Ah, Arizona. The land of cacti, desert sunsets, and, apparently, people who can handle more heat than a summer barbecue. If you’re wondering how to tell the difference between a local and a visitor, don’t sweat it (though they definitely won’t). Here are 10 easy ways to spot a true Arizona local, faster than you can say “It’s a dry heat!”
They’re Immune to 110°F Days.
While you’re melting into a puddle of sunscreen and regret, the local is out hiking, golfing, or sipping iced tea like it’s a cool spring day. In fact, they’re probably wearing a jacket because the AC in the car is “too cold.”
They Know How to Handle Monsoons Like a Pro.
Arizona monsoons? No problem. A local won’t flinch when the sky turns black and it starts pouring buckets. They’ve got their windows rolled down, a playlist cranked up, and a whole playlist for rainstorms.
They Use “Phoenix” and “The Valley” Interchangeably.
Phoenix is their hometown, but you’d never know it because they always refer to it as “The Valley,” like it’s some mystical land. If you ask for directions, you’ll get “It’s over on 7th Avenue, in the Valley,” and no one will think it’s weird.
They Don’t Just Drink Water—They Drink Cactus Water.
Forget bottled water. True locals sip water that’s been “blessed” by the mighty saguaro cactus (probably a good exaggeration, but they swear by it). Bonus points if they’ve got a secret cactus smoothie recipe for hot days.
They Know Every Way to Avoid 5 P.M. Traffic.
Phoenix traffic can be brutal, but a local knows every shortcut, side road, and alternate freeway to avoid the mess. They’ll laugh in your face if you try to take the I-10 during rush hour.
They’ve Got an Extra Pair of Sunglasses in Every Bag.
Not that they need them—it’s sunny every day. They’re ready for an impromptu hike, trip to the store, or any occasion where the sun decides to blast your eyeballs.
They Can Identify Every Desert Plant… and Tell You How to Not Die From One.
From saguaro cacti to agave to prickly pear, an Arizona local is a walking desert plant encyclopedia. They’ll give you a fun fact about the local flora while simultaneously warning you to “keep your distance from that barrel cactus” (because, trust me, you’ll regret it).
They Don’t Call It “Hot” Until It’s Over 115°F.
If it’s 100°F outside, a local will say, “Eh, not that bad.” But once it hits 115°F, they’ll look at you with wide eyes and say, “Now THAT’S hot.” Anything less is just “a warm day.”
They Have a Love/Hate Relationship with Snowbirds.
Arizona locals are so happy that snowbirds flock to their state for the winter—until they see them driving 25 miles per hour under the speed limit on the freeway. Then they may mutter something under their breath, but they’ll still wave politely because, well, it’s Arizona.
They Own at Least One Red Rock Picture Frame.
You know those gorgeous red rock formations you can see in Sedona? Yeah, the local has at least one picture of them in a rustic, wood-framed picture, and it’s displayed proudly in their home, alongside a ton of other desert-themed decor.
And there you have it! Next time you’re in Arizona, you’ll be able to spot the locals in a flash—just look for someone casually strolling through the desert in 100°F heat, sipping cactus water, and giving you directions to avoid the I-10. In Arizona, it’s a lifestyle, not just a location!
