Phoenix
Although surrounded by inhospitable desert, Phoenix is one of the largest cities in the United States, and the nation’s single largest state capital city. The area contains numerous galleries and museums, putting the people in contact with everything from the European masters to Native American craftsmanship to modern originals from Phoenix’s diverse artistic community. The Downtown cultural scene has developed into a top-notch feast of visual and performing arts, with symphony performances, live theater, and the popular First Friday exhibitions. Phoenix is also an excellent city for sports fans, being one of the few cities in America with local franchises in the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. Several thousand students attend the two Arizona State University campuses in the city, as well as the over-50,000 who attend the main campus in neighboring Tempe. Rental rates for apartments average around $1000 per month, but numerous more affordable options are available all over the city, from quiet houses for rent in the suburbs to downtown efficiency apartments. Getting around Phoenix is typically done by car for most residents, but a light rail system makes it easy to get across town without a personal vehicle; Downtown and its surrounding areas are quite walkable as well.
Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is a thriving city right at the heart of Oklahoma. The city’s thriving economy is complemented by its exciting nightlife and entertainment options. Downtown is home to the Myriad Botanical Gardens and the Oklahoma City Zoo, two extremely popular family-friendly attractions. The Myriad Gardens also include the Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park production at the Water Stage. The Oklahoma City Thunder has built a dedicated fan base, and things always get pretty wild around the Chesapeake Arena on game days. The arts community is quite active with galleries, museums, theater productions, and a music scene incorporating everything from underground alternative bands to the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. The city has been expanding in recent years, and Oklahoma City proper is much easier to get around with public transportation than most other cities in the region, including rail service. Oklahoma City is one of the least expensive metropolitan areas in the nation, and rental rates for apartments, condos, and rental houses tend to be very affordable.
Glendale
Welcome to Glendale, Arizona, a welcoming city in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Located just nine miles northwest of downtown Phoenix, this community offers diverse rental options from contemporary apartments near the Westgate Entertainment District to historic properties in the Catlin Court Historic District. Current rental trends show one-bedroom units averaging $1,238, with rates decreasing 3.7% over the past year. The city's centerpiece attractions include State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals NFL team, and Desert Diamond Arena, which hosts major concerts and events throughout the year. The Westgate Entertainment District serves as a destination for shopping and dining. History enthusiasts can explore two preserved historic properties: Sahuaro Ranch Park, featuring a 19th-century ranch house and beautiful rose garden, and Manistee Ranch, showcasing territorial-style architecture. The area's educational institutions include the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University and Glendale Community College. Glendale's rich history dates to 1891, when founder William John Murphy collaborated with Burgess Hadsell to establish what began as a temperance colony. Today, the community spirit lives on through events like the annual Glendale Glitters festival, which illuminates the historic downtown with 1.6 million lights each winter.
