Welcome to Phoenix! Whether you’re here for a new job, a fresh start, or simply chasing the sun, you’ve landed in one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Known for its striking desert landscapes, year-round sunshine, and a booming job market, Phoenix offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventure.
To help you settle in with confidence, we’ve put together a quick-start guide to life in the Valley of the Sun. From setting up utilities to finding your favorite taco spot, here are five essential steps to take after your move.
1. Set Up Your Phoenix Utilities and Internet
Before you start unpacking boxes, it’s a good idea to get your essential services up and running. Here’s a quick list of major providers in the area:
- Electricity: Most residents are serviced by either Salt River Project (SRP) or Arizona Public Service (APS), depending on location.
- Water, sewer, and trash: These services are managed by your local municipality. Check with your city’s website (e.g., City of Phoenix, City of Tempe, etc.) for account setup.
- Internet and cable: Top providers include Cox Communications and CenturyLink. Availability may vary by neighborhood.
Pro tip: Set these up before move-in day to avoid service delays or outages.
2. Get an Arizona Driver’s License and Register Your Vehicle
Once you become an Arizona resident, you’ll need to update your license and vehicle registration, especially if you’re coming from out of state.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit a local Arizona MVD office or authorized third-party provider.
- Bring necessary documents: proof of identity, residency, and your out-of-state license or title.
- By law, new residents must register their vehicle within 30 days of moving.
Be sure to schedule your appointment ahead of time! Phoenix’s rapid growth means MVD locations can get busy.
3. Learn the Layout of Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun
When people say “Phoenix,” they’re often referring to the entire metro area, known locally as the Valley of the Sun. It includes several major cities like Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, and Scottsdale.
A few quick tips to navigate the sprawl:
- Most roads follow a grid system, making it relatively easy to learn your way around.
- Despite the grid, traffic congestion can be unpredictable, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
- Apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Valley Metro (for public transit) can help you avoid backups and plan smarter routes.
4. Adjust to the Desert Climate
Desert living takes some getting used to, especially in the summer months. Here are a few quick tips to help you stay comfortable and safe:
- Hydrate constantly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid strenuous activity between 10 am and 4 pm when temperatures are highest.
- Use sun protection daily: hats, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Keep your car and home heatproofed. Window shades, fans, and good AC maintenance are essential.
Don’t forget: monsoon season (July–September) can bring sudden dust storms, also known as haboobs, along with heavy rain and lightning. Stay alert during these months and keep an emergency kit handy.
5. Start Exploring Phoenix Like a Local
Now for the fun part…getting to know your new city! Phoenix is full of vibrant culture, great food, and outdoor escapes. Here’s a starter list:
Try local eats:
Grab a Sonoran hot dog from El Caprichoso, sample Navajo fry bread tacos at Fry Bread House (a James Beard Award winner), or swing by Barrio Café for elevated Mexican cuisine and killer guacamole.
Get outdoors:
Hike Camelback Mountain, catch a sunset at Papago Park, or explore the trails at South Mountain Preserve.
Soak up culture:
Visit the Desert Botanical Garden, browse the Heard Museum, or check out First Fridays in downtown Phoenix for art, music, and food trucks.
Looking to meet new people? Join a local Facebook group, browse Meetup.com, or attend community events. Volunteering or supporting local businesses is another great way to feel connected while giving back.
Stress-Free Phoenix Moving
From setting up utilities to finding your new favorite trail, there’s a lot to juggle when relocating to Phoenix. Taking these five steps early can help you settle in faster and start enjoying everything the city has to offer.
If you’re planning a move (or just finished one), know that a professional moving team can make all the difference. Gentle Giant offers local and long-distance moving services, packing, storage, and specialty item handling, with highly trained movers who know the Phoenix area inside and out. We’re here to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Ready to get started? Get a free quote and let us help you feel at home, wherever you’re headed next.