In recent years, many California residents have packed their bags and moved to Arizona. Although these states have a lot in common, there are many differences between them too. You’ll find that the cost of living is significantly different. Estimates show that California is roughly 30% more expensive than Arizona. However, this may not be the case in specific categories. It is vital to learn more about the cost of living in Arizona before moving there. More about this will be provided below.
Arizona and National Averages
First, it would be wise to learn more about Arizona and how the state stacks up to others. Although it might be higher than other states, Arizona’s cost of living is relatively low. As mentioned above, it is significantly cheaper than California. When compared to other states, Arizona’s cost of living is right around the medium. It is cheap, but not the cheapest. Therefore, people moving from California to Arizona will likely save money in the long run.
However, moving from Tennessee to Arizona could make it more expensive for you. Those interested in retiring to a cost-effective city should consider planning to retire to Myrtle Beach. It might be a cheaper and more comfortable destination than Phoenix.
Taxes
Now, it is time to learn more about the taxes in Arizona. Once you more to this state, you’re going to pay a state income tax. Unfortunately, it is more expensive in this category. However, Arizona’s state income tax is much lower than California’s. In California, residents are going to pay a state income tax of 9.3%. Once you move to Arizona, you’ll pay 4.54%. The property tax is also cheaper in Arizona. Suffice to say, you could save a lot of money by moving to Phoenix or another beautiful city in Arizona.
Home Prices
A lot of people refuse to move to California because they cannot afford the properties there. It is understandable since California has some of the highest property costs in the country. In Los Angeles, the average price of a home will be $670,000. It is cheaper to buy a home in Arizona. After all, the median home cost in Phoenix is $279,000, but rising. If you’re looking for affordable homes in a big city, it is better to move to Phoenix than Los Angeles.
Insurance
You’ll also want to take a look at the insurance costs in Arizona. Which is going to be cheaper? The good news is that Arizona is cheaper in this category. You can expect to pay roughly $475 for car insurance once you’ve moved to the state. If you try to insure the same vehicle in California, you’ll end up paying $1,500. Suffice to say, it is cheaper to live in Arizona. You’ll also find that it is cheaper to get a driver’s license in Arizona.
If you’re looking for a nice place to settle down once you retire, Arizona might be a good destination for you. The cost of living is reasonable. It is cheaper than the costs in many states. Be sure to check out the properties in Arizona.
