How to Find Co-Working Spaces in Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, has rapidly evolved into one of the most dynamic urban centers in the Southwest, attracting entrepreneurs, remote workers, freelancers, and startups from across the country. With its booming tech scene, affordable cost of living compared to coastal cities, and year-round sunshine, it’s no surprise that co-working spaces have surged in popularity. Whether you’re relocating to Phoenix, working remotely for the first time, or seeking a more collaborative environment than your home office can offer, finding the right co-working space is critical to your productivity, creativity, and professional growth.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to discovering, evaluating, and selecting the ideal co-working space in Phoenix. From understanding your unique needs to leveraging local resources and real-world examples, you’ll gain the knowledge to make an informed decision that aligns with your work style, budget, and long-term goals. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll not only know where to look—but how to assess quality, culture, and value beyond the surface-level amenities.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Needs and Work Style

Before you begin searching, take time to reflect on how you work best. Are you a solo freelancer who needs quiet focus, or a team leader who requires meeting rooms and collaboration zones? Do you need 24/7 access, high-speed internet, printing services, or on-site coffee? Your daily routine will dictate the features you prioritize.

Consider these questions:

• Do you need a dedicated desk or are you flexible with hot-desking?
• How important is networking? Do you want events, workshops, or community mixers?
• Will you need private phone booths or soundproof rooms for client calls?
• Do you require parking, bike storage, or proximity to public transit?
• Are you looking for a space that supports long-term growth, such as scalable memberships or private offices?

Answering these will help you filter options efficiently. For example, if you’re a graphic designer who thrives in quiet environments, you’ll want to avoid spaces known for loud social events. Conversely, if you’re a startup founder seeking investors and mentors, a community-driven space with regular pitch nights may be ideal.

Step 2: Identify Your Preferred Neighborhoods in Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling metropolis, and not all neighborhoods offer the same vibe or amenities. Choosing a co-working space near where you live—or where you want to live—can significantly impact your daily routine and overall satisfaction.

Here are key areas to consider:

• Downtown Phoenix: The heart of the city’s business district, with high-rise buildings, cultural venues, and proximity to light rail. Ideal for professionals who want urban energy and networking opportunities.
• Midtown Phoenix: A mix of historic charm and modern development, popular with creatives and tech professionals. Home to several boutique co-working spaces and coffee shops.
• Scottsdale: Upscale and business-oriented, with luxury amenities and a strong presence of corporate freelancers and consultants. Higher price points but exceptional facilities.
• Tempe: A college town with a youthful, innovative energy thanks to Arizona State University. Great for startups, students, and tech entrepreneurs.
• Glendale and Peoria: More suburban, offering quieter environments with ample parking and lower costs. Suitable for those seeking a retreat from city bustle.

Proximity to your home, commute time, and access to lunch spots or gyms should factor into your decision. Many co-working spaces offer virtual tours or day passes—use these to experience the neighborhood firsthand before committing.

Step 3: Use Online Directories and Search Engines

The internet is your most powerful tool for discovering co-working spaces. Start with targeted search terms like:

• "Best co-working spaces in Phoenix 2024"
• "Affordable co-working Phoenix downtown"
• "Co-working spaces with meeting rooms Phoenix"
• "Pet-friendly co-working Phoenix"

Use Google Maps to visualize locations, read reviews, and check photos. Filter results by rating (4.5+ stars) and recent reviews (last 3–6 months) for the most accurate picture. Look for consistent mentions of Wi-Fi reliability, cleanliness, staff responsiveness, and noise levels.

Also explore specialized platforms:

• Coworker.com – Offers detailed filters for amenities, pricing, and member reviews.
• Deskpass – Allows you to book day passes at multiple locations across Phoenix.
• WeWork – A global brand with multiple Phoenix locations; good for brand recognition and standardized amenities.
• LinkedIn – Search for Phoenix-based professionals and see where they list their workspaces. Many will mention their co-working space in their profile or posts.

Bookmark at least 10–15 spaces that match your criteria and move to the next step.

Step 4: Visit Spaces in Person or Schedule Virtual Tours

Photos and descriptions can be misleading. Nothing replaces firsthand experience. Contact each shortlisted space to inquire about a tour—many offer free day passes or 30-minute walkthroughs.

During your visit, observe:

• Ambiance and lighting – Is it bright and inviting, or dim and sterile?
• Noise levels – Are people talking loudly? Is there background music? Are phone booths available?
• Cleanliness – Are common areas tidy? Are restrooms well-maintained?
• Staff interaction – Are employees friendly and helpful? Do they know members by name?
• Technology – Is Wi-Fi strong? Are outlets plentiful? Is there a dedicated IT support contact?
• Community vibe – Are members interacting? Is there a bulletin board with events or job postings?

Ask specific questions:

• “What’s the average occupancy during peak hours?”
• “Are there quiet zones or focus rooms?”
• “Can I bring guests or clients? Is there a fee?”
• “What’s the policy on extended hours or weekend access?”
• “Do you offer member discounts to local businesses?”

If you can’t visit in person, request a live video tour via Zoom or Google Meet. Many spaces now offer this as a standard service.

Step 5: Compare Membership Plans and Pricing

Co-working spaces in Phoenix vary widely in pricing. Expect to pay anywhere from $99/month for a hot desk to $500+/month for a private office. Don’t just compare price tags—evaluate value.

Break down what’s included:

• High-speed internet (fiber-optic preferred)
• Printing, scanning, and copying
• Access to meeting rooms (how many hours included?)
• Community events and workshops
• Free coffee, tea, and snacks
• Mail handling or package receiving
• 24/7 access
• On-site staff or community managers

Some spaces offer tiered memberships:

• Hot Desk: Flexible, non-assigned seating. Best for occasional users.
• Dedicated Desk: Your own workstation, often with a lockable drawer. Ideal for daily users.
• Private Office: Enclosed room for 1–10 people. Best for teams or those needing privacy.
• Virtual Office: Mail handling and occasional meeting room access. No physical workspace.

Look for flexible terms: monthly vs. annual contracts, no-lock-in policies, and the ability to pause memberships. Avoid spaces that require long-term commitments unless you’re certain of your long-term presence in Phoenix.

Step 6: Read Member Reviews and Testimonials

Real user experiences reveal what brochures hide. Look for reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and niche platforms like Coworker.com. Pay attention to patterns:

• Are members complaining about broken printers or slow Wi-Fi?
• Do people mention the community manager by name and praise their support?
• Are there recurring mentions of networking opportunities or successful collaborations?
• Do reviews mention hidden fees (e.g., for guest passes or printing)?

Also search for members on LinkedIn or Instagram. Many co-working communities have active social media pages where they post events, member spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content. This gives you insight into the culture beyond the contract.

Step 7: Ask About Community and Networking Opportunities

One of the biggest advantages of co-working spaces is the built-in community. Don’t overlook this. A space with active programming can become a source of clients, collaborators, mentors, or even friends.

Ask:

• “What events do you host monthly?”
• “Are there member-led groups (e.g., writers, developers, marketers)?”
• “Do you facilitate introductions between members?”
• “Are there partnerships with local businesses (e.g., gyms, cafes, legal services)?”

Spaces like The Yard in Downtown Phoenix or The Hatch in Tempe regularly host startup pitch nights, skill-sharing workshops, and happy hours. These aren’t just perks—they’re career accelerators.

Step 8: Test with a Day Pass or Weekly Trial

Before signing a contract, use a day pass or week-long trial. This lets you experience:

• Real Wi-Fi speed during peak hours
• How busy the space gets at 10 a.m. vs. 3 p.m.
• Whether the staff remembers your name
• If the coffee actually tastes good

Many Phoenix co-working spaces offer $10–$25 day passes. Use this time to work on a real project—not just browse. Notice how focused you feel, how often you’re interrupted, and whether you’d want to return.

Use this trial to compare multiple locations side-by-side. You’ll be surprised how much one space’s culture can impact your output.

Step 9: Negotiate Terms and Ask for Customizations

Don’t assume pricing is fixed. Many spaces, especially smaller ones, are open to negotiation—especially if you’re signing a 6–12 month contract or bringing a team.

Ask:

• “Can I get a discount for paying quarterly or annually?”
• “Is there a referral bonus if I bring in other members?”
• “Can we customize our access hours or add a second desk?”
• “Do you offer a free month if I refer three new members?”

Some spaces will throw in free meeting room hours, branded signage, or complimentary event tickets. Even small perks add up over time.

Step 10: Sign Up and Set Up Your Space

Once you’ve chosen your space, complete the onboarding process. This often includes:

• Signing a membership agreement (read it carefully)
• Receiving a keycard or app-based access code
• Getting Wi-Fi credentials
• Being added to the member directory or Slack group
• Attending a welcome orientation

Introduce yourself to the community manager and other members. Attend the next event. Ask questions. The more you engage, the more value you’ll extract from your membership.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Culture Over Amenities

It’s easy to be swayed by a sleek design or free kombucha. But the true value of a co-working space lies in its culture. A space with a tight-knit, supportive community will foster more long-term growth than one with the fanciest espresso machine.

Look for signs of authenticity: member-led initiatives, handwritten welcome notes, community boards with personal updates. These indicate a space that values people over profit.

2. Avoid Overpaying for Brand Names

Global chains like WeWork offer consistency but often come with premium pricing. Local, independently owned spaces frequently offer better value, personalized service, and deeper community roots. Don’t assume a big name equals better quality.

3. Consider Hybrid Work Arrangements

Many Phoenix professionals split their time between home, co-working spaces, and client sites. Choose a membership that supports flexibility—like a hybrid plan that includes 8 days/month of access plus virtual services.

4. Evaluate Long-Term Scalability

If you plan to grow your team or business, choose a space that can scale with you. Can you upgrade from a desk to a private office? Can you add more members without re-contracting? Ask about upgrade paths upfront.

5. Be Mindful of Location and Commute

Phoenix’s traffic can be brutal. A space that’s 20 minutes from your home may cost less but cost you more in time and stress. Use Google Maps’ traffic history to check rush hour congestion on your potential commute route.

6. Don’t Ignore Hidden Costs

Some spaces charge extra for:

• Printing beyond a monthly limit
• After-hours access
• Guest passes
• Meeting room overtime
• Storage lockers

Ask for a full fee schedule in writing. Avoid surprises later.

7. Build Relationships, Not Just Reservations

The most successful co-working members don’t just pay for a desk—they engage. Attend events, share resources, offer help, and introduce others. The community you build is often more valuable than the space itself.

8. Review Your Membership Quarterly

Your needs will change. Maybe you need more meeting rooms. Maybe you’re working from home more. Schedule a quarterly check-in with yourself: Is this space still serving me? Is the price still fair? Are there better options now?

Tools and Resources

Online Directories

• Coworker.com – The most comprehensive directory with filters for price, amenities, and member ratings. Allows booking day passes.
• Deskpass – Offers flexible access to over 100 co-working spaces in Phoenix and beyond. Pay-as-you-go model.
• Google Maps – Search “co-working space Phoenix” and sort by rating, distance, and photos. Read recent reviews.
• Yelp – Great for user-generated reviews with photos and complaints about Wi-Fi or noise.
• LinkedIn – Search for “Phoenix co-working” and follow local spaces. Many post events and member spotlights here.

Local Phoenix Organizations

• Phoenix Chamber of Commerce – Offers resources and networking events for entrepreneurs. Often partners with co-working spaces.
• ASU Entrepreneurship + Innovation – Hosts events and collaborates with Tempe-based co-working spaces.
• Arizona Technology Council – Connects tech professionals; many members use co-working spaces in the Valley.
• Phoenix Economic Development Corporation – Promotes local business growth and often lists recommended workspaces.

Community Platforms

• Slack Groups – Many Phoenix co-working spaces have private Slack channels. Ask to join after signing up.
• Meetup.com – Search for “Phoenix remote workers” or “Phoenix freelancers” to find informal groups that meet at co-working spaces.
• Facebook Groups – “Phoenix Remote Workers” and “Phoenix Startup Network” are active communities that share space recommendations.

Mobile Apps

• Workfrom – An app that lists co-working spaces with real-time occupancy, Wi-Fi ratings, and photos.
• CoWorking Space Finder – Simple app with filters for price, pet-friendliness, and hours.

Books and Guides

• The Co-Working Revolution by Laura B. Whitman – Explores the global rise of co-working and how to thrive in it.
• Remote: Office Not Required by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson – Offers insights into flexible work environments.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Yard – Downtown Phoenix

Located in the historic Phoenix Financial Center, The Yard is one of Phoenix’s most established co-working spaces. Known for its industrial-chic design and strong community focus, it attracts freelancers, creatives, and tech founders.

Membership options range from $149/month for a hot desk to $750/month for a 1-person private office. Key features include:

• 24/7 access with keycard entry
• Free coffee, tea, and snacks
• Weekly networking events (e.g., “Founder Fridays”)
• Meeting rooms available for booking
• On-site community manager who connects members

A freelance content strategist who moved from Chicago said: “I came for the space, but stayed for the people. I landed three clients through events here. The Wi-Fi is rock-solid, and the location is perfect—right next to the light rail.”

Example 2: The Hatch – Tempe

Founded by Arizona State University alumni, The Hatch is a hub for student entrepreneurs and early-stage startups. It’s more affordable than downtown options and deeply integrated with the university ecosystem.

Plans start at $99/month for a hot desk. Unique perks include:

• Access to ASU mentors and faculty
• Free legal and accounting workshops
• Startup pitch nights with angel investors
• Student discounts
• Outdoor patio with desert views

A recent grad launching a SaaS tool said: “I didn’t have the budget for downtown, but The Hatch gave me access to mentors and investors I wouldn’t have met otherwise. The energy here is electric.”

Example 3: The Office – Scottsdale

For professionals seeking a more upscale environment, The Office in Scottsdale offers luxury amenities: soundproof phone booths, espresso bars, on-site wellness rooms, and premium finishes.

Monthly rates start at $350 for a dedicated desk. Ideal for consultants, real estate agents, and executives who need to impress clients.

A financial advisor shared: “I host client meetings here because the space feels professional. My clients notice the attention to detail—the quiet, the lighting, the staff. It adds credibility to my brand.”

Example 4: The Commons – Midtown Phoenix

A smaller, community-driven space housed in a converted warehouse, The Commons emphasizes sustainability and local art. It’s pet-friendly and hosts monthly yoga sessions and film nights.

Hot desks: $125/month. Private offices: $450/month.

A graphic designer who works remotely for a New York agency said: “I needed a space that felt human, not corporate. The Commons has plants everywhere, local art on the walls, and a dog named Biscuit who greets everyone. I’ve never been happier working somewhere.”

FAQs

What is the average cost of a co-working space in Phoenix?

Prices vary by location and amenities. Hot desks typically range from $99 to $199/month. Dedicated desks cost $150–$350/month. Private offices start at $400 and can exceed $800/month for premium locations like Scottsdale.

Are co-working spaces in Phoenix pet-friendly?

Yes, many are. Spaces like The Commons, The Yard, and The Hatch allow dogs in common areas. Always confirm their pet policy before signing up.

Can I use a co-working space if I’m not a full-time freelancer?

Absolutely. Many professionals use co-working spaces 2–3 days a week while working from home the rest of the time. Most offer flexible memberships for part-time use.

Do co-working spaces in Phoenix offer day passes?

Yes, nearly all do. Day passes typically cost $15–$30 and are a great way to test a space before committing.

Is Wi-Fi reliable in Phoenix co-working spaces?

Most reputable spaces offer high-speed fiber-optic internet. Check reviews for mentions of “slow Wi-Fi” or “dropped connections.” Avoid spaces with frequent complaints.

Can I bring clients to a co-working space?

Yes, most allow guest visits. Some charge a small fee ($10–$25) for non-members, while others include guest access in their membership.

Are there co-working spaces with childcare services in Phoenix?

As of 2024, very few offer on-site childcare. However, some spaces partner with nearby daycare centers to offer discounts. Always ask about family-friendly policies.

Do I need to sign a long-term contract?

No. Many spaces offer month-to-month plans. Avoid spaces that require 12-month commitments unless you’re certain you’ll stay in Phoenix long-term.

How do I know if a co-working space is right for my business?

Ask yourself: Do I feel energized here? Do I meet people who inspire me? Do I get more work done than at home? If the answer is yes to all three, it’s likely a good fit.

Can I upgrade my membership later?

Most spaces allow upgrades—whether from a hot desk to a private office or adding team members. Ask about upgrade policies during your tour.

Conclusion

Finding the right co-working space in Phoenix isn’t just about securing a desk—it’s about finding a community that supports your growth, a culture that fuels your motivation, and an environment that enhances your daily productivity. The city offers a diverse range of options, from high-end luxury centers in Scottsdale to grassroots hubs in Tempe and Midtown. The key is aligning your personal and professional needs with the space’s offerings—not just its price tag or aesthetics.

By following this guide—from defining your work style to testing with a day pass—you’ve equipped yourself with the tools to make a strategic, informed decision. Remember, the best co-working space isn’t the most expensive or the most Instagrammable. It’s the one where you feel inspired, supported, and focused enough to do your best work.

Take your time. Visit multiple locations. Talk to members. Ask questions. Don’t rush into a contract. The right space will reveal itself—not through flashy marketing, but through the quiet, consistent energy of people who are building something meaningful, together.

Phoenix is more than a desert city—it’s a growing ecosystem of innovation, creativity, and resilience. Your co-working space should reflect that spirit. Choose wisely, engage fully, and let your work thrive.