Arizona has many vibrant big cities, such Phoenix and Tucson, that provide cultural attractions, exceptional cuisine, and a plethora of job opportunities. There are also luxurious suburbs and small cities, such Scottsdale, for those seeking picturesque dream homes and quieter nights.
Is Arizona a Good Place to Live?
The answer depends on your philosophy and interests. The pros of living in Arizona, such as being able to explore some of the most appealing landscapes in the US, make it ideal for some. However, Arizona’s cons (110 + degree weather) are a no-go for others.
The Arizona Living Pros and Cons
Take out your laptop and start creating your moving to Arizona list. The following is just some of the things you should know about, and if this sunny desert state is suitable for you.
The Pros of Living in Arizona
Arizona is an attractive state with dozens of extraordinary cities and towns — and a robust economy within them. The following pros show why moving to Arizona could be the right decision:
- Financial Advantages
One of the best motivators to move to Arizona is its cost of living. Whereas the state ranks a little higher than US averages for living costs, utilities, and transportation overall, housing and everyday items are less costly than in other areas, and healthcare is right there with them.
- Well-Maintained Roads
If you appreciate long (fast) drives, moving to Arizona can satisfy your wandering and need for speed. The state boasts well-maintained roads and a 65-75 MPH maximum speed for vehicles, so you can smoothly zoom in between cities and naturally appealing attractions.
- Natural Paradise
If you are wondering if you should make the move to Arizona, there is simply one question to ask: Are you in love with the outdoors? Throughout this state, you can hike through the Grand Canyon, enjoy sought-after fishing on Arizona’s rivers, and explore limitless opportunities for mountain biking, camping/ climbing, and watersports.
- Pleasant Climate
Arizona is typically very sunny, so if you get a Vitamin D mood booster, this state could keep you happy all year long. Summer temperatures soar, and the states winter, fall, and spring climates are always not too cold, averaging in the mid-60s to the low 70’s°F from December into February.
- Work Opportunities
Arizona maintains pace with the US average for employment opportunities, as reported by the BLS. There is an abundance of openings in tech, aerospace, and healthcare; however, there are also opportunities in the finance, education, and tourism fields.
- Culture
Arizona’s culture has Indigenous and Latin American influence. From culinary offerings like Mexican pozole and fry bread to locally created arts and crafts, you can experience and value these influences straight from the source.
- Great for Sports Fans
Those that live in Arizona fill their weekends with thrilling live sporting events. Its cities take home team advantage to professional sports teams NFL, NBA, NASCAR, MLB, and WNBA.
The Cons of Living in Arizona
Life in Arizona is not ideal. Think about the cons below prior to planning your big move:
- Scorching Summers
Intense heat waves are a regrettable reality of living in Arizona. Summertime temperatures typically skyrocket over 100 or even 110°F, making driving or going outside uncomfortable — possibly even unsafe.
- Water Scarcity
The Colorado River, which is a source for Arizona’s water, began a drought in the 2000s that’s only gotten worse. Whereas there’s enough water for everybody, you are going to have to become increasingly aware of the way and when you use it.
- Dangerous Wildlife
Arizona’s barren landscapes provide the perfect habitat for snakes, venomous spiders, and the fearful scorpions. Whereas you can continue to safely pass the time outdoors, you are going to need to take additional precautions when cleaning out the darkness of your garage or setting up a tent in the desert.
- Limited Public Transportation and Low Walkability
Arizonians rely on their vehicles in order to get around because of minimal public transportation alternatives and widespread desert terrain that’s difficult to walk on foot. Even when you live in one of the state’s more walkable cities, such as Phoenix, you are still most likely going to need a vehicle.
- Environmental Challenges
Besides Arizona being low on water and excessively hot during the summer, but this state is also faced with dust storms, wildfires, earthquakes, and monsoons. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of fires each year — some of which could take days to get under control and possibly months to fully extinguish.
