Moving to a new state is incredibly exciting, especially one as big and culturally varied as Arizona. Home of the Grand Canyon, Arizona is the 6th largest state in the US and includes wonderful cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa, with a combined population of 2.6 million.

Although the desert landscape and mountain backdrops are beautiful in themselves, there’s a lot more to Arizona than its natural wonders. You need to prepare before you move to this state.

8 Things to Know Before Moving to Arizona

Arizona is a popular state to move to, ranking third in net domestic migration gains. Arizona had 93,026 people relocate from within the United States in 2021 for the following reasons.

1. The People of Arizona

In Arizona, 27.5% of the population speak a language other than English, which is 5.6% higher than the national average. Of these languages, Spanish is the most popular, followed by Navajo and Mandarin Chinese. Arizona is also one of the last states founded after US colonization.

Arizona has 22 national parks and moments, including the Grand Canyon, 35 state parks and natural areas, and plenty of mountain ranges, ski resorts, and forests. This makes Arizona a popular tourist destination for snowbirds and adventurers alike, making it a very lively state.

2. Cost of Living in Arizona

Cost of living in Arizona is reasonable, depending on where you live. Phoenix’s cost of living and housing is 5% lower than the national average. On average, Arizonians will pay:

• $330,344 for a home
• $1,035 for rent (for a two-bedroom)
• $2.39 a gallon for gas
• $161.12 for energy
• $171.75 for their phone bill
• 3% less than the national average for groceries
• 2% less than the national average for healthcare

The average Arizonian makes $59,000 a year, meaning most of the population can afford to live in the city. While Phoenix rent and home prices are on the rise, Scottsdale seems to be inflating faster than the capital. Most two-bedroom apartments are $1,350, $200 more than Phoenix.

3. Job Market in Arizona

Arizona has a stable job market that’s seeing a lot of growth in the tech and real estate industry. Several companies, like Lyft, Apple, PetSmart, U-Haul, and Circle K, all have their head offices in Arizona. These companies frequently partner with Universities for internships and jobs.

Since the housing market is picking up in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Scottsdale, we recommend getting your real estate license at one of the many real estate schools in Arizona.

Keep in mind that certain cities will offer better job prospects in certain industries. For example, Tucson is known for aerospace and warehousing, Tempe is great for biotech and business services, and Scottsdale excels in hospitality and tourism. All cities need healthcare workers.

4. Weather/Landscape in Arizona

Arizona has over 433 cities, ranging from small urban enclaves to metropolitan areas. This state offers more than just deserts, as it features an abundance of flora and fauna, like the Gila Monster, Great Blue Heron, Coatimundi, Cacti, Marsh Aster, Desert Primrose, and Chuparosa.

But people don’t come to Arizona just for the wildlife; they come for the weather. In Arizona, winters are mild, spring and fall are warm, and summers are dry, meaning they aren’t too oppressive. In the summer, temperatures can be as high as 120 degrees, so try and stay cool.

The weather in Arizona isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, though. The summer also brings the monsoon season, and the cities are incredibly dusty due to the sand and high winds.

5. Bugs and Dangerous Animals in Arizona

While there are some pretty cool animals and plants in Arizona, there are also freakishly large bugs, hairy scorpions, tarantulas, mosquitoes, and a variety of brown spiders. In the country, you may run into rattlesnakes and coyotes, so come prepared with bug spray and anti-venom.

6. Getting Around in Arizona

If you live in a large city center, getting around is pretty easy and safe. You’ll be able to use public transit, rideshare, bike, walk, or use your own car. However, traffic can be challenging during rush hour (for work commutes) and the afternoons (for hikers or state park commuters).

In the country, it’s much safer to drive or bike if you’re exceptionally fit. Always keep in mind that wild animals roam the countryside, and it may be difficult to make your way back to the city if you lose your phone signal or get injured while biking. Remember to hydrate while commuting.

7. Entertainment in Arizona

As mentioned, there are tons of activities to enjoy if you’re the outdoorsy type, but Arizona doesn’t just cater to adventurers. From yearly festivals like the Summers Ends Music Festival to daily entertainment like restaurants, museums, and clubs, you’ll never run out of things to do.

If you’re a fan of country Westerns, the arts, or baseball, you’ll really get a kick out of Arizona. Western-themed floats, bull riding, barrel racing, and roping happen all year, while the yearly Festival of the Arts in Phoenix features over 100 art vendors and cultural organizations.

Don’t forget about the Arizona Diamondbacks and the dozens of other professional baseball teams that reside in the state! You’ll always have a game to watch, no matter the season.

8. Native Roots in Arizona

Arizona hasn’t lost focus of its origins. Many Indigenous tribes welcome tourists to visit their Tribal lands, provided you follow the rules. It’s essential to visit the Heard Museum of American Indian Art & History and the Pueblo Cliff Dwellings if you want to appreciate Arizona’s roots.