Moving from Columbus, OH to Phoenix, AZ

Relocating from Columbus to the Valley of the Sun

Aside from the climate — and an intense passion for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team — there are many similarities between Columbus and Phoenix. Don’t worry; you can still cheer on the Buckeyes while enjoying your new surroundings 1,900 miles west. Get ready to leave those winter clothes behind and find out what Phoenix has to offer!

Speaking of Climate

Phoenix is much hotter and drier than Columbus. Those used to experiencing temperatures from the mid-40s to mid-60s won’t find that in the desert. Phoenix temperatures range from low-60s to high-80s, with only about 8 inches of rain per year. Highs also typically top 100 degrees between June and September, so read on to discover some fun ways to escape the heat!

How Are the Two Cities Alike?

Though Phoenix (almost 4.5 million) has a significantly larger population than Columbus (almost 2 million), both are state capital cities. If you enjoy the buzz of activity happening in Columbus, you’ll find the same in Phoenix. A young and thriving workforce (the average age for residents of each city is 36) has access to a wealth of sports, arts and cultural opportunities. 

Recreation in Phoenix

If you’re into Ohio State football or hockey with the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets, have no fear — sports are a serious pastime in Phoenix! Professional sports thrive with the NFL’s Cardinals, the NHL’s Coyotes, the Diamondbacks of Major League Baseball, the NBA’s Suns and the WNBA’s Mercury. For college action, head to neighboring Tempe to cheer on the Arizona State Sun Devils.
Here are some other popular options:

  • Golf for days. The Phoenix area is a haven for golfers, with more than 200 courses. Enjoy watching the pros hit ’em long and straight? Join more than a half-million other golf fans in January for the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open.
  • Enjoy the outdoors. Hike trails in the Phoenix Mountains Reserve, kayak or paddleboard on Tempe Town Lake or enjoy desert wildlife at the Desert Botanical Garden.
  • Soak up some culture. Need a break from the sun? Check out the Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix Art Museum or the Heard Museum, one of the nation’s finest for Native American art. The Arizona Science Center is filled with interactive displays and an IMAX Theater that offers educational, family-friendly entertainment.
  • Get down to Downtown. Like Columbus’ Short North Arts District, Downtown Phoenix is teeming with things to do. It’s considered the urban heart of the city. Visit the many clubs, concert venues, theaters, shops and restaurants in this diverse and walkable area.

Job Market

Tourism is big in Phoenix. More than 43 million people fly through Sky Harbor Airport each year, creating a demand for leisure and hospitality workers. Phoenix is also a developing technology hub and is home to web-based companies like GoDaddy and InfusionSoft. Major employers in the financial services sector include Wells Fargo, Bank of America, American Express, and JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Cost of Living

While it costs a bit more to live in Phoenix than Columbus, Phoenix is more affordable than coastal metro areas like San Francisco or New York City. The average home price in Phoenix is $235,000 (compared to $171,000 in Columbus), and the average rent is $989 (compared to $855 in Columbus).

You Pack, We Drive!

Ready to start your new life in sunny Phoenix? Don’t worry about the distance; let U-Pack handle the driving! With our affordable nationwide service, we can get your household shipment there from Columbus in less than a week. Get a free moving quote online, or call us at 844-362-5303844-594-3077.