Moving APT is here to help you with a full relocation guide that will help guide you through the journey.
Let’s talk about the good, the bad, and the extra sunny vibes that Arizona has to offer your family.
Best things About Arizona
Arizona offers a diverse range of attractions and natural features that make it a unique and great place to live.
- We can’t say enough about the natural beauty of AZ. From the red rock canyons, to the roadtrip potential almost every area holds, this state will have your jaw on the ground with its scenic views.
- Compared to many other states, Arizona offers a relatively affordable cost of living, including housing, utilities, and daily expenses. This is a rare find as prices are on the rise on the daily.
- In AZ in one day you can find many different types of landscapes making for a diverse place to live. You can have your first coffee on the day in the mountains and finish the day in a tent in the desert.
- Of course you can’t talk about AZ without mentioning the Native American history and culture, with sites like the Heard Museum in Phoenix and the Navajo Nation Reservation. Your family will grow up where history unfolded.
- Biking trails with incredible views are one thing that I personally fell in love with during my time in AZ.
- Apparently if you are into golf, Arizona is by far one of the top places to live for amazing grass for your game.
- You will have lakes galore if you are into fishing. Get that boat ready with a cold six pack.
Worst Things About Arizona
While AZ can be great, there are also some real challenges. Here are some worth mentioning.
- Extreme weather doesn’t say enough about unbearable heat waves you will experience if you move to AZ. Some say they feel like they cannot breathe or step outside when a heatwave rolls though. Days can easily be over 100 degrees F so come prepared with sunscreen and proper protective gear like your favorite hats.
- Limited access to health facilities in rural areas of the AZ desert is something to think about if you need constant care. (The main cities have great hospitals).
- If you are afraid of scorpions and spiders, AZ might not be the best option for you. The desert brings with it lots of little critters that can be less than friendly when found in your home.
- If you don’t love the desert, don’t consider AZ. I personally felt a lack of greenery in this gorgeous desert state. While you do have lush oases and lakes, for me the green parks and grassy patches felt to be missing.
- Limited water sources means that drought season can bring challenges you are not used to. You must conserve water in many of the main cities for certain months of the year.
Some Things to Consider
- Timing of the move should be scheduled around school dates
Make sure you are close to a water source to stay cool during the summer months - Arizona isn’t for everyone, try and spend an extended period of time here before making the decision. If you can try to do this during the summer months to know what it is really like.
- Consider the job market before moving and choosing a region as the major cities have many options and opportunities, but smaller suburbs may have less to offer in your field.
Best Areas to Relocate in Arizona
1. Tucson
If you are a college student then this is a no brainer. This is every year rated one of the top party towns around to be a frat guy here might be every 18 year old’s dream come true. They don’t call it “under the Tuscan sun for nothing!
We can’t speak about Tucson of course without mentioning Saguaro park. This national park named after its ever famous caucus type is a gorgeous place to visit during the weekends. You can take your car for a spin here as most of the roads loop back around so it makes for a fun family drive.
Pima Air and Space Museum and many galleries await your exploration! This town is built for fun and learning, so soak up the sun and many fun activities you have all around.
2. Sedona
Sedona is known for its stunning red rock formations, insane hiking trails, wellness retreats, art galleries, and upscale restaurants. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Why stop at tourism when you can actually move here and enjoy the natural beauty everyday with your coffee.
3. Mesa
Mesa is another great option for relocation in AZ. The downtown has many options for work as well as a great nightlife scene. Many young couples end up for at least a few months in Mesa as the vibe is young and vibrant.
4. Phoenix
The Phoenix greater area can be divided into two major metropolis
- Scottsdale: Which is known for its upscale neighborhoods, golf courts, great art galleries, and dining scene that will wow any chef. It offers a high-quality living experience with a cultural scene that can hold its own to other major cities.
- Phoenix (proper): As the capital city of Arizona, Phoenix, provides a mix of urban comforts, diverse neighborhoods, outdoor fun opportunities, and a truly thriving job market. Many companies relocated their offices here in the last decade due to inflation in other major cities.
Closing Words on AZ
It’s important to note that experiences and perspectives on living in Arizona can vary widely based on individual preferences, lifestyle choices, and location within the state. These are my personal views in an attempt to help you make relocation choices. While many challenges exist, many people appreciate Arizona for its natural beauty, outdoor opportunities, diversity, and unique lifestyle sports offerings.
Moving APT is here for you every step of the way whether you are moving in or out of Arizona, or just between regions. We have the top moving experts ready to answer your questions and give you the best services under the Tuscan sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main factors to consider when thinking about moving regions?
This is more of a matter of preference. Schooling quality, the cost of living versus the salaries in the area, the overall vibe of the new location, entertainment options that fit your hobbies, and job options are the main factors I would consider when looking into a new location.
What is your favorite tip for someone new at moving that loves organization?
Color code pack! You can buy plastic storage bins in all the different colors, and use a certain color for each room. For example all bathrooms can be packed up in pink bins.
This saves you the need to label! Color coding will help you unpack with ease and with no need to flip a cardboard box on all sides looking for the lost label.
What are some important things to consider when thinking about a relocation out of state?
I would say you should start by getting an estimate of the moving costs, which can vary significantly when moving out of state. These should include packing, transporting belongings, and any interim accommodations needed during the move.
Moving APT comes into the picture at this stage with our moving marketplace of binding quotes from trusted vendors that work in the Arizona area.
How can I feel confident I have found a good and honest mover?
We agree that honesty is the most important quality trait a mover should have. No matter the pricing differences or reviews, nothing is more important than honesty and transparency.
Moving APT created a full list of movers and has a dedicated team that all day show up to their desk in the office just to read through personal reviews, and check accident records, insurance claims, and other boring documents of our movers on the marketplace.
It’s important you know what to check and why or you may end up paying more to get out of a scam.
How can I save money on my moving expenses by planning ahead?
When you plan ahead, you are actually in control of your own move. Since you can play around with the dates and times, you can haggle with your mover for a cheaper deal.
Moving mid week or in the winter when people prefer not to move can end up saving you hundreds of dollars in the long run, and since the moving companies are less busy, they don’t mind giving a discount in exchange for you booking with them in advance.
