Tempe is bordered by Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, and Guadalupe, all within the "Valley of the Sun," or metro Phoenix. Aside from being part of the larger metro area, Tempe is a significant city in its own right. With more than 160,000 residents, Tempe considers itself a center for education and commerce. Its many quiet residential areas are supported by Tempe's growing downtown district with its own impressive skyline. Popular neighborhoods in Tempe include: Riverside, Holdeman, Hudson Manor and Sunset.
Tempe's cost of living is only slightly above average compared to the rest of the country. The significant adjustment to housing prices and costs during the economic downturn of recent years has helped in keeping rental prices affordable. Studio apartments in Tempe start at around $450 monthly. One-bedroom apartments can be found for between $650 and $950 a month, depending on location, size and amenities. Most two-bedroom apartments start around $700. Most Tempe apartment complexes are low-rise and garden style, although there is a selection of upscale high-rises. Generally these surround Tempe Town Lake. You can also find rental condos, townhomes, and houses.
Arizona State University (ASU) is a major player in Tempe's economy. It is the largest university in the nation with more than 70,000 students. ASU not only brings thousands of students into the city each year, but it also is a major employer.
The Tempe Town Lake in downtown is a main attraction for residents and visitors alike. This outdoor recreation area includes a large beach park, fishing and boating. Mill Avenue, in downtown Tempe near the University, is a trendy district with coffee shops, eateries, bars, retailers and entertainment venues.
You can get your shopping diva on at the Arizona Mills Mall, a destination shopping center with 175 stores, movie theaters, an IMAX theater and many restaurants. Sea Life Aquarium is also located at the mall. Tempe apartments are also close to many attractions, including a water park, historic and art museums, parks and recreation areas, and in the spring you can catch Major League spring training baseball games at Tempe's Diablo Stadium.