Are you thinking of trading snow shovels for shades and saguaros? Then moving to Arizona might be just the thing for you! With a strong healthcare system, booming job market, and over 300 days of sunshine, the state has something for everyone.
Homes currently spend an average of 68 days on the Arizona real estate market. This gives you enough time to negotiate a solid deal. So, if you plan on relocating to Arizona in 2025, consider this your sign!
👉 Arizona Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in Arizona today!
7 Reasons to Move to Arizona
If the stunning desert landscapes and year-round sunshine aren’t tempting enough, don’t worry. These 7 reasons might just be the push you need for moving to Arizona.
| # | Reasons to Move to AZ | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cost of Living | Arizona's living costs are 6% higher than the national average. |
| 2. | Employment Opportunities | The state aims to create 102,656 new jobs by 2025 in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and more. |
| 3. | Education | AZ serves 1.1 million students across more than 200 school districts and is ranked #1 in the nation. |
| 4. | Business Friendly | It ranks 6th nationwide for starting a business. |
| 5. | Healthcare | Arizona's healthcare system boasts a network of 156 hospitals. |
| 6. | Climate | You experience summers as hot as 120°F, while winters can often drop to 71°F. |
| 7. | Recreation | Arizona is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can boat, fish, or kayak in the stunning lakes and rivers. |
1. Cost of Living
The Grand Canyon State’s cost of living is 6% higher than the US median. In comparison, states like New York and Massachusetts cost 26% and 46% more, respectively. Here’s what your monthly expenses would look like in AZ’s top cities:
| Metro | Home Price | Home Rent | Public Transport | Utilities | Food |
| Phoenix | $470,225 | $1494 | $151 | $146 | $594 |
| Mesa | $448,450 | $1527 | $86.6 | $156 | $647 |
| Scottsdale | $865,000 | $1649 | $69.2 | $173 | $613 |
| Glendale | $1,230,000 | $1221 | $72.5 | $172 | $539 |
If you feel these costs will burn a hole in your pocket, you can explore some of the cheapest places to live in Arizona.
2. Employment Opportunities
Arizona’s job market is projected to grow by 1.5% in 2025. Here are the sectors that you should keep an eye out for:
- Construction: The sector has experienced significant growth, with nearly 14,288 new jobs in 2025. Key players like Kitchell and Sundt Construction have driven this change through commercial and residential projects.
- Healthcare: Roles in medical technology, nursing, and healthcare administration are in high demand. The sector’s job market grew exponentially in 2023 and created 33,885 new jobs. This includes key players like Dignity Health and Banner Health.
- Manufacturing: The state is a tech manufacturing hub. Major employers like RTX Corp. and Intel drive job growth. In fact, the sector is projected to add 4,985 new jobs by 2025, which includes positions in supply chain management, engineering, and production.
- Hospitality: AZ is a popular destination for business travelers and tourists and is expected to add 14,538 jobs by 2025. Key players like Hilton and Mariott International provide opportunities in event coordination, hospitality, etc.
3. Education and Schools
Arizona serves over 1.1 million students across more than 200 school districts. In fact, it is ranked #1 in the US for education choice. So, here’s a quick look at your options:
Schools in Arizona
- Public Schools: Arizona has more than 2,000 public schools, including top schools like Chandler Unified and Scottsdale Unified. Numerous school districts have received national recognition for their educational programs.
- Private Schools: The state has a vast network of over 512 private schools, with the average tuition at $10,423. Institutes like Brophy College Preparatory and Phoenix Country Day are renowned.
- Specialized Magnet and Charter Schools: Arizona’s 700+ charter schools offer specialized programs in arts and STEM. BASIS Scottsdale has been ranked #7 in the nation for Charter Schools. Besides, they all operate independently of the traditional school system.
Higher Education in Arizona
The state is home to several top-tier universities. The University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and Arizona State University(ASU) are nationally recognized for their excellence. Additionally, the average in-state tuition for ASU is $13,277.
4. Business-Friendly Environment
The low corporate tax rate of 4.9% makes Arizona an ideal location to start or expand your company. No wonder it has ranked as the 6th best state for starting a business. Furthermore, the personal income tax rates range from 2.5% to 4.5%.
Besides the low personal income tax rate, the Grand Canyon State also provides several other incentives to help businesses grow. A prominent example is the Quality Jobs Tax Credit, which offers up to $9,000 for each new job created.
5. Healthcare
Arizona has a network of 156 hospitals, which includes special divisions for oncology, cardiology, neurology, and maternal health. The state also offers excellent pediatric care at hospitals like Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Camelback Pediatrics.
AZ’s Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) provides insurance coverage to thousands of Arizonans each year. In fact, the total Medicaid enrollment in Arizona came up to 2.03 million in August 2024.
6. Climate
The Arizona climate and weather are quite arid—think hot, dry summers and mild, dry winters. Temperatures in the summer typically soar as high as 120°F. On the other hand, winters can be as cold as 71°F.
The state has its own share of extreme weather, including droughts and dust storms. So, if you’re moving to Arizona, ensure your hazard insurance is valid to protect your property in such situations.
7. Recreation
With over 300 sunny days a year, Arizona’s climate is perfect for those who love the outdoors. You can hike the trails at the Grand Canyon or take the mountain bike for a spin in Sedona’s red rocks.
But wait, there’s more! The state has several lakes, like Saguaro Lake and Lake Powell. You could either boat or fish there or kayak on the beautiful Colorado River.
🏡 Best Arizona Cities to Match Your Lifestyle
| City | Best Suited For | Find a Home for Sale |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | Big-city lovers and career-focused professionals | Homes for Sale in Phoenix |
| Tucson | Artists, retirees, and desert adventurers | Homes for Sale in Tucson |
| Scottsdale | Luxury seekers and golf course enthusiasts | Homes for Sale in Scottsdale |
| Prescott Valley | First-time buyers and peace-seeking families | Homes for Sale in Prescott Valley |
| Prescott | Active retirees and nature lovers | Homes for Sale in Prescott |
| Queen Creek | Families wanting space and good schools | Homes for Sale in Queen Creek |
What to Know Before Moving to Arizona?
If you’re moving to Arizona, here’s a cost breakdown:
1. Moving Costs – $288 to $2,785
There’s nothing wrong with a little DIY, so you could rent a truck. If you want to move 4,000-6,000 pounds, a mid-sized truck would cost anywhere between $40 to $80.
On the other hand, you could always consider professional movers. Moving companies in Arizona typically charge $85 per hour, which includes 2-3 movers and a truck. This also depends on the distance traveled and your belongings.
2. Housing Costs
The average rent in major cities like Phoenix and Tucson ranges between $1,000 to $2,000. In contrast, Douglas and San Luis cost 15% and 7% less than the US median. So, if you’re looking for affordable housing, you can explore cheap houses for sale in Arizona.
3. Utility Expenses – $400 to $500 Per Month
Utilities will cost you around $408/month for basics like water, gas, and electricity. It costs $2.80 per $100 of vehicle assessed value when you register your vehicle in Arizona for the first time. Additionally, a title fee starts at $60.
4 Tips for a Seamless Move to Arizona
Here are a few things to know before moving to Arizona:
- Do Your Homework: Research the Arizona housing market thoroughly, from home prices to market trends. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your neighborhood’s layout to ensure easy access to essential amenities.
- Inspect the Living Costs: Before moving to Arizona, make sure you get an estimate of the utility bills. Speak to your local telemarketer to understand what your phone and WiFi charges would look like.
- Explore Recreational Opportunities: Find out if there are any restaurants, malls, or parks around you. Whether you want outdoor adventures or a cultural experience, Arizona has a place for you.
- Meet Your Neighbors: Connect and socialize with your neighbors, and check if there’s a local homeowners association (HOA). Also, explore if the community holds any fun events or mixers.
Is Arizona a Good Place to Live In?
Yes, it’s a great place to live in, and moving to AZ could pan out great for you! The top-notch education system and business-friendly environment are only a few reasons to move to Arizona. However, be prepared for the crazy weather and natural hazards in the state.
Here’s the best part: you would have easy access to healthcare and a high quality of life. So, are you ready to enjoy a vibrant and affordable life in the Grand Canyon State?
