Are evaporative coolers still used in Phoenix or should I stick with AC?

Evaporative coolers, also called swamp coolers, are still used in the Phoenix area, especially in older or lower cost homes, but refrigerated air conditioning is far more common and effective in our extreme summer heat. Swamp coolers work by adding moisture to the air, which cools well in dry conditions but becomes less effective as humidity rises during monsoon season. They use less electricity than AC but require more maintenance and do not cool as reliably in the hottest part of summer. Most buyers prefer homes with refrigerated AC for comfort and resale value. If a home has only a swamp cooler, budget for the cost to convert to AC if that matters to you.