What to know when moving to Glendale, AZ
Glendale at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 60.6% of residents rent and the median household income is $47,422.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,189, making it relatively affordable for the area.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 29%, economic challenges are present for some residents.
- Commute:
- Only 3.2% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a $1,189 monthly rent, which is quite manageable compared to many nearby areas.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Glendale has a population of 66,970, with a significant portion of residents (60.6%) choosing to rent. The community reflects a lower educational attainment level, with only 11% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. This could appeal to those looking for a more affordable living situation, but the 29% poverty rate indicates that economic challenges exist. The area is generally car-dependent, as public transit usage is quite low at 3.2%.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated community or extensive public transportation options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,189, while the median home value is $218,100.
- 11% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a lower education level in the community.
- The poverty rate is at 29%, indicating economic challenges for many residents.
- 60.6% of the population are renters, suggesting a significant amount of rental properties available.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Arizona, the property crime rate is 1,523.1 per 100,000 people, slightly below the national average of 1,546.9. The state has seen a significant reduction in property crime, down 29.2% from 2022 to 2025. Violent crime, however, stands at 377.3 per 100,000, which is higher than the national rate of 325.3, but has decreased by 16.2% during the same period.
- Violent crime rate: 377.3 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 325.3; down 16.2% from 2022.
- Property crime rate: 1,523.1 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 1,546.9; down 29.2% from 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 35.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Arizona).
Schools & Higher Ed
There are 44 total postsecondary institutions in the region, providing a range of educational opportunities. Notable schools include:
- Arizona Christian University
- Arizona College-Glendale
- Arizona State University-West Valley
- Glendale Community College
- Midwestern University-Glendale
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, several parks and outdoor destinations near Glendale offer plenty of activities. Here are some to check out:
- Encanto Park - 4.6 stars (6,912 reviews)
- Children's Museum of Phoenix - 4.6 stars (5,803 reviews)
- Heard Museum - 4.7 stars (5,540 reviews)
- Friendship Park - 4.6 stars (5,140 reviews)
- Sahuaro Ranch Park - 4.7 stars (4,336 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Maricopa County, the unemployment rate is 3.5% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 2,564,144 individuals. The county employs approximately 2,475,183 people.
- Unemployment rate: 3.5% in December 2025.
- Total employment: 2,475,183 individuals.
- Labor force: 2,564,144 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.