The rising cost of living makes it hard to find a stable place to live. If you’re looking to relocate for this or any other reason, you should consider several affordable places in Arizona. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless recreational opportunities, Arizona is a popular choice for many looking to cut living costs without sacrificing quality of life.
Here are the six cheapest places to live in Arizona, with a detailed summary of each area’s average cost of living, housing market, amenities, and lifestyle.
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Why Choose Arizona?
Arizona is more than just a desert state; it’s a melting pot of gorgeous natural environments, thriving local cultures, and more fun than just about anywhere. From the mesmerizing Grand Canyon to the serene Colorado River, its unique natural beauty is a wonder to behold. That said, there’s more to Arizona than just its picturesque landscapes.
Comforting Climate
If you’re tired of snowy winters and damp springs, Arizona’s sunny and dry climate may be just the remedy you need. With over three hundred days of sunshine annually, the state offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities and year-round enjoyment of its natural beauty.
Rich Culture
Arizona is home to a rich cultural tapestry comprising both Native American influences and a vibrant arts scene. Celebrate Indigenous cultures at the Heard Museum, lose yourself in the galleries of Scottsdale’s ArtWalk, or experience the grandeur of architectural gems like the Taliesin West. There’s never a dull moment living in this culturally diverse state.
Recreational Opportunities
Arizona is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. From hiking and biking on the red rocks of Sedona to skiing in the snowy mountains of Flagstaff, there are plenty of adventures just waiting to be had. Plus, with numerous national parks, monuments, and forests to explore, there’s no limit to the natural beauty accessible to Arizona residents.
Factors Affecting Living Costs
The cost of living in Arizona, like elsewhere, is influenced by different factors. The major ones typically include housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Let’s discuss them in more detail.
Housing
Arguably, the biggest factor in determining the cost of living is housing. The price of homes and rentals vary greatly across Arizona, depending on the property’s location, size, age, and condition.
The state offers a diverse range of options, with everything from apartments in bustling urban centers to spacious houses in peaceful, suburban neighborhoods. For those interested in a more unique living experience, you might even consider a desert ranch-style home or a modern, southwestern-style property.
Given the broad selection, defining your preferences and budget upfront is important to help guide your housing search.
Utilities
Arizona is known for its hot and dry summers, so residents tend to use a lot of electricity to cool their homes and businesses. While the state has a relatively low electricity cost per kWh, the high usage can increase the overall utility bills.
However, in winter, utility costs can be lower due to the mild climate. Similarly, water costs can be a bit higher due to the arid climate, which may require more frequent watering of lawns and gardens, though costs can obviously be mitigated by adapting your lawn with drought-resistant plants or eliminating grass.
Groceries
The large agricultural presence within the state aids in keeping produce prices down, and local farmers’ markets are a common sight, allowing residents to buy direct and fresh, potentially saving even more.
Combine that with the overall higher state minimum wage ($14.35 an hour as of 2024), and most of what you can buy will seem much more affordable, given the money you have to spend. However, it’s worth noting that costs can vary depending on the specific area and the store where you shop.
Transportation
Public transportation is another factor to consider. Although Arizona has a broad network of buses, light rail, and shuttles, the level of service and ease of access may vary depending on the location.
Urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson have more robust public transit systems, making getting around without a vehicle easier. In contrast, more rural or secluded areas may require more personal vehicle use, which makes gas, insurance, and other associated costs a bigger part of your budget.
Carpooling and rideshare services are also common transportation modes, offering a cost-effective solution for commuting or quick trips to the supermarket. If you’re environmentally conscious, you might also appreciate the state’s ongoing efforts to expand its bike lanes and trails network.
Top 6 Cheapest Places to Live in Arizona
Arizona is generally affordable, but there are six places in the state you can move to if you’re trying to make the most of your money. Here are the top picks for the cheapest places to live in Arizona.
1. Bullhead City
Bullhead City is known for its diverse community and a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including water sports along the Colorado River and hiking in the nearby desert landscape.
The city hosts frequent community events and has a strong public school system, making it a great place for families. In terms of employment, Bullhead City offers various opportunities in industries like healthcare, education, and retail trade.
With all of these benefits, Bullhead City doesn’t just offer affordable living; it offers a high quality of life as well.
2. Kingman
Kingman is known for its low cost of living. Its safety, small-town charm, and access to outdoor recreational activities make it an ideal place to call home. Kingman also holds historical importance with its Route 66 Museum, which tells the story of the iconic “Mother Road.”
The city’s downtown district offers a charming mix of boutiques, restaurants, and galleries, providing residents with entertainment and dining options. Known for its community spirit, Kingman regularly hosts events that bring residents together, fostering a strong sense of community and connection.
This, along with its favorable climate that affords residents the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, makes Kingman an appealing and affordable option for many.
3. Sierra Vista
Sierra Vista is a friendly city that offers a combination of affordability, safety, and access to incredible outdoor activities. The city is known for its clear skies and impressive mountain views. The region is home to over 44 miles of shared-use paths and hiking and biking trails, making it an excellent choice for those who lead an active lifestyle.
Its economy is mainly driven by the military, education, healthcare, and retail sectors, which provide a variety of job opportunities. Sierra Vista also hosts several events throughout the year, like the Festival of the Southwest and the Cochise Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering, adding a unique vibrancy to the community life.
4. Yuma
With its agricultural backdrop and rich cultural history, Yuma offers a unique blend of affordability and charm. Yuma’s cost-of-living is among the lowest in the state, with housing costs that are particularly competitive.
The city is home to a robust agricultural industry, which sustains a significant portion of the local economy and offers numerous employment opportunities. Its proximity to the border also makes it a cultural melting pot, with a rich blend of American and Mexican influences evident in the city’s food, art, and community events.
Yuma is also connected to major cities like San Diego and Phoenix through a network of highways, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy occasional city visits or weekend getaways.
5. Casa Grande
Halfway between Phoenix and Tucson lies the affordable city of Casa Grande. Casa Grande is notable not only for its economical costs but also for its excellent quality of life, full of beautiful parks, quality schools, community events, and various recreational activities.
Its central location also provides easy access to the amenities of Phoenix and Tucson without the higher cost or the hustle and bustle. Furthermore, its historic downtown and local archaeological sites, such as the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, add a touch of history and intrigue.
Its growing economy is supported by retail, manufacturing, and healthcare industries, offering a stable job market for residents.
6. Prescott
Prescott is primarily known for its historical charm combined with modern amenities. The city offers a vibrant downtown area with a mix of unique eateries, boutiques, and antique shops. Museums and historic home tours provide a peek into the city’s rich past.
Prescott’s cost of living is below the national average, making it affordable for families, retirees, and young professionals alike. With the natural beauty surrounding the city, including the picturesque Watson and Willow Lakes, residents can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.
The city also plays host to many events throughout the year, such as the World’s Oldest Rodeo, the Prescott Bluegrass Festival, and the Victorian Christmas at the Sharlot Hall Museum. As for employment, industries like healthcare, education, and retail provide numerous job opportunities.
Comparing Costs: Arizona vs. National Average
The state of Arizona can provide a more cost-effective living, especially when compared to states like California or New York. This is largely due to the lower costs of housing and groceries, which can be significantly lower than the national average.
Based on calculations by the BLS in 2021, a single person in Arizona can expect to pay an average of $44,875 in annual living expenses, as opposed to $53,082 in California or $53,255 in New York.
These figures include things like housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses. Nevertheless, each city has its unique strengths and challenges, so choosing the right place for you will depend on your lifestyle and financial situation.
Living in Small Towns vs. Urban Areas in Arizona
While cities like Phoenix and Tucson offer more job opportunities and amenities, they may be more costly than living in smaller towns. Conversely, smaller towns and rural areas in Arizona can offer a lower cost of living but may have fewer job opportunities and amenities.
As mentioned, however, the state minimum wage in Arizona is almost double the national average, meaning even entry-level jobs will likely pay better than those in other states, regardless of where they’re located in Arizona.
Tips for Finding Affordable Housing in Arizona
To find affordable housing in Arizona, consider looking in off-peak seasons, negotiating rent or prices, and utilizing online resources such as local real estate and apartment rental websites. Another good strategy is to seek areas that are undergoing growth or development.
These locations often offer more competitive rental and purchase prices, especially if you’re willing to tolerate some construction noise or disruption for a while.
Challenges and Considerations
Although these towns and cities offer a lower cost of living, potential residents should consider other factors such as job market variability, healthcare access, education quality, and community engagement opportunities.
As attractive as the cities in Arizona can be for all the reasons outlined before, your decision will ultimately be impacted by whether or not you would enjoy living in any of these places. That’s one of the more attractive things about the state since there’s just so much to do and see, depending on where you live.
Find an Affordable Place to Live in Arizona Today
Discovering an economical living arrangement in Arizona is within reach. The state presents a diverse range of budget-friendly housing options, blending scenic landscapes, cultural richness, and favorable weather. Whether you prefer an urban setting or the tranquility of a small town, there’s a place for you among the cheapest places to live in Arizona.
