Is Arizona a Good Place to Live—What to Expect?

Is Arizona a Good Place to Live?

Rylan Steven
Written by:
Rylan Steven
Published Date: Jun 7th, 2024
102

The numbers are in, and Arizona's popularity as a moving destination is really taking off. With over 280,000 new residents arriving in just one year, it is clear that the word is out about the state's appeal.

With so many people moving to Arizona, you might wonder: What is so great about living in Arizona cities? Is it the culture, the thriving job market, the stunning scenery, or perhaps the pleasant climate?

The answers to these questions might be simpler than one might expect. To clarify what to expect and to answer the question, Is Arizona a good place to live? We have covered everything there is to know, down to the last detail.

What to Keep in Mind When Moving to Arizona

It is normal to look things up when you are trying something new, especially if something new involves deciding if a place is a good fit for living.

When it comes to figuring out if Arizona is a good place to live, you cannot just rely on one thing. There are many factors to consider, like your age, background, social status, and income. Everyone's opinion may differ because of these personal factors.

Therefore, below are some of the highest-priority factors that come into play when deciding whether living in Arizona is your cup of tea. 

Housing Market in Arizona

According to PayScale, housing expenses in Arizona cities such as Phoenix are 24% higher than the national average. 

Housing and renting cost:

Aspect Cost of Housing
Median Home Price $559,132
Median 2-bedroom apartment Rent $1,700 / month

 Energy Bills:

Aspect Median 2-bedroom Apartment Rent Median Home Price (3BR, 2BA) Total Energy
Energy Bill $181.59 / month $1,877 / month $1,065,764.00 (home) / $518,848.00 (apartment)

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Housing Demographic Profile:

Job Opportunities in Arizona

When thinking about whether Arizona is a good place to live, one big thing to think about is the job market. How many job opportunities are there can really affect how easy it is to live somewhere.

Therefore, when posed with the question "Is Arizona a Good Place to Live," it is imperative to consider the following relevant information:

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Job Market Growth 8
Diversity of Industries 7
Salary Potential 7
Work-Life Balance 6
Cost of Living 6
Availability of Remote Work 7
Education and Training Opportunities 8
Entrepreneurial Environment 7
Commute Time 6
Job Security 7

Arizona Economic Performance:

Economic Indicator Value
Average Salary per Person $24,365
Unemployment Rate 8.90%
Percent Below Poverty 20.30%

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Education and Schools in Arizona

Education is not just a gateway to opportunity but the foundation upon which families build their future when they move to a new community.

Therefore, if you have children, then the answer to” Is Arizona a good place to live?” will mostly depend on the education facilities available.

Aspect Description
K-12 Education Public, charter, and private schools are available. The district-based model with local governance.
Average Public-School Rating 5/10 on GreatSchools.com
Number of Private Schools 68
Number of Private Elementary Schools 35
Number of Private High Schools 15
Estimated Average Private High School Tuition $13,024 per year
Higher Education Public universities (e.g., Arizona State University, University of Arizona), community colleges.
Online Education Many institutions offer online courses and degree programs for flexibility.
Funding Challenges exist in funding, leading to issues such as large class sizes and outdated facilities.
Achievement Gap Persistent gaps between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds and ethnic groups.
Teacher Shortages Shortages of qualified teachers, especially in certain subjects and rural areas, are a concern.

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Healthcare Facilities in Arizona

With inflation reaching its peak, the struggle to afford basic healthcare needs can take a heavy toll on individuals, especially in states like Arizona, where healthcare costs are already high.

Below is a glimpse into the costs associated with healthcare services in Arizona:

Service/Item Cost
Doctor's visit $99.00
Dentist visit $124.50
Optometrist visit $98.22
Lipitor (medication) $498.44
Veterinary Visit $54.84

Outdoor Activities and Recreation in Arizona

Outdoor activities are a big part of life in Arizona, with its unique landscapes, such as the Grand Canyon and the Sonoran Desert.

Despite being car-dependent with a walk score of 45, Arizona offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Below is a general overview of what you can expect:

Metric Value
Walk Score 45 - Car-dependent
Average commute time to work 24.7 minutes
Public transit rating 0 - Score not available
Violent crime rate per 100,000 inhabitants 550
Bars per 1,000 people 0.29
Gyms per 1,000 people 0.3

Cost Breakdown: Utilities, Groceries, and Transportation

When thinking about living in Arizona, it's worth considering the costs of everyday essentials like utilities, groceries, and transportation.

These expenses can really add up and impact your budget. Taking a close look at the prices before you decide can help you determine whether Arizona is the right fit for you.

Utilities:

Item Cost Per Month
Phone Bill $181.59

 Groceries:

Item Cost Per Unit
Loaf of Bread $3.62
Gallon of Milk $3.86
Carton of Eggs $2.42
Bunch of Bananas $3.34

 Transportation:

Item Cost Per Month Cost per Unit
Gas $195.36 $3.62

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 What are the best places to live in Arizona, AZ?

With so many cities in Arizona, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to choose. That's why we have made it easier by picking out the top four cities.

This way, you don't have to sift through endless options, making the decision-making process simpler and less stressful.

  • Phoenix

Is Phoenix, Arizona, a good place to live?" Statistically, yes. With a population exceeding 1.7 million and a median household income of $58,075, it offers a competitive cost of living.

The city's diverse job market, reflected in a 4.3% unemployment rate, appeals to many. However, challenges like extreme heat and traffic congestion exist. Ultimately, Phoenix's livability depends on individual preferences.

  • Mesa

Is Mesa, Arizona, a good place to live?" From a statistical standpoint, it holds promise. With over 500,000 residents and a median household income of $60,466, Mesa offers affordability.

The city's job market seems stable, with an unemployment rate of around 4.1%. However, hot summers and traffic can be issues. Ultimately, whether Mesa suits someone depends on personal preferences.

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  • Tucson

Is Tucson, Arizona, a good place to live?" In terms of statistics it has its positives. Tucson offers affordability, with a population of approximately 550,000 and a median household income of $45,122. The city's unemployment rate is around 4.2%, indicating a relatively stable job market.

However, challenges like the intense summer heat and occasional traffic congestion exist. Ultimately, whether Tucson is a suitable home depends on individual preferences.

  • Tempe

Is Tempe, Arizona, a good place to live?" Looking at the numbers, it seems promising. With a population of about 200,000 and a median household income of $53,601, Tempe offers affordability. The city's unemployment rate is around 3.7%, suggesting decent job opportunities.

Yet, factors like hot summers and traffic congestion are worth considering. Ultimately, whether Tempe fits someone's lifestyle depends on personal preferences.

Whether to Rent, Buy, or Build a Home in Arizona

When considering whether to rent, buy, or build a home in Arizona, it is crucial to remember that each option has its own advantages and challenges.

Whether you choose to rent for flexibility, buy for long-term investment, or build for customization, here are some things you need to consider:

Aspect Renting Buying Building
Flexibility High Low Moderate
Upfront Costs Low High High
Monthly Payments Stable Stable N/A during construction
Equity Building None Yes Yes
Maintenance Landlord's responsibility Homeowner's responsibility Homeowner's responsibility
Customization Limited Moderate High

Looking to move out of state on a budget? Learn the Cheapest Way To Move Out Of State!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Arizona's cost of living is generally lower than the national average. So, Living here can be more affordable than in other states.

Yes, Arizona offers diverse communities, good schools, and a variety of outdoor activities, making it a popular choice for families seeking a balanced lifestyle.

A salary of $50,000 to $70,000 annually can provide a comfortable living in Arizona.


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