Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
As you contemplate moving to a new place, you’re likely to ponder how the locals will embrace your authentic self if you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a crucial and reasonable concern to have, given that we still live in a world where acceptance isn’t always a given.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay Arizona, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in Arizona and whether Arizona embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in Arizona and LGBT community organizations in Arizona that you should be aware of!
Arizona is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States, known for its natural beauty, warm climate, and diverse population. As an LGBT person, you can expect to find a mixed environment in Arizona, with some areas being more accepting and inclusive than others. It’s important to be aware of certain factors when considering a move to the state.
In terms of legal protections, Arizona does not have statewide laws that protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. However, some cities and municipalities have passed their own anti-discrimination laws and policies. Additionally, same-sex marriage is legal in Arizona, and the state has a wide range of adoption laws that allow same-sex couples to adopt.
The state also has a moderate-sized LGBT community, with many resources and support groups available, particularly in larger cities like Phoenix and Tucson. These cities host a variety of pride events and parades, as well as LGBTQ+-inclusive bars, clubs, and restaurants. However, some rural areas may not have as many options for the LGBTQ+ community.
In terms of healthcare, Arizona has a wide range of healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics. However, it may be difficult to find LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare providers in some areas. It is important to research various healthcare options and to discover a provider who is knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ health issues and who is sensitive to the needs of queer patients.
To reduce the stress of your relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in Arizona early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT people and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to Arizona – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay Arizona
It’s hard not to get enthusiastic about the unique and tempting proposition that moving to Arizona presents – especially once you get chatting with residents and long-time locals in the know about all their state’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you should quickly befriend locals, let them ‘spill the tea’ and then spend your free time discovering the best sights, food, nature and culture Arizona has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community – which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots – securing a relocation to Arizona should allow you to meet local queer people with similar interests.
We are certain locals will have many more to add, but to get you excited, here are just a few highlights to look forward to as you become Arizona’s newest denizen.
Diverse Cities
Arizona is home to several vibrant cities, such as Phoenix, Tucson and Scottsdale, that offer a wide range of job opportunities, cultural activities, and entertainment. These cities are known for their diverse population, excellent dining and nightlife, and a growing tech scene.
The state capital and largest city of Arizona, Phoenix, is also the queer heartland of the Southwest and a bulwark for LGBTQ rights. Since the state recently legalized marriage equality, queer transplants will find the city even more appealing.
Tucson is another city with a laid-back and forward-thinking culture, as well as a live-and-let-live ethos. As a result, it is among the best places in the country for LGBT people to reside.
Stunning Natural Beauty
Arizona is known for its stunning natural beauty, with a diverse range of landscapes including the Grand Canyon, Sedona red rocks and the Sonoran Desert. The state offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Strong Economy
Arizona has a strong economy, with major industries such as technology, healthcare, and tourism. The state is home to several major companies, such as Intel and Honeywell, and has a low unemployment rate. Additionally, Arizona is consistently ranked among the top states for job growth, making it a great place to start or further your career.
Excellent Weather
Arizona is known for its sunny and warm weather, making it a great place to live if you enjoy outdoor activities and warm temperatures. The state has over 300 sunny days per year, making it an ideal place for people who love the sun and warm weather.
Cultural Diversity
Arizona is a culturally diverse state, with a large Hispanic population and many Native American communities. The state is home to several reservations and tribal lands, as well as many museums and cultural centers that showcase the state’s diverse history and culture. This cultural diversity can be experienced through the food, art, and events that happen throughout the state.
Gay events
It’s always nice knowing you’re moving to a state that will offer you a chance to connect, network, and make friends with like-minded people. Arizona isn’t too far off this mark.
The state is home to a couple of events that you can look forward to each year one of the events in Arizona is the Arizona Gay Rodeo each February which takes place a little outside Phoenix. All the proceeds from this event go to local charities.
You can look forward to the big hats, gorgeous men, and lots of fun in the sun as you enjoy this outrageous event. Another excellent event to look forward to while in Arizona is Melrose on 7th Avenue Street Fair which occurs in March. The event is one of the state’s most anticipated events that celebrate local businesses, music and local art. Need we say more?
The Tucson Pride Parade and Parade in the Desert are some of the most anticipated events in Tucson each year. The Pride Parade takes place in June, and you can enjoy Pride in the Desert a little later in the year. Pride in the Desert is a fun event that features a variety of hosts, musical performances, and fantastic shows for all to enjoy.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail, and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to Arizona and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does Arizona Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
The LGBT community in Arizona is the focus of the ACLU of Arizona, which is committed to advocating for their rights. In addition to advocating for equal rights for same-sex couples and their families, the organization’s mission involves fighting for fair and equal treatment by the government, and safeguarding LGBT individuals from discrimination in employment, educational institutions, housing, and public places.
Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona signed Senate Bill 1399 into law on April 6, 2022, allowing third-party child welfare organizations that are government contractors offering taxpayer-funded services like family reunification, foster care, adoption, and reunification to discriminate against clients based on their religion.
Any person or family who does not adhere to the religious requirements professed by said third-party agencies is susceptible to discrimination if it is done on the basis of religion, including LGBTQ+ people as well as same-sex families.
Some states that have implemented such laws have faced litigation, similar to when a South Carolina Christian evangelical agency declined to work with Catholics. It is noted that the Governor also did not honor his word when he said he would be pro-adoption after changing a policy that prevented legally married same-sex partners from being foster parents or jointly adopting.
Policies that discredit a group of qualified adoptive and foster parents because of discrimination is potentially anti-adoption. It’s important to note that this isn’t the only bill the governor has signed to gain political points from the extreme rightwing group at the expense of children that need and require such kind of help.
He has also recently signed legislation that will likely prevent transgender youth from receiving a variety of health care that could be medically necessary, and legislation that prevented transgender youth from taking part in school sports that are consistent with their gender identity.
Is Arizona An Expensive State To Move To
People are moving to Arizona in greater numbers as they look for year-round sunshine and low pricing. A single adult requires $36,254 a year, a higher amount than the average yearly income, to live a comfortable life in Arizona.
Arizona’s cost of living is 106.7, which is only three points more than the country’s average cost of living. This puts Arizona’s cost of living on pace with the rest of the nation.
Food and groceries
The average cost of food in the state is $333 to $1,193 a month for a single person and a family of five, respectively. That amounts to roughly $3,999 to $14,321 annually. Even so, these figures greatly rely on your family’s size and makeup, where you live, and how much money you make. The typical household grocery cost in the US is $411.
Healthcare
the average citizen of Arizona spends $2,607 annually on healthcare costs, or about $217.25 per month, versus the national median of $12,530.
Housing
Housing costs range from $10,987 to $21,175 annually for the inhabitants of Arizona. This equates to a monthly cost of between $915.66 and $1,764.66. This equates to a monthly cost of between $915.66 and $1,764.66. Transportation: expect to pay between 411.50 to $1,217.75 each month for transportation. Arizonans spend between $4,938 and $14,613 per year on transportation on average.
The variation in this average cost, like other elements, depends on your location, household size, and place of employment. You will pay less if you live alone and choose public transportation than a family who drives everywhere.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In Arizona
Darlings, wherever your fabulous self resides, embracing and supporting LGBT organizations is not just essential, it’s life-changing. These groups are the backbone of our community, reaching out with love and support to those among us who need it most. Remember, our strength shines brightest when we unite in solidarity. There might come a time for each of us when that extra bit of support becomes a ray of hope in our lives.
Now, let’s talk about the grandeur of Arizona’s LGBTQ scene. The state has blossomed into a more inclusive and gay-friendly haven, thanks to its supportive and vibrant LGBTQ community. Among the shining stars of this progress are the top Arizona LGBT organizations, leading the charge with courage and compassion.
These organizations offer an array of resources for community members, allies, friends, and families. Whether you’re seeking support, education, or just a sense of belonging, these groups are here with open arms. Don’t hesitate to tap into these resources, or better yet, contribute to their efforts and help propel our beautiful community forward.
And let’s not forget the social sparkle these organizations provide – they are perfect spots to meet new friends and build your very own queer chosen family in the heart of Gay Arizona.
Equality Arizona is the only statewide LGBT civil rights organization that works to safeguard, defend, and uphold the welfare and rights of the state’s LGBT citizens.
We picture a state of Arizona where everyone feels at home, where everyone is protected by the government and has their needs met, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and where people live in families and communities that embrace equality, diversity, and inclusivity.
Everyone is valued for who they are in the safe and inviting environment of the Living Out Loud LGBTQI Health & Wellness Center. The organization has integrated health and wellness programs that support your emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental health if you identify anywhere along the LGBTQI spectrum.
With a focus on the whole person, their community approach provides traditional, alternative, and supplemental care for adults and kids ages 6 and older.
Through support, information, and advocacy, PFLAG works to improve the health and wellness of GLBT people as well as their relatives and friends. PFLAG promotes open discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation and works to build a culture that is tolerant of and supportive of the human variety. The phone line is private.
Southern Arizona Gender Alliance
The Southern Arizona Gender Alliance educates health and human service providers as well as businesses about transgender concerns while providing information, support services, and social opportunities to transgender individuals.
SAGA envisions a world in which persons who identify as transgender or transsexual can live openly, honestly, and safely at home, at work, and in their community. SAGA plans educational, advocacy, and social events for those who identify as gender diverse as well as their partners, friends, families, and allies.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In Arizona
In Arizona, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ Arizona, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly Arizona cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with Arizona’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in Arizona… and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in Arizona are and why you might want to consider them!
Phoenix
One of the best discoveries you will make about Phoenix is its thriving LGBTQ+ nightlife, which offers over thirty queer and queer-friendly establishments, including anything from rainbow-flagged saunas to leather bars to laid-back clubs and discotheques with spacious dance floors.
The LGBT community in Phoenix is undeniably rich and diverse, but it is also widely dispersed because the Phoenix urban region is so geographically dispersed, and most LGBTQ Phoenix residents are as well.
The closest thing to a gayborhood is in Melrose District, which has been expanding recently. Even so, The Valley of the Sun is a varied, cosmopolitan city with a thriving LGBT culture.
The largest city and the state capital of Arizona is also the queer heartland of the Southwest and a bedrock for LGBTQ rights. Since the state recently legalized marriage equality, queer migrants will find the city even more appealing.
Phoenix doesn’t have a designated gay neighborhood. However, there are a large number of LGBT-friendly neighborhoods and businesses located all around the city. Even so, most of the action takes place in the Biltmore and Mill Avenue Districts, where LGBT residents and guests alike are looking to have a good time.
Some of the city’s gay-friendly neighborhoods include well-known locations like Melrose, which is centrally located in Phoenix and home to several LGBTQ-friendly businesses. There are numerous bars and nightclubs in this neighborhood. Scottsdale is known as a high-end resort and golf community.
However, the area has much more to offer than lush vegetation. Scottsdale is a great place to establish your LGBT family because of its top-notch schools and low crime rate. Arcadia is also one of the most beautiful and well-known areas in the city because of its vibrant culture and cuisine, verdant terrain, and walkability. It’s a great location for both business and leisure.
Sedona
Incredibly, Sedona has 11.8 LGBT families for every 1,000 residents. In Arizona, it’s also referred to as a sort of New Age sanctuary that promotes a culture of acceptance of anybody who is kind and pleasant, regardless of whether they identify as LGBT or not.
Overall, Sedona is considered to be a very safe community. 1,364 crimes are committed per 100,000 people, which is less than half the average crime rate in Arizona of 3,597.
Everyone needs to feel safe, but LGBT families especially so because they are frequently the targets of violent attacks. Sedona has 142 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, which is significantly less than the overall state average of 400.
The LGBTQ+ community in the entire Verde Valley is supported by Sedona’s annual Pride march, which is held amidst iconic red rock formations, panoramic mountain routes, and stunning river basins. Members of the LGBTQ+ community from charming Sedona, pleasant Cottonwood and historic Jerome come together for the annual celebration in September for a family-friendly event.
Visitors to the annual festival come from Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Tucson, as well as other Arizona cities that organize Pride celebrations. Sedona is a dream destination for LGBTQ+ tourists since it provides visitors with just about whatever they can think of, including one of the most popular wedding settings on Earth.
In March 2019, Sedona was ranked second among the most hospitable cities in the country by USA Today. Sedona is a diverse city that welcomes visitors from all backgrounds.
Sedona has recently grown into a full-fledged, premium vacation destination, particularly popular with mountain bikers and hikers, New Agers, artists, and the LGBT community. Ask the Sedona Pride Association, a local organization, about any special events they have scheduled for you while you are here.
Tucson
Tucson boasts 10.4 LGBT residents for every 1,000 citizens and is renowned as a sanctuary for artists and musicians. Tucson was the country’s first city to implement a domestic partner provision in the 1970s and was also the location of the first church to publicly welcome gay members.
A newly implemented program called Safe Place has been implemented by the city’s openly gay police chief. Businesses all across the neighborhood have rainbow stickers on their windows, designating them as a safe space from harassment and bullying.
Additionally, the police have offered business owners different kinds of training to handle a variety of issues, specifically where trans people are threatened. All of this results in a surprisingly safe and warm city.
The US Veterans Administration’s main trans soldier wing is also located here. While the city keeps getting grouped in with the red mass, it’s a community full of wonderful and kind people. Although there isn’t a gayborhood, LGBTQ individuals are free to reside anywhere they like. But there’s a good explanation for this.
Tucson was the first city in Arizona to adopt anti-discrimination legislation protecting its LGBTQ+ employees in 1999. Later in 2013, Tucson City Council voted to recognize same-sex domestic partnerships and civil unions. Additionally, publicly serving as public officials for the City of Tucson are elected and appointed members of the LGBTQ community.
Tucson is one of the most gay-friendly cities in the nation because of its laid-back atmosphere and progressive culture. The city is home to LGBTQ bars, clubs, businesses owned by LGBTQ people, an LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, LGBT youth groups, social clubs, and LGBTQ-welcoming places of worship.
Finding Gay Realtors In Arizona
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in Arizona is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face. Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in Arizona, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in Arizona to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one that is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
