Arizona is an interesting state with an abundance of natural beauty and a bustling economy. From the vast, scenic expanses of the Grand Canyon to the sprawling city life of Phoenix, it’s easy to see why this is one of the 10 fastest-growing states in the U.S.
In 2017, Maricopa County saw the largest population gains among the nation’s nearly 3,200 counties. The county added an estimated 73,650 new residents between 2016 and 2017, well ahead of Clark County, Nevada, the second-biggest gainer with 47,355 new residents last year.
However, like every other state, Arizona comes with its own unique set of risks and concerns that new residents should become familiar with. With that said, here are four things everyone should know before moving to Arizona.
1. Learn Gun Safety Rules
Arizona has plenty of serene and peaceful spots, but it isn’t all sunshine and canyons. This state is ranked 12th in violent crime and 16th overall in gun violence. No permit is required to carry a concealed handgun, which is convenient for people who responsibly exercise their 2nd amendment right to bear arms, but not so great when you have people mishandling firearms as well. Thus, before you move to Arizona, if you plan on owning a gun for your own protection, it would be wise to shop around for some holsters for guns and take gun safety classes.
2. Stay Hydrated
Arizona is also known for its blistering heat and lack of humidity, which leads to dangerous weather conditions during the hottest months of the year. What’s worse is that last year was the worst year on record for the number of deaths related to heat stroke. If you’re coming from a state with a moderate climate and decent humidity levels, you should be prepared to make an adjustment towards drinking more fluids throughout the day. If you’re not a huge water drinker now, chances are you’ll become one when you move to Arizona.
3. You’ll Want a Nice Camera or Canvas
Now that we’ve discussed some of the negative sides to prepare for, it’s worth noting that you will probably wind up upgrading your camera and maybe even taking up art after you move to Arizona. There’s a huge art and photography scene here, simply because there are so many inspiring sights to capture. The night sky is also remarkably clear in many of the rural areas of the state, so astronomical observation and photography is another common pastime.
4. It Does Snow in Arizona
Contrary to misconception, Arizona isn’t all sand, rocks, and sun – it does snow during the winter in the mountainous regions. That’s neither a good or bad thing, but it’s something to be aware of when you’re shopping for your winter wardrobe. If you’re moving here because you expect a year-round summer, Florida-style, you might be slightly disappointed to learn blizzards are common in the northern half of the state during the height of winter.
Be Responsible and Do Your Research
With so many people moving to the state every year, it’s important for new residents to know what they’re getting into. If more people were conscious of the state’s weather and crime statistics, it would probably see a decline in negative statistics in those areas.
