For several years Americans have been migrating to the western and southern states in increasing numbers.
The warmer weather is a big pull for many people, especially those who live in the north-eastern states where sub-zero temperatures are typical during the long winter months.
But there’s more to it than that.
The southern states have enjoyed rapid job growth in recent years as more major companies have either relocated south or opened up branches in new territories.
Congestion has also been a major factor.
For those seeking more space and a change of pace, the more rural parts of the country are increasingly appealing, particularly during a global pandemic.
How does this impact teachers?
Our nationwide teacher shortage means that educators looking at teaching jobs in the USA can pretty much relocate anywhere, safe in the knowledge that their skills will be highly valued.
Arizona is one state that’s planning to tackle our teacher-need by investing significantly in education this year, including a pay raise for teachers.
So, if you’re looking for a new school, or planning to kick-start your teaching career in new surroundings, now is a great time to discover Klassroom’s Teacher Certification Program in Arizona: a flexible, affordable, and state-approved teacher certification program. Get certified to teach in the Grand Canyon State and enjoy some of that famous southern hospitality.
Here are ten great reasons why you should consider Arizona for your next teaching adventure:
- The Grand Canyon National Park
- Warm weather all year round
- The great outdoors in the city
- Affordable living and low taxes
- Phoenix has a diverse arts and culture scene
- The economy in Phoenix is booming
- There are great options for family bonding
- Phoenix is super easy to navigate
- Arizona is a state for young people
- If you love sports, Arizona is the place to be
1. The Grand Canyon National Park
As one of the world’s seven natural wonders, the Grand Canyon is a truly incredible place, both in terms of scale and natural beauty.
If you’re based in Phoenix, you can plan a day trip to the Canyon, but you’ll need to leave early as it’s a good 3-hour drive from the city.
Tip: don’t plan on seeing it all in one day.
The Grand Canyon itself is 277 miles long, and the national park totals more than 1 million square acres.
Luckily, if you’re living and teaching in Phoenix, you’ll be able to visit as often as you like and enjoy a wide range of additional activities too.
From hiking, camping, and white-water rafting through to desert jeep tours and helicopter tours for those who prefer life a little less strenuous, the Grand Canyon is a place you’ll want to visit more than once.
2. Warm weather all year round
Located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, Phoenix is the state capital of Arizona, and it’s known as the Valley of the Sun for a reason.
The city boasts more than 300 days of sun each year, making it the ideal getaway for those of you who want to embrace the heat and forget that something called winter even exists.
In addition to the health benefits you’ll get from a regular dose of vitamin D, you’ll be able to spend a lot more time outside doing all the things you love.
Phoenix is the perfect place for people who like to get out of the house and be active.
It hardly ever rains here, and there are loads to see and do.
This brings us to…
3. The great outdoors in the city
The Grand Canyon and the world-famous Monument Valley (think Forrest Gump and classic Westerns) are iconic.
But, one of the great things about living in Phoenix is that you’ll have access to a host of outdoor activities right on your doorstep.
Phoenix is home to one of the largest urban parks in North America, South Mountain Park.
Here you’ll find more than 50 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and in the Spring, it’s also a favorable picnic spot for families.
The park is easily accessible and offers breathtaking panoramic views of both the city below and the surrounding Phoenix Mountains.
But if you’re someone who prefers a stroll rather than a hike, then the Japanese Friendship Garden might be your cup of tea…literally.
The tranquil garden regularly hosts traditional Japanese tea-drinking ceremonies and is home to a beautiful 12-foot waterfall and a Koi fish pond that’s home to hundreds of colorful Koi-carp.
The Japanese friendship garden is in the heart of downtown Phoenix, and it’s the perfect place to unwind during a break from teaching.
Here’s a list of outdoor activities you can enjoy either in or very close to the city.
There are some great options!
4. Affordable living and low taxes
Why teach in Arizona?
Well, if the abundance of outdoor activities doesn’t have you sold, then perhaps Arizona’s relatively cheap cost of living and tax-friendly status might appeal to you.
The cost of living is 5% lower in Phoenix than the national average, and housing is also much more affordable.
Indeed, the average asking price for an apartment also works out at 5% lower than the national average.
But what about taxes?
Residents of Arizona pay one of the lowest rates of income tax in the country and even pay well below the national average in property tax.
If you’re not an experienced teacher, finding work in an affordable state that offers a good standard of living should be a top priority.
Arizona can give you both, and there’s plenty of great employment opportunities for teachers.
5. Phoenix has a diverse arts and culture scene
The city’s arts and culture scene can match most other metropolitan areas.
It’s also very diverse!
Phoenix is heavily influenced by both indigenous American and Hispanic cultures.
The Heard Museum, for example, is a great place to learn more about the city’s diversity and hear the story of Arizona as told from the perspective of the Navajo Nation.
They have lived on the land for more than one thousand years.
The museum is known for its world-class exhibitions and a strong focus on Native American art.
People in Phoenix also love to party. After all, if you live in a place where it’s always warm and sunny, why wouldn’t you want to celebrate?
Festival culture is big here, and street parties operate throughout the year.
One of the most popular is Cinco De Mayo, a huge celebration of Mexican culture and heritage.
You’ll get to savor lots of authentic Mexican food, wash it all down with a margarita or two, and dance to both traditional and contemporary Latin music.
6. The economy in Phoenix is booming
More people means more dollars, and Phoenix is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations in the States.
In 2020, more than 60,000 people from California alone relocated to Phoenix in search of a better quality of life and more bang for their buck.
And it’s not just families and young professionals who are moving to Arizona.
Phoenix is now home to five Fortune 500 companies, which means more jobs, more investment, and a much bigger state profile.
So, if you’re researching USA teaching jobs, discover how you can get certified to teach in Arizona and move to a state that’s flourishing.
7. There are great options for family bonding
If you’re a teacher with a family to think about, then the question “should I move to Arizona?” takes on an extra dimension.
You’ll need to consider what’s best for your loved ones as well as yourself.
If you have kids, the good news is you won’t have a hard time finding activities to keep them busy in Arizona.
In Phoenix, you’ll find the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the Arizona Science Center.
Plus, within a thirty-minute drive, you’ll also find the Big Surf Waterpark and the genuinely unique Crayola Experience, which looks like so much fun.
And if you want to set your sights further afield, it’s safe to say the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley aren’t going anywhere.
Truth be told, in a state with so much sun, “the weather” is rarely going to be a valid excuse for staying home.
Also, are you wondering where you could send your kids to school? Or even where you might want to teach?
Here’s a helpful guide to the best school districts in Phoenix.
8. Phoenix is super-easy to navigate
It’s always important to consider both the transport options and the transport culture in any destination you’re thinking about relocating to.
Phoenix has invested quite heavily in public transport options. Indeed, it now boasts more than 20 miles of light railway and has a reputation for being a bike-friendly city.
However, you’ll still find living here to be much more convenient if you have access to a car.
Indeed, the city is thought to be one of the easiest to navigate in the entire country.
That’s because the city’s founding fathers devised a simple but very effective grid system during the town-planning stage.
It may not sound as enticing as year-round warm weather and world-famous landmarks, but if you’re the type that relies far too heavily on your GPS, you’ll be happy to know that in Phoenix, your sat nav will soon be gathering dust in the glove compartment.
9. Arizona is a state for young people
If you’re looking for somewhere with a youthful vibe, then Phoenix may well be the place for you.
The city has a median age of just 33, which is far lower than the national average.
Indeed, the city attracts more young people every year, many of whom are attracted by the thriving job market and great lifestyle options, including a more varied and exciting nightlife than you might otherwise expect.
10. If you love sports, Arizona is the place to be
It doesn’t matter if you’re a football, basketball, hockey, or baseball fan because Phoenix is one of only a dozen cities in the U.S. that’s home to a major franchise in all four sports.
People here are passionate about their teams, and the warm climate and clear skies mean it’s always going to be game-time somewhere close by.
But if you’re more into competing than spectator sports, there’s marathons, mountain biking, some of the best golf links in the country, and even skiing.
Yes, you read that right, skiing.
You’ll need to take a trip to Flagstaff, but the slopes are only a couple of hours drive from downtown Phoenix.
Wrapping up
When you consider just how much there is to see and do, it’s no surprise to see Arizona increasing in popularity.
The state has it all.
Amazing weather, beautiful natural scenery, one of the natural wonders of the world, and perhaps most important of all, excellent job prospects for professionals and a vibrant economy.
Why wouldn’t you move to Arizona?
Fast track your teacher certification in Arizona with Klassroom through a flexible, affordable, state-approved program.
Contact us today and discover how we can help you kick-start your teaching career in the Grand Canyon State.
