What it's REALLY like to live in ARIZONA (one year later)

[@lisaolivares665]

I’m a native Arizonan for 50+ years and I must say you did a fantastic job explaining AZ. Made me renew my appreciation for my home state

[@NancyMcCurry]

I agree with Lisa. I've been in Phoenix since 1977 and you really did cover things very well. But I'd add one more PRO to living here: hardly any flying bugs. I came here from NY and gosh almighty there were so many biting flies, etc. Not here. Hardly a thing. I can leave my doors open for 6 months and be fine.

[@katemills9834]

Lisa Olivares you nailed it! It’s good to see how other people view the desert 🌵.

[@helenjackman8984]

@sherry hodges GOOD LUCK SHERRY.

[@pingman2]

I agree, I lived in Arizona from 1970 until 2010 where I made the mistake of moving to Washington state. It is a beautiful state but, the people are not beautiful, and the weather is even worse! I am moving back to AZ the first of the year 2021! Whoo Hoo!!! Back Home FOREVER!!!!!

[@minicooperowner18]

@@pingman2 that's funny I know of too many people who have moved from Arizona to Washington state, myself included, and moved back. One of my neighbors in WA even has a house in AZ for the summer. What is it with these two states? Is it because their opposites in almost all ways it just draws people to and from. Lol anyway hope you make it back okay.

[@TysonStevenn]

I was born and raised in Arizona till I was 14. Been living in Utah the past 10 years. I’m 23 now and REALLY want to move back. It’s just a happier environment and you don’t have to worry about seasonal depression. Thanks for the vid :)

[@ididlove8998]

Come on over! Haha

[@Vladviking]

I too,, but left in 73 for service and only visited. Didn't really notice until I went back for vacation circa 05. I was highly disappointed by all the urbanization and modern tourista climate. So any of my thoughts of moving back pretty much ended then. Strangely as I toured with various agencies saving myself and wife some driving and visiting what had become an extremely over commercialized Tombstone and visiting some business's in my old stomp I didn't find anyone who had actually been born and raised there like you and I. I felt odd being lectured on the History and Genera of AZ by someone who only left some other back east state a year or so before. LOL I thought I missed it for a long time but turns out I didn't.

[@captainthruster9484]

Seasonal depression? Ummmm... Someone does not like the outdoors. You can't do shit for three months in the summer

[@dianadrummond9657]

@@captainthruster9484 you mean 8 months. I thought it would be 3 but from March through the first half of October it is to dam hot out to do anything! Especially if you have pets. I can't believe all the ignorant idiots who go running/jogging/walking and force their poor dogs to go with them!! Thinking they are taking care of their pet but nit realizing their dogs are getting heat exhaustion, heat stroke and burning the pads in their poor feet! Not to mention some people with horses don't even have legitimate shade for their animals!! People take their dogs hiking and don't bring enough water for their pets or themselves. IT'S A DESERT PEOPLE!!! HELLLLLLOOOOOO!!! Animals overheat quicker than people do! They have fur coats!! Also, if it is to hot for you to walk barefoot, it is to hot for your pets to walk outside also!! The sun and heat have baked any common sense out of many people's brains for sure!!!

[@dianadrummond9657]

Sorry for typos. Bad auto correct

[@robertweissman5911]

Do people in Arizona have a sense of humor? … well yes, but it is a dry sense of humor.

[@ACEDIAMOND666]

But it's a dry heat.....🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@phxjaguar5207]

With a dusty laugh

[@brianping3105]

@@phxjaguar5207 And BIG Haboobs!

[@TakuaaSwipe]

oh

[@Figgypudding27]

😂😂

[@erikasmith3811]

I have lived in Arizona for 20 years and our dust storms were never called haboobs until one day a news anchor decided to miss inform the whole state and call it that. Dubai has haboobs. Arizona has dust storms, strong ones, not haboobs.

[@noatt_]

Lol.... Only us people who live in Arizona know that

[@maxjames8764]

We have lots of HaBoobs in LA:)

[@Washanuga]

That's true, but I'm a native Arizonan, I and many others I know have embraced the haboob wordage. It's just a fun word to use and it's technically correct. Nothing to get upset about.

[@K0sm1cKid]

We had one especially bad dust storm that was called a haboob like... idk 8 years ago? It was so thick you couldn't see 20 feet.

[@rodeogirl8459]

@@maxjames8764 nice

[@mymx5az]

I lived in Minnesota for 8 years and I've lived in Arizona for the past 48 years. I've been back to Minnesota for 1 funeral and a family reunion. The main reason why I will never go back to live in Minnesota is the snow. I remember my back pain all winter long from shoveling snow, and I remember difficult it is to drive in snow. The only snow here is in northern Arizona. The only problem living here is that your house becomes a winter retreat for any and all relatives, and for all levels of relatives.

[@Teetee554]

I'm from Michigan, and so over the snow. I moved to Dallas a week ago. I can't imagine dealing with shoveling snow, salting a driveway, stocking up on groceries for a winter storm. Looking forward to longer summers. Getting older while dealing with extreme cold gets old real fast.

[@SYDAirlineEnthusiast]

California here, and sunny throughout the time. It gets boring unless it rains.

[@ricinphx]

Well done. I came in the early 80’s to go to ASU And never left. “I ‘d rather fry in the summer than freeze in the winter.”

[@KourttneyL]

As a Michigander, I’d rather FRY than freeze also!!! I’m trying to leave MI 😂🥲

[@o.a.5044]

ditto!!!

[@Davyonnaalissa]

I’m moving here next year n excited! :)

[@palebeachbum]

I visited AZ for the first time in March 2020. My first time to the southwest. I'm an east coast boy. I was so enamored with the landscape. It was like being on another planet. We stayed in Phoenix, but traveled up to Sedona, out to Biosphere II, then to the Grand Canyon. The landscape changed so much traveling to each destination. We saw flat, orange dessert with 20ft tall cacti everywhere. Rocky mountains with a 20 degree temp drop (thankfully we were prepared) covered in pine trees and snow. Flat grassy plains that extended for miles. Forest in the dessert with a river running through it. The landscape was so beautiful and diverse. I'd definitely love to visit AZ again sometime.

[@jssanch24]

palebeachbum because of covid I’m guessing you didn’t have big crowds especially in Sedona. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@palebeachbum]

@@jssanch24 The response to Covid wasn't in full swing at that point. Everything was open like usual and tourist spots were crowded. Especially at the grand canyon and the Phoenix botanical gardens. Sedona and biosphere II weren't too bad. Had we waited a month later, we might have had to cancel though. I would have been crushed because It was my first vacation in like 10yrs.

[@jssanch24]

palebeachbum It certainly was. We already had patients and weren’t letting visitors in the hospital I work at during that time. We were slow to close things but we definitely had cases. That’s one thing about AZ, we can be slow to catch on to things. We were on the top three worst states by May/June I think. Or maybe that was the beginning of when it really got bad. We were starting to go down but schools opened and ASU reported something in the 400’s of cases just recently. I think they just opened too.

[@palebeachbum]

@@jssanch24 we saw none of that. No one was wearing masks yet everywhere we went and there were no restrictions or issues.

[@Truthfully_Marvin]

Sedona is just magical. It's crazy to think you can drive up north and feel like you are in a completely different state.

[@zachshiveley1226]

I live in Sedona. It’s not as magical as people claim it to be but it is nice

[@TheresaofTheWorld]

Coming in 2 weeks!!!

[@lovebug8482]

what makes Sedona so magical?

[@superdankgod2266]

Wizards

[@davideversole9786]

I'm going in July well there and a bunch of places out west, I wanna move out west so bad but the cost of living is crazy, most of the east coast isn't that expensive in living costs thats why I've stayed here..wanna live so bad out west though, always have

[@teremertz]

Whenever I am feeling super depressed because it is 116* outside and I am dreading getting into my vehicle, I watch these Arizona appreciation vids so I can remember why I live here lol

[@jessicawilliams4497]

Buy a black car with black leather 😂😂ouchhhhh I don’t recommend

[@phxjaguar5207]

You must have a LOT of watch time 😅

[@teremertz]

Phx Jaguar 🐆🌞🌵 ugh especially this time of year 😭

[@teremertz]

miss educated 😭😭😭

[@sunflowerxx4785]

BRO IVE LIVED HERE ALL MY LIFE AND HAVE A BLACK CAR W BLACK LEATHER. IM DONE PLAYING THESE GAMES MAN😭😭

[@johnthompson7420]

been here since 1977, this is the worst summer I can recall. no rain, 50 days +110. degrees. God help the roofers.

[@loisaustin6200]

God help you also if your AC breaks down. Misery.

[@dellmiller5082]

That record was broken this year in 2020 I believe it was 143 days of over 100°

[@margomazzeo1680]

@@dellmiller5082 Yes..

[@delaneyblackman4816]

@@loisaustin6200 My AC kept breaking, same with everyone else in my apartment complex

[@anthonymcmillan1975]

Minnesotan here and I will be moving at the end of January 2021 to Phoenix. Ive been to Phoenix many times because my Dads side is from there. Cant stand the cold winters of the midwest. Phoenix is a beautiful area.

[@ig2949]

I really love how you’ve added the narration. It made your vid that much more enjoyable. I also appreciated the break down of your topics in the beginning and all the videos and pics you included. Thanks again!! Great vid!!

[@newworld6940]

Why do people who visit Mexico, Africa, India, etc. never complain about the lack of diversity (non-local ethnics) in those places?

[@terminal4635]

white liberals are the only people concerned about "diversity"

[@NachoAE360]

I also found it funny that she, a white person moved there and then complained about the amount of white people there.

[@Saralizm]

That’s an interesting thought. I’m thinking it was because the US was primarily made from immigrants “melting pot”

[@MaryD121]

Actually, it has snowed in Phoenix. Been here 40 years and have seen it happen 4 times. It just doesn't stick around by the end of the day.

[@binkyzaragozaluzano-aldian3882]

That is exactly how I feel and told my friends that AZ living is like you are on vacation everyday.

[@creatornmuse]

THIS WAY BY FAR THE BEST VIDEO ON TUCSON I'VE SEEN AND I'VE BEEN LOOKING FOR AT LEAST 2 YEARS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HONESTY & QUALITY VIDEO!

[@kelseykerber6707]

I am moving to Arizona soon from Pennsylvania and your videos have been so helpful! It’s really nice to hear from someone my age who also moved across the country from such a different climate. Thank you :)

[@selfspiritualcrystals]

omg i’m moving to arizona soon from pennsylvania!! i’d love to connect

[@sweetman5249]

@@selfspiritualcrystals I moved to Arizona from Atlanta for work. Welcome to the heat 😆.

[@tofuhunter1]

It is kind of ironic, one of my observations when visiting the Phoenix area is how few homeless you guys have! I live in Los Angeles.

[@hannahsenior5124]

Hmmm, I wonder why?, it's not like LA is one of the places with the highest homeless populations, in the USA, or anything, nooo.

[@shawkins79]

LA also has one of the highest populations too so the number is relative. I’ve seen way more homeless down in Tucson than in Phoenix. Although someone did tell me that up in Phoenix/Scottsdale the police will pick up homeless people and bring them to shelters.

[@LaBoofadora]

Because they're not a bunch of liberal wackos.

[@SusanBaileyAmazingEstate]

Keep Arizona RED!

[@hannahsenior5124]

@@SusanBaileyAmazingEstate I agree!!!

[@tracymorgan5386]

I lived in New York all my life and frankly I’m done dealing with the cold especially on holidays where it gets really frantic with people stressing about the holidays. I will take warm weather on the holidays any day

[@biff1019]

you ditch cold to go to oven

[@helenkwon2125]

I moved here from nyc also!

[@o.a.5044]

Grew up in Manhattan, relocated to Seattle now here in Mesa. No regrets. Cold, snow and rain can be WAY more depressing (and dangerous) than any hot (but beautiful) day here.

[@SYDAirlineEnthusiast]

@@o.a.5044 living in bay area and I find nonstop sunny and hot weather to get boring and depressing

[@paigesmith8443]

My boyfriend and I are moving to Arizona and we were unsure about some things and you answered all my questions and made me even more excited to move!!!

[@laurelstreed]

Awesome!! ❤️

[@raycasas2867]

I’m from the Midwest and moved to Phoenix just two months ago. This is reassuring to me. Arizona might be good for me.

[@adampositron6871]

Welcome to the Valley of the Sun! I'm also from the Midwest (mostly Chicago and burbs). I moved here over eight years and love it! You arrived when the weather started to get pretty hot. You'll love the coming lower temperatures and winter is fantastic. You'll even need warm clothes during the winter nights. As for the summer temps don't be too intimidated by the triple digits. A lot of it is psychological. Humidity in the single digits and teens really make summers doable whereas 90 degree heat and 90% humidity in the Midwest is instantly oppressive. Anyway, make sure you take time to go on road trips and explore our beautiful state! All the best!

[@anthonythomas6593]

You will love having sunshine almost every day, unlike the Midwest- Chicago area which only gets about 100 days of sunshine per year.

[@raycasas2867]

@Tashina Casanova I want to say Tempe (I’ve gone to a few gay bars in that area with a good mix of patrons, and according to my cousins it’s a more progressive area). It has great nightlife, and is close to the downtown Phoenix area (a major + in my book) hope this helps 🙂

[@theroach1012]

People for the Midwest are the nicest people we see here in Arizona.

[@jssanch24]

The Roach agreed! Crazy how I know so many people from Illinois living here. Nicest people.

[@michaelossler2569]

From Chicago as well almost been here a year as well live in lake havasu City

[@KourttneyL]

Because we appreciate the AMAZING WEATHER that we’re missing 🤣🥲

[@Just_Vryatt]

Looking for the state with least mold issues in residential areas...am I in the right place?

[@stevewaltz8459]

Lol I'm curious what part of the valley you live because from my experience people overall are not friendly. Scottsdale didn't get the nickname snotsdale for nothing.lol

[@kayseacamp]

Steve Waltz I’m down in Sahuarita and I wouldn’t consider the general public friendly either. Granted I have lived in a lot of southern states so my bar for common courtesy and politeness in public is different. But people in the cities in AZ don’t wave and smile at strangers. They don’t hold doors for you or ask you how your day is. Only if you actually know the person do they do that. Or if you live outside of the cities in one of the smaller towns.

[@chadwilliams426]

I've yet to meet anyone here in Az that isn't an ahole. Been here 3yrs now and really miss the mid west values which is by the way are non existence in Az.

[@wlonsdale1]

The problem is the people MOVING here.

[@margomazzeo1680]

Two things people who hate AZ say...The weather is too hot..and people are nasty..

[@Ryan-gz9xg]

Hey just wanted to say this video was awesome! I’m moving to Phoenix next month and I’m so excited/nervous. Can’t wait.

[@1DavidS67]

Lived in AZ 2 years...Cave Creek. Moved back to my native Ohio for a job. Moving BACK TO ARIZONA asap!

[@1DavidS67]

@Kernica1 Yep came back for a job. Can't wait to get back to AZ

[@anthonyd9844]

Also another local tip, if you do plan to visit Havasupai falls, you need to rsvp with the navajo nation before you make the hike. Only a limited amount of people are allowed to enter the grounds each year and bookings fill up fast!

[@brianhawkins184]

Monsoon seasons have been non existent it seems the last two years.

[@lucasthorpy]

Yes I miss it so much!!

[@CJ-jq4lv]

Agreed

[@sixstringmetal8559]

It's been raining here everyday for the last three days or so.

[@CLardPercussion]

They are hit or miss. 2020 so far is more miss

[@azcoder]

My first visit back in 7 years was back on July 24th, a monsoon hit the runway at Skyharbor just as we were about to set down. The pilot aborted, tried again, aborted 2nd landing due to the storm, and finally got down on the 3rd attempt. Drove up the 51 and watched a night time lightning show. Great timing I guess!

[@budinzer9330]

You are a delight to listen to. So upbeat and honest. Thanks.

[@katrinabanister907]

Thank you for information. I am moving my family to Arizona next year from Michigan. We are super excited.

[@user-sg9mg6cn2c]

Glad to hear it. Welcome. I've never lived anywhere else but Arizona,so I know nothing else. Once you get used to the heat I think you'll like it here. Best thing to do in summer is always carry plenty of ice cold water and avoid the direct sunlight whenever possible. Being in the shade and having something cold to drink makes it so much better and cloudy summer days are awesome. Best of luck to you and yours.

[@ashleybohman5389]

Yes enjoy! But say goodbye to clouds and any other weather other than sunshine 24/7 😂 you will never see a cloud again it’s kind of sad actually.

[@cheri7054]

I hear Bisbee AZ has perfect weather all year. The expense of living in AZ compared to MN is very high. If you want cheaper rest you might have to live in a poorer neighbehood in AZ

[@Davyonnaalissa]

Same here!

[@jackwebb4934]

I've moved into a foreign country 7x, and worked in over 80+ countries. AZ is a great place to retire. I'm in Tucson. Great video.

[@serenesista]

@@johnhix484 maybe he means the quality of life?

[@MaxMustermann-un4kj]

As an 18 y/o German I have to say you did a good job in making me like a place thousands of miles away 😂

[@laurelstreed]

aww thanks!! :)

[@itsapko6148]

come visit! native arizonan here haha we love meeting new visitors

[@MaxMustermann-un4kj]

@@itsapko6148 I'd love to one day!

[@holyfox94]

Same. Greetings from Stuttgart, Germany.🙋🏼‍♀️

[@nipnan8417]

@@holyfox94 My wife just moved to the U.S. from Stuttgart!

[@korondadavis9733]

Me and my family are considering moving to Arizona, you gave us a lot to think about it, I’m so ready for a fresh start. Thanks for the information

[@reubenlemn1402]

Thank you so much for this video. I am also moving to Phoenix, and I’m moving from the Northwest Portland Oregon.I’m just so sick of all this rain and overcast. I am excited and looking forward to settle in to Phoenix.

[@lawrencejameson3102]

Did you ever make it to Phoenix? I’m in Vancouver and we just had a strong winter storm, at a foot or more of snow last night. I agree with you, the constant wind, cold rain and gray skies have gotten old. I’d love to maybe live in Phoenix but I can’t afford it.

[@matteo4605]

@@lawrencejameson3102 is Phoenix expensive to live?

[@reubenlemn1402]

@@lawrencejameson3102 Yes, left Portland last September and boy am I glad I did. Phoenix is amazing always sunny, town is super easy to get around. So much to do and see, unfortunately it’s not any cheaper than Portland, home prices and everything is comparable to Portland and only rising. I think it’s because everyone from California is moving here daily.

[@lawrencejameson3102]

@@reubenlemn1402 Good to know, thank you.

[@ellieinspace]

You really did a great job on this video !

[@Belovelyava]

Native here, you did a great job! AZ does have pretty freeways! In defense of so many white people. I’ve lived and travel a few places, but white folk in AZ are nicer then other places. ( actually nice, not super fake,nice) I’m a woman of color, and spot that mess a mile away. Yes, another vid, schools please.

[@gemstone654]

I just came back from Arizona visiting for the first time and I said the exact same thing to my sister when she said she seen me in a lot of pics with white people and I’m a women of color I felt nothing but love

[@jameslilly884]

Amen we aren't racist like some places. We believe live and let live, were all humans

[@TravelAdventureswithEricB]

We don't have front license plates in Louisiana either,but we have inspection stickers and some don't have them not sure about Arizona.

[@benjaminbartolotto5327]

Been living in Tucson for about 4 years now. We own a house. 3 bd 2 bth with pool, and add on room, our mortgage is about $1100 a month. Being from Southern California that is a steal. I do pay about $300 a month in electricity, but during the summer months June-Sept it can reach $500.

[@christineackman3520]

Non

[@benjaminbartolotto5327]

@@christineackman3520 huh??

[@ScarletLady]

Thanks for sharing. I moved to Tucson in 2006 from Pennsylvania. I agree with most of this. It’s funny to hear someone else’s view.

[@TMcConnaughhay]

I move here 4 years ago, and It really is so different from any other big city. It's a beautiful place to live, and yes, gorgeous sunsets and so much to do!

[@jondavidbristow9819]

A nice thing about the prickly pear cactus is the purple fruit on top makes a really good jam

[@fragout9575]

The speed limit IS a suggestion here!!!

[@mlaberge]

Loved this, I subbed to your channel. Thanks, I hope I can move here someday after this, Wisconsinite that gets burnt out on winter so much every year.

[@wanaraz]

Sell the snow plow and come on down. Just leave your blue thoughts in your blue state.

[@mlaberge]

@@wanaraz yep, exactly, I'm so hoping to one of these days 🙏

[@JeanieMarie]

We are from MN about 2 hours north of the cities and have been so interested in AZ.. we have plans to come visit this fall! Looking forward to experiencing Az! Thank you so much for all of this info... super interesting.

[@laurelstreed]

Awesome!! Duluth area? I hope you can visit in the fall. October and November truly are very lovely :)

[@JeanieMarie]

@@laurelstreed No, by Brainerd area ;) yes fingerscrossed we make it! Have a great day!

[@blakes4469]

I'm from MN and moved to AZ. I miss MN, but it all depends on the person.

[@halliebishop4369]

this is so helpful!! i’m also from Minnesota and I’m considering moving to Arizona. thank you for making this video!!

[@irinawolf8376]

Moving in 2 months from Chicago! Thank you for sharing ❤️

[@laurelstreed]

No prob!

[@ididlove8998]

Welcome to az!

[@phxjaguar5207]

Welcome to the oven

[@janimarc9012]

If you did move around this time, I’m sending you positive energy. Moving Into Arizona in the MIDDLE OF JULY/AUGUST is insanity lol. It was like 116 yesterday. But welcome.

[@ripemm5737]

I hope your moving away from Chicago to get away from a Democratic hell just don’t try to change Az into Illinois

[@M0stlyStormie]

Hey! I was looking through my old videos & I wanted to say THANK YOU for this video. I actually moved to Arizona in January 2021 which is CRAZY cus I never thought I would make such a change in my life! Your videos really helped me gain confidence in my decision

[@laurelstreed]

You’re so welcome!! ❤️

[@beccabarnett1598]

I’m moving in April , so excited !!

[@c.b.5766]

Same!😁

[@o.a.5044]

Great summary and delivery! You nailed it! Moved here a few years ago and still love it!

[@Faroutfan6]

Wow...a year already! Looks like you guys are fitting right in!

[@Tailwag514]

Your enthusiasm makes me miss AZ. Good for you, enjoy your experience. There is good & bad in every state. For me I moved there in 97 and watched the weather change, the exponential growth, the expense multiply and by 2020 it was time for me to move on but so glad I was able to see AZ at it’s finest. Get beyond all the building in AZ and it truly is a beautiful state.

[@zackman5348]

I've lived in the valley for over 20 years now. Best place to call home.

[@alic6866]

North Valley Phoenix out by Carefree is where youre going to run into thousands of scorpions. Used to live up there and found them in my bed and house countless times.

[@jessicawilliams4497]

“The 101 and the 202 “ but you missed the 303 😂😂

[@jewlian1992]

It the 60!

[@jewlian1992]

Or*

[@matthewjohnson3586]

And I-10 and 17

[@TakuaaSwipe]

the 101 can take me to arizona!! im from the bay area and we also call our freeways 101, 87 and 5

[@darriuss4574]

She got the road rage thing wrong too

[@PurrnRuff]

Great video! You answered my question in part 2 so this is edited to just a thank you. Love your shirt also.

[@laurelstreed]

In the summer AC bill was around $200-300 for 2 bedroom on top floor

[@Jazebowma594]

I'm getting ready to move to Arizona soon and I find this video interesting.

[@thatgirlspice_]

Same. I’m planning to move this summer.

[@Jazebowma594]

@@cacatr4495 I didn't move there , because I got dumped by my ex bf.

[@Jazebowma594]

@Shelly Foster ok thanks

[@adriennedeboucher6914]

Tucson is far better than Phoenix, IMHO. I've lived here in "The Old Pueblo" for decades and it's not a big, hot, crowded city like Phoenix. I did live in Phoenix for 1 year. Depressing.

[@SammyLeau]

This was a very informative video, Laurel. Thank you for the PROS and CONS! I can't wait to visit.

[@TheRealZeroFoxtrot]

I'm moving to AZ from England in the next year or so (depending on visa stuff) this made me so excited to go 😂

[@bettieblack480]

If you can, visit Lake Powell. It's amazing, paddling into Antelope canyon very early in the morning is so peaceful and spiritual.

[@chronofactor2037]

8:00 I suppose I live in the wilderness then. I'm pretty sure that Palm trees are a southern AZ thing.

[@sloppyjonuts9162]

I love Arizona. I’ve been living here for about 5 months. I’ll never go back to Illinois

[@carloscarranza7131]

Me too I’m

[@taydreamer53]

I’m thinking about moving to Arizona in June. I’m in Illinois and ready to goooo😂

[@vitalieBu]

I'm thinking to move out of Illinois as well... I'm considering Arizona or North Carolina!

[@taydreamer53]

@@vitalieBu same here

[@vitalieBu]

Is there something that you are missing about Illinois?

[@jewlian1992]

No front liscence plates is a good thing.. cops cant check your records when they are in front of you 😂 also the driving is crazy because we have so many people from different places which means all types of drivers. Winter we get the old people driving slow hahah

[@leizzai]

Thanks for the video! I want to move out there but am afraid to take the leap.

[@scottsdaletravelchick]

Good job!!!! And welcome to arizona ☀️

[@lolo4144]

Awesome information!!! Great host:)

[@kimberhomolka517]

I've been living in Arizona for 4 years now and I'm always excited for the winter because I'm a server. I'm originally from Kansas and so being a midwesterner we never had 'season' in the service industry. The town I live in is a retirement community and the 'snowbirds' are from every corner of the country and I thought that was so cool to meet a ton of new people

[@alsterpeerle]

Great video! Thanks! A huge Phoenix fan from Hamburg, Germany.

[@laurelstreed]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@VeganGroceryLife]

I loved this video!! KZbin suggested it to me because I watch other Arizona themed videos. You said the Pacific Ocean is only six hours away. But, to me that’s far when I live on the east coast and the ocean is a ten minute drive. Besides that con and many homeless people, I would love to live there! Only visited once and I fell in love. Thank you!

[@laurelstreed]

I totally get that! 😂 six hour is way better than being thousands of miles from either ocean in my opinion!

[@pkaboo7832]

This actually has to be one of the best descriptions I have heard! I'm going to be posting this on my wall! I lived for a couple of years in Southern Nevada and swore that when I had the chance I'd be moving to Arizona. I've had to be North a bit for family, but that has come to a close so I'm refocusing! (And oh my gosh that heat thing? People do not realize it's DRY heat! It actually does make a difference. And yes, I felt like I was on vacation every single day of my life even though I had to go to work!)

[@tshandy1]

The ideal life is to spend your winter months in southern AZ and your summer months north in Colorado.

[@188gracee]

Thank you for this video! I'm actually waiting to see if I got a job there, and started freaking out after a positive second interview. Sooo needed to know this

[@kayseacamp]

I’m down in Tucson and I’ll always find it funny how most people seemingly only refer to AZ from PHX and up. SOAZ fully gets ignored and is almost like an entirely different state.

[@pendamoniumpaladin1798]

And that's okay, let them stay up there lol....

[@CLardPercussion]

Y’all don’t count. (Don’t spoil the secret)

[@jobri5688]

#tucsonisn'treal

[@halfpintbum]

Tucson sucks is why

[@m1dsp1k3r]

Tucson is kinda boring tho so...

[@averyhufford9437]

The desert botanical garden in Scottsdale was awesome truly amazing. I want to go back

[@laurelstreed]

I miss it 😢

[@michaelhogan4103]

Great job, Laurel. I love Arizona. One never quite gets it out of one's system. It has been a few years since I left and I still miss the Sonoran Desert. I share your enthusiasm.

[@laurelstreed]

Thanks so much!!!

[@katiebutler4196]

hi we be move to chander Arizona

[@nicolevalenzuela7102]

Being a native Arizonan, this video made me appreciate my home state even more. It's refreshing to hear someone else point of view. Flagstaff is my favorite place, Sedona is gorg, and so many things to do in Phoenix. Great video!

[@angeladrushella8302]

Best video i have seen thank you ! Moving there around October.

[@brookebevington]

As a native Californian, we are very similar. Especially when it comes to driving and weather (except the dust storms)...

[@jgeorgetx]

I moved from Phoenix to southern Texas 2 years ago (due to family reasons) and miss it every day. A lot. The first vacation I can take, I’m coming to Phoenix. All your reasons for loving it, are the same as my reasons - the proximity to so much (hello, a 4 hour drive to Vegas!), the beautiful weather, so many fun things to do, etc. I’d take 110 degrees in Phoenix over 85 degrees in Texas any day. All day. Every day.

[@kingrosewood7791]

Yeah especially Houston

[@karleyison2844]

I’m from Ohio and desperately looking to get out of the Midwest so your videos are helping me feel less nervous about the culture shock 😂

[@justynjonn]

Compliments on a very well done video, including introducing timestamps.No nonsense fillers or explanation of your feelings and no vocal fry or upspeak.

[@theducklinghomesteadandgar6639]

Laurel I grew up in Las Cruces, NM, spent some time every summer in AZ, live in OK now but have always missed the area. I am saving money now to move to AZ. I think you did a really good job of describing various aspects of the state with a little bit of everything in the time frame of a video that didn't just carry on and on! I think you and your channel could do well to video and post the different areas, foods, etc., as you live and visit around AZ!!! Thanks, I subbed!!! Much love!!!!!

[@jacquelineanderson6105]

Very nice and informative! i am visiting soon for a vacation!

[@lm1973]

suuuuuuuper helpful video with making my decision to make the Chicago -> Arizona move. If it’s not too intrusive/personal, a video with the average price of rent and utilities in Arizona vs. Minny would be nice. I would be living solo and really scared that the utilities are going to cost me an arm and a leg.

[@laurelstreed]

Lisa Merida I can add that in the next one! 😊

[@kayseacamp]

The average prices of rent and utilities vary drastically from city to city and even within the cities themselves. You can actually contact the utility companies and ask for the averages of specific apartments you are looking at.

[@phxjaguar5207]

Exactly, prices can vary greatly. My small house averages $80 electricity and $30 water/trash a month, the big house with grass yards make that look like a drop in the bucket. Solo renter shouldn’t be too bad (but I’ve owned) and some places it’s just built into the rent. With my experience, Electric company is based by neighborhood, SRP has been much better than APS. And if you plan to stay for length and it is available, go with monthly average payments. Summer electric bills can be brutal without. But “winter” months can be small

[@lm1973]

@@kayseacamp wow this is extremely helpful. thank you for taking the time to help!

[@lm1973]

@@phxjaguar5207 I thank you as well for taking the time to write this out. It will definitely help me as well as help others in the same boat as me.

[@Bulletproofheart2468]

Thank you for this! I’m moving over there in two weeks and this and your other one was LOVELY!

[@ladonnawashington1643]

Thank you so much! I can’t wait to get back. I lived in AZ two different times. I ADORE AZ. You were dead on. Very accurate video. Thank you again for articulating my love for the Grand Canyon State. The Valley of the Sun Rocks! - Best to you!

[@siennaholmen1181]

Ok but back to scorpions... I’ve heard there are “hot spots”. We are moving this fall and I’m terrified of them 🦂😖

[@laurelstreed]

I haven't seen one it two years! But I hear you can't really see them without a black light....

[@MyDeltaairlines]

Probably one of the best update to AZ vids I have ever seen great job. Could you do a second video. And expend on utilities and jobs. Did you get a job ahead of time. Or get a job after. Any jobs tips. Etc.

[@laurelstreed]

Terriq Davidson those are great ideas!

[@kayseacamp]

Utilities in AZ work just like in every other state. Only major difference is you can do a budget billing for your electric where the power company takes what the annual average is and divides that by 12 equal bills so that you don’t have super spiked bills in the summer and low bills in the winter. The costs also vary drastically based on how energy efficient your home/apartment is and personal preference for coolness. As for jobs, it always makes more sense to obtain a job prior to moving and there aren’t any inside tips to getting a job in AZ. It’s just like applying in every other state. But there are a lot of tech and government contractors here. Most will have their facilities on the outskirts of the cities so keep that in mind when looking for housing and figuring out your commute. Also there are ALOT of hospitals so if you are in the medical field the job opportunities should be plenty.

[@denisemayosky1955]

@@kayseacamp Just for fun, what kind of grocery stores do they have, cuz my husband works for one? Seems like rent is pretty low, or at least fairly low; so hopefully, that means that we could get at least a studio for a reasonable price. But I'm not sure how it is in the other cities.

[@kayseacamp]

Denise Mayosky Tucson has Fry’s, Albertsons, Safeway, Bash’s, Whole Foods, TJs, and Sprouts. I believe the Phoenix area would have similar store if not more chains. Then there are the bulk stores. We have Costco and Sam’s Club. I don’t think there are any BJs tho.

[@denisemayosky1955]

@@kayseacamp Cool, thanks! We have Save Mart/Lucky over here in the SF Bay Area, and they were once associated with Albertson's, so that would probably be the closest. Of course, I've heard Costco is a good place to work as well. Just exploring the options. I don't know if moving is something that can be done during this darned pandemic.

[@gumgirl8487]

Thanks for making this video. I just moved to AZ from TX. Much of your experience has been mine so far.

[@Jordymonn]

It is refreshing to hear how it is to live in my home state from someone not from there. It makes me appreciate it more but I still hate the damn summers. It’s 117 degrees out today 😰

[@lucasthorpy]

Honestly you just get used to it. Then winter comes around and then 50-60 degrees actually feels like -10 haha

[@renaesowell2300]

I’m thinking of moving to Arizona in a few years and I have one question how do most of you guys manage the heat.

[@margomazzeo1680]

@@renaesowell2300 Either inside with A/C on or in the pool...

[@ieverhart]

I fully agree! It is very stressful in the summer!

[@codyjohnson3675]

Great video! I’m moving to Tucson in two months from South Dakota so I feel a lot better knowing how much you love it down there!

[@laurelstreed]

That’s awesome!!

[@wernerhavenga1244]

Moved here from South Africa and so happy.. what you said is all true. I know a lot of people call the 101 the race track.. just gun it!!

[@debiramirez1913]

Thanks, I am a born & raised Arizonan!!! You did a great job of explaining living in Arizona. Hope you stay

[@SparkzInsanity24]

Can't talk about AZ food without mentioning the many many many unique Asian restaurants, marketplaces, and shopping plazas! Great video

[@Buffalogalmely]

This is just what I needed to see today!! I’m currently in the grayest place in the world (ok ok 5th greatest city in the USA) Buffalo. Dead of winter. I haven’t seen the sun in months. Here for school. I grew up in so cal and spent a decade in NYC. 1.5 years of school left and I’m RUNNING AWAY AND NVER EVER COMING BACK HERE! Your AZ content is keeping my dream of moving there ALIVE! Thank you !! I can’t WAIT

[@laurelstreed]

You’re so welcome 🥹

[@josephpaulman6723]

Thank you for your insight! I'd like it if you did a video tutorial as well. How does one talk to an Arizonan? What's the exchange rate? Do I need to know any languages? How fast is quicksand? Does the heat look different? Thank you for your help.

[@Fields614]

P Uu

[@Sabrina-jd6ve]

Very helpful thank you ! Hope you do another !

[@jasminevictoriaaa2199]

This is the best AZ update I seen ✨🥰💜

[@laurelstreed]

aww thanks! :)

[@paulab.7513]

No lakes?? Here are just a few. If I forgot any Lake please add it to the list. Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Canyon lake, Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Woods Canyon Lake, Bartlett Lake, Tempe Town Lake, Lynx Lake, Alamo Lake. Just to name a few around the Phoenix area

[@laurelstreed]

Compared to the land of 10,000+ lakes it’s very different 😊 but yes az lakes are very beautiful

[@mandylee1993]

Thank you so much for this video! My boyfriend and I are moving to Gilbert AZ next week!!!! We are so excited. We are from NY and we cannot wait to have the windows down in the car on Xmas 😃

[@CS-ow4gl]

how is it going? I am looking into Gilbert (moving from So. CA)

[@sanbluesiq2506]

Make sure your car has A/c because once May comes around you are not going to want to drive with your windows down and be stuck in traffic. It’s hot and it sucks.

[@valerielinares2068]

I am a native Arizonan. I was born and raised in Phoenix and still live here. For context, I'm now 37 years old - so, I've been living here for 37 years. In case you're interested (it's okay if you're not), but if you are, here's my take on the topics you presented: - Weather: Yes, it's a dry heat.. but so is the oven. I'm not gonna be sticking my head in there any time soon. It's true that of the past few years, our monsoon storms/dust storms have not been as intense, unfortunately, but there are certainly times when the thunderstorms can get really intense. I always find it disappointing when there's a dry dust storm (a dust storm with no rain behind it). Personally, I LOVE the rain, and it's just generally disappointing when it seems like a storm is coming but then dissipates before it gets my my area. Relatively speaking, I think our winters can get really cold at times. Though, I say "relatively" because I've never experienced a winter anywhere else. And I've heard and seen (from the news) how midwest winters can get to like, -20 degrees. Being a native Phoenician, I have a hard time wrapping my mind around that! 50 degrees is cold to me! Outside of our disgusting summer heat, I LOVE our climate. I do love monsoon season because it's sweet relief from the disgusting summer heat. But the rest of the year, I LOVE it! You know why people can't wait for November? Because that's when we FINALLY start to cool down!! - Transportation: I wonder what side of the valley you live, I don't recall seeing that many Teslas. I know it might seem random to mention those things. But, I know Teslas are expensive, and usually people who own expensive cars live in Scottsdale - which makes sense that there would be a Tesla store inside the Scottsdale mall. Also, not all freeways are the Loop 101. The Loop 101 does wrap in a huge loop around the valley, which means it's possibly our largest strip of freeway. But there is also Loop 303, Loop 202, the I-10, the I-17, the AZ-51, Superstition Freeway, and the newest addition to the freeway family, the west Loop 202 that connects the west valley to the east valley without having to fight downtown traffic. - People: It's interesting that you believe people are nice here. I've heard others say that we're not that friendly and pretty closed off. I guess different people have different experiences. Though, Scottsdale has the reputation of having snobby people, and thus has the reputation of being called Snobsdale. - Geographically: Yes! I LOVE that my home state is geographically diverse!! I don't have to go to another state to go camping in the woods. Just drive a few hours up, and there we go! The beauty of this state I've been blessed to live in, I love it so much!! - Plants & Animals: I love the diversity we have there too. Granted, we're not the Amazon Jungle, but we do have some diversity. I like it. :-) and I LOVE out beloved cacti!