Phoenix, America's hottest city, has recently experienced extreme temperatures surpassing 110 degrees Fahrenheit for 31 consecutive days. Despite this scorching environment, the city continues to attract a growing population, making it the fastest-growing city in the country. The question of why people choose to live in such a climate is not as perplexing as it may seem. Phoenix offers pleasant temperatures for most of the year, affordable housing, and economic opportunities that have drawn in residents for decades. The city's promotion of a high quality of life outside of the summer months, coupled with a history of downplaying the challenges of its climate, has contributed to its allure. Due to the summer heat, air-conditioning has become a vital component of daily life, allowing residents to navigate the environment comfortably. However, this reliance has led to a surge in electricity consumption, contributing to carbon emissions and exacerbating the very heat residents seek to escape. The article highlights the vulnerability of certain groups, such as elderly individuals and the unhoused, who face significant risks during heatwaves. Despite the challenges, the appeal of Phoenix's benefits continues to drive its growth, as evident from the numerous building permits for new homes. The phenomenon of choosing to live in such demanding climates extends beyond Phoenix, with many Americans relying on air-conditioning to mitigate the effects of heat. The question of why people live in Phoenix serves as a defense mechanism, obscuring the economic factors, housing affordability, and climate change concerns that underlie such decisions. In this context, Phoenix represents not an exception but rather a reflection of broader patterns in American living choices.