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Living in Arizona: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Arizona | Expat Exchange
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Living in Arizona

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 07, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Arizona as sunny, dry, and laid-back. People love the warm weather, the beautiful desert landscapes, and the abundance of outdoor activities. The cost of living in Arizona is generally lower than the national average, with housing costs being particularly affordable. The approximate population of Arizona is 7.2 million, and the largest cities are Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Glendale. The cons of living in Arizona include the extreme heat in the summer months, the lack of public transportation, and the high cost of water. Additionally, the state has a high crime rate in some areas.

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Is the cost of living in Arizona high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Arizona, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Arizona varies depending on location. In some parts of the state, it can be quite expensive to live. Generally speaking, however, the cost of living in Arizona is quite affordable. On average, a nice 1-bedroom apartment can be rented for about $850 per month and a nice 2-bedroom apartment for around $1,100. Eating out at a moderately priced restaurant typically costs around $15 to $20 per person," mentioned an expat living in Arizona.

What type of recreational facilities are in Arizona?

When we asked people living in Arizona about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Arizona enjoy a wide variety of recreational facilities, from outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, to indoor activities such as bowling, skating, and movie theaters. Arizona is also home to a number of golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools. For those looking for a more unique experience, Arizona also offers hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, and rock climbing. There are also a variety of parks and trails throughout the state, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation," commented one expat who moved to Arizona.

What is the weather like in Arizona?

"The weather in Arizona is generally sunny and dry, with hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter months temperatures can drop to as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Arizona is known for its monsoon season, which typically occurs between June and September and brings heavy rains and thunderstorms," commented one expat who moved to Arizona.

Are there good restaurants in Arizona?

"One of Arizona's favorite restaurants is Pizzeria Bianco, located in Phoenix. It is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times and Bon Appétit. Another popular restaurant in Arizona is El Charro Café, located in Tucson. It is the oldest Mexican restaurant in the United States, and is known for its traditional Mexican dishes, such as carne seca and chiles rellenos. The restaurant has been featured in the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" and has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation. Lastly, The Mission, located in Scottsdale, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant serves modern Latin cuisine, with dishes such as ceviche, tacos, and empanadas. The restaurant has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times and Food & Wine," commented one expat living in Arizona.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Arizona?

"People living in Arizona typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many people in Arizona shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers," said one expat.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Arizona?

"In order to apply for a visa in Arizona, individuals must submit a visa application form, payment, passport and any other supporting documentation to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The application must include supporting documentation demonstrating eligibility for a visa and there may be a non-refundable fee associated with processing the application. In order to apply for residency status in Arizona, individuals must submit an application along with documentation demonstrating the intention to remain in the state for an extended length of time. Supporting documents that may be required include proof of address, proof of financial resources, and any other documentation demonstrating the need for legal residency. Additionally, there may be an application fee associated with processing the request," said an expat in Arizona.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Arizona?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Arizona can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Arizona is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Arizona has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be difficult for many people to afford, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," said an expat in Arizona.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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