There are several reasons why moving to Tempe from Jersey City could be a positive change for a family-oriented person. While it’s important to note that each location has its own unique advantages, here are some positives of Tempe and how they compare to Jersey City:
Climate:
Tempe enjoys a warm and sunny climate for the majority of the year. This can provide more opportunities for outdoor activities and a generally pleasant environment for family outings and recreational pursuits. Compared to Jersey City, which experiences colder winters, Tempe’s milder climate can be a significant advantage for those who prefer a warmer and sunnier lifestyle.
Mild Winters: Tempe experiences mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. This means that families can enjoy outdoor activities comfortably throughout the year, including trips to parks, picnics, and outdoor sports. The pleasant winter weather encourages an active lifestyle and provides more opportunities for children and adults to engage in physical activities and explore nature.
Abundant Sunshine: Tempe is known for its abundant sunshine, with more than 300 sunny days per year. This consistent sunshine not only boosts mood and overall well-being but also creates an inviting environment for outdoor recreation. Families can take advantage of the sunny climate to explore local parks, visit nearby lakes or rivers, and participate in various water sports or other outdoor adventures.
Extended Outdoor Season: The warm and sunny climate in Tempe extends the outdoor season compared to Jersey City, where colder temperatures limit outdoor activities during the winter months. In Tempe, families can enjoy outdoor dining, barbecues, and gatherings for a longer part of the year. This creates more opportunities for spending quality time together outside and fostering a sense of connection with nature.
Outdoor Recreation:
Tempe is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city is located in close proximity to beautiful hiking trails, mountain ranges, and scenic desert areas. Families can engage in activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and exploring nature, fostering a greater connection with the outdoors.
Hiking and Trail Systems: Tempe and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of scenic hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Families can embark on enjoyable hikes through desert landscapes, offering stunning views of rugged mountains, unique rock formations, and vibrant flora and fauna. Trails like “A” Mountain (Hayden Butte Preserve) and the Papago Park Trail System provide accessible options for outdoor exploration.
Water Activities: While Arizona is known for its desert terrain, Tempe benefits from being located near bodies of water, including the Salt River and Tempe Town Lake. Families can engage in water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Tempe Town Lake, a man-made reservoir, also offers recreational options like pedal boat rentals and sailing lessons, providing a refreshing escape from the desert heat.
Biking and Cycling: Tempe offers a bike-friendly environment with an extensive network of bike lanes and paths. Families can enjoy cycling together on the miles of scenic routes, exploring the city and its surroundings while staying active. Tempe’s proximity to the Arizona Canal Path and Rio Salado Pathway provides additional opportunities for longer bike rides along picturesque waterways.
Family-Friendly Neighborhoods:
Tempe boasts several family-friendly neighborhoods with access to excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. These neighborhoods often prioritize safety and provide a strong sense of community, making it easier for families to connect with neighbors and build lasting relationships. Jersey City also has family-friendly areas, but exploring new communities can provide fresh opportunities for family engagement and growth.
Excellent Schools: Tempe is home to highly regarded public and private schools, making it an ideal location for families seeking quality education for their children. These schools often have dedicated and experienced faculty members, comprehensive extracurricular programs, and advanced learning opportunities. Families moving to Tempe can benefit from the wide range of educational options available to ensure their children receive a well-rounded education.
Parks and Recreational Facilities: Family-friendly neighborhoods in Tempe often boast well-maintained parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. These spaces provide ample opportunities for children to play, explore, and engage in physical activities. Families can enjoy picnics, outdoor sports, and community events within walking distance of their homes, fostering a sense of togetherness and a healthy lifestyle.
Safe and Welcoming Communities: Tempe neighborhoods are known for their safety and welcoming atmosphere. Residents take pride in creating inclusive communities where families can thrive. There are often neighborhood watch programs, community events, and initiatives that encourage neighborly interaction and foster a strong sense of belonging. Families can feel confident that their children can grow up in a secure and supportive environment.
Affordability:
Compared to Jersey City, Tempe generally offers a more affordable cost of living. Housing prices, rent, and overall expenses tend to be lower, allowing families to potentially enjoy a higher quality of life within their budget. This affordability can provide financial stability and flexibility, allowing families to allocate resources towards other priorities such as education, travel, or savings.
Housing Costs: Tempe generally offers more affordable housing options compared to Jersey City. The cost of purchasing or renting a home in Tempe tends to be lower, allowing families to potentially find more spacious and comfortable accommodations within their budget. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home, an apartment, or a townhouse, Tempe offers a range of housing options that are more cost-effective compared to many urban areas.
Cost of Living: The overall cost of living in Tempe is typically lower compared to larger metropolitan areas like Jersey City. Expenses such as groceries, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment tend to be more affordable in Tempe. This can provide families with greater financial stability and flexibility, allowing them to allocate resources towards other priorities, such as saving for the future or investing in their children’s education.
Property Taxes: Arizona has relatively low property taxes compared to many other states, including New Jersey. Lower property tax rates can translate into more affordable homeownership costs and can be particularly beneficial for families looking to establish roots in a community and build long-term wealth through homeownership.
Education and Research Opportunities:
Tempe is home to Arizona State University (ASU), a renowned institution that offers a wide range of educational and research opportunities. Families moving to Tempe can benefit from ASU’s exceptional educational programs, research facilities, and cultural events. The university’s presence can contribute to a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment, providing ample opportunities for personal and academic growth for both children and adults.
Arizona State University (ASU): ASU is a renowned institution known for its commitment to innovation, research, and excellence in education. The university offers a wide range of educational programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines. Families living in Tempe can benefit from the educational resources and opportunities provided by ASU, whether it’s through access to libraries, research facilities, or involvement in community programs.
Research Facilities and Initiatives: ASU’s research facilities in Tempe are at the forefront of innovation in fields such as engineering, technology, sustainability, and health sciences. The university actively collaborates with industry partners, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, creating a vibrant ecosystem for research and development. This environment can provide unique opportunities for families interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, as well as other areas of research and discovery.
Cultural and Artistic Offerings: ASU’s presence in Tempe contributes to a rich cultural and artistic landscape. The university hosts a wide range of events, including theatrical performances, art exhibits, music concerts, and lectures. Families can benefit from attending these events, which can foster a love for the arts and provide educational and cultural enrichment opportunities.