Your Ultimate Guide for Moving to Arizona

Arizona is most famous for being home to the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. However, there are many more reasons to move to the Grand Canyon State. 

According to the United Van Lines’ 2021 Annual Movers Study, Arizona ranks in the top 20 for inbound migration. The top reasons for moving here include retirement, work and family. No matter why you’re moving or from where you’re coming from, United can get you there. 

Arizona Is Great for Retirement

Looking for an exciting place to retire? Arizona is ideal for retirement. United’s Movers Study listed retirement as the number one reason for people moving to the Grand Canyon State. 

There are many benefits of living in Arizona for retirees. Some people are attracted to this state because of tax benefits for retirees and non-retirees alike. With a new tax law passed in 2021, the average taxpayer will save about $350 a year thanks to a 13% income tax reduction. For retired veterans, they no longer have to pay taxes on retirement pay, an average savings of about $650 a year.

While Arizona has tax benefits that can be appealing for retirement, it’s important to clarify tax laws and retirement advice with lawyers or accountants. More information can also be found through the Arizona State Retirement System. 

Retiring in Arizona offers more than just tax benefits. For those who want to spend free mornings and afternoons enjoying a day at the links, there are many wonderful golf courses across the state. Besides the Grand Canyon, which can be a reason to retire in Arizona on its own, the state is also home to several other beautiful nature areas to explore.

Some of the most popular and best places to retire based on things to do and quality retirement communities include Flagstaff, Scottsdale, and Tucson. Flagstaff’s smaller population gives it a historical, small-town charm. Its proximity to Sedona and the Grand Canyon are also ideal.

Scottsdale’s comfortable climate, shopping, fine restaurants, and bustling art scene provide a variety of activities to fill your days with. Tucson’s gorgeous landscape, dining, shopping, and recreational activities are also attractive for many retirees.

Weather in Arizona

The warm weather in Arizona can be a large draw for many retirees and outdoorsy families. Many people believe that Arizona is hot and dry during the entire year, but there is actually a wide variety of weather in the Grand Canyon State.

For those who love the desert climate all year round, Phoenix stays relatively warm throughout the year. Summer days can reach up to 115°F, while the fall, spring, and winter all experience days of around 77°F. 

For those that love the desert landscape, but prefer temperatures a bit cooler, Scottsdale might be a more preferred city to retire in. Summers are more comfortable, typically ranging from 75°F-102°F. Spring and summer are a bit cooler in the 60s-70s and winters can see temperatures in the 40s. 

The weather can be particularly tricky at times, but you can view the average temperatures per season in different regions of Arizona to help you prepare for your move.

Moving to Arizona for the Job Market?

Wanting a change of pace professionally? United’s Movers Study listed jobs as the second highest reason for moving to Arizona in 2021. 

Arizona was ranked in the top ten of fastest-growing states, growth potential in tech hubs, solar power and artificial intelligence jobs in 2021.

The Phoenix Metro Area is the largest in the Southwestern United States and is at the center of the Arizona economy. In 2021, Arizona ranked 8 local companies on the Fortune 500 list, including newcomers Sprouts Farmers Market, Taylor Morrison and Carvana. 

There are seven total metro areas in the State, including Tucson, Flagstaff, Lake Havasu City-Kingman, Prescott Valley, Sierra-Vista and Yuma. 

Arizona Is Home To More Than The Grand Canyon

There are endless adventures awaiting residents and travelers in the great state of Arizona. The Grand Canyon is a wonder to experience, but there is plenty more to enjoy for families, kids and even older adults. 

Havasu Falls, located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, offers beautiful views of secluded waterfalls. 

There are many more wonderful state parks to visit, including Red Rocks State Park and Patagonia Lake, but you can view the full list here. 

Ready to Move to Arizona? Let United Get You There

A professional moving company can make your long-distance move as simple and efficient as possible so that you’re able to enjoy the many wonders Arizona has to offer without the stress of moving. United Van Lines offers a variety of moving services tailored to your needs. View our services and request an online quote to get started on your next adventure. 

If you already live in Arizona and would like to move to another city to be closer to the great outdoor adventures, United’s interstate agents can independently help you move locally under their own businesses and names.

MyUnited Move Portal

Need some help planning your move? United Van Lines’ MyUnited Move Portal will customize to your needs and plan your journey to the Grand Canyon State. From providing customized tools to keep track of your important contacts to helping you stay organized, MyUnited Move Portal allows you to move with confidence.