Noooo mosquitoes at all. Nor have I seen any kind of snake and I live in the far west valley. I'm always cautious but nope, no snakes thank goodness. One thing I will warn you about are scorpions. Before we moved into our home, I had it "sealed" (inside and out). Haven't seen one scorpion. Honestly, we retired here and did our research first and learned that scorpions can be a real, very real problem. Learned about "sealing" homes, best decision ever! Read up about "Bark Scorpions".
Have lived in Western Washington my whole 22 year life, and I finally get to move down to AZ in June! Im glad to see it worked out so great for you and i hope the same for me!
Born and raised in MN as well! Moved here last October. Absolutely love it! I am 30 miles north of Phoenix so our temps are about 5 degrees cooler. The biggest changes for us have been: The need for auto glass replacement. Higher electric costs(not just the bill, but the actual cost!). Wildfire season 😳 The perfect weather 8 months out of the year and no freaking mosquitoes 😊, but our pool is freezing right now!!! Drive 2-6 hours and you have a completely different climate/setting.
I bought my house in the Chandler area down by where the new 202 went in and the houses are nice for first-time starter homes or single persons. They are not really big. They are a good size house that usually sits on a 5500 sq ft lot. So you dont have to waste your weekend doing yard work
I would suggest not going to the glendale area, I grew up in glendale until I met my wife who introduced me to the east valley. So much better! it's cleaner, safer and quieter.
Definitely Would Say, Move Here After The Summer months bc the heat is bloody awful. And is a shock to those newbies moving here. Be prepared for your car to possibly breakdown in the middle of next to nowhere. Monsoon season doesn’t always guarantee rain
I love how you’re from Minnesota! This was super helpful and informational as someone who lives in Minneapolis. I’m going to asu in the fall so this helped a lot thank you! Keep making more videos
I went through the public school system here. Back in my day, it sucked. I don't have kids either, but, from my experience, the public school system is terrible. If I did have my own kids, I would stick them in a private school, or move to an area where the school is actually good, or just home school them.
ty sm for this video, im from the UK and I'm planning on moving to Mesa Arizona for a while now. I have friends who I know lives there and I've been offered to live at their place so I've been doing a lot of research and watching a lot of videos about AZ as this is going to be completely new as the UK and the US is so different. But after watching this video I'm even more excited to move there! :)
It's interesting to hear you talk about being surrounded by mountains, because I moved to Mesa from Los Angeles, and one thing I thought when I moved here was that I missed having mountains around! I was used to living like right up against tall mountains.
Re: Schools- there are several Great Hearts Academy charter schools here in Phoenix. I’ve come here to teach at one. AMAZING curriculum!! They provide a classical education. Take a look at their website for more detail.
Hi Laurel, I'm doing some research on AZ videos for my UA-cam Channel as a realtor. I've been dragging my feet, because I'm absolutely petrified! Your personality is so great and your videos are as informative as entertaining. You have a new fan!
Arizona native here. A couple of my favorite spots in the state are Bisbee and Apple Annie’s orchard near Willcox. Ladybug Trail is a great hike at Mount Graham as it doesn’t have to be hiked in entirety to be enjoyed. At the right time of year, the top of the trail (Ladybug Peak), is covered in ladybugs. The White Mountains have some nice areas to visit too, including Big Lake and Sunrise Resort. Welcome to Arizona! Enjoy
Thanks for sharing! Could you do a video on one of your hiking adventures or fun day in the life in Arizona? I’ve never been there but would love to visit Arizona one day. It just seems like a beautiful place ☀️🧡
Hubby and I BOTH love Arizona...problem is, he's a new grandpa to a 6 and 1 year old down in Florida. He was born and raised in Chicago and I'm from Iowa...we live in Chicago now, so we are being pulled apart. Whenever we visit Arizona, we feel like we are "home". But when we visit Florida, I know he feels he should be there...I know you can't help with this, but I feel a little better telling someone our dilemma. 😭
This second video is helpful. I’m from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and we’ve be thinking about relocating and Arizona is one of the states we have considered.
As a Minnesotan who lived in AZ from 83-17 and then moved back, the quality of life up here is far superior to that in most of AZ. Yes, there are affluent pockets in AZ, but it’s a very poor state with ridiculously high crime, poor health care (unless you’re in one of the metros), and the schools are pathetic. I taught there for 28 years. Education is NOT the priority there that it is in the Midwest and East. People aren’t as considerate and kind in a general sense. Pay is low, so that’s why prices are lower. Utilities are expensive. You’ll be running your a/c continually for at least six months until your acclimated if you live at a low elevation. The cost for water is going to skyrocket because the West and SW are running out of water. No exaggeration.
I’m in my early 20s and still haven’t moved from my home state. I’ve been so scared to make the leap just me and my dog, but something about the desert is calling me! Hoping to move there this June, thank you so much for all this awesome insight!
If you would like to do a video on opinions from an Arizona native I would love to answer your questions or collab with you on a video. I can give a rundown on the good, bad, and important.
Thank you for the general info about the state! I am considering moving to AZ in the near future and really thinking about Tucson. Any info on it that people should know about?
Another good one! We are moving there end of July... super excited and nervous. We all enjoy the relevant information you share. Another one on cost of living please.
Make sure you go towards the north part of Glendale that mixes with Peoria and check the crime maps before buying. Glendale used to be really nice but there are a lot of gangs, drugs, and homeless people so it’s gone really downhill, it feels like west Phoenix moved into it, make sure you have the bo deductible glass replacement coverage.... just get full coverage plus glass in general. And YES! The schools suck. My mom took me to idaho when I was little, we came back in 8th grade (after skipping 7th grade - so 6th grade education), and I learned absolutely nothing (after quitting HS for 3 years out of boredom, even ran off to Minnesota for three months of that) For senior year, I went to a charter high school and finished all three years I missed and graduated in one year. That was the only year I learned anything new while in Arizona until college. 😂 On the bright side, you can graduate high school with a northern 6th grade education.... which explains ASU’s SAT requirements previously mentioned last comment 😂 .... You’re so fun to watch! 💕 I’m really glad you enjoy it here so much. It’s refreshing to hear your view of everything and see things in a different light. I do want to argue about the mosquitoes, but comparing to MN I guess it’s not too bad 😂 don’t go to a park at night though. Oh those giant ass flies (horseflies - usually at the lake/river/wet places) bite. Like bee sting kind of bite. Run away. I’m also surprised you didn’t mention the cockroaches (I envy your location and apartment lol) and that you haven’t seen our lovely desert tarantulas on your hiking expeditions. I know you haven’t seen any scorpions, but you typically won’t until they get you. Most are light white/tan (blend with the dust-sand) and good at avoiding people until you’re not paying attention. Inside probably won’t see them but I’ve know people to just be hanging out in their yard and get stung while sitting around. Just be careful and always check inside your shoes ❤️
Can't wait to move back to Arizona. I wish I never had to leave it😢. Sonoran is in my blood. Hope within 2 years to be home, I'm in the process of transition now. Videos are great. Thanks!
This comment is extremely helpful Glendale Peoria and Phoenix areas are definitely not quiet they’re probably the most ghetto areas you could possibly live in.
Thanks for the video! I’m thinking of interning in Phoenix and was wondering what the summers are like. I have always lived in Alabama so I’m not worried about the heat, but I legit was scared of seeing scorpions and I’m glad you mentioned that you haven’t seen any scorpions haha.
Not to be critical, but you make it sound like Arizona is Phoenix, Sedona, and Flagstaff and nothing else. I think your title should be, "What to know BEFORE moving to Phoenix"... that is more accurate. I know, I'm being a bit of an arse... 🤣 But really, hope you get to visit Tucson and many other places that are Arizona too. Ok, I'm done being an arse, love your videos! 😍
Seeking advice on which is better and why Tucson or Phoenix. We are looking for a smaller town 20-30 min outside of the cities. I want a better class of living low crime with community feels. I’ve heard Surprise is great town. I don’t have employment yet still figuring which area to set roots into.
Great video, Laura! Love to hear your perspective now that you've lived here for a little while - all accurate points!! I'm sure this is really helpful for anyone looking to move here :)
I really like seeing these videos about Arizona! I went there on vacation and absolutely LOVE it because there is such a change in scenery from Chicago. Is it possible for you to make a video on scenery? Like maybe a drive around or a hike maybe in Sedona or something? (Of course after the Pandemic)
My cousin lived and taught school in Glendale, then Peoria, about 40 years. Many years of that were down the street and about 1/2 mile from Glendale Community College and Sahuaro Ranch Park. She never saw one scorpion. We visited, and thought it was a beautiful place. One thing that no one mentions is the smell. There are all the regular smells, but in the background, there's the sweet, sage fragrance of the desert, everywhere. All those minerals cooking in the sun probably add to that overall sweetness, since it's the minerals that give us the fragrance of a coming rain. I loved seeing the adobe-esque architecture wherever we looked. When I saw your first video, I said "hey! She's got an 'Arizona' balcony!", one of those beautiful, enclosed, masonry balconies with the open work for ventilation. My cousin had decent landscaping, but around her there were tall _Phoenix_ date palms, and bougainvilleas, oleanders, and beautiful, fiery Mexican Bird of Paradise shrubs, a shorter, desert version of poincianas. There were eucalyptus trees down the street, and of course, the wonderful saguaros.
@@aviw5636 It does! My cousin lived on Mountain View, at just about halfway between 51st and 59th, across from the elementary school. And thank you for correcting my spelling of Saguaro. I never can remember whether it is the h or the g. I've seen saguaro spelled both ways, but I believe the correct, Spanish spelling, is as you have it, with the g. It was pretty hot both times I was there, and we didn't spend a lot of time in the park, although we did drive through it. It's a beautiful park, and I did see the peacocks. Now, whenever I think of peacocks, I think of there. I did spend a couple of hours at the library next door, and walked around the building to see the xeriscape plantings, though. And once, when they were going out on an errand, I asked her to leave me off at the park, and pick me up at the community college. I was thinking about moving there, and wanted to get a copy of the latest catalog and schedule. It was registration time for the sumner terms, and I found out where to go to get a copy of each. (I was hoping that it would also have a snack bar to buy and sip on a Diet Coke while I waited for my cousin, but nope). But I also wanted to walk through the orange groves, so I asked her to leave me in the park so I could walk through them on the way. I learned how hitting the wall works in Arizona. Because it's so dry, you do not realize how much you are sweating. It was not completely unpleasant walking through the orange grove, then across the pavement to the building, but wow. There was that oven heat, but I could take it, or so I thought. I learned why my cousin's husband wanted to just close the drapes and be in the dark and the AC when he got home from work! You do not realize you are becoming dehydrated, but you just come to the place where you hit that wall, and no more. It's really beautiful there, but I decided I'd be too dependent on cars, and that I'd end up spending even more time stranded indoors.
@@Kira-zy5ue I think it honestly depends on where you are in the area. Although we're known for rattlesnakes *az diamondback*, I honestly haven't seen any. However some people do collect the snakeskin and use it as decoration. So they do exist. However, I've honestly seen more snakes in Flagstaff, AZ and they were just garden snakes.
I am strongly considering moving to Arizona. I will be visiting at the end of September, so I'm trying to get a feel for the neighborhoods. I don't care about bars and nightlife so much, but I'm leaning towards Scottsdale or Arcadia. Your video is extremely helpful!
Our family lives in Arcadia and we love it! So many positives and I have lived in every single city in the East Valley prior to. If you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Nice video - we are considering moving to AZ (Gilbert) next year. We’ve been in Seattle area for about 4 years now and I came from Brazil and my husband from sunny California - he misses the good weather and I honestly prefer the rainy and dark days from the Pacific Northwest for reasons like: my skin and hair looks better, I feel more comfortable working out and also feel fancy with scarves and boots. Our idea to move to AZ comes from the fact that my father in law is there and mother in law in Nevada - easy to go there if needed. I’m WA we don’t really do a lot of the outdoors activities that the state provides because we are not interested - we are also a 80 yo couple lol lazies and kinda cheap at times so we mostly stay home and take small trips here and there. Although, we have the chance and possibilities to go travel and explore WA if we want to rather AZ I feel like there is not get always and it’s always the same of everything. I’m very thorn and confused in what to do but we still have time to figure out.
Ha ha yeah like 20 seconds of cold water and then it’s warm. I was born here so I’m used to seeing stray cats but my friends who move here always comment on that. Maybe we have more stray cats because it doesn’t get freezing in Phoenix? I agree they should remain inside. Too many coyotes in my neighborhood. Not sure if you’ve noticed them in yours but I live in central Phoenix and I’ve seen them several times while walking my dog.
Surprise is a very nice area especially if you have kids. It's the safest city according to statistics. It's in the Northwest Valley. Close to the White Tank Mountains. The White Tanks are very good for hiking, too. There are a lot of trails and one of them has a waterfall when it rains, and petroglyphs.
We live in the middle of Surprise and it's a great city. There are some people roaming at night to steal something out of a car but it's a whole lot less crime than SF. Surprise is a beautiful place and only about 30 miles from the city and airport. Home prices are reasonable but creeping up.
My mom doesn't want to move from California because we have a lot of family here and Minnesota. I want to move out of California so bad because it seems like you can rent/own a decent house in AZ. I've been looking at houses on Zillow and they are breathtaking. I rather live in AZ than pay 400k for a tent in CA lol.
Not sure if anyone has said this yet, but when there is just rock, dirt and cactus as the landscape, We like to call it a "Desert Landscaping" lmao so cliche I know.
Yes please do make more videos. As I said on you first video im into the outdoors, a question I forget to ask can I drive dirt bikes in many places by the mountain side ? I'm sure I can ride my horse Dakota where the mountain are it is Arizona right ? I feel he would love be out there. Thank you again for making this video also, im looking forward seeing more of them. I do want to first visit more or less what I am looking to do any plans you would recommend ? Thank you and God Bless you both wishing you two the very best living in there.
After the first time I visited Arizona I wanted to move there but I guess I’m a little scared. I have a few friends that live there so I know some people but I’ve never been one to risk a move across the country. Maryland just isn’t doing it for me.
NEVER restrict your existence because of fear. Go for it! I moved from MN to AZ all alone in 83 and changed my life. Didn’t know a soul there. I moved back to MN in 17 and am glad to be back. AZ is amazing, but it’s a different world from where you are. Much good, some bad.
My wife and I moving to Arizona in October and this information has being super helpful. My wife is a turn up shawty so my main concerns are nightlife, affordability, and crime rates. Thank you!
If your fleeing from a blue state dont make the same mistake by voting blue again along with liberal proposals. Keep Arizona Red with low taxes please.! Thanks.!
I lived in AZ for 34 years. Crime is ridiculously high. Poor schools. High dropout rate. I taught there for 28 years. Poor health care unless you’re in one of the four metros. Low wages. Low taxes and a poor standard of living because of low taxes and low wages. High utilities. Cost of water is going to skyrocket. Electricity is already high. Stunning scenery.
If you're looking at ASU, I just wanted to let you know that there are different campuses with different feels, but are all connected with a intercampus shuttles.
Make sure that you take adequate water with you if you go hiking in the mountains. Also, tell them about the Stupid Motorists Law, which means that if you get your car stuck in a flash flood during a monsoon, and you need to be rescued, you WILL be charged for this.
Nice Job!! you covered alot of the pros / cons..👍...I'm from New Jersey, and the few people I know who moved to AZ ...Say it's the best moved they ever made... I'm gonna get a feeler trip there in late March.,to check things out... I need to stay relatively close to Phoenix for work....Just wondering since me and my partner are in our 40's and 50's... What areas on the outskirts of Phoenix are more quiet...And lower rent... But still not far from nightlife...Thanks
I would say look outside of the loop 101 anywhere outside of that is a better area. The west is experiencing explosive growth right now because its has not been built up like the rest of the valley. I would look in Surprise, Goodyear, Peoria, and Litchfield Park. Since you are in your 50s there is Sun City (West and Grand) where most of that is a retirement community. Scottsdale is nice but your money will go further in those other areas.
Gorgeous city. I used to work with your mayor when she taught at MCC. VERY conservative county politically. Scary conservative. I lived in Mohave County 28 years. Were I going to move back, I’d pick Kingman.
This comment made me laugh. I know exactly what you mean. First time I saw one in my place, I screamed. It was huge! They still startle me every year when they crawl out from the ground. I remember reading a comment on Reddit and someone described them as the thing that cockroaches will ride into battle with when the apocalypse happens. Currently the Green Fig Beetles are flying around in the mornings. One almost flew into me when I was refilling one of my bird feeders. They startled me as well the first year. This huge insect flying around and bouncing against the side of my apartment and here I am trying to dodge this ungraceful flying thing. Then there are the cicadas. They are loud and they leave their exoskeletons behind. Finding them all over my little yard.
One of the great things about Arizona is you can carry a gun, rifle, etc. with you at all times! Just don't hide it, then you need a carry license, and never put your loaded weapon on the car dashboard in the sun.
Correction, Arizona is a constitution carry state. You can open or conceal carry without a registration, licence, or a permit. That's one reason I stay in Arizona. Also vote red if you want to keep it that way.
I'm a little concerned because I've lived in some hotspots: Tokyo, Madrid, Chicago, Austin, Lugano, etc., and don't know if I'll feel as if I'm in the middle of nowhere.
I've lived in AZ my entire life. Everything you said is accurate lol peoria/Glendale area are very quiet and nice for a family. Decent houses with some areas being more "weathly" than others such as downtown peoria/glendale are on the rougher side/more homeless people.
I have lived in Arizona all my life but driving in those mountains are still rough, lol! Also Glendale is much quieter! Especially north Phoenix/Glendale. Like near the northern part of the LOOP 101.
I’m moving just and my kid sophomore high school. First I’m going to visit july 2021 2 weeks see how we think we can bare the worst part of the e heat. I’m a nurse! I’m hoping to find a job before we go for good live in month/month apartment before selling my home and leaving Michigan. Any advice or referral to another nurse for guidance? Much appreciate advice etc!
We were thinking of moving to No. Central AZ. However, we have heard from many sources that AZ is on the brink of a disastrous water shortage. The water reservoir under Chino Valley, which has been the second largest water source in the U.S., is being depleted faster than it can refill because of overdevelopment.
they would in lots of places! the main thing is shade and water. I know people that grow food in their yard, it's just the amount of water can get spendy
Help! My daughter and I have very dry skin eczema!! We have to run a humidifier all year in each room in Michigan summer with air conditioner yes still humidifier or opening windows works fine too. I’m wondering how people cope with the dry air in Arizona? Do you run AC 24/7/365?
I think some people use a humidifier. but now the AC is not used all year round. Sometimes need to use the heat in the winter! or open windows in the spring and fall.
One Simple thing to know: Don't move to Phoenix. I have lived and traveled all over the country, with my exception being here for education. I tried to find something to enjoy, and the Asian Friendship Garden was soothing. Besides that, complaints as follows: Rent and inflated rent-related costs (wtf is an admin fee anyway?)/ apartments are frequently billed as "luxury" and range $1300-1500 (9/22) with prices increasing exponentially for anything beyond a studio+plus sized apartment. Not exaggerating, you could run up $400-600 extra just to cover misc. fees from property offices for a handful of rental applications. Look up and only see concrete and telephone poles= bad times; the surrounding areas (202 loop~Carefree) are being sub-developed and are basically uninhabitable and off-limits Everywhere outside Scottsdale is gunshots, cars revving all hours, and trash blowing around between cul-de-sacs and the freeway intersections that bind them. The daily-smells palette outside your home will consist of fast-food fryer, burned tire/hot brakes, and sewage so just stay inside= everyone else does that here. If you have to drive 2 hours or more to get to something beautiful, foot accessible, or soul-moving= you're basically heading into another state already and should keep going BUT no person here knows how to drive on the freeway without cause for fatality or delay so Good Luck if you decide to move here......you'll need it for when you decide to turn around.
I agree with 100% of what you said about the apartments! everything else was mostly accurate depending on the area. there are better and worse spots for sure..... Sounds like you should move 😬
“feel like you’re sinking on the titanic” - “too soon?” ... its been 100 years😂😂😂
"There are no mosquitoes"
THAT'S ALL YOU HAD TO SAY. I'LL START PACKING.
Let me complete the sentence before you start packing ".....because the rattlesnakes ate them".
Noooo mosquitoes at all. Nor have I seen any kind of snake and I live in the far west valley. I'm always cautious but nope, no snakes thank goodness. One thing I will warn you about are scorpions. Before we moved into our home, I had it "sealed" (inside and out). Haven't seen one scorpion. Honestly, we retired here and did our research first and learned that scorpions can be a real, very real problem. Learned about "sealing" homes, best decision ever!
Read up about "Bark Scorpions".
ROFLMAO. Don’t go near grass when it’s wet or at night... or water. You will get eaten. I wish there were no mosquitoes.
@@abhijitsen7749 😂😂😂😂
@@abhijitsen7749 Snakes don't eat them. But bats do.
Thank you, I’m on the fence, scared as hell, but will probably take the plunge and move to AZ. Your videos are so informative and inspiring
Cmon! I ll do it with you by next winter. I m from Chicago and can’t wait to get the fuck out. Fear ain’t got nothing on me👌
Already moved last December, been here almost a year! Beat decision ever
Have lived in Western Washington my whole 22 year life, and I finally get to move down to AZ in June! Im glad to see it worked out so great for you and i hope the same for me!
You will love it once you acclimate. ❤
Born and raised in MN as well! Moved here last October. Absolutely love it! I am 30 miles north of Phoenix so our temps are about 5 degrees cooler. The biggest changes for us have been:
The need for auto glass replacement.
Higher electric costs(not just the bill, but the actual cost!).
Wildfire season 😳
The perfect weather 8 months out of the year and no freaking mosquitoes 😊, but our pool is freezing right now!!!
Drive 2-6 hours and you have a completely different climate/setting.
We planning to move out there. How is the Climate really like
Mosquitos come in the summer
@@t-point7569 depends where in AZ
I bought my house in the Chandler area down by where the new 202 went in and the houses are nice for first-time starter homes or single persons. They are not really big. They are a good size house that usually sits on a 5500 sq ft lot. So you dont have to waste your weekend doing yard work
I would suggest not going to the glendale area, I grew up in glendale until I met my wife who introduced me to the east valley. So much better! it's cleaner, safer and quieter.
GILBERT OR SCOTTSDALE? WHICH ONE BETTER SCHOOL DIST?
@@gdogg98433 I'd go with Gilbert, unless you tend to be snobbish. Then it would be Scottsdale(Snobsdale), Paradise Valley, Carefree, or Anthem.
Definitely Would Say, Move Here After The Summer months bc the heat is bloody awful. And is a shock to those newbies moving here. Be prepared for your car to possibly breakdown in the middle of next to nowhere. Monsoon season doesn’t always guarantee rain
But the winters? GLORIOUS! Besides you are either in your car or at home. Heat not an issue.
I love how you’re from Minnesota! This was super helpful and informational as someone who lives in Minneapolis. I’m going to asu in the fall so this helped a lot thank you! Keep making more videos
I check the weather in Arizona everyday and i can not believe how nice it is all the time
always sunny!
I went through the public school system here. Back in my day, it sucked. I don't have kids either, but, from my experience, the public school system is terrible. If I did have my own kids, I would stick them in a private school, or move to an area where the school is actually good, or just home school them.
Thinking private or online as we did last year.
The public schools of Chandler, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Mesa and others are all bad? Are you just referring to the city of Phoenix public schools?
ty sm for this video, im from the UK and I'm planning on moving to Mesa Arizona for a while now. I have friends who I know lives there and I've been offered to live at their place so I've been doing a lot of research and watching a lot of videos about AZ as this is going to be completely new as the UK and the US is so different. But after watching this video I'm even more excited to move there! :)
My friend is a pastry chef in Scottsdale and the place she works is soooooo good. It’s called The Herb Box. Try it!!!!
It's interesting to hear you talk about being surrounded by mountains, because I moved to Mesa from Los Angeles, and one thing I thought when I moved here was that I missed having mountains around! I was used to living like right up against tall mountains.
Re: Schools- there are several Great Hearts Academy charter schools here in Phoenix. I’ve come here to teach at one. AMAZING curriculum!! They provide a classical education. Take a look at their website for more detail.
Hi Laurel, I'm doing some research on AZ videos for my UA-cam Channel as a realtor. I've been dragging my feet, because I'm absolutely petrified! Your personality is so great and your videos are as informative as entertaining. You have a new fan!
I’ve been loving your AZ videos! I’m moving to Phoenix this summer for an internship and I’m trying to learn all I can to prep for those 3 months.
ALWAYS get full coverage glass on your car! Absolutely!!
You’re so likeable and helpful thanks :)
Arizona native here. A couple of my favorite spots in the state are Bisbee and Apple Annie’s orchard near Willcox. Ladybug Trail is a great hike at Mount Graham as it doesn’t have to be hiked in entirety to be enjoyed. At the right time of year, the top of the trail (Ladybug Peak), is covered in ladybugs. The White Mountains have some nice areas to visit too, including Big Lake and Sunrise Resort. Welcome to Arizona! Enjoy
Thanks for sharing! Could you do a video on one of your hiking adventures or fun day in the life in Arizona? I’ve never been there but would love to visit Arizona one day. It just seems like a beautiful place ☀️🧡
It is a beautiful place. So is Utah. Excluding the Grand Canyon, Utah is the most stunning state I’ve ever experienced. SE Utah...dayum!
It is beautiful. There are tons to do here. You can hike, camp & sightsee!
Hubby and I BOTH love Arizona...problem is, he's a new grandpa to a 6 and 1 year old down in Florida. He was born and raised in Chicago and I'm from Iowa...we live in Chicago now, so we are being pulled apart. Whenever we visit Arizona, we feel like we are "home". But when we visit Florida, I know he feels he should be there...I know you can't help with this, but I feel a little better telling someone our dilemma. 😭
Hang in there. Grandkids!
If you have a choice go where you have family. Moving to Arizona is ok. We did it fifty years ago but I missed Chicago for several years
This second video is helpful. I’m from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and we’ve be thinking about relocating and Arizona is one of the states we have considered.
Moved to Sierra Vista,AZ. from Reedsburg,Wi. 9 yrs. ago. Miss Fishing,Hunting,and some of the Seasons.DO NOT MISS WISCONSIN TAXES!
As a Minnesotan who lived in AZ from 83-17 and then moved back, the quality of life up here is far superior to that in most of AZ. Yes, there are affluent pockets in AZ, but it’s a very poor state with ridiculously high crime, poor health care (unless you’re in one of the metros), and the schools are pathetic. I taught there for 28 years. Education is NOT the priority there that it is in the Midwest and East. People aren’t as considerate and kind in a general sense. Pay is low, so that’s why prices are lower. Utilities are expensive. You’ll be running your a/c continually for at least six months until your acclimated if you live at a low elevation. The cost for water is going to skyrocket because the West and SW are running out of water. No exaggeration.
I’m in my early 20s and still haven’t moved from my home state. I’ve been so scared to make the leap just me and my dog, but something about the desert is calling me! Hoping to move there this June, thank you so much for all this awesome insight!
You can do it! ❤️
In Mohave County we don't have to get our emissions test done at all. :)
State bird is a mosquito.... omg I laughed so hard 🤣😂🤣
That's an old, old Alaska joke🙃🌵
Completely free things to do in Az and storytime please and thank you! 😁
Go sunset watching
For anyone looking at ASU, ther are 4 campuses around the metropolitan area that all have different sizes and feels.
Thanks for the video. I just moved to Arizona from Illinois. I took a roadtrip. It was so fun.
If you would like to do a video on opinions from an Arizona native I would love to answer your questions or collab with you on a video. I can give a rundown on the good, bad, and important.
Oooh, I would be interested to being a an Arizonian/Arizona Native myself.
I’m so excited to move to AZ
Thank you for the general info about the state! I am considering moving to AZ in the near future and really thinking about Tucson. Any info on it that people should know about?
Another good one! We are moving there end of July... super excited and nervous. We all enjoy the relevant information you share. Another one on cost of living please.
thanks!! :)
I visited AZ and the tour guide said most people move to AZ but shortly after most move back or somewhere else. The heat is really bad
Cost of living is fairly low, as are wages and taxes. High dropout rate. High crime. I lived in AZ 34 years. Stunning scenery.
Make sure you go towards the north part of Glendale that mixes with Peoria and check the crime maps before buying. Glendale used to be really nice but there are a lot of gangs, drugs, and homeless people so it’s gone really downhill, it feels like west Phoenix moved into it, make sure you have the bo deductible glass replacement coverage.... just get full coverage plus glass in general.
And YES! The schools suck.
My mom took me to idaho when I was little, we came back in 8th grade (after skipping 7th grade - so 6th grade education), and I learned absolutely nothing (after quitting HS for 3 years out of boredom, even ran off to Minnesota for three months of that) For senior year, I went to a charter high school and finished all three years I missed and graduated in one year. That was the only year I learned anything new while in Arizona until college. 😂
On the bright side, you can graduate high school with a northern 6th grade education.... which explains ASU’s SAT requirements previously mentioned last comment 😂 ....
You’re so fun to watch! 💕 I’m really glad you enjoy it here so much. It’s refreshing to hear your view of everything and see things in a different light.
I do want to argue about the mosquitoes, but comparing to MN I guess it’s not too bad 😂 don’t go to a park at night though.
Oh those giant ass flies (horseflies - usually at the lake/river/wet places) bite. Like bee sting kind of bite. Run away.
I’m also surprised you didn’t mention the cockroaches (I envy your location and apartment lol) and that you haven’t seen our lovely desert tarantulas on your hiking expeditions.
I know you haven’t seen any scorpions, but you typically won’t until they get you. Most are light white/tan (blend with the dust-sand) and good at avoiding people until you’re not paying attention. Inside probably won’t see them but I’ve know people to just be hanging out in their yard and get stung while sitting around. Just be careful and always check inside your shoes ❤️
Thank you so much for sharing!! I’m moving to AZ from OR in less than 2 weeks now and this made me feel a lot better haha 😅
Thank you for doing these videos! I move this next Saturday from Washington state!
Which part of WA are you from?
Dont make the same mistake by voting Democrats in along with liberal proposals. Vote Red.! Thanks.
Can't wait to move back to Arizona. I wish I never had to leave it😢. Sonoran is in my blood. Hope within 2 years to be home, I'm in the process of transition now. Videos are great. Thanks!
This comment is extremely helpful
Glendale Peoria and Phoenix areas are definitely not quiet they’re probably the most ghetto areas you could possibly live in.
The rocks on the freeways point is so true, I don't think I've ever heard any other channels mention that haha! Great video, keep up the good work!
Thanks for the video! I’m thinking of interning in Phoenix and was wondering what the summers are like. I have always lived in Alabama so I’m not worried about the heat, but I legit was scared of seeing scorpions and I’m glad you mentioned that you haven’t seen any scorpions haha.
Not to be critical, but you make it sound like Arizona is Phoenix, Sedona, and Flagstaff and nothing else. I think your title should be, "What to know BEFORE moving to Phoenix"... that is more accurate. I know, I'm being a bit of an arse... 🤣 But really, hope you get to visit Tucson and many other places that are Arizona too. Ok, I'm done being an arse, love your videos! 😍
Seeking advice on which is better and why Tucson or Phoenix. We are looking for a smaller town 20-30 min outside of the cities. I want a better class of living low crime with community feels. I’ve heard Surprise is great town. I don’t have employment yet still figuring which area to set roots into.
@@marcijohnson1744 Try Oro Valley, Sahuarita & Green Valley Arizona! Lots of other options as well... Good luck Marci! 😎😎😎
Arizona is huge, and driving long distances is super annoying.
Super helpful video were moving in few months. Transfering job to waddel. Cant wait for more tips.
Thank you so much for these i’m planning on moving to arizona from iowa so basically same situation ✨
No mosquito because it’s dry. Mosquitos are usually near water, which is why they are often in swampy and moist areas like Florida.
Have you been here in the summer? Mosquitos everywhere. Also we were number one in west Nile virus cases 2 years in a row.
Thank you.... I cant wait to move there
Great video, Laura! Love to hear your perspective now that you've lived here for a little while - all accurate points!! I'm sure this is really helpful for anyone looking to move here :)
I really like seeing these videos about Arizona! I went there on vacation and absolutely LOVE it because there is such a change in scenery from Chicago. Is it possible for you to make a video on scenery? Like maybe a drive around or a hike maybe in Sedona or something? (Of course after the Pandemic)
I'll add that to my list of ideas! :)
@@laurelstreed Yayy!! Thank you!!!
My cousin lived and taught school in Glendale, then Peoria, about 40 years. Many years of that were down the street and about 1/2 mile from Glendale Community College and Sahuaro Ranch Park. She never saw one scorpion. We visited, and thought it was a beautiful place.
One thing that no one mentions is the smell. There are all the regular smells, but in the background, there's the sweet, sage fragrance of the desert, everywhere. All those minerals cooking in the sun probably add to that overall sweetness, since it's the minerals that give us the fragrance of a coming rain.
I loved seeing the adobe-esque architecture wherever we looked. When I saw your first video, I said "hey! She's got an 'Arizona' balcony!", one of those beautiful, enclosed, masonry balconies with the open work for ventilation.
My cousin had decent landscaping, but around her there were tall _Phoenix_ date palms, and bougainvilleas, oleanders, and beautiful, fiery Mexican Bird of Paradise shrubs, a shorter, desert version of poincianas. There were eucalyptus trees down the street, and of course, the wonderful saguaros.
Fun fact: Saguaro Ranch Park just has peacocks roaming around.
@@aviw5636 It does! My cousin lived on Mountain View, at just about halfway between 51st and 59th, across from the elementary school. And thank you for correcting my spelling of Saguaro. I never can remember whether it is the h or the g. I've seen saguaro spelled both ways, but I believe the correct, Spanish spelling, is as you have it, with the g.
It was pretty hot both times I was there, and we didn't spend a lot of time in the park, although we did drive through it. It's a beautiful park, and I did see the peacocks. Now, whenever I think of peacocks, I think of there. I did spend a couple of hours at the library next door, and walked around the building to see the xeriscape plantings, though. And once, when they were going out on an errand, I asked her to leave me off at the park, and pick me up at the community college. I was thinking about moving there, and wanted to get a copy of the latest catalog and schedule. It was registration time for the sumner terms, and I found out where to go to get a copy of each. (I was hoping that it would also have a snack bar to buy and sip on a Diet Coke while I waited for my cousin, but nope). But I also wanted to walk through the orange groves, so I asked her to leave me in the park so I could walk through them on the way.
I learned how hitting the wall works in Arizona. Because it's so dry, you do not realize how much you are sweating. It was not completely unpleasant walking through the orange grove, then across the pavement to the building, but wow. There was that oven heat, but I could take it, or so I thought. I learned why my cousin's husband wanted to just close the drapes and be in the dark and the AC when he got home from work! You do not realize you are becoming dehydrated, but you just come to the place where you hit that wall, and no more. It's really beautiful there, but I decided I'd be too dependent on cars, and that I'd end up spending even more time stranded indoors.
How about snakes ?
@@Kira-zy5ue I think it honestly depends on where you are in the area. Although we're known for rattlesnakes *az diamondback*, I honestly haven't seen any. However some people do collect the snakeskin and use it as decoration. So they do exist. However, I've honestly seen more snakes in Flagstaff, AZ and they were just garden snakes.
I'm glad you didn't mention MESA. A lot of us natives are starting to call it MESICO. It's a secret and we like to keep it that way.
I am strongly considering moving to Arizona. I will be visiting at the end of September, so I'm trying to get a feel for the neighborhoods. I don't care about bars and nightlife so much, but I'm leaning towards Scottsdale or Arcadia. Your video is extremely helpful!
Thanks! ☺️
Prescott area is much nicer than the Phoenix area. Not much traffic, cooler, very little crime, and very beautiful.
Our family lives in Arcadia and we love it! So many positives and I have lived in every single city in the East Valley prior to. If you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Ridiculously high crime in AZ. Consider it before moving.
Thanks for the info really helps my husband is probably going to get moved because of his job I have 6 kids so now I know where to look
I was thinking of going to Minnesota but Dr says Arizona would be better for my lungs and my joints
Your videos were super helpful thank you so much! Moving to Phoenix soon :)
Nice video - we are considering moving to AZ (Gilbert) next year. We’ve been in Seattle area for about 4 years now and I came from Brazil and my husband from sunny California - he misses the good weather and I honestly prefer the rainy and dark days from the Pacific Northwest for reasons like: my skin and hair looks better, I feel more comfortable working out and also feel fancy with scarves and boots. Our idea to move to AZ comes from the fact that my father in law is there and mother in law in Nevada - easy to go there if needed. I’m WA we don’t really do a lot of the outdoors activities that the state provides because we are not interested - we are also a 80 yo couple lol lazies and kinda cheap at times so we mostly stay home and take small trips here and there. Although, we have the chance and possibilities to go travel and explore WA if we want to rather AZ I feel like there is not get always and it’s always the same of everything. I’m very thorn and confused in what to do but we still have time to figure out.
I am from Eastern Washington. Now live in Old town Scottsdale. I love it!
Such a great video Laurel! Very honest and informative. Just subscribed and look forward to your future content (:
Ha ha yeah like 20 seconds of cold water and then it’s warm. I was born here so I’m used to seeing stray cats but my friends who move here always comment on that. Maybe we have more stray cats because it doesn’t get freezing in Phoenix? I agree they should remain inside. Too many coyotes in my neighborhood. Not sure if you’ve noticed them in yours but I live in central Phoenix and I’ve seen them several times while walking my dog.
Surprise is a very nice area especially if you have kids. It's the safest city according to statistics. It's in the Northwest Valley. Close to the White Tank Mountains. The White Tanks are very good for hiking, too. There are a lot of trails and one of them has a waterfall when it rains, and petroglyphs.
We live in the middle of Surprise and it's a great city. There are some people roaming at night to steal something out of a car but it's a whole lot less crime than SF. Surprise is a beautiful place and only about 30 miles from the city and airport. Home prices are reasonable but creeping up.
My mom doesn't want to move from California because we have a lot of family here and Minnesota. I want to move out of California so bad because it seems like you can rent/own a decent house in AZ. I've been looking at houses on Zillow and they are breathtaking. I rather live in AZ than pay 400k for a tent in CA lol.
No kidding 😅😅
Coming from Loring Park Minneapolis this is so helpful. Moving in November! SKOL vikes
Not sure if anyone has said this yet, but when there is just rock, dirt and cactus as the landscape, We like to call it a "Desert Landscaping" lmao so cliche I know.
There’s a lot of houses with two stories. And basements are not common, but can be found here.
Lovely video. Thanks for the effort
Thank you!
This is super helpful, so thank you!!
Yah, Minnesota is insane on the drivers license thing. There is zero reason why the DMZ in MN cant print off your stuff while you wait.
My boyfriend & I are moving to Mesa in June 2021 🥰
Thanks for answering some of my questions! These videos rock.
Great video! Thank you ☺️
Yes please do make more videos. As I said on you first video im into the outdoors, a question I forget to ask can I drive dirt bikes in many places by the mountain side ? I'm sure I can ride my horse Dakota where the mountain are it is Arizona right ? I feel he would love be out there. Thank you again for making this video also, im looking forward seeing more of them. I do want to first visit more or less what I am looking to do any plans you would recommend ? Thank you and God Bless you both wishing you two the very best living in there.
After the first time I visited Arizona I wanted to move there but I guess I’m a little scared. I have a few friends that live there so I know some people but I’ve never been one to risk a move across the country. Maryland just isn’t doing it for me.
I’m in Virginia and I’ve been thinking about a move to Arizona but moving my family across the country is very scary
NEVER restrict your existence because of fear. Go for it! I moved from MN to AZ all alone in 83 and changed my life. Didn’t know a soul there. I moved back to MN in 17 and am glad to be back. AZ is amazing, but it’s a different world from where you are. Much good, some bad.
My wife and I moving to Arizona in October and this information has being super helpful. My wife is a turn up shawty so my main concerns are nightlife, affordability, and crime rates.
Thank you!
If your fleeing from a blue state dont make the same mistake by voting blue again along with liberal proposals. Keep Arizona Red with low taxes please.! Thanks.!
I lived in AZ for 34 years. Crime is ridiculously high. Poor schools. High dropout rate. I taught there for 28 years. Poor health care unless you’re in one of the four metros. Low wages. Low taxes and a poor standard of living because of low taxes and low wages. High utilities. Cost of water is going to skyrocket. Electricity is already high. Stunning scenery.
Love your videos!!! Hoping to move to AZ for college and stay there for life! Very helpful tips!! Thanks a bunch!
If you're looking at ASU, I just wanted to let you know that there are different campuses with different feels, but are all connected with a intercampus shuttles.
@@aviw5636 I'm looking to mainly look at Grand Canyon University. I will definitely check into ASU. Thanks for the help!!
@@josiahmeissner4218 Grand Canyon is cool too. I honestly don't know too much about it, but I know the people who go there like it.
Thanks, Laurel.
Make sure that you take adequate water with you if you go hiking in the mountains.
Also, tell them about the Stupid Motorists Law, which means that if you get your car stuck in a flash flood during a monsoon, and you need to be rescued, you WILL be charged for this.
The newer your car, the more you will pay for your car tags. The fee goes down as your vehicle ages.
Great video. I am looking to move there soon and buy a house.
Nice Job!! you covered alot of the pros / cons..👍...I'm from New Jersey, and the few people I know who moved to AZ ...Say it's the best moved they ever made... I'm gonna get a feeler trip there in late March.,to check things out... I need to stay relatively close to Phoenix for work....Just wondering since me and my partner are in our 40's and 50's... What areas on the outskirts of Phoenix are more quiet...And lower rent... But still not far from nightlife...Thanks
I would say look outside of the loop 101 anywhere outside of that is a better area. The west is experiencing explosive growth right now because its has not been built up like the rest of the valley. I would look in Surprise, Goodyear, Peoria, and Litchfield Park. Since you are in your 50s there is Sun City (West and Grand) where most of that is a retirement community. Scottsdale is nice but your money will go further in those other areas.
Buy a house. Rents are a waste of money.
Thanks for the insight!!!
So happy I found your channel!
Maria Lata why thank you!! 😊
North Peoria is best area to live in!
We just moved to Kingman. 😃👍
Gorgeous city. I used to work with your mayor when she taught at MCC. VERY conservative county politically. Scary conservative. I lived in Mohave County 28 years. Were I going to move back, I’d pick Kingman.
GIRL! Going on my 3rd summer here, have you not seen a PALO VERDE BEETLE yet??? Still can't get over them...
This comment made me laugh. I know exactly what you mean. First time I saw one in my place, I screamed. It was huge! They still startle me every year when they crawl out from the ground. I remember reading a comment on Reddit and someone described them as the thing that cockroaches will ride into battle with when the apocalypse happens. Currently the Green Fig Beetles are flying around in the mornings. One almost flew into me when I was refilling one of my bird feeders. They startled me as well the first year. This huge insect flying around and bouncing against the side of my apartment and here I am trying to dodge this ungraceful flying thing. Then there are the cicadas. They are loud and they leave their exoskeletons behind. Finding them all over my little yard.
Great video with great info. Moving to the East Valley next Spring from the suburbs of Chicago. Looking forward to it!
Awesome! best of luck
Me too good luck on your move
Good luck! I just moved to Scottsdale from Schaumburg, Illinois.
Thank you!
Thanks! Nice video :)
Thanks!!
One of the great things about Arizona is you can carry a gun, rifle, etc. with you at all times! Just don't hide it, then you need a carry license, and never put your loaded weapon on the car dashboard in the sun.
Yes.! Keep voting republican to keep those laws.! #defendthesecondamendment
Luisa C They’re not out to take your guns. They’re just manipulating people
Correction, Arizona is a constitution carry state. You can open or conceal carry without a registration, licence, or a permit. That's one reason I stay in Arizona. Also vote red if you want to keep it that way.
I love your videos.
Arizona is #1 for freedom of education.
Hi! Which area did you have the drive through mountains? Just wondering since I will be driving from the DC area and want to be prepared. Thanks!
Came down from the north east, 87 I think?
I'm a little concerned because I've lived in some hotspots: Tokyo, Madrid, Chicago, Austin, Lugano, etc., and don't know if I'll feel as if I'm in the middle of nowhere.
I've lived in AZ my entire life. Everything you said is accurate lol peoria/Glendale area are very quiet and nice for a family. Decent houses with some areas being more "weathly" than others such as downtown peoria/glendale are on the rougher side/more homeless people.
I have lived in Arizona all my life but driving in those mountains are still rough, lol!
Also Glendale is much quieter! Especially north Phoenix/Glendale. Like near the northern part of the LOOP 101.
You have me so excited to move to Arizona! New subscriber here. Look forward to your future vids girl. 💙💙
If you mentioned the reason why car windshields in Arizona get broken often, I must of missed it.
Been here a short while, almost 4 years. Haven't had anything happen to our windshields.
Thanks. You're good at this. :-)
The schools are really bad tbh I've been in public my whole life and its not the best 😭
Please share the frequency of encountering snakes in town. Sure they are on your hikes, but what about day to day coming and going?
I’ve never seen a single one!
I'm sure a lot of those "stray" cats aren't stray, they're colonized and cared for. What kind of TNR programs does Phoenix or the Phoenix valley have?
I’m moving just and my kid sophomore high school.
First I’m going to visit july 2021 2 weeks see how we think we can bare the worst part of the e heat.
I’m a nurse! I’m hoping to find a job before we go for good live in month/month apartment before selling my home and leaving Michigan.
Any advice or referral to another nurse for guidance? Much appreciate advice etc!
We were thinking of moving to No. Central AZ. However, we have heard from many sources that AZ is on the brink of a disastrous water shortage. The water reservoir under Chino Valley, which has been the second largest water source in the U.S., is being depleted faster than it can refill because of overdevelopment.
This is all accurate. The overdevelopment is destroying the area
You’re spot in about the impending water disaster that is a certainly in that part of the country.
So gardening is not an option there? Are there any parts of Arizona that are not super super hot? Like where the grass and garden would flourish?
they would in lots of places! the main thing is shade and water. I know people that grow food in their yard, it's just the amount of water can get spendy
Help! My daughter and I have very dry skin eczema!! We have to run a humidifier all year in each room in Michigan summer with air conditioner yes still humidifier or opening windows works fine too.
I’m wondering how people cope with the dry air in Arizona?
Do you run AC 24/7/365?
I think some people use a humidifier. but now the AC is not used all year round. Sometimes need to use the heat in the winter! or open windows in the spring and fall.
One Simple thing to know: Don't move to Phoenix.
I have lived and traveled all over the country, with my exception being here for education. I tried to find something to enjoy, and the Asian Friendship Garden was soothing.
Besides that, complaints as follows:
Rent and inflated rent-related costs (wtf is an admin fee anyway?)/ apartments are frequently billed as "luxury" and range $1300-1500 (9/22) with prices increasing exponentially for anything beyond a studio+plus sized apartment. Not exaggerating, you could run up $400-600 extra just to cover misc. fees from property offices for a handful of rental applications.
Look up and only see concrete and telephone poles= bad times; the surrounding areas (202 loop~Carefree) are being sub-developed and are basically uninhabitable and off-limits
Everywhere outside Scottsdale is gunshots, cars revving all hours, and trash blowing around between cul-de-sacs and the freeway intersections that bind them.
The daily-smells palette outside your home will consist of fast-food fryer, burned tire/hot brakes, and sewage so just stay inside= everyone else does that here.
If you have to drive 2 hours or more to get to something beautiful, foot accessible, or soul-moving= you're basically heading into another state already and should keep going
BUT no person here knows how to drive on the freeway without cause for fatality or delay so
Good Luck if you decide to move here......you'll need it for when you decide to turn around.
I agree with 100% of what you said about the apartments! everything else was mostly accurate depending on the area. there are better and worse spots for sure..... Sounds like you should move 😬