You have decided to leave Illinois and venture a little farther west to Arizona. You can certainly trade in your snowblower and lawn mower for pool supplies and sunglasses. Welcome to the Grand Canyon State, where sunshine and warm weather are practically guaranteed. Arizona has a lot to offer its residents, including stunning views and an affordable cost of living. There is no shortage of things to do and you will soon discover what makes Arizona a unique and wonderful place to live. Here are just a few of the benefits of living in Arizona, along with some tips for relocating.
Benefits of Moving from Illinois to Arizona
Affordable Living
One of the best things about Arizona is its affordability. Overall, the cost of living is considerably lower than in many other states. It certainly pales in comparison to the cost of living in a major city like Chicago. This means residents can afford newer homes, larger homes and even have a little left over to save.
Spectacular Views
Among the first things you will notice about Arizona are its gorgeous views. Arizona is home to some of the most unique and majestic natural surroundings of any state and there are countless beautiful places to explore. The most famous, of course, is the Grand Canyon. It is even recognized as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Monument Valley, Sedona, Lake Powell and Petrified Forest National Park are just a few of the many incredible sights to see. You will be in awe of the state’s mountain vistas, uniquely beautiful cacti, stunning rock formations and breathtaking lakes.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Thanks to its warm temperatures, abundant sunshine and incredible landscape, Arizona is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy biking, running, swimming, rafting, rock climbing and hiking along the state’s scenic trails. Whether you prefer activities in the mountains, on lakes, along rivers or on trails, Arizona has it all. There is an outdoor adventure waiting around every corner!
Less Traffic
Another great benefit of living in Arizona is its lighter traffic. Unlike major cities where traffic can be a nightmare, getting around Arizona is generally much easier and you won’t have to spend hours each week sitting in traffic jams. Commutes are typically more manageable and you won’t need to rely on public transportation to get where you need to go.
Golfer’s Paradise
It won’t take long to notice that golf is a way of life for many people in Arizona. The state is a world-class golfing destination, with 322 courses spread throughout its diverse landscape. The warm weather creates ideal golfing conditions, while the mountain views provide a stunning backdrop.
Most Popular Cities to Live in Arizona

Phoenix
If sunshine is your thing, then Phoenix is the place for you. Nicknamed the “Valley of the Sun,” it receives more sunshine than any other metro area in the country. In addition to its abundant sunshine, Phoenix offers a thriving job market, an affordable cost of living and plenty of biking and hiking trails. The city is also known for its professional sports teams, excellent restaurants and vibrant nightlife.
Tucson
If you want big-city amenities with a small-town feel, Tucson is the perfect destination. The city is surrounded by mountain ranges, providing incredible views in every direction. It is also an outdoor lover’s paradise. Tucson offers award-winning biking trails, ample running paths, exceptional hiking and opportunities for swimming, rock climbing, golf and tennis. The city also boasts a vibrant food scene, colorful architecture and a slower pace of life.
Mesa
Mesa is one of the most affordable and family-friendly cities in Arizona. It has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, along with some of the best public schools. Mesa is also a great place to get outdoors and enjoy nature hikes, swimming, hiking and biking. Its location just outside of Phoenix gives residents the opportunity to enjoy all the amenities of a major city while still benefiting from a quieter, more suburban atmosphere.
Scottsdale
Scottsdale is one of the top golfing destinations in the country but it also offers a wide range of other amenities. The city is home to beautiful parks, a unique waterfront and numerous museums and cultural attractions. Its schools are consistently ranked among the best in the state, making it a great place to raise a family. Scottsdale is also known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent dining scene, outstanding shopping and variety of sporting events.
Cost of Moving from Illinois to Arizona
Moving can be expensive, especially when relocating long distance. That’s why it’s important to choose a moving company that is both affordable and reliable. The average cost to move with STI Moving & Storage is $4,260.84. Of course, several factors will determine the exact cost of your move, including the total distance, the number of items being moved and any additional services such as packing and unpacking. The best way to receive an accurate quote is by using our Instaquote listed above!

How to Move from Illinois to Arizona
Moving is stressful enough but it can be even more challenging when relocating long distance. Hiring a professional moving company like STI Moving & Storage can help make your move smooth and hassle-free. STI has been helping customers relocate for more than 23 years, so we understand exactly what it takes to execute a seamless long-distance move. We offer full-service moving solutions to assist with everything from packing and loading to transporting and unpacking your belongings. Our goal is to make the moving process as easy as possible so you can focus on starting your new life in Arizona.
Call STI Moving & Storage today for more information about our moving services or get started using our Instaquote!


