

What makes Greater Phoenix so great: Stefanie Carson
What is your first and last name?
Stefanie Carson
How old are you?
34
What current city do you reside in?
Chandler, AZ
How long have you lived in Greater Phoenix?
Since 2007
Did you grow up in Arizona?
No
My former spouse and I moved here because tuition at ASU was much cheaper than in California where we were previously living. I stayed because the cost-of-living is so attractive, the weather is mild *enough* year-round and I love how close I am to so many great outdoor activities.
What college/university did you graduate from and what’s your degree?
Orange Coast College in Southern California, I have a certificate degree in Commercial Advertising and Design
Greater Phoenix Economic Council Senior Graphic Designer + PhotographerWhat do you like to do in Greater Phoenix on the weekends?
I love visiting local craft coffee or beer breweries, touring art galleries, strolling through farmer’s markets, attending concerts, trying out new local restaurants, hiking around the Lower Salt River, day trips to Sedona/Jerome/Page Springs/Payson/Flagstaff/Cottonwood and camping.
Hotel Valley Ho because they have a great pool, a fun stylish vibe and great options for food and drinks.
What’s your favorite restaurant and why?
Cibo in Central Phoenix. I love the atmosphere, their food is amazing and they have a great wine selection.
How do you stay “cool” in the Arizona summers?
Escape to the higher elevations, lots of camping up north, pool parties on the weekends.
What do you like about our winters and why?
I love that I never have to turn my heater on and it’s great patio drinking weather with friends.
What do you love most about living in Greater Phoenix?
I love how accessible it is to anywhere else I want to go. I travel back to California often to visit family and it’s just a short 5-hour drive. I also love that as a single mom, I can afford safe, comfortable housing for myself and my two kids in a great school district with Blue Ribbon status and my commute to work is only about 30 minutes.
I love how young and vibrant this region is. It still has so much room for growth and innovation.
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