06/09/2026
Thinking about moving to Arizona? ☀️ Welcome! We love it here, but there are definitely a few things the brochures leave out. If you're new to the Valley or planning a move, here is the honest truth about desert living from someone who knows the ropes! 🌵👇
🪲 The "Fun" Wildlife: Meet the Palo Verde Beetle (basically a flying avocado with legs) and the Tarantula Hawk (a massive wasp with bright orange wings). They look like sci-fi monsters, but don’t panic—they mostly mind their own business!
💧 The Water is HARD: Arizona has some of the hardest water in the country. Buy a shower squeegee on day one. Trust me, it’s your new best friend if you want to keep your glass clean. 🧼
🐜 Termite Truth: In AZ, it’s not a matter of if your house will get termites, it’s when. There are two types of homes here: those that have had termites, and those that will. Just get a regular inspection and keep up with treatment!
🥵 "Pet-Friendly" and Barefoot Ground Rules: Pavers get hot. Travertine gets hot. And artificial grass? It gets scorching hot, no matter what kind of fancy cooling infill they sell you on. Protect those puppy paws (and your own feet) during the summer! 🐾
🏊 The Pool Situation: Unless you plan on doing laps in January, you don’t need to heat your pool. The intense Arizona sun will turn your pool into a giant bathtub by July anyway!
🌱 The Desert Garden: Yes, you can absolutely grow a stunning, healthy garden here! The secret formula is simple: heavy shade and a LOT of water.
What surprised you the most when you first moved to Arizona? Drop your best desert survival tips in the comments! 👇
