Moving from Arizona to Colorado

Colorado is a fantastic destination from Arizona - about 600-800 miles depending on your route. Most people either drive (it's a beautiful 9-12 hour journey through some amazing landscapes) or hire professional movers if they don't want to deal with mountain driving. The route takes you through some stunning scenery, but be prepared for elevation changes and potential weather shifts. Professional movers are great if you're nervous about driving through mountain passes or dealing with Colorado's unpredictable weather.

Colorado will feel like a breath of fresh air - literally! You'll trade Arizona's bone-dry, scorching heat for Colorado's four real seasons and much more reasonable temperatures. Instead of hiding indoors for half the year, you'll actually be able to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Colorado gets real snow (not just dustings), actual rainfall, and temperatures that won't melt your shoes to the pavement. The altitude might take some adjustment, but most people love the change from desert to mountains!

If you love outdoor activities but are tired of being limited to 6 months of decent weather, Colorado is perfect! You'll trade Arizona's limited hiking season (too hot in summer, perfect in winter) for year-round outdoor recreation. Colorado offers world-class skiing, hiking that doesn't require pre-dawn starts to avoid heat stroke, and camping where you don't need to worry about rattlesnakes in your sleeping bag. The job market is strong, especially in Denver and Boulder, though housing costs have increased significantly.

Give yourself 6-8 weeks to plan this mountain move properly. Timing is crucial - you want to leave Arizona before the summer heat becomes unbearable, but avoid arriving in Colorado during harsh winter conditions. Spring and fall are ideal, though Colorado weather can be unpredictable. Summer moves mean dealing with Arizona's brutal heat, while winter moves can be treacherous through mountain passes. Research your specific Colorado destination since mountain towns have very different considerations than Denver.

Elevation is your biggest concern - Colorado's altitude can knock you out if you're not prepared! Many Arizona transplants experience altitude sickness initially. If you're driving, your vehicle needs to be in good condition for mountain passes, especially in winter. Research Colorado's diverse climate zones - Denver weather is totally different from mountain towns. Also, prepare mentally for real winter weather after Arizona's mild "winters." Snow tires, ice scrapers, and warm clothes will become necessities instead of novelties!