Moving to a new state can be an exciting but daunting experience. Perhaps you’re seeking a big change, or maybe you’re less fond of the area you’ve been living in. Whatever the reason, if you’re considering a move to Missouri after many months (or years) in Arizona, below are a few considerations that can help you make a decision.

Size

If size matters, it may be helpful to know that Missouri is 1.6 times smaller than Arizona. To put it in perspective, Arizona is roughly 113,634 square miles, while Missouri is approximately 68,886 square miles. In terms of population, Missouri is slightly smaller as it has 403,090 fewer residents than AZ.

While these numbers aren’t staggering, they could make a difference in terms of what you’re used to. Before taking that important step towards moving, consider the size differences and what they might mean.

Climate

Climate may be another deciding factor for those thinking of moving from Arizona to Missouri. For example, if you’re a sun lounger, you may want to think twice as Missouri has roughly 39 days of rainfall per year compared to only nine days in Arizona.

Snowfall is also more prevalent in Missouri, with an average of 16 snow days per year, compared with 0 in Arizona. While both states share similar numbers when it comes to sunny days (202 in MO and 299 in AZ), it’s worth knowing that Missouri has an average of 105 days of precipitation compared with 33 days in Arizona.

Cost of Living

Although Arizona has more precipitation-free days, it is generally a more expensive place to live. For example:

• Rent prices are roughly 19% higher in AZ

• Restaurant prices are roughly 16% higher in AZ

• Consumer prices are roughly 3% higher in AZ

One surprising difference is that grocery prices are 5% lower in AZ compared to MO. Generally, though, Missouri is a cheaper place to live and could save you roughly $350 per year. If costs are an issue and you want to find the best housing prices, Maly Realty is the best provider of Commercial Real Estate in Columbia, Missouri.

Things to Do

If you’ve never been to Missouri and are wondering what there is to do, below are some of the top attractions to explore:

St. Louis Zoological Park: located in central St. Louis, this zoo is known for being a leader in animal research and conservation.

Missouri Botanical Gardens: also located in St. Louis, MBG is one of the oldest botanical institutions in the U.S.

Gateway Arch: St. Louis is home to the world’s largest arch (630-feet-tall).

Lake of the Ozarks: situated in central Missouri, this lake is nestled in the Ozark mountains.

Hermann Wine Trail: Missouri is known for its wine culture, and this trail is an homage to the German settlers who started making wine in the area in the 1800s.

Benefits of Moving to Missouri

With all that said and done, there are numerous benefits if you’re thinking of moving to Missouri. If you’re still on the fence, below are a few good reasons to take the leap:

• It’s affordable.

• You’ll be able to experience all four seasons.

• There is an abundance of nature, including lakes, rivers, and state parks.

• Missouri is known for its barbeques and quality craft beer.

• The state has a great selection of schools, libraries, and museums.