Scottsdale, Arizona, has a lot of great things to offer, but it’s not the right place for everyone. Here are 19 reasons why you might want to think twice before moving to Scottsdale.
1. It’s Hot
Scottsdale has hot summers and warm winters. Temperatures can exceed 100°F in the summer months, and the heat can last until late October. If you don’t like hot weather, Scottsdale may not be the place for you.
2. It’s Expensive
Housing prices in Scottsdale are high, and the cost of living is also high. The median home price in Scottsdale is over $400,000, which is significantly higher than the national average. Rent is also high, with the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment being around $1,700 per month.
3. Limited Public Transportation
Scottsdale has limited public transportation options. The city does have a bus system, but it is not as extensive as in other cities. If you don’t have a car, it can be difficult to get around Scottsdale.
4. Limited Job Opportunities
Scottsdale has a low unemployment rate, but the job market is limited. Most of the jobs in the city are in the hospitality and tourism industries. If you’re looking for a job in a different field, you may have to look outside of Scottsdale.
5. High Taxes
Scottsdale has a higher than average sales tax rate and property taxes are also high. If you’re looking to save money on taxes, you may want to look elsewhere.
6. It’s Crowded
Scottsdale is a popular destination for tourists and retirees, and the city is becoming increasingly crowded. The population has grown by over 20% in the past decade, and it is expected to continue to grow. This can make it difficult to find housing and can lead to traffic congestion.
7. Limited Recreational Activities
Scottsdale does not have a lot of recreational activities. The city does have some parks and trails, but it does not have the same variety of activities as some other cities. If you’re looking for a city with a lot of recreational options, Scottsdale may not be the right place for you.
8. It’s Not Very Walkable
Scottsdale is not a very walkable city. The streets are wide and not very pedestrian friendly. If you like to walk or bike, you may want to look for a city with better walkability.
9. Limited Nightlife
Scottsdale does not have a lot of nightlife options. The city does have some bars and clubs, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with a vibrant nightlife scene, Scottsdale may not be the right place for you.
10. It’s Not Very Diverse
Scottsdale is not a very diverse city. The population is mostly white, and the city does not have a large minority population. If you’re looking for a city with a more diverse population, you may want to look elsewhere.
11. Limited Arts and Culture
Scottsdale does not have a lot of arts and cultural activities. The city does have some museums and galleries, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with a more vibrant arts and culture scene, you may want to look elsewhere.
12. It’s Not Very Bike-Friendly
Scottsdale is not very bike-friendly. The streets are wide and not very conducive to cycling. If you like to bike, you may want to look for a city with better bike lanes and paths.
13. It’s Not Very Dog-Friendly
Scottsdale is not very dog-friendly. The city does have some dog parks, but the selection is limited. If you have a dog and you’re looking for a city with more dog-friendly amenities, you may want to look elsewhere.
14. Limited Shopping Options
Scottsdale does not have a lot of shopping options. The city does have some malls and shopping centers, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with more shopping options, you may want to look elsewhere.
15. It’s Far From Other Cities
Scottsdale is located in the middle of the desert, so it is far from other major cities. If you’re looking for a city that is closer to other cities, you may want to look elsewhere.
16. Limited College Options
Scottsdale does not have a lot of college options. The city does have some community colleges, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with more college options, you may want to look elsewhere.
17. Limited Health Care Options
Scottsdale does not have a lot of health care options. The city does have some hospitals and clinics, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with more health care options, you may want to look elsewhere.
18. It’s Not Very Artsy
Scottsdale is not a very artsy city. The city does have some galleries and museums, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with more of an artsy feel, you may want to look elsewhere.
19. It’s Not Very Livable
Scottsdale is not a very livable city. The city does have some parks and trails, but the selection is limited. If you’re looking for a city with more of a livable feel, you may want to look elsewhere.
Scottsdale is a great city, but it may not be the right place for everyone. Before you decide to move to Scottsdale, consider these 19 reasons why it may not be the best fit for you.