California to Arizona Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Arizona

ConsCalifornia

• High cost of living
• Heavy traffic
• Overcrowded cities
• High taxes
• Earthquake risks

ProsArizona

• Lower living expenses
• Less congestion
• Open spaces
• Tax-friendly policies
• Less natural disasters

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Arizona

• Lesser arts scene
• Desert landscape
• Fewer vineyards
• Fewer job opportunities
• Limited higher education options

California

• Vibrant culture
• Renowned beaches
• Wine country
• Varied job market
• Top universities

Pros of moving from California to Arizona

• Say goodbye to the high cost of living and hello to lower living expenses
• Look forward to moving away from heavy traffic and moving to Arizona with less congestion
• Swap the overcrowded cities of California for open spaces in Arizona
• Get ready for tax-friendly policies in Arizona

Cons of moving from California to Arizona

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from the vibrant culture in California to live with a lesser arts scene in Arizona
• You'll lose out on the pro of renowned beaches and have to settle for the con of a desert landscape
• Time to bid farewell to wine country and get used to fewer vineyards in Arizona
• Swap the varied job market for fewer job opportunities

California vs. Arizona: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from California to Arizona, you will be trading the iconic Sourdough Bread of California for the equally delicious Sonoran Hot Dog of Arizona. And while the locals in California rave about their flavorful Tri-tip and sumptuous Tacos, Arizona residents know they have tasty Carne Asada and Tacos to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Avocado Toast they've grown to love, they can get ready for the Jackfruit Tacos of Arizona. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic California eateries like The French Laundry, In-N-Out Burger, and Chez Panisse. After the boxes are unpacked in Arizona, don't wait too long before making your way to Arizona's acclaimed eateries like Pizzeria Bianco, El Charro Café, and Durant's.

When comparing lifestyles, Arizona shows less emphasis on fitness and health consciousness than California. Food truck fans will discover a less desirable selection in Arizona, compared to what you are used to in California. Also, the overall foodie scene is less bustling in Arizona.

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between California and Arizona

• The Modern and Mediterranean architecture that California is known for will be replaced with the Spanish Colonial and Pueblo Revival architecture typical of Arizona.
• Compared to California's real estate listings that commonly reference ocean views and eco-friendly features, Arizona real estate listings often highlight features like desert landscapes and swimming pools.
• You can keep your walking shoes packed away; Arizona is less walkable than California.
• You might want to think twice before moving your bike; Arizona is less bike-friendly than California.
• Arizona has less of an urban feel than California.
• Arizona housing costs are 45% less expensive than they are in California, with a median home price of $430,827 compared to California’s $783,666.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in Arizona have increased by 63% compared to a 42% increase in California.
• Rent in Arizona is 29.81% more affordable than in California.

Your Move, Your Forecast: Key Weather Differences between California and Arizona

• Break out the sunglasses for your move from California to Arizona. Arizona gets 6% more sunshine days than California.
• Arizona has lower humidity and a higher average UV index compared to California.
• Say goodbye to the possible earthquakes and wildfires in California, but be on the lookout for potential heatwaves and flash floods in Arizona.
• Get ready for warmer summers. The average summer high temperature in Arizona is 20 degrees warmer than in California.
• The average winter lows are 2 degrees warmer than they are in California.
• Your umbrella might be neglected in Arizona. Arizona receives 9 fewer inches of rain compared to California.

Financial & Community Snapshot: California and Arizona

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in Arizona tend to earn about 19% less than in California
• The COLI in Arizona is 26% lower than what you are used to living in California
• The state income tax in AZ is 2.59-4.5 compared to 1-13.3 in CA
• The affluence in Arizona is moderate compared to high in California
• The poverty level is moderate in Arizona compared to low in California
• In terms of homelessness, it is significant in California and noticeable in Arizona

Political and Religious Climate in California vs. Arizona

• California tends to lean Liberal/Democratic in its political climate
• Arizona, on the other hand, is often described as Conservative/Republican with a growing Democratic influence
• Arizona's religious environment can be described as a Christian majority, but with a growing diversity of faiths
• California's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as more secular and diverse religious communities

Education Guide When Moving from California to Arizona

How Much Do California to Arizona Movers Cost?

Moving 748 miles from California to Arizona will typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.