Arizona is known for its warm climate and picturesque landscapes, but it seems that many of its residents are looking for a change of scenery. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Arizona had a net domestic migration loss of 10,859 people in 2019, meaning that more people moved out of the state than moved in from other states. But where are these Arizona residents going, and why are they leaving?
The Top Destinations for Arizona Movers
The Census Bureau data reveals that the most popular destination for Arizona movers in 2019 was Texas, with 22,018 people moving from Arizona to the Lone Star State. Texas offers a similar climate, lower taxes, and a booming economy, which may attract Arizona residents looking for more opportunities and affordability.
The second most popular destination was California, with 18,462 people moving from Arizona to the Golden State. Despite its high cost of living and taxes, California still appeals to many Arizona residents for its diverse culture, natural beauty, and proximity to family and friends.
The third most popular destination was Nevada, with 13,581 people moving from Arizona to the Silver State. Nevada is a neighboring state that offers lower taxes, cheaper housing, and a vibrant entertainment industry, which may entice Arizona residents looking for a change of pace and lifestyle.
Other states that received a significant number of Arizona movers in 2019 were Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. These states offer a cooler climate, more outdoor recreation, and a progressive political environment, which may appeal to Arizona residents looking for a different quality of life and values.
The Reasons for Arizona’s Outmigration
There are many factors that may influence a person’s decision to move out of Arizona, but some of the common ones are:
Cost of living: Arizona’s cost of living is higher than the national average, especially in terms of housing, utilities, and transportation. The median home value in Arizona is $314,200, which is 16% higher than the national median of $269,039. The average monthly rent in Arizona is $1,247, which is 9% higher than the national average of $1,143.
The average electricity bill in Arizona is $147.13, which is 19% higher than the national average of $123.88. The average gas price in Arizona is $3.17 per gallon, which is 11% higher than the national average of $2.86 per gallon. These expenses may put a strain on many Arizona residents, especially those on fixed incomes or low wages, and drive them to seek more affordable places to live.
Climate: Arizona’s climate is characterized by hot and dry summers, mild winters, and low precipitation. While some people may enjoy this weather, others may find it uncomfortable, unhealthy, or boring. Arizona has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the nation, with 29.4 cases per 100,000 people, compared to the national rate of 21.8 cases per 100,000 people.
Arizona also has one of the lowest rates of air quality in the nation, with 38.9% of its days having unhealthy levels of ozone or particulate matter, compared to the national rate of 27.5%. Arizona also has one of the lowest rates of natural amenities in the nation, with a score of -0.32, compared to the national average of 0.
These factors may affect the health, well-being, and happiness of many Arizona residents, and motivate them to move to places with more favorable climates and environments.
Opportunities: Arizona’s economy is largely dependent on tourism, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. While these industries provide some jobs and income for the state, they may not offer enough diversity, growth, or innovation for many Arizona residents, especially those with higher education, skills, or aspirations. Arizona ranks 40th in the nation in terms of per capita income, with $30,869, compared to the national average of $34,103.
Arizona also ranks 46th in the nation in terms of educational attainment, with 29.5% of its adults having a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.6%. Arizona also ranks 48th in the nation in terms of research and development spending, with $1,064 per capita, compared to the national average of $1,833.
These indicators may suggest that Arizona has limited opportunities for economic and social advancement, and encourage many Arizona residents to move to places with more potential and prospects.
Conclusion
Arizona is a state with many attractions and advantages, but it also faces some challenges and drawbacks that may prompt some of its residents to relocate to other states. The Census Bureau data shows that the most common destinations for Arizona movers in 2019 were Texas, California, Nevada, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, which offer different benefits and trade-offs for the migrants.
The main reasons for Arizona’s outmigration may be related to its cost of living, climate, and opportunities, which may affect the quality of life and satisfaction of many Arizona residents. While Arizona may not be the best fit for everyone, it still remains a popular and desirable place for many people who appreciate its unique features and culture.