Executive Moving Concierge

moving to arizona

The Ultimate Checklist for Moving to Arizona

Well, howdy! So, you’ve got a hankering to pack your bags, bid farewell to your current locale, and head towards the sunshine and cacti, eh? Excellent choice, my friend. You’re setting your compass when moving to Arizona – a state with a fast-growing population, bountiful sunshine, a thriving job market, and an abundance of wellness culture. 

Oh, and did I mention the adventures? Arizona offers a smorgasbord of thrilling activities, from rock climbing to horseback riding and even boating. So, lasso up that sense of wanderlust, and let’s take a journey of discovery together, charting out the top 13 things to consider when moving to Arizona. Keep your canteen handy though, the journey may get a bit dry!

Here is the List of 13 Things to Consider When Moving to Arizona

Pre-Moving Preparations Before Heading to Arizona

Alright partner, so you’ve made the decision to saddle up and trot off to the Land of Sun. First things first, you’re gonna need a trusty steed – or a reliable moving company, in this case. 

Whether you opt for a full-service company or decide to do it yourself, remember, choose wisely! Consider factors like customer reviews, professionalism, and their experience on the lonesome trail. After all, you wouldn’t want your precious cargo to be mishandled by a greenhorn, right?

Next up, you gotta get your mail in order. Consider signing up with USPS’s mail forwarding service. That way, your mail will find you, even in the heart of the Wild West. All it takes is a buck and a bit more for a 6-month service. Easy peasy, Arizona squeezy!

Finally, do a roundup of your belongings and decide what gets to come along for the ride. Remember, Arizona’s got a warm, dry climate, so that heavy fur coat might not be the best sidekick in your new life. 

Decluttering will make your move easier and give you a fresh start. Sell or donate items you won’t need; your move will be lighter and you’ll get that warm, fuzzy feeling of doing something good.

The First Hoedown in Arizona

Well now, welcome to Arizona! The first thing on your to-do list? Change your address. Be sure to notify the authorities like the DMV. If you’re a civic-minded cowpoke, you’ll also want to register to vote when applying for your Arizona driver’s license. Don’t forget to update your address with your employer, bank, doctor, insurance, and service providers too, to avoid any kerfuffles later on.

Talking about driver’s licenses, if you’re new in town, you’ve gotta get your AZ driver’s license pronto to keep riding into those desert sunsets legally. Simply fill out an application form online, and you’re good to go.

Now let’s talk about your ride. Once you’re an official Arizona resident, the law requires you to register your vehicle with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). If you’re nestled in Phoenix, keep in mind that your ride needs to pass the emissions inspections while it’s registered in Arizona. After all, we all want to keep the desert air as fresh as possible, don’t we?

mountains when moving to arizona

The Ideal Hitching Post in Arizona

Are you still in a conundrum about the best place to hang your cowboy hat in Arizona? Well, worry no more. For families, consider moseying on over to Scottsdale. This city boasts low crime rates, high-quality education, a wealth of amenities, and a high median family income, making it a veritable paradise for families. Plus, with a good quality of life, you and your kin are bound to flourish.

For all you lone wolves out there, consider making your den in Tempe. With numerous tech companies setting up shop there, job opportunities are as abundant as cacti in the desert. It’s also a great place for young professionals and college students to network and grow.

The Lowdown on Housing and Renting in Arizona

Yeehaw! Now that you’ve decided to call Arizona home, let’s get you settled. Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment or buy a house, there’s something for every buckaroo in the wild west of the real estate market.

Finding an apartment is as easy as pie with websites like ApartmentList, and Zillow. Whether you’re after a trendy loft or a comfortable flat, they’ve got your back.

If you’re keen on sinking your roots a little deeper and buying a house, websites like Realtor, and Zillow have a wealth of listings to help you find your dream home in the desert.

Remember, whether you’re renting or buying, the key to securing a home that suits your needs and budget is research, research, research! So, saddle up, partner, and ride off into the sunset of your new life in Arizona. The adventure is just beginning!

Plugging into the Grid in Arizona

Righty-o, you’ve found your new dream home, and now you need to flip the switch and make it all aglow. When it comes to utilities in Arizona, the setup process is easier than making instant lemonade. 

For electricity, companies like Arizona Public Service can get you connected in no time. If you’ve landed a place with gas needs, contact Southwest Gas to fire up your new home. Water, on the other hand, is provided by the Arizona Department of Water Resources.

Now, let’s talk about the internet, because let’s face it, we all need our daily fix of cat videos and funny memes. Arizona offers a variety of high-speed internet options from fiber-optic to cable net, fixed wireless, and even satellite if you’re residing in a more remote corner of the state. 

To get the best bang for your buck, consider bundling your internet with your cell phone plan. Voila! You’re all connected and ready to stream your favorite Western flicks.

Wrangling Your Budget in Arizona

Living in Arizona might just be as exciting as riding a wild bronco, but it certainly doesn’t have to be as unpredictable. 

Income and Expense Comparison

CategoryCanada (CAD)Arizona (USD)
Average Income57,00052,248
Rent1,0501,136
Utilities150152
Groceries300278
Entertainment200183
Healthcare75440
Transportation200174

Sunny Skies and Tumbleweeds: Weather in Arizona

Wondering what the weather’s like in Arizona? It’s mostly sun, sun, and more sun, with over 250 sunny days per year. In fact, we’re considering adding ‘Sunscreen’ as the official state beverage!

The highest summer temperature can make a thermometer blush at 100 degrees, and the winter low in January hovers around a chilly 35 degrees. Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses!

But it’s not all dry and dusty. Arizona gets a respectable 1 foot of rain annually, enough to keep the cacti happy and the desert landscape blooming.

So, if you’re moving to Arizona, prepare to soak up some serious sun and embrace the occasional shower. Don’t worry, tumbleweeds are optional!

Getting Around Arizona: Horses Not Required

While it might sound fun to ride around on a horse like a true cowboy, most Arizonans prefer the convenience of modern transportation.

Cars are the most popular mode of getting around but don’t worry if you’re still saving up for that Mustang. Phoenix has a great public transportation system in place, thanks to Valley Metro.

With buses, rails, carpool, vanpool, and paratransit services, you’ll be able to explore Arizona with ease. Just remember, there’s no need to shout “Yeehaw!” every time you board. Unless, of course, you really want to!

Shopping & Dining: It's Chow Time in Arizona

Is the only thing better than Arizona’s sunshine? It’s food, of course! But before we dig into that, let’s stock up your pantry.

Grocery stores are plenty here, with popular options including Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods. For those who are loyal to big chain stores, we’ve got you covered with Walmart and Costco.

Now, let’s talk about the good stuff – food! Arizona has a vibrant culinary scene that’s as diverse as its landscape. Popular food joints include The Stand Arcadia Burger Shoppe, where their burgers are said to be more iconic than a desert sunset. 

Another must-try is Culver’s, renowned for its Butter Burgers and Fresh Frozen Custard. After moving to Arizona, don’t blame us if your taste buds refuse to settle for anything less!

Arizona – The Adventure Capital

Arizona isn’t just about the cacti and cowboy boots. It’s an adventurer’s paradise, with more outdoor activities than you can shake a hiking stick at. 

With over 250 days of sunshine a year, you’re rarely going to get a rain check on your plans. Rock climbing, hunting, cycling, water sports – you name it, Arizona has it.

And while you’re busy living out your Indiana Jones fantasies, don’t forget to take in some of the awe-inspiring natural beauty around you. After all, moving to Arizona without visiting the Grand Canyon would be like going to Paris and missing the Eiffel Tower. 

Just remember to bring lots of water, sunscreen, and maybe a cowboy hat for style!

Arizona: More Than Just the Grand Canyon

If you thought moving to Arizona was all about enjoying the sun and visiting the Grand Canyon, boy, have we got news for you!

Did you know Arizona leads the nation in copper production? You can tell your friends you’ve moved to the “Copper State” for some street cred.

You’ve probably heard of the Grand Canyon, but Arizona also proudly hosts two of the top-rated waterfalls in the United States: Havasu Falls and Grand Falls.

It’s like living in a real-life postcard! So if you’re ready to start your new life chapter in the “Grand Canyon State,” buckle up, because it’s going to be a wild, wonderful ride!

kebab when moving to arizona

The Art and Culture Scene in Arizona

When you think of moving to Arizona, it’s the impressive landscapes and outdoor activities that first come to mind. But what about soaking in some culture, you ask? Fear not, culture vultures! Arizona has an eclectic art and culture scene that can rival any major city.

From traditional Native American art to contemporary exhibitions, Arizona offers a rich cultural tapestry waiting to be explored. The state’s capital, Phoenix, houses the Phoenix Art Museum with an extensive collection of both international and local artists. 

And if you find yourself in the desert city of Tucson, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a must-visit, seamlessly blending a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery, and natural history museum all into one.

Music lovers, we haven’t forgotten you. The state’s music scene is just as diverse, from the classic Tucson Symphony Orchestra to indie music festivals like Innings Festival. So, rest assured, your cultural appetite will be more than satiated after moving to Arizona.

Education in Arizona

If you’re moving to Arizona with children, or considering further education yourself, Arizona boasts an educational environment that supports growth and development at all levels. With numerous highly-rated primary and secondary schools, your kids will be in good hands.

For higher education, Arizona isn’t short of prestigious institutions. The University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University are just a few that offer a variety of programs across disciplines. 

In fact, Arizona State University has been recognized for its innovation, so if you’ve got a groundbreaking idea, this might be the place to nurture it!

Conclusion

Well, we’ve crossed the desert together and made it to the end of this guide for your new adventure: moving to Arizona. We’ve covered everything from finding a trustworthy moving company, the specifics of setting up your new life in the Copper State (and yes, they do lead the nation in copper production), to the best places to live for couples, families, and singles. 

We’ve also tackled the important issues of housing, utilities, cost of living, and the all-important question of how to navigate the scorching summers and mild winters of Arizona.

But remember, like any good adventure, there’s always more to discover once you’re there. Whether you’re standing awestruck at the edge of the Grand Canyon or getting your first taste of a real Arizona burrito, you’re bound to uncover new experiences and exciting challenges when you move to Arizona. 

So here’s to your new life under the endless Arizona sky. May it be filled with sun, joy, and a touch of that famous Wild West spirit! Don’t forget to send a postcard!

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