From Alabama to Arizona
A sunny southern state, Alabama, aka Yellowhammer State, is a peaceful and pleasant place. Alabama is located in the Dixieland (Heart of the Dixie – another, possibly more popular nickname), and has a diverse natural environment—from the Tennessee River Valley in the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south.
Historically related to cotton production, Alabama invested lot of money in aerospace, education, medical care, banking, and various heavy industries recent years. Alabama also has a strong agriculture. It accounts for a large part of the state’s economy, with an annual output value of more than 1.5 billion U.S. dollars.
Free time in Alabama
Alabama has a rich culture. Harper Lee wrote her most famous “To Kill a Mockingbird” in Alabama, and the story of this book takes place here. Forrest Gump was also “born” there. The states has some major advantages when it comes to free time for sure, such as getting fresh seafood, enjoying some underrated beaches in the bay, as well as premium beer can complement your barbecue.
However, there are some major disadvantages as well. Many places are closed on Sundays. Some places prohibit the sale of alcohol. The weather may be turbulent at times. Cockroach infestations are a thing. This, and various others aspects of life, conspire in favor of moving our of Alabama.
Welcome to Arizona
Arizona is mainly associated with tourism, hiking, golfing, and relaxing in nature. However, in recent years, Phoenix and Arizona have become known as good places for small businesses or start-ups, so there is a lot to do besides taking photos of the Grand Canyon.
Economy
Arizona’s economy has been growing and has reached gross domestic product is 320.66 billion U.S. dollars in the last few years. Despite the crisis, it is still growing.
Most people are employed in healthcare, transportation, and government departments. The largest employers are Banner Health, Wal-Mart and Kroger.
In the past few years, Arizona and Phoenix have gained a reputation for its good business environment. They have all seen the growth of start-up companies, co-working spaces and business incubators. This has made a huge contribution to the city’s economy and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Education
The University of Arizona is the state’s top educational institution. It has nearly 150,000 students, is a member of the University Research Association, and is listed as “R1: Doctoral University-Advanced Research Activities”.
Free time in Arizona
Phoenix is a vibrant city with a profound cultural heritage. The visual arts have been on the rise, and many new galleries have opened. They have a place in well-known institutions such as the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra, the Arizona Opera House and the Arizona Ballet.
Montgomery vs. Phoenix
Golfers surely love both Arizona and Alabama. However, their capitals are vastly different, and size is just one of the things that set the apart.
Actually, the two cities have somewhat equal average incomes. And Montgomery has cheaper housing and groceries. Transportation is quicker and cheaper, too.
The nearly-two million Phoenix has a by far pricier housing, far larger labor market, and weirdly – cheaper healthcare.