Welcome to Phoenix, the fifth-largest U.S. metropolitan city. The sun shines almost every day of the year, offering a stunning blend of desert beauty and vibrant urban life. With 300 days of sunshine and a pleasant 73-degree average yearly temperature, what's not to love?
Phoenix is home to world-class attractions, including NFL, MLB, NHL, and NBA teams, and offers more than 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. Whether you're two hours away from Flagstaff's ski slopes, four hours from the Grand Canyon, or five hours from the beaches of San Diego, adventure is always within reach.
We're excited for you to join us at the Phoenix Home Office (PHO). As you embark on this new journey with PetSmart, we’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible. Whether moving here for the first time or returning to the Valley of the Sun, this guide will help you settle in and make the most of your new surroundings.
FAQs - the 411 on the relocation process and being new to Phoenix
What is the relocation process like?
For associates relocating to the Phoenix area for a role at PetSmart, the relocation process looks a little like this: Once the offer is accepted, a PetSmart team member will contact you via email to send you your relocation benefits guide and the necessary paperwork. Once your paperwork is signed, PetSmart will authorize your relocation benefits with Graebel, the 3rd party relocation company. Graebel will contact you within 24-48 business hours to initiate your move and review your eligible benefits.
How does PetSmart support me in relocation?
PetSmart offers a multitude of relocation benefits that can include a miscellaneous allowance, temp living assistance, home sale assistance, home purchase assistance, lease cancellation assistance, necessary relocation travel reimbursement, packing assistance, car transportation assistance, pet transportation assistance, assistance with storage needs and some additional destination services.
What do I need to know before relocating?
PetSmart uses a third-party relocation company to assist you with your move. However, PetSmart has a relocation team member here to help make it a seamless transition! How far your current location is from your destination location can affect the benefits you will receive.
Who can I contact for questions?
What’s the best way to get around Phoenix?
Phoenix is a car-centric city, so having a vehicle is ideal. However, public transportation, including the Valley Metro Light Rail, is also a good option for commuting.
How hot does it really get?
Summers are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. But don't worry—most places are air-conditioned, and you’ll quickly adapt to the heat!
What are some local tips for newcomers?
Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and embrace the early mornings or evenings for outdoor activities to avoid the midday sun.
How do I meet new people in the area?
Joining local clubs, attending community events, and participating in PetSmart's Associate Resource Groups are great ways to connect with others.
Discover Your Perfect Neighborhood
Phoenix is a sprawling city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe. Here are a few areas popular among PetSmart associates:
Deer Valley: Located in the northern part of Phoenix, Deer Valley offers a suburban feel with easy access to shopping centers, parks, and outdoor activities. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter neighborhood with a strong family presence. PHO is in this neighborhood!
Norterra: A newer development in North Phoenix and about 5 miles North of PHO, Norterra is ideal for those seeking modern housing options and is close to retail and dining. The community is well-planned and offers plenty of green spaces and trails.
North Mountain: This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with North Mountain Park offering hiking trails and stunning views. The neighborhood is about 5-10 miles South of PHO and has a mix of residential areas, from single-family homes to apartments.
Peoria: Just northwest of Phoenix and 10-15 miles Southwest of PHO, Peoria combines suburban living with excellent amenities, including top-rated schools, shopping, and dining. It’s also home to the Peoria Sports Complex, where you can catch a spring training game.
Desert Ridge: A thriving area in North Phoenix, Desert Ridge is known for its upscale shopping and dining options. It’s a bustling neighborhood about 10 miles east of PHO, with modern homes and easy access to the Loop 101 freeway, making it a convenient choice for commuters.
North Central Phoenix: This area is known for its beautiful historic homes and lush landscaping. It offers urban and suburban living, with trendy restaurants, coffee shops, and quiet residential streets. It is about 15-20 miles south of PHO.
North Scottsdale: Just east of Phoenix and 15-20 miles East of PHO, North Scottsdale offers a blend of luxury living, excellent schools, and a lively cultural scene. It's ideal for families or anyone looking for a more upscale atmosphere.
Tempe: Home to Arizona State University, Tempe is youthful and energetic. It is 25-30 miles Southeast of PHO. The area is known for its affordable housing, lively events, and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and paddleboarding on Tempe Town Lake.
For more detailed neighborhood insights, check out Visit Phoenix's Neighborhood Guide. You can also check out great schools in the Phoenix area here.
Food, Drink, and Fun: A Taste of Phoenix
Phoenix’s food and bar scene is as diverse as its population, with options ranging from authentic Mexican street food to fine dining. Check out the list below for some must-try spots.
Fun Activities
Arizona is the perfect state for activities like camping, casinos, sports, golfing, hiking, horse racing, hot air balloons, music, nightlife, aquariums, downtown fun, community events, zoo visits, renaissance festivals, salt river floats, skydiving, and wildlife—whatever you're into—when it comes to activities, Phoenix doesn’t disappoint. From hiking Camelback Mountain to exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, there’s always something to do. Looking for more ideas? Find inspiration at Visit Phoenix!
Must-See Destinations
Phoenix is not just about work; it's also about play! Here are some iconic destinations you won’t want to miss that are within driving distance. 🚗
Prescott - 1.5 hours from PHO: Nestled in the cool pines, Prescott offers a charming downtown and a taste of the Old West with its historic Whiskey Row.
Flagstaff - 2 hours from PHO: Known for its alpine scenery and proximity to the San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff is a hub for outdoor activities and a gateway to the Grand Canyon.
Jerome - 1.75 hours from PHO: Once a booming mining town, Jerome is now a vibrant artist community perched on the side of a mountain with sweeping views.
Sedona - 1.75 hours from PHO: Famous for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.
Tombstone - 3.5 hours from PHO: Step back in time in Tombstone, the historic Wild West town known for the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
Bisbee - 3.75 hours from PHO: A former mining town turned artsy enclave, Bisbee is known for its eclectic shops, galleries, and steep streets.
Grand Canyon - 3.5 hours from PHO: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking vistas and countless hiking opportunities.
Glen Canyon - 4.25 hours from PHO: Explore the scenic beauty of Glen Canyon, with its dramatic cliffs and the famous Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River.
Antelope Canyon - 4.25 hours from PHO: Marvel at the stunning, wave-like formations and light beams that make Antelope Canyon one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world.
Lake Havasu - 3.5 hours from PHO: Known for its boating and water sports, Lake Havasu is also home to the relocated London Bridge, a popular tourist attraction.
Lake Mead - 4 hours from PHO: As the largest reservoir in the U.S., Lake Mead offers a vast playground for boating, fishing, and exploring the rugged desert landscape.
Lake Powell - 4.25 hours from PHO: A paradise for water lovers, Lake Powell features striking red rock landscapes, hidden canyons, and endless opportunities for adventure.
Las Vegas - 4.5 hours from PHO: is a major resort city known for its casinos, entertainment, nightlife, and shopping.
San Diego beaches - 5 hours from PHO: Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at San Diego's beautiful beaches, perfect for a quick coastal getaway from the desert.
Dog Parks for Your Furry Friends
Phoenix is a pet-friendly city with plenty of places for your dog to run, play, and make new friends. In addition to the pet-friendly home office campus with an on-site dog park, you and your pup can enjoy these local hangs + more:
Chaparral Park: Located in Scottsdale, this sizeable off-leash dog park is a local favorite.
Steele Indian School Park: This park is close to downtown and offers plenty of space for your pup to roam.
Hance Park Dog Park: This park is perfect for those living in central Phoenix. It offers separate areas for small and large dogs.
For more options, visit Bring Fido's Phoenix Dog Park Guide.
We’re excited to have you in Phoenix and can’t wait to see all the fantastic things you’ll do here. Welcome to your new home! If you want to check out more #LifeAtPetSmart goodness, find everything you need here.
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