Affordable housing—whether it is nestled in quiet, established neighborhoods or new construction in outstanding master-planned communities—is only one of the magnets that draw newcomers to Glendale. Ranked among Arizona’s largest cities, the anchor of the West Valley boasts a highly established economic base and an impressive array of amenities that guarantee stable property values. Although this area was first settled as farmland, it has rapidly grown into a center for dynamic, progressive industries. Major employment centers ranging from professional to high-tech industries enjoy a centralized Valley location in Glendale, providing opportunities for residents to work within minutes of home. Manufacturing, services and military installations account for a large portion of local economic activity. Approximately half of the 10,000 employees of Luke Air Force Base, distinguished as the largest jet fighter training base in the entire world, are Glendale residents.
Voted “Arizona’s Antique Capital” by the readers of Valley and statewide newspapers, Glendale invites residents and visitors to take a free ride on the town trolley as they discover the charm of yesterday. The city’s earlier heritage has been preserved in the Catlin Court Historic District, featuring gas-lit street lamps, brick walkways, and rows of quaint antique shops. More than 1,400 acres of well-equipped parks, year-round musical and performing arts events, regional malls, abundant and affordable housing, and a myriad of recreational amenities also attest to the city’s dedication to continual progress. Glendale’s 50 parks include the Historic Saguaro Ranch Park and the sprawling Thunderbird Park, where hiking, horseback riding, and picnics are common pastimes. Aficionados of the arts can spend a relaxing evening at the Glendale Municipal Office Complex Amphitheater, or enjoy performances by Theater Works and the Glendale Little Theater company. Glendale offers an excellent public school system as well as private and parochial alternatives. Institutions of higher education include the ASU West Campus, Glendale Community College, and several private colleges and specialty institutes. And, Glendale is the home of West Gate where the Arizona Cardinals and the Phoenix Coyotes play…a beautiful complext that also offers concerts, great restaurants and great shopping.
