I can’t say it enough: Arizona is one beautiful place that has a bit of everything for everyone. That must be why the majority of our population come from other states and countries. If you’re planning to move here as well, you might want to take a few minutes to read the rest of this article. Here are 11 things longtime Arizona residents would want to tell newcomers of the Grand Canyon state.

1. Most Arizona natives will tell you that Arizona is full.
Sarah/Flickr
Don’t get offended, it’s just how most of us feel. Most native Arizonans are a bit territorial over this beautiful place because there has been such a heavy migration of transplants in the last couple decades. Give us time and we’ll eventually warm up to you newcomers.
2. That summer heat is real and potentially deadly.
Alan Levine/Flickr
Seriously, not a week in summer goes by without hearing of someone dying from heat exhaustion, whether they were out hiking on a 118-degree afternoon or trying to survive without air conditioning. Many parts of the state get pretty hot so learn how to become acclimated to the heat.
3. Visit in the summer before you move here.
julien haler/Flickr
The weather here in February won’t be the same as the middle of July. Clearly, some people underestimate the heat so plan on staying here for a week or so in the summer months before deciding to move here.
4. There’s more to Arizona than deserts.
Yogendra Joshi/Flickr
Now that we’ve covered some of the dangers of the desert, don’t forget that Arizona is a very mountainous state. We have beautiful forests, riparian areas, and even an alpine tundra! Just remember to follow the leave no trace principles so these areas stay beautiful for generations to come.
5. If you’re moving to Arizona to escape the snow, then I have some bad news.
Michael Seljos/Flickr
Because Arizona has forests, mountains, and a tundra, we also get snow in quite a few areas of the state. It may not be tens of feet of blizzard but even places like Tucson occasionally see snow.
6. However, be prepared for lots of sunshine.
Kevin Schraer/Flickr
Arizona is the real sunshine state, so make sure you have sunglasses, hats, an umbrella, and sunscreen.
7. No one wants to hear about how your previous state had better pizza, bagels, seafood, Mexican food, etc.
Larry/Flickr
That’s just rude.
8. Everything around the state is probably more spread out than what you’re used to.
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Be prepared to drive everywhere. A lot.
9. Also, be prepared to drink more water than you typically do.
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Arizona is an arid state with low humidity so expect to feel dehydrated a little more often than usual.
10. Learn to live with using less water.
Doug/Flickr
Every bit of water conservation helps: turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, shave a couple minutes off your daily shower, and don’t water your lawn daily at 3pm. I believe in you!
11. You might encounter stray wildlife, even in urban areas.
Wplynn/Flickr
Finding a coyote, javelina, or raccoon waltzing down your neighborhood street isn’t entirely a rare occurrence, especially if you live on the outskirts of town or near a park. Learn how to live with them and you should be fine.

If you’re an Arizona native, what are some other tips you would add to this list? And, if you happen to be a transplant, what are some tips you would give future residents?

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