Perhaps you’ve heard this before from us, but Scottsdale is pretty awesome. And it’s not just us who says that; every month it seems as though there’s an article touting how we’re at or near the top of some list, and what can we say? We like to remind you how lucky we are.
Scottsdale has been recognized as one of the top 15 happiest cities in the United States, according to a recent study by SmartAsset. The study evaluated 90 of the largest U.S. cities across 11 metrics spanning personal finance, physical well-being, and quality of life. Scottsdale’s strong performance in these areas contributed to its high ranking.
Key factors influencing our happiness ranking include a high percentage of households earning over $100,000, a low poverty rate, and a significant proportion of residents reporting good mental health days. Additionally, the city boasts a high marriage rate and a substantial percentage of residents with health insurance coverage. These elements, combined with abundant sunshine and access to physical activity, create an environment conducive to overall well-being.
Another significant part of our appeal is lifestyle-based; the score is further enhanced by its vibrant arts scene, numerous golf courses, and status as a luxury resort destination. The city’s commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents is evident in its infrastructure, public services, and community engagement initiatives. These factors collectively contribute to Scottsdale’s reputation as a city where happiness thrives.
All of this is with quite the backdrop: infighting between the new Mayor and City Council, silly tabloid-esque issues such as “ParkingGate”, legal challenges from ideological usurpers, and other unforced errors. It’s worth noting that your average person stays above these frays. There are simply too many great aspects of the city to enjoy to get into the crossfire of mud-slinging…even if it makes for good blog post content.
There’s a lot of turmoil in Scottsdale politics, and while some of it is admittedly juicy to read about, it’s important to take a step back and see the forest through the trees. We live in an amazing location, and it will take a lot more than politicians bickering to change that. We are and should remain thankful!