Reno is the number 1 college in Nevada, with popular majors such as nutrition, psychology, business, nursing, and mechanical engineering. Most students are located on campus and have a graduation rate of 60%. It is rated as a top National University by the U.S. News & World Report. There is a strong sense of pride coming from the University of Nevada – Reno and a strong athletics team.

10. Local Sports games

Speaking of athletics, games are an important part of life here in Reno, Nevada. Whether it be high school football, the Reno Aces baseball games, or the Nevada Wolf Pack’s basketball, sports are a major part of the local culture. There are other sports in town as well, such as ballet or arts such as the opera and museums. All these activities are a way for families to spend some quality time together and most importantly, connect.

11. Known For Hunting

Reno, Nevada is a beautiful place to go hunting, specifically for the Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, or mountain lions. In the state of Nevada, there are 48 million acres of public land, and a whopping 86% of the state’s land is federally owned, and most of it is for hunting. In Nevada, a hunting license is required for elk, mule deer, black bear,s pronghorn antelope, rocky mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.

12. Strong Sense of Community

Nevada is mostly uninhabited land. Because Las Vegas is completely across the state, Reno really is the only other major city in Nevada, save it some other cities near Vegas and Reno. Because there is so much empty space, the large cities that are there have such a strong community, Reno included.

14. Near The Border of California

For those who are from or have family in California, you’re in luck! Sacramento is the closest large city near Reno and it is only a 2 hour and 10 minute drive away. In between this drive, you will see a plethora of national wonders, such as the Tahoe National Forest.

15. Not Too Far to Oregon

While others love that California feeling, others resonate more or are even from Oregon. Reno is also a good driving distance from Oregon, with the closest Orgonean city being Lakeview, Oregon. This city is pretty quiet with a population of nearly 3,000 residents. Medford is a little over 5 hours away, and the metropolis of Portland is 8 hours away.

16. World Renowned Ski Resorts

Because of the nearby Lake Tahoe, Reno is close to some pretty spectacular skiing destinations. These destinations include Soda Springs, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, Donner Ski Ranch, Sierra-At-Tahoe, M.t Rose Ski Tahoe, and Boreal.

17. The Nevada Museum of Art

Reno, Nevada has a thriving art scene with art murals in the city. The most popular of these is the Nevada Museum of Art, which has a thriving Youtube Channel, workshops for adults and children, visiting speakers, and most excitingly, A new Education and Research Center addition to the museum opening in 2025.

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You’ve decided to make the major move to Alaska, and you want to be sure that you’re in the best neighborhood possible so that your family can feel at home. What are the best family neighborhoods in or near Anchorage, Alaska?

1. Eagle River

Just outside of downtown Anchorage, Eagle River is hands down the best family community in the Anchorage area of Alaska. I have relatives from Eagle River, and great personal experiences there, to prove that Eagle River is full of outdoor adventure and a strong family community. Eagle River also has surprisingly delicious restaurants! There are 28,000 residents, most of which are families. There is a good religious and nonreligious community alike, great public schooling, and a beautiful Alaskan landscape.

There is the Eagle River Nature Center, which is an easy 3-mile nature walk or a 5-mile hike for a view of waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs! This is the best place for a family hike, especially if you have young children and need an easy way to enjoy the Alaskan mountains. There are also two popular lakes in Eagle River known as Eagle Lake and Symphony Lake. It is quite rare to find lakes just within feet of each other. This 1-mile hike is another great nearby amenity.

The housing in Eagle River is also really nice! While you can find nice homes in any pocket of Alaska, Eagle River is one of those places where most, if not all, houses are pretty nice. The neighborhoods are also very safe, especially for young families. The median price for homes in Eagle River, Alaska starts at 400,000. This is lower than the national average of $428,700 in 2022. With home prices increasing by 30% since the pandemic, houses in Alaska have stayed relatively low. In Alaska specifically, the typical home value sits at $337,373. Eagle River is definitely one of the best places to live for young children, with hiking, kayaking, and Alaskan adventures just being minutes away from home.

2. Girdwood

Girdwood is a good 45 minutes away from Anchorage but is the cutest little town filled with festivals and outdoor activities. Known for its world-renowned skiing resort known as Alyeska Resort, Girdwood can be considered a “hippie town” by some of the locals in Anchorage. Because of this, many families will rent out condos in Girdwood for a weekend skiing in the winter, or even a summer getaway full of hiking. There are many family-friendly condos available, so even if families are not looking to move to Girdwood specifically, having a condo in Girdwood can be a key characteristic of an Anchorage, Alaska local.

Apartments in Girdwood are currently at 1,600 per month while there is a median home price of 560,000 dollars. Living in Girdwood is 4% lower than the Anchorage average, yet 22% higher than the national average. Keep in mind that there is no sales tax in Alaska.

3. South Addition

The South Addition of Anchorage, Alaska is the best-ranked neighborhood on niche.com with an overall “A” score, and it is also a personal favorite to visit. This neighborhood has a population of nearly 4,500 residents and most own their own homes. South Addition has a plethora of bars, restaurants, parks, work opportunities, and not to mention, fantastic coffee shops. The median rent for the South Addition is $1,409 per month and there is a median home value of $475,889. This neighborhood is not only very safe, but the residents also have an average higher income of $120,774 per year. The public schools are also highly ranked, making this a great place for young families looking for an Alaskan adventure.

4. Rogers Park

Rogers Park is another neighborhood located snugly in little Anchorage. It has a population of just over 4,100 residents and above-average parks and yards! It is a very dog and animal-friendly neighborhood. Alaskans are known to be very friendly and willing to help or reach out to their neighbors. Locals review that nature is right at their doorstep in Rogers Park and they love the social, environmental, and academic opportunities in this neighborhood.

5. Downtown Anchorage

Downtown Anchorage has a wide variety of real estate, from large homes to affordable condos. One of the best things about Downtown Anchorage is the waterfront views of the Knik Arm. Locals love to fish in this area, where fish species such as Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and sockeye salmon can be caught. The average rent for Downtown Anchorage is just about $1,200 per month, which is a 4% decrease from the previous year. Downtown Anchorage is a great place to look if you are wanting a more urban lifestyle.

6. Rabbit Creek

Rabbit Creek is home to larger pieces of land and higher median home values that sit around 600,000. It has a population of just over 6,000 residents and most people own their own homes. Their public school systems are also highly rated. Most residents have some sort of college education and have a median household income of close to $170,00 per year. That is just about $100,000 more than the national average! Needless to say, Rabbit Creek is a great place to look into if you are wanting to build your perfect family home.

7. Turnagain

This neighborhood is located in west Anchorage and has some of the best public schools in the area. There is easy access to outdoor recreation, including but not limited to national parks, paddleboarding, and hiking trails. Turnagain is also quite close to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, which is great for families who need to travel to the mainland often. Turnagain is a perfect neighborhood to look into for younger families that are making the first move to Alaska!

8. Portage Valley

Just an hour outside of Anchorage, Portage Valley is a great place to settle for those who prefer a more rustic lifestyle. The population sits at just 200 and is past Girdwood, on the way to Whittier. Portage Valley sits right next to the beautiful Seward Highway. For those who need more city resources, there are other neighborhoods to look into, but it is an important location to mention for those who know their trades well.

9. Huffman-O’Malley

This Anchorage neighborhood has low crime rates and nearby many public schools, making Huffman-O’Malley a great Alaska family neighborhood. There is a population of just over 10,000 residents and a median home value of $428,000. 90% of residents own their own homes, and rightfully so! Huffman-O’Malley is a predominately family neighborhood, young and old. There is an oil company located in Huffman-O’Malley, giving the locals great job opportunities. There are also plenty of local businesses here in this town, from restaurants, to construction, or to engineering.

10. Spenard

Spenard has a population of close to 12,000 residents! It is located just within Anchorage and borders the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and has a higher home median value compared to other Alaskan neighborhoods at $246,300. Spenard is considered to be a very family-friendly neighborhood where residents aren’t afraid to say hello to each other. Spenard is a great place for those who need to commute daily and there are nearby quality schools for the kids still living at home!

11. Sand Lake

Sand Lake is another quiet neighborhood nestled next to Alaska’s most popular international airport. It is considered safe, green, beautiful, quiet, and a good place to raise children. Sand Lake has a population of just over 23,000 people and is one of the best places to live in Anchorage, Alaska! There are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and highly rated public schools. This neighborhood is another good choice to look at for those who are needing a daily commute in the city of Anchorage.

12. North Star

North Star is a smaller neighborhood in Anchorage, Alaska, that is best suited for a little family. The rent is cheaper here with a median apartment rent of under $1,000 per month and a median household income of $66,035. Young families have reported that while Alaska is a much more remote lifestyle compared to the rest of the states, North Star is one of the better Alaskan neighborhoods, giving variety and opportunities to everyone. There are few popular stores in town, but there are plenty of mom-and-pop stores that offer a unique selection compared to chain stores. If this is a lifestyle you are looking for, check out North Star!

13. Bear Valley

Bear Valley is a very quiet neighborhood of just shy of 400 residents! GreatSchools rated Bear Valley Elementary School a 9/10 with parent reviews at 4 out of 5 stars. It is on the list of best family neighborhoods in Anchorage, and most residents have some degree of a college education. Just like Portage Valley, bear Valley is a better location for those who know their trades well and are suited for that quiet, wilderness version of an Alaskan lifestyle.

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Queen Creek is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state of Arizona. Circled beneath the SanTan mountains, what is this little town all about? Is this city liberal or conservative, and what kind of family fits best in this desert location?

Queen Creek, Arizona is a conservative city in Maricopa County, as the residents have a history of voting for Republican candidates. In 2022, Maricopa county was offered to be divided into four sections. Jake Hoffman, a Queen Creek Republican, sponsored the bill to give Republicans a stronger voice.

Continue reading below to understand more of Queen Creek’s political makeup and what kind of families you will meet here!

An Agriculture Community

Queen Creek is known for being a little bit “redneck” so to speak. There are sections of the city that are being built into classic, cookie-cutter suburbs, but originally, this was a farming community. You will find either growing suburbian families that are most likely members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or farmers that have been in this area for years.

The town is young and while a community was formed in 1912, Queen Creek was not officially established until September of 1989. Since its founding, church, community, and patriotism continue to be extremely important to Queen Creek residents, which are trademarks of a conservative community. Back in the day, this area was known as Rittenhouse because of the nearby railroad. Today, this city is called Queen Creek because of a nearby mine named Silver Queen.

Maricopa County

Maricopa County, where Queen Creek resides, leans liberal based on the 2020 presidential election. Arizona has been considered a swing state in many previous presidential elections, so while Maricopa has consistently voted Republican since 1952, this would make 2020 the first year Maricopa county has voted democratic in over 50 years.

Because of the 2020 election, Republican residents in Maricopa county felt that there may have been foul play in the votes. Residents have felt that their voice is getting weaker, and to fix this, Jake Hoffman, who is from Queen Creek, sponsored a bill to divide Maricopa into four different counties named O’odham, Mogollon, Maricopa, and Hohokam respectively. This would give residents in different areas a stronger voice. His thought process was that Democratic Pheonix can voice a liberal opinion and conservative Gilbert and Queen Creek can voice a Republican opinion.

Maricopa County has a big population of 4.4 million citizens and two-thirds of Arizona’s population lives in Maricopa county. Jake Hoffman wants to even the political playing field, but other Republicans disagree with his idea. Paul Boyer, and Republican Arizona state senator, believes that while Maricopa county is big, it’s still run efficiently. Hoffman’s idea increases government control, which is a concept that is a threat to conservative ideals. Additionally, new counties mean new governments, city buildings, and so on. This caused Boyer some concern.

In 2022, this bill, known as House Bill 2787, has stalled but is predicted to pick up pace around the 2024 presidential election.

Republican Ties

In January of 2022, Donald Trump hosted a rally in Florence, Arizona, a city that is close to Queen Creek. Thousands of voters and Trump-loyal residents turned up. Based on recent elections and sanctions for conservative rallies, Queen Creek is republican.

Religion is very important to Arizona residents. In Maricopa county, approximately 500,000 residents are Catholic, with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) coming second with nearly 250,000 residents being members. Latter-day Saints tend to be more actively involved in politics than Catholics, so Arizona has a huge Latter-day Saint influence. It’s safe to say that Queen Creek is a Mormon town, and Mormons are mostly conservative voters. Queen Creek also has an official Republican party Facebook page.

Growing Suburbs

Why is Arizona growing so quickly? It’s because cities such as Gilbert and Queen Creek are considered family-friendly towns. Queen Creek is an extremely clean city with charter schools available, church buildings close by, and a plethora of grocery stores available.

This city has the third highest median income in Maricopa County at approximately $105,00 per year. Queen Creek is also a very well-educated population with about 80% of residents over the age of 25 having college experience or an advanced degree. The average household size is 3.49 children and the median age is 34.1 years old. Queen Creek has the youngest median age in the East Valley.

Change in Mayors

Mayors in Queen Creek have not been politically affiliated, but they focus heavily on the infrastructure issues in Queen Creek.

Gail Barney was Queen Creek’s previous mayor and was elected in June of 2010, but has served in Queen Creek’s government since 1998. However, in June of 2022, and 12 years of service, Gail Barney passed away at age 74. Barney intended Queen Creek to be neighborly and welcoming and focused on the town’s biggest challenge, which he considered was ensuring enough resources for infrastructure.

The only candidate and next viable mayor is Julia Wheatley. Her term is expected to begin in 2023. Wheatley was elected to the town council also in June of 2010 and was reelected in 2014 and 2018. Wheatley has a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies and is pursuing a master’s in politics.

What Political Issues Does Queen Creek Face?

According to Julia Wheatley, one of the biggest issues Queen Creek faces is adapting to a growing population while still creating a close-knit community, building parks, water supply, public safety, roadway improvements, and agriculture.

Wheatley wants to improve the roads in Queen Creek to reduce driving congestion and commute time for work. Wheatley also wants to secure Queen Creek’s water rights for farmers. There is currently a 100-year water supply for current and future residents, but lowering the cost of water is a big issue.

While the priorities have been on public safety, roads, and sustainable water supply, parks have been neglected. This has been an issue for young families, so Wheatley is focused on creating new recreational areas and amenities.

While Queen Creek’s local government is focused on improving daily life, the main issues are aligned with a Republican mindset, as it is focusing on business, family, and community. Wheatley wants to make sure Queen Creek is a safe space for new businesses, which is a concern for Queen Creek’s Republican families.

Demographics of Queen Creek

Now that we understand what kind of issues Queen Creek faces and what the political stances are, looking at its demographics can help us understand what kind of people we will meet in this small city.

In Queen Creek, the most prominent race in the city is White, as they make up 84.95% of the population. 6.66% of the population is of two or more races. Those of Hispanic descent make up the second-highest percentage of the population. This is likely because of how close Arizona is to Mexico, as many people cross the America-Mexico border into Arizona.

Luckily, Arizona’s food and architecture reflect a Latino heritage, so you can get really good Mexican food in Queen Creek.

The poverty rate is 5.20% and more females are in poverty than men by nearly 2%. The most likely race to be in poverty is indigenous Americans, with 20.26% of Native American residents falling below the poverty line. However, the race least likely to be in poverty is Hispanic.

There are more females than males in Queen Creek, with 51.87% being female and 48.13% being male. Most homeowners in Queen Creek are married. 24.28% of residents have a bachelor’s degree, but 25.73% have some college education, which adds up to include most of the population. High school graduates follow just behind at 22.10%.

Personal Experience

From my personal experience, Queen Creek is a lovely place to live. There are plenty of places to eat, shop, and great people to meet. The homes are nice and the scenery is one of a kind. The community is very close-knit, and most of the people I have met in this city are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The food here is so good and you can get an authentic Hispanic food experience at many restaurants. There are more amenities in Gilbert, such as parks, but it is not far away. Queen Creek is nice because it’s a smaller town than Gilbert, so while you’re still close to the action, you can get some peace and quiet in your home at Queen Creek. It is rapidly growing because of all the land that is available compared to Gilbert or Mesa, but you can meet some wonderful people here.

Even if you are Democratic on the political scale, the people in Queen Creek are still kind. Be aware of a definite right bias but Queen Creek is not a politically tumultuous town and is accepting of others who are different.

Queen Creek, Arizona is a conservative city and has been for a long time. It is not expected for the residents to start leaning liberal in the near future.