When it comes to unique states, Arizona would certainly rank somewhere near the top. It’s desolate, beautiful, exciting, and comfortable…all at the same time. And while everyone moves to the Grand Canyon State for a different reason, it’s helpful to know what to expect before you arrive. Here are a few things to take into consideration:
1. Get Ready for Lots of Sunshine
If you like warm weather and sunshine, you’re going to fall in love with Arizona. Commonly referred to as the “Valley of the Sun,” this state has some of the most sunshine in the country. (On a list of the sunniest cities in the United States, Arizona has three of the top five: Yuma, Phoenix, and Tucson.)
And if you hate the cold weather, you’ll enjoy the short winters. While there can be four true seasons in a year, fall and winter tend to pass fairly quickly. Spring can come as early as late January.
2. …and Some Deadly Ones, Too
As beautiful as Arizona can be, there are also some perils. Not only have there been more than 700 fatal falls at the Grand Canyon, but there are some 150-plus rattlesnake bites every year.
“Arizona takes creepy crawlies to a whole new, creepy, disgusting level. In addition to your typical nasty critters, there are scorpions, roaches, venomous centipedes and rattlesnakes… just to name a few,” says one mom who moved from Missouri to Arizona. “They want to live in your house with you. Especially scorpions!”
You eventually learn to live with these critters, but it can be quite the adjustment for those moving from busy cities or tamer suburban communities.
3. You’ll Want a Professional Mover
When it comes to a long-distance Arizona move, a professional mover is a must. With so many new changes taking place in such a short period of time, the last thing you want to worry about is moving heavy furniture in the hot and humid Arizona weather.
With so many different options to choose from, selecting a reliable Arizona moving company is important.
4. An Experienced Real Estate Agent is Vital
The Arizona real estate market is booming – especially in Phoenix and other large cities. If you try to search for a property on your own, you’ll get passed over by the buyers who have local agents “in the know.” Hire an experienced agent who specializes in buying properties in the precise market where you’re looking. (Remember, the seller pays the agent – so choose the best!)
5. Follow the Rules
Did you know that there are certain things you have to legally do when moving to Arizona (or any new state for that matter)? Here are a few:
Qualifications. In order to qualify as a resident of Arizona, you have to establish residence in the state, live in Arizona for at least six months, and use an Arizona address to obtain a driver’s license and register to vote.
Driver’s license. Visit the ADOT office, complete an application, and provide at least two separate documents that identify you (like a driver’s license, SSN, or other legal ID). You’ll also need to surrender your out-of-state license and pay a licensing fee.
Voter’s registration. To register to vote, you simply need to be 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a legal resident of Arizona. You’ll need your driver’s license and some sort of identifying information to connect you to your address (like a bill).
There are some other steps you’ll have to take after moving to Arizona, but these are the main ones. Once you’ve established residency, obtained a driver’s license, and become registered to vote, you’re pretty much an Arizonian.
The Perfect Arizona City Awaits
When most people think about moving to Arizona, the booming city of Phoenix is the first one that comes to mind. And while the capital city has well over 1.6 million residents, it’s only the tip of the iceberg.
In addition to other large cities like Mesa and Tucson, Arizona has its fair share of cute, charming, and historic small towns. Whether you’re a retiree moving to the Grand Canyon State for warmer weather and a better lifestyle, or you’re a young professional looking to advance your career, there are plenty of opportunities around the large urban areas.
Keep an eye out and you never know what you’ll find.
