Living in Arizona is an enticing proposition when the Grand Canyon State offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and sunny weather year-round. Whether you’re seeking scenic outdoor parks, an abundance of job opportunities, a relatively low cost of living compared to other major metro areas, or all of the above, Arizona’s warm Southwestern charm will make you feel right at home.

 

Arizona’s two most populous cities, Phoenix and Tucson, offer renters a wide range of opportunities and unique experiences, from dynamic urban living and career growth in Phoenix to the rich cultural scene and laid-back lifestyle of Tucson. If you’re ready for a change, let’s explore why living in Arizona could be your next exciting chapter.

 

Pictured: Linda Vista Pointe community in Tucson, AZ, built by AMH Living.

 

Moving to Arizona

Arizona remains a top destination for movers in the U.S. According to the most recently released state-to-state migration figures for the American Community Survey (ACS), Arizona ranked 5th in domestic net migration in 2023, attracting 62,533 more new residents to the state than left. In 2023 and 2024, Arizona was among the top 10 states with the most one-way U-Haul customers.

 

The increase in residents has generated increased demand for single-family home rentals in Arizona, and the build-to-rent market is responding accordingly, with nearly 14,000 single-family rentals in the pipeline.

 

Pictured: Rio Rancho community in Phoenix, AZ, built by AMH Living.

 

Phoenix: A hub for hiking and networking

 

Arizona’s state capital, Phoenix, famously known as the “Valley of the Sun,” is the most populous state capital and the fifth most populous city in the United States. From a booming economy and accessible housing to sunshine and recreation, the city has much to offer new residents.

 

For job seekers, opportunities are plentiful, as the city’s economy is driven by a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, technology, finance, education, and retail and logistics. Banner Health, Honeywell Aerospace, PetSmart, and Republic Services are all headquartered in Phoenix, and finance hubs like Wells Fargo and American Express have a significant presence in the city as well. Notably, Phoenix saw job growth of 14% from 2018 to 2023, and wage growth increase of 47.4% during the same time frame, making it a prosperous choice for those looking for a fresh start or to level up their careers.

 

Beyond career opportunities, the Valley of the Sun boasts an enviable lifestyle. Surrounded by mountains and known for some of the best urban hiking in the country, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From the panoramic views at Camelback Mountain to the 50 miles of trails in the South Mountain Park and Preserve, there is no shortage of activities for those looking to break a sweat. Nature lovers who prefer walks over hikes can visit the Desert Botanical Garden, which offers 50 acres of desert garden showcasing a variety of plants for an idyllic afternoon stroll.

 

In addition to the outdoor activities, art, culture, and cuisine thrive in Phoenix, adding depth and flair to life in the desert. Fans of Frank Lloyd Wright can tour his winter home, Taliesen West, to learn how the Southwestern terrain inspired the brilliant architect, or visit the Phoenix Art Museum to view an extensive collection of contemporary work and global masterpieces. Artistically-minded residents will also want to visit Roosevelt Row, home to galleries, walls adorned with vibrant murals, and a monthly art walk.

 

Foodies will feel right at home in the Valley of the Sun with a variety of James Beard award-winning dining to choose from, including Pizzeria Bianco, Valentine, and Lom Wong, among other options.

 

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to cheer about, as the city boasts professional teams across three major leagues: the NFL's Arizona Cardinals, the NBA's Phoenix Suns, and MLB's Arizona Diamondbacks. Downtown’s Footprint Center also hosts the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury and the Arizona Rattlers of the Indoor Football League. Soccer supporters can rally behind the USL’s Phoenix Rising FC, while racing fans can catch NASCAR action each spring and fall.

 

With a cost of living that’s 3% lower than the state’s average and just 3% higher than the national average, combined with abundant opportunities and lifestyle perks, it’s easy to see why so many people want to make this desert city their home.

 

Interested in exploring Phoenix? Check out AMH Living homes for rent in the area. 

 

Pictured: Rio Rancho community in Phoenix, AZ, built by AMH Living.

 

Tucson: Laid-back vibe with big-city perks

 

The second largest city in Arizona, Tucson offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back charm. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert and surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, Tucson is a haven for outdoor lovers and adventurers. With its affordable cost of living, vibrant college-town energy from the University of Arizona, and deep-rooted Southwestern heritage, the city offers a relaxed and inspiring lifestyle.

 

Tucson offers a wide range of career opportunities for job seekers across multiple industries. Nicknamed “Optics Valley,” the city is a hub for optics and photonics innovation, largely due to its strong connection with the University of Arizona. It’s also a national leader in aerospace and defense, with major employers like Raytheon Missiles & Defense playing a significant role in the local economy. For those passionate about sustainability, Tucson is gaining recognition as a center for renewable energy and environmental research, supported by institutions like the University of Arizona Tech Park and the Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy.

 

Outside of work, Tucson offers no shortage of fun things to do. Nature enthusiasts can explore wide-open spaces by hiking the mountain ranges that circle the Old Pueblo or wandering the Saguaro National Park, which spans 92,000 acres and is home to the nation’s largest cacti. Artistically inclined residents can enjoy all that the “mini mecca for the arts” has to offer by perusing the myriad of art galleries or enrolling in a local class or workshops to make their own masterpieces.

 

Foodies will appreciate the rich culinary heritage, blending indigenous traditions with Mexican and other influences, earning it the title of the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the US, and those putting down roots in Tucson will find plenty to love—from highly regarded charter and magnet schools to safe and welcoming neighborhoods.

 

With a cost of housing that’s 17% lower than the state average and 2% lower than the national average, it’s no wonder why so many people are choosing to settle down in this beautiful city nestled in the Sonoran Desert.

 

Interested in exploring Tucson? Check out AMH Living homes for rent in the area. 

 

Pictured: Linda Vista Pointe community in Tucson, AZ, built by AMH Living.

 

Weekend getaways in Arizona

 

Outside of Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona is home to many stunning attractions that are perfect for a weekend getaway. The Grand Canyon, only a three-and-a-half hour drive from Phoenix and four-and-a-half hours from Tucson, provides an unforgettable retreat into nature, with its expansive, vibrant cliffs, breathtaking depths, and sweeping vistas that seem to go on forever.

Meanwhile, Sedona, a wellness-seeker’s paradise in the middle of the Arizona desert, offers over 400 miles of hiking trails, an eclectic wine-tasting scene, and a multitude of bird-watching spots at Slide Rock State Park, Sedona Wetlands Preserve, Red Rock State Park, and more.

 

From the bustling energy of cities like Phoenix and Tucson to the quiet beauty of desert sunsets and iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Arizona combines adventure, affordability, and comfort in one unforgettable package. Whether you're seeking new opportunities, a stronger sense of community, or simply a beautiful place to call home, Arizona provides endless possibilities.

 

Interested in moving to Arizona? AMH living has you covered. Check out AMH Living homes for rent in the state.

 

Pictured: Arroyo Verde community in Phoenix, AZ, built by AMH Living.