Arizona (AZ)

Student survival guide for Arizona: documents, housing, daily costs, healthcare, student work rules, and personal finance.

Updated on: Jun 10, 2026

What changes in this state

State income tax up to 2.5%: state declaration required if you have income.
Cost of living in the national average (index ~103.2, position 17/50).
Approximate rent 1BR (Phoenix): ~$1650/month — compare to dorm and roommate.
Statewide rent control absent or weak: contract and market matter a lot.
Car highly recommended.
Expanded Medicaid in the state (for low-income residents; F-1 students usually on campus plan).

Ideal if…

More accessible public health context for community emergencies (does not replace F-1 plan)
Campuses and programs in Arizona (ASU…)
Students seeking a “classic” American experience in the South/Midwest

Harder if…

Who doesn't want to drive or buy cars
Those who expect Europe-style public services without cars

First 7 days

Activate campus-required health insurance prior to classes
Check Arizona MVD if you will be driving (expires 30 days in many cases)
Open account with passport + I-20 + local address; ask for debit card
Search for housing near campus or on transit lines (Phoenix)
US SIM/eSIM within the first few days for bank and 2FA
Save campus police and 988 numbers in your address book
Mark state filing deadlines in addition to federal if you work

Mistakes to avoid

Sign leases without visiting or understanding deposit and utilities
Working beyond permitted hours on F-1 without CPT/OPT authorization
Going to the ER without a campus insurance network — very high costs
Renting away from campus with no car/carpool plan