The sunshine, the desert landscapes, the gorgeous sunsets. Is it as good as all your friends make it seem when they post those envy-inducing pics on social media? Before you make the move, get an inside look at the realities of calling the Grand Canyon State home. We’ll give you the scoop on the pros and cons across everything from the job market to dating to finding your favorite foods. You may be surprised at some of the unexpected challenges and hidden gems you discover once you look past the hype. But ultimately this booming state has a lot to offer if you’re willing to embrace the unique lifestyle. Let’s take an honest look at what awaits in Arizona.
The Climate in Arizona: It’s Dry Heat
When people think of Arizona, the first thing that comes to mind is heat. And yes, summers in Arizona are scorching, with temperatures frequently over 100 F. But the good news is, Arizona’s heat is dry heat, thanks to the low humidity. Dry heat is much more tolerable for most people versus the oppressive, sticky heat you find in humid climates.
Low Rainfall Means Lots of Sunshine
Arizona gets less than 15 inches of rain per year on average, and some parts of the state see less than 5 inches annually. While the lack of rainfall means wildfire risks are high, it also means Arizona sees a ton of sunshine — about 300 sunny days per year! All that bright light and Vitamin D is great for your mood and health.
Cool Nights Offer Respite
Even though daytime highs in the summer seem unbearable, Arizona’s low humidity means nighttime temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Overnight lows of 15-20 degrees from the daytime high are common, allowing you to open the windows and cool off your home. The temperature extremes take some getting used to, but many Arizonans find they sleep better in the summer thanks to the cooler nights.
Winter Weather Varies Around the State
Winters in Arizona are mild compared to most of the country. Daytime highs of 60-70 F are typical for Phoenix and Tucson. However, northern parts of the state like Flagstaff see much colder weather, with average highs in the 30s F and snowfall topping 200 inches some years. So, if you want to experience all four seasons, you can find them somewhere in Arizona!
The Landscape and Scenery of Arizona
Arizona’s landscape is as diverse as it is stunning. From the red rocks of Sedona to the saguaro cacti of the Sonoran Desert, there are natural wonders around every corner.
The Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park
In the northern part of the state, you’ll find the Painted Desert with its colorful rock formations and the Petrified Forest National Park, which contains fossils of giant petrified trees. It’s like stepping back in time. The badlands and desert scenery seem almost unearthly.
The Grand Canyon
No trip to Arizona is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. The immensity and beauty of the canyon is truly breathtaking. You can view it from the popular South Rim or get away from the crowds at the quieter North Rim. Rafting the Colorado River or hiking the Bright Angel Trail are once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Red Rock Country
Just outside of Sedona, the red sandstone formations of Red Rock State Park and Coconino National Forest are a playground for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography. The stunning red rocks glow golden in the sunrise and sunset. New Age spiritualists believe Sedona’s red rocks have healing energy vortexes. Whether you buy into the mysticism or not, the scenery is rejuvenating.
Saguaro National Park
In southern Arizona, Saguaro National Park is home to the iconic saguaro cactus. In spring, the giant cacti bloom with white flowers. coyotes, bobcats, and javelinas also call the park home. There are many scenic drives and hiking trails to explore this unique desert landscape.
Want to further explore Arizona’s outdoor amenities? Be sure to check out our National Parks of the Southwest guide.
Pros of Living in Arizona: Sunshine, Outdoor Activities and Affordability
Endless Sunshine
Arizona is known as the Sunshine State for good reason. With about 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s the perfect place if you want to avoid dreary, overcast weather. The sunny weather means you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round without worrying about rain spoiling your plans. The near-constant sunshine and low humidity also means lower chances of seasonal depression.
A Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Arizona’s stunning natural scenery, from the Grand Canyon to Sedona’s red rocks, offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can go hiking, biking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting and more with a backdrop of some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The mild winters mean you can enjoy many of these activities all year. Golfing and swimming are popular in the warmer months when temperatures soar.
Low Cost of Living
While housing costs have risen in Arizona recently, the state still remains very affordable compared to other parts of the country. Income and property taxes are among the lowest in the nation. Utility costs are also lower thanks to the warm climate. Groceries and healthcare are reasonably priced. The low cost of living, combined with the natural scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, make Arizona an attractive retirement destination for many.
Cons of Living in Arizona: The Summer Heat, Lack of Greenery and Solitude
The Summer Heat is Intense
There’s no getting around it—summers in Arizona are scorching hot. Daytime highs frequently exceed 105 F, and temperatures don’t drop much at night. The dry heat can be tolerable for some, but for many the extreme temperatures make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities for a good portion of the year. You’ll want to limit time outside during the hottest parts of the day. Be prepared to crank up the AC and stay indoors.
Lack of Greenery
Arizona’s hot climate means there is little natural vegetation across much of the state. Cacti and shrubs have adapted to the arid environment, but you won’t find lush forests here. If you enjoy hiking through mountain forests or just having green, leafy trees around, the stark landscape in Arizona may feel barren and isolating. You’ll have to travel north to find respite in the few mountain forests, like around Flagstaff.
Isolation and Distance
Arizona is a large state, and many of the attractions and cities are quite spread out. It can feel isolating, especially if you’re used to living in a more densely populated area. Major cities like Phoenix and Tucson have amenities, but smaller towns may lack options for shopping, healthcare, and entertainment. You’ll likely have to drive long distances to visit friends and family or for work. Some find the open spaces freeing, but others feel cut off from community.
Is Moving to Arizona Right for You? Key Factors to Consider
The Weather
Arizona is known for its hot weather, with average high temperatures over 100 F in the summer. The southern part of the state has mild winters, while northern Arizona sees cold weather and even snow. The low humidity makes the heat more tolerable for some, but it can still be oppressive for months on end. If you’re not a fan of constant heat and sunshine, the climate may be a turn off. However, the state does have clear, dry weather for the majority of the year, which many find appealing.
Cost of Living
Arizona has a lower cost of living compared to other states, especially in housing costs. Rent and home prices are generally affordable, even in larger cities like Phoenix and Tucson. The state has no income tax, though sales and property taxes are on the higher end. The lower costs are attractive to many, especially retirees looking to stretch their budget. However, salaries also tend to be lower, so you’ll need to consider if the overall lower costs offset potentially lower pay.
Outdoor Activities
Arizona offers endless opportunities to enjoy nature and outdoor recreation. You can hike the Grand Canyon, stargaze in near-perfect conditions, golf, rock climb, mountain bike and more. The natural beauty, parks and open spaces are appealing for an active lifestyle. However, the hot summer weather limits how much time you can spend outside for parts of the year. You’ll need to be flexible and enjoy indoor activities as well.
Culture
Major cities like Phoenix and Tucson have a good food scene, cultural attractions like museums and music venues, and major sports teams. However, some feel the state lacks culture and the arts compared to other places. The culture tends to center around outdoor activities, with less emphasis on nightlife, public transit, and walking. If an abundance of cultural attractions and activities are important, Arizona may not measure up to your needs.
From the red rocks to the Painted Desert and the saguaro cacti of the Sonoran Desert, Arizona’s scenery is breathtaking. The natural beauty and wide-open spaces make Arizona a perfect place to reconnect with nature.
Working with a professional moving company like United Van Lines can take the hassle out of cross-country moves to Arizona. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. United’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more.
Want to know more about living in other states and cities? Check out our city and state guides. Ready to make a move? Our blog is filled with helpful moving checklists, tips and tricks for settling in your new abode and our digital moving magazine, House Key, is designed to simplify and streamline every step of your move.
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