Moving from Minnesota to Tucson, Arizona

In 2019, after living in Minnesota our whole lives, we decided to pack up and leave our home in St. Paul, Minnesota and move to Tucson, Arizona. We found a city we love and that has characteristics similar to St. Paul and Duluth - an artistic and progressive city filled with kind people, great food, and lots of activities to keep us busy. While Minnesota will always hold a special place in our hearts, Tucson has become our beloved new home. Here’s why you might want to consider making the move too.

1. Climate: Goodbye to Harsh Winters

Minnesota’s winters are legendary – and not in a good way. Sub-zero temperatures, snowstorms, and icy roads are part of everyday life for nearly half the year. Tucson, on the other hand, offers an escape from this frozen tundra. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and mild winters where temperatures rarely dip below 50°F, Tucson allows for an outdoor lifestyle year-round. Imagine trading in your snow boots for hiking boots, and your winter parka for a light jacket. And if you think you'll miss the occasional snow day, you're in luck! Just drive up Mount Lemmon in Tucson and you'll discover the small town of Summerhaven sitting right above Tucson at about 8,000ft above sea level. Summerhaven gets snow in the winter and even has a ski hill known as Ski Valley (the southernmost ski destination in the United States), so you can spend your day skiing and playing in the snow and when you're sick of it, just drive back down to the warmth of Tucson.

2. Outdoor Activities: Nature at Your Doorstep

While Minnesota boasts beautiful lakes and parks, Tucson offers a unique desert landscape that is equally stunning. The Sonoran Desert is home to incredible hiking and biking trails, such as those in Saguaro National Park and Sabino Canyon. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, Tucson’s diverse terrain – from desert to mountain ranges – provides endless opportunities for exploration. Plus, with mild weather, outdoor activities are accessible all year. If you miss the lakes of Minnesota, don't worry, there are many lakes within an hour of Tucson and there are various hikes with waterfalls and swimming holes to cool you off after your hike through the desert.

3. Cultural Vibrancy: A Hub for Arts and Events

Minnesota's cultural scene, especially in cities like St. Paul and Duluth, is robust and dynamic. Tucson, too, is a haven for artists and creatives. The city hosts numerous festivals, galleries, and live performances. The Tucson Museum of Art and the annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show are just the tip of the iceberg. The local community’s support for the arts is evident, making Tucson a thriving cultural hub.

4. Culinary Delights: A Foodie’s Paradise

Minnesota offers hearty and diverse culinary experiences, but Tucson’s food scene is something special. Recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson boasts a rich culinary heritage that blends Native American, Mexican, and pioneer influences. From food trucks to fine dining, the city offers a variety of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t miss the local specialties like Sonoran hot dogs and carne asada tacos.

5. Cost of Living: Affordable Quality of Life

While cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul can be expensive, Tucson offers a more affordable cost of living. Housing, utilities, and groceries tend to be less costly, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. This financial ease makes it easier to enjoy all the cultural and recreational activities Tucson has to offer.

6. Community Spirit: Welcoming and Inclusive

One of the most striking similarities between Minnesota and Tucson is the warmth and kindness of the people. Tucson’s community is known for being welcoming and inclusive, much like the friendly Midwestern spirit of Minnesota. Whether you’re at a local farmer’s market, an art festival, or just exploring the city, you’ll find Tucsonans are eager to share their love for their city.

Why Tucson is Worth the Move

Making the decision to leave Minnesota was not easy, but Tucson has proven to be a wonderful new chapter in our lives. The blend of cultural richness, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming community makes it a compelling destination for anyone looking to relocate. If you’re tired of shoveling snow and yearning for a vibrant, sunny city, Tucson might just be the perfect place for you.

So, pack your bags and come discover the magic of Tucson – a city that offers all the charm and friendliness of Minnesota, with the added bonus of perpetual sunshine and unique desert beauty. We couldn’t be happier with our decision, and we’re confident you’ll fall in love with Tucson too.

Finding MN Friends

When we first moved here, I was constantly on the lookout for Minnesotans. Leaving our friends and family behind in Minnesota was tough at first and making friends as an adult can be challenging. Send me a message and I'd be happy to show you around and tell you the best places to find Minnesotans, Juicy Lucys, MN beer, and a bar playing the Vikings game. Welcome to Tucson!

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