Fountain Hills, located in the northeast corner of the Phoenix metropolitan area, is a small town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, and access to a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities. Known for its namesake fountain—one of the tallest in the world—the town is often seen as a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of neighboring cities like Scottsdale and Phoenix. Its scenic desert landscapes, proximity to hiking trails, and strong sense of community make Fountain Hills an appealing destination for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Although Fountain Hills provides a quieter, small-town alternative to the larger cities nearby, it also comes with its own set of challenges. The town’s high cost of living, limited shopping and dining options, and extreme summer heat are factors that potential residents need to consider. Furthermore, while Fountain Hills offers plenty of natural beauty, it lacks some of the urban amenities found in neighboring areas, which can be a drawback for those who crave more entertainment, nightlife, or job opportunities.
This article will explore the 15 pros and 12 cons of living in Fountain Hills, AZ, giving you a comprehensive view of what life in this desert oasis is really like. Whether you’re contemplating a move or simply curious about the area, this guide will help you understand both the advantages and disadvantages of making Fountain Hills your home.
Pros Of Living In Fountain Hills, AZ
1. Spectacular Natural Scenery
One of the most remarkable features of Fountain Hills is its breathtaking natural scenery. The town is surrounded by mountain ranges, including the McDowell Mountains and the Mazatzal Mountains, which provide stunning views no matter where you are in town. The desert landscape is dotted with iconic saguaro cacti, and the sunsets over the mountains are nothing short of spectacular. For residents, waking up to these panoramic views is an everyday luxury.
2. Fountain Park And Iconic Fountain
At the heart of Fountain Hills lies Fountain Park, home to the famous fountain that shoots water 560 feet into the air. The park offers a serene setting for picnics, jogging, or simply relaxing by the lake. The fountain, which goes off every hour, is a major attraction, but for locals, it’s also a source of pride and a symbol of the town’s unique identity. Surrounding the fountain is a large park with walking paths, making it a popular spot for both exercise and leisure.
3. Proximity To Outdoor Recreation
Fountain Hills offers easy access to a wide variety of outdoor activities. The nearby McDowell Mountain Regional Park has over 21,000 acres of desert trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Saguaro Lake is just a short drive away, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports. The town’s desert setting makes it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with adventure and exploration readily available right outside your door.
4. Low Crime Rate
Fountain Hills is known for being one of the safest towns in the Phoenix metro area. Its low crime rate makes it an attractive option for families and retirees looking for a peaceful and secure environment. The town’s small population, coupled with its close-knit community, helps create a safe and tranquil atmosphere. Residents can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in a community where crime is rare.
5. Small-Town Atmosphere
Despite being part of the greater Phoenix area, Fountain Hills maintains a small-town feel. With a population of around 25,000, the town offers a more intimate and slower-paced lifestyle compared to neighboring Scottsdale and Phoenix. The tight-knit community allows residents to know their neighbors, and local businesses are often owned and operated by residents. This small-town atmosphere provides a sense of belonging and community that larger cities often lack.
6. Strong Community Involvement
Fountain Hills is a town where community involvement is a central part of life. The town hosts a variety of local events, such as the Fountain Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts and the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, which bring residents together. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer, participate in local government, or join community organizations. This active participation fosters a sense of unity and pride among residents.
7. Quality Public Schools
Families living in Fountain Hills can benefit from the town’s good public education system. The Fountain Hills Unified School District is well-regarded for its smaller class sizes, high academic standards, and dedicated teachers. Parents can feel confident that their children will receive a well-rounded education in a supportive and safe environment.
8. Popular With Retirees
Fountain Hills is a popular destination for retirees, thanks to its peaceful atmosphere, warm climate, and abundance of recreational opportunities. The town’s low crime rate, access to healthcare, and numerous golf courses make it an appealing place for those looking to enjoy their retirement years. Additionally, Fountain Hills has several retirement communities that cater to seniors, providing various services and amenities to enhance their quality of life.
9. Mild Winters
One of the major perks of living in Fountain Hills is its mild winter climate. While much of the country experiences cold weather and snow, Fountain Hills enjoys pleasant temperatures in the 60s and 70s during the winter months. This allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, making the town a desirable winter escape for snowbirds and retirees.
10. Access To High-Quality Healthcare
Fountain Hills offers convenient access to quality healthcare services. Although the town itself is small, residents can easily access medical care in nearby Scottsdale or Phoenix, where several top-rated hospitals and medical facilities are located. This proximity to healthcare services provides residents with peace of mind, knowing they can access specialized care when needed.
11. Proximity To Scottsdale and Phoenix
While Fountain Hills offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle, it is just a short drive from Scottsdale and Phoenix, providing easy access to big-city amenities. Within 30 minutes, residents can be in Scottsdale, enjoying upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. Phoenix is just 45 minutes away, offering even more cultural attractions, professional sports teams, and job opportunities. This close proximity to major cities allows Fountain Hills residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
12. Vibrant Arts And Cultural Scene
Fountain Hills is home to a thriving arts and cultural community. The town hosts several annual art festivals, including the Fountain Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts, which draws artists and visitors from across the country. The Fountain Hills Theater offers live performances, and public art installations can be found throughout the town. Residents who enjoy the arts will find plenty to engage with in Fountain Hills.
13. Golfing Paradise
Golf enthusiasts will find Fountain Hills to be a dream come true. The town is home to several world-class golf courses, including SunRidge Canyon Golf Club and Desert Canyon Golf Club. With its year-round sunny weather, Fountain Hills is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf any time of the year, making it a haven for those who love the sport.
14. Abundance Of Scenic Parks
In addition to Fountain Park, Fountain Hills boasts several other scenic parks that offer a range of recreational activities. Golden Eagle Park, for example, features sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds, providing a great place for families to gather and enjoy the outdoors. The town’s parks are well-maintained and offer a peaceful retreat from everyday life.
15. Quiet, Relaxed Living Environment
Fountain Hills is known for its quiet and relaxed living environment. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of Phoenix or Scottsdale, Fountain Hills offers a slower pace of life, making it an ideal place for those looking to escape the noise and commotion of city living. The peaceful ambiance allows residents to enjoy the natural surroundings and live a more laid-back lifestyle.
Cons Of Living In Fountain Hills, AZ
1. Extremely Hot Summers
While Fountain Hills enjoys mild winters, the summer months can be brutally hot. Temperatures often soar above 100°F, making it uncomfortable to spend time outdoors during the day. For those unaccustomed to the desert heat, summers in Fountain Hills can be a challenge, requiring adjustments to daily routines and increased use of air conditioning.
2. Limited Shopping And Dining Options
Fountain Hills is a small town, and while it has some local shops and restaurants, the variety is limited compared to neighboring Scottsdale or Phoenix. Residents may find themselves traveling to these larger cities for more diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options. While this is manageable, it can be inconvenient for those who prefer a wider selection of amenities closer to home.
3. Higher Cost Of Living
The cost of living in Fountain Hills is higher than the national average, particularly when it comes to housing. Real estate prices are higher than in other parts of the Phoenix metro area, which can be a barrier for first-time homebuyers or those on a tight budget. Property taxes and utilities can also be more expensive, contributing to the overall higher cost of living in the town.
4. Limited Public Transportation
Fountain Hills does not have an extensive public transportation system. This can be a drawback for residents who do not have access to a car or prefer to use public transit. Most people in Fountain Hills rely on personal vehicles to get around, which can be limiting for those without their own transportation.
5. Few Job Opportunities In Town
While Fountain Hills offers a beautiful and peaceful place to live, its job market is relatively small. Many residents commute to nearby Scottsdale, Phoenix, or other parts of the metro area for work. This can lead to longer commute times, depending on where you work, and increases the reliance on cars for transportation.
6. Distance From Major Entertainment Attractions
Although Fountain Hills is close to Scottsdale and Phoenix, it is still a fair distance from major entertainment venues, such as professional sports arenas, large shopping malls, and cultural institutions. Residents who want to enjoy big-city entertainment may need to drive a considerable distance to access these attractions, which can feel limiting for some.
7. Lack Of Nightlife
For those seeking a lively nightlife scene, Fountain Hills may not be the best fit. The town is quiet, and while there are a few local bars and restaurants, the nightlife options are limited compared to nearby Scottsdale. Residents who enjoy an active nightlife may find themselves traveling outside of Fountain Hills for more vibrant entertainment.
8. Increased Tourism During Winter
Fountain Hills attracts a significant number of tourists and snowbirds during the winter months, which can lead to crowded public spaces and increased traffic. While tourism boosts the local economy, the influx of seasonal visitors can disrupt the town’s otherwise quiet atmosphere. Residents may find that popular parks and restaurants become more crowded during peak tourist season.
9. Potential Wildlife Encounters
Living in a desert environment means that encounters with local wildlife, such as coyotes, snakes, and scorpions, are not uncommon. While these animals generally avoid humans, they can be unsettling for those unaccustomed to desert wildlife. Residents living in more rural parts of Fountain Hills may experience these encounters more frequently.
10. Distance From Major Healthcare Facilities
While Fountain Hills offers access to basic healthcare services, the town itself does not have a large hospital. Residents often need to travel to nearby Scottsdale or Phoenix for specialized medical care or emergency services. This can be inconvenient for those with ongoing medical needs or in the case of emergencies.
11. Lack Of Diversity
Fountain Hills is not as diverse as other parts of the Phoenix metro area, which may be a drawback for those seeking a more multicultural environment. The town has a predominantly older population and lacks the ethnic and cultural diversity found in larger cities. This may be a consideration for families or individuals looking for a more varied community.
12. High Property Taxes
In addition to the high cost of housing, residents of Fountain Hills also face relatively high property taxes. This can add to the overall cost of living and make it more difficult for homeowners to manage their expenses. The combination of higher property taxes and home prices can be a deterrent for those looking to purchase property in the area.
Conclusion
Living in Fountain Hills, AZ, offers a unique combination of natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, and access to outdoor recreation. The town’s small-town charm, low crime rate, and close-knit community make it an appealing place for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. However, it is important to weigh the challenges, including the extreme summer heat, limited amenities, and higher cost of living, before making the decision to move.
By considering the 15 pros and 12 cons outlined in this article, you can determine if Fountain Hills is the right place for you. Whether you’re drawn to the town’s quiet lifestyle, stunning desert scenery, or proximity to Phoenix and Scottsdale, Fountain Hills has much to offer for those seeking a balance between nature and convenience.