Do you have your sights set on Arizona?

The sixth largest state in the U.S. is a top destination for retirees, real estate investors, families, and first-time homeowners.

Its easy and desirable climate isn’t the only draw for this desert state.

Residents enjoy world-famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, numerous missions, caves, and the popular Lowell Observatory. It’s also home to top-ranked universities like the University of Arizona, known for its NASA-approved astronomy program, Arizona State University, and Prescott College.

Fun facts aside, let’s dig into the real logistics before your big move to Arizona.

1. Understanding the Cost of Living in Arizona

One of the most important draws for moving to Arizona is its low cost of living, especially compared to states like California, New York, and Oregon. For example, according to recent data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the base cost of living in California is over $46,600. This number may exclude other factors like traveling, home improvements, schooling, and other expenses.

On the other hand, Arizona’s cost of living average is roughly $35,260 per year. This annual cost leaves more room for expanding families, buying second homes, and investing in education. Even better, residents can afford larger spaces for much less.

In fact, California residents account for the largest migration to the state of Arizona. Californians don’t have to give up their temperate climate, enjoying desert life for much less.

Californians aren’t the only future homeowners flocking to Arizona.

Washington accounts for the second-largest migration of new residents to the copper state. Like California, Washington has a higher cost of living than Arizona; plus, residents deal with colder climates and higher housing prices.  

2. Arizona Housing Prices

One of the first points all future homeowners should research is the housing prices of their destination.

Not only are housing prices noticeably lower than homes in California and the pacific northwest, but property values have also increased by more than 10%! Now, Arizona homeowners enjoy home values of over $428,000 and growing.

Phoenix, the state capital, is a top destination for people relocating to Arizona. While popular, incoming residents still enjoy much lower housing prices than in California, with many homes selling within the $300,000 to $500,00 range.

If you want to secure the best price possible for your dream Arizona home, it’s vital to work with a real estate agent as soon as possible. You can even consult with an agent before relocating to the state.

For example, the Phoenix realtors at Mahody Realty specialize in first-time homebuyers looking for affordable, spacious homes in excellent neighborhoods. You can start right now by adding your desired property type, price range, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and your preferred area zipcodes to start your search right away.

3. Choosing the Right Neighborhoods Before Your Move to Arizona

Next to Arizona’s cost of living and housing prices, your next factor to consider is neighborhood preference.

First, start with your needs as a homeowner. Ask yourself: why am I moving to Arizona? Am I moving for work, family, education, or retirement?

For example, do you want to work for the state of Arizona as a department of education employee, lawyer, researcher, or public works employee? Start with neighborhoods in the state capital, targeting Phoenix area codes closest to your department.

If you want to work in the state’s university sector, then you would search for homes near campus; the same would apply to students moving to the state to study at the University of Arizona, Arizona state, and so forth.

Government and state worker jobs aren’t the only perks of moving to Phoenix. The city is known nationally for its thriving public and private school systems. This point is a priority for families or future homeowners moving to Arizona to start a family.

Some of the best Phoenix suburbs for K-12 education include:

• Chandler
• Paradise Valley
• Litchfield Park
• Fountain Hills
• Peoria
• Sun Lakes
• Gilbert
• Cave Creek
• Goodyear

More Phoenix suburbs to consider include Anthem, Queen Creek, Glendale, and Youngtown. You’ll also find excellent schools in nearby cities like Scottsdale and Tempe.

If quality schools are a top priority for your move, make sure to communicate this with your Mahody realtor at the start of your search so that you may find the best home for your new or expanding family. Factors include multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, including spacious backyards, parking, safe surrounding areas, friendly neighbors, and close public transportation.

4. Consider Your Transportation Needs When Buying a House

Nearby public transportation is an important factor for college students, professionals, and other residents who want to save money (and spare the air) by switching from driving to public transportation.

Fortunately, Phoenix and its surrounding areas have plenty of low-cost public transportation for new residents buying a house in Arizona.

You can always rely on the city’s bus system which includes multiple routes, frequent schedules and stops, and late-night to early-morning routes. The city also has schedules available online for your convenience, making it easier to plan your trips and work routes.

You also have the city’s popular and dependable valley metro rail system. This option is great for residents who travel outside Phoenix for work and school.

The city also has a dial-a-ride service for residents with disabilities. Consider this option if you’re a homeowner who has disabilities or has a dependent with disabilities. You can also talk to your Mahody realtor about buying a home with safety upgrades for senior citizens and people with disabilities, like hand railings, wide doors, and ramps.

Other Phoenix public transportation options include popular e-scooters and guided tours for guests.

5. Choose Your Realtor Wisely When Moving to Arizona

Last but not least, remember to choose a realtor who understands all your homeowning needs, from schools to transportation preferences. Draw up a list of factors you’re looking for in a home so that you can take full advantage of your first consultation.

Mahody real estate makes the process easy by offering a simple-to-use search feature, including updated houses in Arizona for sale. You don’t have to pay an extra fee to view home listings. Plus, each listing includes prices, professional photos, amenities, and all the logistics you need to make an informed decision.

Find Your Dream Home in Arizona

Make sure your move to Arizona goes as smoothly as possible. Keep this guide handy as you look for the best neighborhoods, cost of living, housing prices, and transportation options.

Mahody real estate is looking forward to ushering you through the process of homeownership. Start with our simple search feature or contact us today to speak to an experienced Phoenix realtor.