Thinking of moving to Arizona but nervous about summer temperatures? One thing that many prospective Arizonans might not know is that there can be substantial temperature differences even within the Phoenix-Metro area. Just a 30-minute drive north of the capital, Cave Creek is one of the cooler options within commuting distance.
Let’s take a look at some weather averages, starting with Phoenix. The average highs in July are around 105°F (40.6°C). That’s pretty toasty and definitely calls for afternoons inside under the air conditioner. Cave Creek, on the other hand, offers an average July high of around 100°F (37.8°C). That’s a 5-degree difference that provides a welcome respite from the intensity of the Phoenix sun.
So why is Cave Creek so much cooler than Phoenix even though it’s relatively close? A lot of it has to do with elevation. Phoenix sits at an elevation of 1,086 feet (331 meters) above sea level while Cave Creek sits at 2,126 feet (648 meters). Another major weather difference I’ve noticed as a Cave Creek resident is that we tend to get more breezy summers which can help cool things down.
While lifestyles between the two cities can be vastly different, Cave Creek is slightly cooler than Phoenix and beckons those looking for a more tranquil and laid-back living experience. The evenings in Cave Creek summer hover somewhere in the high 70s and offer a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors without feeling like you're in an inferno. Early mornings are just the same and it’s possible and enjoyable to get out for a stroll or jog before the rising of our intense desert sun.
As a local real estate expert, I've seen firsthand how the climate preferences of potential homeowners play a significant role in their decision-making process. Cave Creek's weather and elevation do offer a modest reduction in summer temperatures compared to Phoenix, and make it an appealing destination if you’re looking for cooler summers without sacrificing city access.
Photo by Tori Wise
