Arguably the capital of the East Valley, people living in Mesa, Arizona have bragging rights for a number of reasons. Here, we explore just what makes this Phoenix-area community so special.
Living in Mesa, Arizona
History
Mesa has a rich history that dates back nearly 2,000 years to the Hohokam Indians. These settlers were responsible for establishing the vast canal systems that move water throughout the valley, many of which are still used today. Fast-forward to World War II and you’ll find the establishment of Falcon Field Airport and Williams Air Force Base. These were used as training grounds for pilots for the war. Falcon Field is still very active today, as many private pilots use the field to house and fly their planes. Boeing also has and adjacent heliport used to manufacture and maintain the AH-64 Apache helicopter. Williams Air Force Base later became Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Today, people living in Mesa, Arizona enjoy many factors that contribute to an exceptional quality of life.
Something for everyone
From amazing shopping, restaurants, museums, and nightlife, people living in Mesa, Arizona are able of have all of the advantages of living in the big city, without the drawbacks that turn some people off from the big city. Whether you are craving some Scandinavian or Canadian dishes from a Valley favorite like Beaver Choice or something with some Latin flair from a restaurant like Republica Empanada, the variety of the food available to people living in Mesa, Arizona leaves nothing to be desired. More of an outdoorsy type? One of the other perks of living in Mesa, Arizona is its proximity to great outdoor recreational opportunities at places like Lost Dutchman State Park or the Usery Mountain Recreation Area.
Centrality
Although many refer to Mesa as the “East Valley,” its location is actually quite convenient. Since the Loop 202 was built in the early 1990s getting from pretty much anywhere within Mesa to any destination within the Valley has become quick, easy and for the most part, painless. Unlike many other sections of the West Valley that have to rely on Interstate 17, Interstate 10 or Highway 51, the Loop 202 is rarely gridlocked. It’s simple and fairly straight shot into downtown Phoenix or the north-south Loop 101. Whether you are looking to go to a ballgame, check out a comedy club or just enjoy downtown Phoenix, the commute is minimal. The average commute time for people living in Mesa is a mere 25 minutes.
Furthermore, for people who prefer public transportation, Mesa is another great bet. In addition to already existing options like bus routes, the city of Mesa is considering options to link the suburb to Tempe’s streetcar system as well as the Valley’s Metro light rail. Whether your drive or use public transportation, these developments bode well for economic activity and increased property values for people living in Mesa in the near future.
Developments to come
Mesa has consistently been one of the fastest growing cities nationwide. Rather than back away from that challenge, or worse, dive head-first without looking, city officials have developed a long-term growth and infrastructure plan, known as the Mesa 2040 General Plan. The city has a vision going forward, including the expansion of the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. The city plans to add an additional terminal to expand commercial flight capabilities. City officials are also committed to the expansion of the light rail system, with plans to add an additional five miles to the existing line.
All of this expansion sounds great, but in order to get people to continue to move here, you need jobs right? Well, they have a plan for that as well. The city has narrowed its focus to a few key, growing industries: healthcare, education, aerospace, and aviation (part of the reason to continue to develop Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport), technology and tourism. Companies within those industries are looking for attractive areas to grow and expand. Mesa is committed to luring those companies into town by growing and developing high-quality public spaces, such as parks, cultural centers, open plazas and more.
A place for families
Mesa is certainly going to get even better as development continues, but the truth is, it already is a wonderful place to raise a family. Dozens of city parks and cool spots like the i.d.e.a. Museum leaves kids living in Mesa, Arizona with plenty of activities to partake in all year long. With numerous parks and some of the best schools in the state, people raising children would be hard-pressed to find a better alternative to living in Mesa, Arizona.
With houses ranging from retro bungalows and cottages to townhomes and huge new construction projects, living in Mesa, Arizona affords residents a huge range of options that can accommodate the needs, tastes and price points of just about anyone.
You considering making the leap so you can start living in Mesa, Arizona? Keep us in mind! Our agents are located throughout the Valley and we have multiple agents who know the Mesa area well. We’d love to help you find your perfect home!
