How Much Does it Cost to Live in Phoenix for One Month?

Want to experience a new place to visit or work in? Want to immerse yourself in the day-to-day goings on of a city? Then Phoenix's easy-going pace and welcoming communities will be perfect for you. A semi-desert area, with temperatures likened to those of the Saudi Arabian desert, and named Hoozdo meaning "hot place" by the Navajo tribe, the city enjoys up to 310 days of sunshine a year.

Imagine days dawning across desert canyons, vineyards to taste the local tipple, and exquisite sunsets filling the skies of the Sonoran Desert. Exploring the city of Phoenix and the surrounding region, means big adventures under big skies.

When all of this exploring has you in need of some serious pampering, you'll know you have definitely chosen the right city. Phoenix has some of the country's most luxurious destination resorts and spas. These spas are so decadent that you may pass a Hollywood star or two as you make your way to your next treatment. 

What is the Cost of One Month of Housing in Phoenix

Phoenix has a reputation for upscale resorts with manicured golf courses, upscale spas, and swimming pools, all set against low mountain ranges in the distance. Where staff cater to your every need, and cooling cocktails are served to you as you laze away the hours on your sun lounge.

If you are looking for an upscale couples retreat, or luxe solo spa time, a stay at W Scottsdale will see you perfectly pampered. The W's motto is "Whatever Whenever" and from their 350-thread-count linens, and goose-down comforters and pillows, to the appropriately named Bliss Spa, this type of decadence does come at a price: dock your iPod here from $309 per night.

Not everyone's budget will stretch to cabanas and umbrellas in your cocktails therefore, at the other end of the budget spectrum is Cambel Backpackers. Inspired by their own love of travel, Cambel's is a hostel firmly focused on the travel community and promoting Phoenix to those who are looking to experience all the city offers. Take a seat at the extra large dining table and meet fellow travellers from $28 per night in a dorm room and $44 for a private room.

Budget private-rooms from $1,080 and upscale from $2,370 per month

What is the Cost of Transportation for One Month in Phoenix

Phoenix has a great public transport system, yet it's still a very car-centered city. If you want to explore the city's outlying areas, like the hottest desert in North America, the Sonoran, you might consider hiring a car from $1,270 (economy) and $3,005 (SUV).

Phoenix has an economical light rail system, as a ticket from the airport here is $2, compared to a taxi's flat rate of $15. The city's bike-friendly Metro transport, share their bus and rail ticketing system, so you can buy a $4 all day adult pass to get on a bus in an outlining neighborhood, to connect with Valley Metro Rail and catch a concert at the U.S. Airways Centre, Downtown. If you're working in Phoenix, consider spending $64 for 31-day pass. Those thinking of studying or teaching at the Arizona State University (ASU) must check out the discounted ASU fares as there's rail and bus stops at many of their campuses.

Gas prices are slightly lower than the national average at $3.22 per gallon.

What is the Cost of Food for One Month in Phoenix

Breaking from the usual Tex-Mex fare, authentic Mexican dishes are the order of the day in Phoenix, and luckily for us, the competition keeps the prices down and the quality up.

The city offers some of the best chimichangas and burritos you'll ever taste. Whether from one of Phoenix's infamous food trucks or 24-hour places, your taste buds will be sated. Massive burritos can be found at Filiberto's and Raliberto's for less than $4, and most of the rest of the tasty dishes at both restaurants are under $10.

For a Different Pointe of View, yes that's the name of this restaurant, Mediterranean influences using locally sourced ingredients can be found here. As you'll be dining within the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, seated beside floor-to-ceiling windows, you'll have a spectacular view of the surrounding desert sunset as you dine: mains from $31-$60.

When self-catering, stock up at Central Famers Market where you can shop for staples like bread, milk, eggs and meat all supplied by Arizona's best. Grab breakfast or lunch at one of the food trucks, then get shopping.

4 grocery carts of: T-bone steak, ground beef, fried chicken, milk, dozen eggs, potatoes, bananas, bread, oranges, juice, coffee, frozen meal, potato chips, Coke, pizza, beer and a bottle of wine: $258.12

What is the Cost of Entertainment for One Month in Phoenix

The city's metro area has had a revival in recent years, with the refurbishment and introduction of shopping venues, plus happening bars and restaurants. Phoenix has continued to renew its viability at a steady, making it America's sixth largest city, and it's that vigor behind the smart thinkers in Phoenix's tourism industry.

To experience the city's vibrancy, visit The Roosevelt Row Arts District (RoRo), and wander throughout the galleries and shops, with exhibits from interesting new artists and those well established in their craft. Join a First Friday self-guided walk and mingle with locals as you explore the area's art-friendly restaurants, boutiques and live music venues; use the free shuttle to get around.

You can explore Phoenix Mountains Park while having a fun-filled day out. Phoenix Mountains Park is right in the middle of Phoenix and after a two hour hike to the top, enjoy a picnic and take in the 360° views of the city. Don't forget your camera!

Phoenix is an exciting city to be based in for a month or longer. Whether it's a travel adventure, or a sense of community, you'll find what you're looking for under the sunny skies of Phoenix.