23 Pros and Cons of Living in Arizona in 2024

It’s essential to consider the pros and cons of living in Arizona before you decide to move!

Moving to a new state is stressful. I get it. I’ve called 18 different countries home and have become an expert in relocating.

By looking at the pros and cons of life in Arizona, you’ll better understand what to expect if you move there. 

The “Grand Canyon State” offers a diverse culture and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. But it’s also one of the hottest places you can live in the US. 

Let’s look at the pros and cons of living in Arizona so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right place for you!

1. Pro: Cost of Living 

Arizona offers an average cost of living of $44,875 per year, making it an attractive choice for those living in more expensive states. 

The typical home value is $409,196. Housing is 20% higher than the national average, but utilities cost 1% less.

It may rank 37/50 for affordability in the US, and the cost of living is 6% higher than the national average. 

Living in Arizona is cheaper than in nearby states like California or Nevada but more expensive than in neighboring New Mexico. I know many people in California who either have moved or have considered moving to Arizona for this reason.

2. Con: Lax Gun Laws 

Due to Arizona’s lax gun laws, the state has seen a sharp rise in violent crimes over the past decade. 

Murders in the state have increased by nearly 20%, and Phoenix had a 45% increase in gun-related homicides from 2021 to 2022. 

A report from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) also found that 84% of guns used in crimes across Arizona during 2020 were purchased within Arizona. 

Since 2020, laws no longer require residents to have a permit to carry a firearm in public, making it more likely for dangerous weapons to be readily available on city streets. 

The nonprofit organization Everytown ranks Arizona at number 42 for gun law strength, meaning that it is among one of the weakest states when it comes to gun regulation. 

3. Pro: Low Taxes 

The low taxes are definitely a benefit of living in Arizona.

For those looking to keep more of their hard-earned money, the state’s individual income tax rate is a flat 2.5%, and it also has no death taxes. 

Property taxes are reasonable, and the combined state and local sales tax rate is 8.37%. 

Most people would agree that this is one of the biggest advantages of living in Arizona.

Perhaps higher taxes could benefit the community, which brings me to my next point…

4. Con: Underfunded Schools

The poor school system in Arizona is a major downside for anyone looking to move to Arizona who has kids. 

According to US News, the state ranks #45 in education, and the public school system is often ranked close to last in the US. 

Teachers don’t need a college degree in Arizona, meaning a lot of Arizona schools lack college-educated and licensed teachers. 

Arizona is also near-last in terms of dropout rates. 

These factors make it clear that the Arizona school system needs significant improvements if it will be an attractive option for those with families.

5. Pro: Job Opportunities

Arizona is an attractive option for those looking for opportunity, with job and economic growth forecasts among the best in the US. 

Employment growth is predicted to be just as strong, with the Phoenix metropolitan area especially growing in tech. 

Individuals looking for jobs in various industries—from healthcare and aerospace to tourism and real estate—can find stability and advancement opportunities in Arizona. 

Home to Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and JP Morgan Chase, the financial sector is also thriving. 

Although most job opportunities are in cities such as Phoenix and Tucson, even rural areas benefit from Arizona being the 5th best economy in the U.S.

6. Con: Arizona is Hot 

The hot temperatures are one of the biggest disadvantages of living in Arizona.

During the summer, the temperature can easily reach triple digits in Fahrenheit (often 40+ degrees Celsius) and stay that way all day. 

Haboobs, which are sand and dust storms, are common during summer. These storms reduce visibility and make it difficult to leave the house. 

Air conditioning is a must, which leads to high electricity bills – however, with more than 300 days of sun each year, it’s possible to save money by installing solar panels on your property. 

The dry heat can also lead to dry skin and an overall feeling of discomfort during hotter days. 

The heat is a huge disadvantage for me and, Theo (my golden retriever). I couldn’t take him on walks during the day because his cute little paws would get burned!

7. Pro: Cultural Diversity

Arizona has a wealth of cultural diversity, from the large Latino population to the 22 Native American tribes living there. 

The Navajo tribe, in particular, has a significant presence and makes up about 16 percent of Arizona’s population. 

This diverse ethnic makeup means there are many different cultures to explore and enjoy when living in Arizona. 

Not only do these communities put on traditional events and festivals throughout the year, but they also share their rich culture with all who visit. 

It’s an exciting way to experience different cultures while still being able to call the state your home – no travel needed!

8. Con: Flash Floods During Monsoon Season 

Monsoon season in Arizona is a daunting reality for many new residents. 

During the summer months, July through September, the state receives large amounts of rainfall in short periods of time, which often overwhelm the drainage systems and can cause flash flooding. 

Flash Floods are a major downside to living in Arizona, as it often leads to unexpected damage and destruction. 

The government advertises that residents take extra precautions when driving during summer by avoiding flooded roads and areas prone to flooding. They should prepare ahead of time by carrying safety equipment and emergency supplies.

9. Pro: Healthcare 

Arizona’s healthcare system is ranked 24th in the US, higher than most other states. 

The high healthcare ranking is partially due to Phoenix’s world-renowned Mayo Clinic and Banner University Medical Center.

For residents of Arizona, these top-notch healthcare providers give them better options for care than many other US states can offer.

On the downside, the best hospitals in Arizona are in Phoenix.

Rural counties, which make up 25% of Arizona’s population, don’t have access to the same quality healthcare as Arizona’s metropolitan areas. Still, some programs like ADHS are working hard to improve that. 

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10. Con: Valley Fever 

Valley Fever, a fungal respiratory infection, is a major concern for residents of Arizona. 

It’s rare at a national level, but more than 150,000 people in the US become infected each year, and two-thirds of those cases are in Arizona. 

Every year in Arizona, there are 160 deaths due to Valley Fever—making it an important issue to be aware of when considering living in the state. 

Many doctors misdiagnose the disease because it presents with cold and flu-like symptoms. 

But instead of a virus, Valley Fever is caused by a fungus that grows in places with low rainfall and hot summers. 

Unfortunately, animals can also get sick from it. So, dog owners should take extra caution to protect their beloved pets from this dangerous respiratory illness.

11. Pro: Low Crime Rate

A low crime rate is of the pros of living in Arizona.

Residents of Arizona can take comfort in the fact that in 2022, the crime rate in Arizona was 3,188 crimes per 100,000 residents, which was a nearly 11% drop in crime since 2021, and is much lower than neighboring states Utah, Mexico, and Oklahoma. 

In fact, some cities in Arizona are among the safest cities in the U.S., such as North Rim, Alpin, and Tonopah.

Arizona has a #38 ranking for crime and a #40 ranking for public safety, according to US News. 

These facts make Arizona an attractive place for people who want a safe environment to call home.

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12. Con: Poor Air Quality

According to the American Lung Association, Dry heat and lack of humidity in Arizona result in some of the poorest air quality in the United States.

The Arizona counties of Gila, Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal received F grades from the American Lung Association. Only Coconino received an A grade.

Poor air quality affects children and seniors the most and can cause coughing, wheezing, asthma, and other respiratory problems.

The poor air quality is especially disappointing, considering how much there is to do outdoors in Arizona!

13. Pro: Wildlife 

Arizona is home to a variety of interesting wildlife. 

You might spot a roadrunner darting across the desert floor or catch a glimpse of a javelina foraging in the brush. 

If you’re really lucky, you might even see a Gila monster! 

Coyotes, black bears, and other animals also call Arizona home. 

With all these amazing creatures living in Arizona, it’s no wonder it remains an attractive place to live.

14. Con: No Seasons

Arizona’s lack of four seasons can be both a blessing and a curse for someone interested in relocating there. 

On the one hand, the steady warm weather year-round is great for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and mountain biking – all of which are popular among Arizona locals. 

On the other hand, some miss the changing seasons and downtime associated with them.

If you desire snow or colder temperatures, Flagstaff is nearby and has some snow during the winter.

But if you’re really looking for a winter wonderland experience, going on a weekend trip to Colorado might be the way to go!

15. Pro: Delicious Food

Arizona’s food scene is a major pro of living in the state. 

With farmers’ markets, food trucks, and an abundance of Mexican and Southwest cuisine, there’s something for every palate. 

Whether you’re out to enjoy a nice dinner at a local restaurant or looking for fun snacks while exploring downtown Phoenix, Arizona, has plenty of delicious options! 

Think mouthwatering tacos, flavorful chimichangas, and refreshing prickly pear margaritas, just to name a few.

Scottsdale has some of my favorite restaurants in the Southwest! 

16: Con: Dangerous Bugs and Plants

Residents of Arizona should always be mindful of the variety of dangerous bugs and plants found in the state, such as rattlesnakes, scorpions, jumping spiders, and cacti. 

While the number of mosquitos or flies is relatively small, these other creatures can still pose a threat. 

To stay safe, residents should check their shoes before putting them on to make sure no unwelcome critters are inside.

If hiking or camping in Arizona’s desert areas, it’s also important to know how to identify potentially harmful plants. And always keep your pets on a leash.

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17. Pro: Outdoor Activities

Arizona is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering countless activities in its diverse landscapes. 

From horseback riding through the red rocks of Sedona to whitewater rafting down the Colorado River, there’s so much to explore. 

Don’t miss the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon and the mysterious vortexes in Sedona. Other must-visit spots include Hoover Dam, Havasu Falls, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Prescott National Forest, and 22 state parks.

For those looking to slow things down, Arizona also features plenty of peaceful walks and drives through state parks like the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Park. 

Golfers can take advantage of the state’s many golf courses, while bird watchers will find plenty to do in Arizona’s diverse ecosystems. 

18. Con: High Price of Gas 

The high price of gasoline in Arizona is one of the cons of life in Arizona.

Gas prices here are among the highest in the nation because Arizona’s gas comes from California, and California has high environmental standards such as those required by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). 

Gas from California requires a special formula that costs more than basic petrol.

Higher gas prices mean that even if you’re only running errands around town or taking a road trip across the state, you can expect to pay more at the pump than elsewhere. 

19. Pro: Minimal Traffic

Despite the higher cost of fuel, driving in Arizona has its advantages. 

The roads are generally well-maintained and mainly laid out in a grid, so there is minimal traffic, especially in cities like Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Glendale, and it’s easy to find your way. 

While there will likely be some traffic during rush hour, it won’t compare to most big cities. It gets a little worse in winter when the snowbirds and tourists flock there.

However, there are fewer pedestrian or bike-friendly roads, and with less traffic comes an increase in accidents due to people driving faster. 

20. Con: Limited Public Transportation

Limited public transportation is one of the biggest cons of living in Arizona. 

Not only is there an overall lack of public transport compared to other cities in the United States (and the world), but walking and biking are not always viable options due to the extreme heat.

Arizona has been ranked as one of the worst states for pedestrians in the US due to safety issues. There’s a severe lack of pedestrian and bike-friendly lanes in Arizona.

Therefore, owning a car is essential to get around Arizona easily, but the high gas prices make this expensive!

21. Pro: Great Base for Road Trips

Arizona’s location and size also make it an ideal destination for people who love to explore. 

Whether you’re looking to go on an adventure within the state or venture out to neighboring states and countries, Arizona has plenty of options. 

With the Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, and Lake Havasu within driving distance from Phoenix, you can have breathtaking views all year round. 

Plus, you can easily take a road trip out of state to visit Las Vegas, California, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, or even Mexico for a fun-filled weekend away!

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22. Pro: Professional Sports Teams

Arizona is also an excellent place for sports lovers! 

Whether you are a fan of professional or collegiate teams, you’re sure to find something in Arizona. 

The state is home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, and MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks. Furthermore, an MLS soccer team will be coming soon to the Phoenix area – so fans of that sport have plenty to look forward to! 

Sports fans also love that there are numerous college teams throughout the state – from the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona State University in Tempe, Grand Canyon University, Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, and more. 

23. Pro: Good for Retirees 

Arizona is a great place to retire, one reason being the lack of snow and cold weather, which is why so many retirees flock to Arizona during the wintertime.

Arizona does not tax Social Security benefits, making it easier for retirees to stretch their savings further. 

Arizona’s popularity as a tourist destination means it has plenty of attractions and activities for retirees to enjoy. 

Even with so many seniors calling Arizona home, Arizona has a young median age of 38, which is great for the economy.

Highlights: Pros and Cons of Living in Arizona 

Key Pros of Living in Arizona:

• More affordable alternative than nearby California and Nevada
• Low tax rates
• Strong job and economy

Major Cons of Living in Arizona:

• Lax gun laws
• Underfunded public schools
• It gets super hot

Is Arizona a Good Place to Live?

Overall, yes, Arizona is a good place to live. The low tax rates offer economic stability while the job market is strong and growing. 

But, like anywhere, there are downsides.

The state’s lax gun laws and underfunded public schools are concerning. Not to mention how hot it can get in the summer months (which leads to health issues). 

These are some of the reasons why Arizona is ranked by US News and World Report at 37th in the US overall.

With its central location, proximity to other states, and stunning natural beauty, Arizona is definitely worth considering as a place to call home. 

Tips for Living in Arizona

• Embrace the Sun: Get ready to enjoy over 300 days of sunshine each year. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: With the desert climate, staying hydrated is key. Keep a water bottle with you at all times.

• Get Outdoors: Arizona is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, and exploring stunning landscapes are a must.

• Get Monsoon-Ready: Prepare for Arizona’s monsoon season by being equipped with an umbrella and knowing the local weather patterns.

• Enjoy the Food Scene: From delicious Mexican cuisine to modern twists on Southwest flavors, Arizona offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene.

• Road Trip Wonders: Hit the road and explore iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Tucson. The beauty of Arizona awaits.

• Look Up at the Night Sky: Experience mesmerizing stargazing opportunities in Arizona’s dark sky areas. It’s a celestial show you won’t want to miss.

• Embrace the Wildlife: Arizona is home to a variety of unique wildlife. Keep an eye out for javelinas, roadrunners, and even the elusive desert tortoise.

• Celebrate the Local Culture: Immerse yourself in Arizona’s rich Native American heritage and vibrant art scene. Festivals and cultural events offer a window into the state’s soul.

Pros and Cons of Living in Arizona FAQs

Final Thoughts: Pros and Cons of Moving to Arizona 

After weighing the pros and cons of living in Arizona, relocating here is an excellent choice. 

The pros of moving to Arizona include the low cost of living, diverse landscapes, and no social security tax. 

But don’t ignore the cons of living in Arizona, including the hot and dry summers, limited public transportation, and low-rated public education system. 

Ultimately, the decision to move to Arizona depends on your specific needs and preferences. 
If you’re interested in moving to Arizona, you may also want to research the pros and cons of living in Las Vegas, too.