Phoenix, Arizona, the nation’s fifth-largest city, is a vibrant and diverse desert metropolis that continues to evolve as a hub for innovation, culture, and economic growth. With over 1.6 million residents, Phoenix’s population includes a dynamic blend of Latino, White, Black, Asian, and Indigenous communities, creating a rich cultural mosaic.
of supports measured
As the city grows, its leaders and residents are working to ensure that all families have access to opportunity—through expanded education access, workforce readiness programs, and environmental sustainability efforts.
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Phoenix has long been recognized for its natural beauty and thriving business ecosystem. As it navigates challenges related to rapid population growth and economic inequality, Phoenix is actively working to expand access to essential services, public health resources, and education pathways that support all families and young people.
Phoenix’s indicator-level data highlights both promising developments and continued challenges across education, economic opportunity, and youth well-being. Several city and state initiatives are actively working to address these areas.
Expand to read more
Educational attainment in Phoenix is a key area of focus. Only 64% of students graduate from high school—well below the national average. Meanwhile, 44.93% of adults hold an associate degree or higher, slightly under the national average. In response, the Phoenix Union High School District has implemented a College Depot program at its public library, offering free college planning, FAFSA assistance, and workshops to increase postsecondary enrollment among underrepresented students. The city is also aligned with Achieve60AZ, a statewide effort to boost postsecondary attainment to 60% by 2030.
Phoenix also has a lower-than-average youth disconnection rate, with just 7.41% of youth not in school or work. This is supported by programs like the Maricopa County Youth Workforce Services, which provides job training and internships for young people, helping connect them to education and employment opportunities.
Unemployment in Phoenix stands at 2.98%, outperforming the national average. The city’s Office of Economic Development and its ARIZONA@WORK partnerships help residents access job placement services and workforce training, supporting this strong employment environment.
Phoenix has a sizable population of English learners, with 13.49% of students classified as English learners. To support these students, the Arizona Department of Education has launched updated guidance on Structured English Immersion (SEI) models and promotes dual-language programs in districts across Phoenix.
Finally, Phoenix’s infant mortality rate is 5.40 per 1,000 live births, which is closely aligned with the national average. This indicator reflects the city’s maternal and child health services, which are supported by programs like the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the state’s Medicaid agency, and Phoenix’s Healthy Start initiative, which offers case management and health education to families during and after pregnancy.
While the data show areas where Phoenix is performing near or better than national benchmarks—particularly in youth connection and employment—educational attainment and language support remain areas for strategic investment. Continued coordination across city and state programs will be essential to expanding opportunity and well-being for all Phoenix residents.
Phoenix Indicators
The Community Climate comprises indicators of a city’s current conditions in important areas such as education, economic stability, and public health. While these indicators do not uncover underlying supports or influences in a city, the outcomes provide a picture of a community’s well-being, economic mobility, and equitable opportunities.
*Indicator data unavailable due to universal free lunch program
Explore all the data, insights, and recommendations for Phoenix:
