Is Phoenix Safe to Move To? A Complete Guide for New Residents

When choosing a new city to call home, safety quickly rises to the top of the priority list, especially for families.

Being informed about crime rates, traffic patterns, and environmental hazards helps you make the best decision for your lifestyle and peace of mind.

With Phoenix ranking as one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States, many future residents are asking: Is Phoenix safe to move to?

This guide explores everything new residents should know about safety in the Valley of the Sun, including crime trends, neighborhoods, environmental risks, and proactive research tips.

Understanding Safety in Phoenix

Phoenix is a large, diverse city spread across the Valley, with significant variation in safety from one neighborhood to the next.

Perceptions shaped by news stories often don't match the experiences of residents living in well-maintained communities.

Urban core areas may experience more crime, while suburban cities offer quieter, family-friendly environments.

Crime Overview

Like other large cities, Phoenix sees more property crime (theft, burglary, vandalism) than violent crime.

High-traffic corridors and nightlife zones can influence pockets of increased risk. Staying informed about the Phoenix crime rate by area is essential when choosing your new neighborhood.

Safest Neighborhoods in Phoenix and Surrounding Areas

Some of the safest neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ, can actually be found in surrounding suburbs known for their security and community-oriented design:

Gilbert: Highly rated schools and low crime rates
Chandler: Family-oriented with plentiful parks and HOAs
Scottsdale: Offers gated communities and upscale amenities
Peoria: Known for newer developments and quiet neighborhoods

Look for features like gated access, active neighborhood associations, and proximity to schools and public services to prioritize security when house hunting.

Areas Where You Should Do Extra Research

Older sections of central Phoenix can have higher crime rates, depending on the street or block. Before committing to a location, check crime heat maps, read posts from local neighborhood groups, and drive through the area at various times of the day. These small steps can make a big difference when assessing community safety.

Non-Crime Safety Factors: Living in the Desert

Living in Phoenix pros and cons, including its abundant sunshine but also its extreme summer heat. High temperatures can pose serious health risks during moving day or outdoor activities. Stay hydrated and plan moves during cooler hours.

Monsoon season (June–September) brings sudden storms and localized flooding. While scorpions and other pests rarely pose serious threats, residents should learn basic desert wildlife precautions.

Traffic and Personal Security in the Valley

Major roadways like I-10 and Loop 101 see daily congestion during rush hours. Be cautious of unsafe driving behavior and learn your commute before committing to a neighborhood.

Parking lot break-ins and package theft are more common in high-density areas. Porch piracy can be minimized with shared lockers or secured delivery boxes. It's also smart to choose homes with adequate outdoor lighting and to invest in smart security upgrades.

Safety Research Before the Move

Before signing a lease or buying a home, research local crime via Phoenix's official city crime map or sites like NeighborhoodScout.

School ratings often reflect overall neighborhood stability, particularly in areas where families live and invest long-term. Asking current residents and local Phoenix movers for community insight can help you avoid surprises.

New Resident Security Tips

Install video doorbells and smart locks for peace of mind
Join or follow your neighborhood association’s updates
Secure mail and packages with lockable drop boxes
Choose housing with secured parking and ample lighting

When Phoenix Is the Right Fit

Phoenix, AZ, safety for families improves greatly with careful planning. The city shines for remote workers, retirees, and young families looking for affordable housing, sunshine, and access to the great outdoors.

With preparation and research, Phoenix can be a fantastic and safe place to live, work, and raise a family.