Four seasons in Arizona? (Phoenix, Tucson: homes, schools, allergies)

[Rasputinsmom]

We currently live in Phoenix AZ but I am finding it increasingly difficult to cope during excessive heat in summer. I am a severe asthmatic and as a family we have decided to look elsewhere in the state of Arizona. Hopefully we can find a hidden gem with four seasons! We are a homeschool family, so schools are not important. High altitude, above 5000 is an issue so Flagstaff is not an option. We are looking for a town/city with a family feel to it. Our kids are 6, 12 and 14. We are also hoping for a place where it snows. We do own our own business but it is fairly new and growing steadily, so we are hoping to find somewhere affordable to start off with.

Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[mrshowtime3]

Prescott is at around 5000. Dewey would be my suggestion in Prescott Country Club or Quailwood.

[fluffythewondercat]

Originally Posted by Rasputinsmom

I am a severe asthmatic

Be careful of that recommendation above.^

The last time I looked there were two allergists in Prescott. One of them was 95 years old. Probably dead by now.

Prescott does not get world-class medical talent because there is more money to be made elsewhere.

I have asthma as well, but probably not the crippling kind like you have. I don't have any problem with breathing during the hot summers but I stay indoors most of the time.

[rational1]

To an excellent approximation altitude determines climate in Arizona.

At 7000 ft it can get genuinely wintry. At 4500...in winter, rare and short-lasting snowfall, almost always warm during the day and freezing at night. Don't know if you call that four seasons, and I have no idea how it relates to allergies, etc.

[Hschlick84]

Prescott Valley would be your best choice if you want 4 seasons. However if you plan on moving out of state, I'd recommend checking out the western slope of Colorado. Grand Junction has 4 seasons, a fairly mild winter compared to the front range, cheaper cost of living.

[Teacher Terry]

Northern Nevada has a mild 4 seasons.

[mrshowtime3]

Originally Posted by Hschlick84

Prescott Valley would be your best choice if you want 4 seasons. However if you plan on moving out of state, I'd recommend checking out the western slope of Colorado. Grand Junction has 4 seasons, a fairly mild winter compared to the front range, cheaper cost of living.

Moving out of state would be my first recommendation

[Rasputinsmom]

Thank you for the recommendations

[wit-nit]

OP you might want to look into Albuquerque NM.

[tijlover]

I've lived in both Phoenix and Tucson and I'm cognizant of 4 seasons in each city. I'm tired of winter and I'm looking forward to Spring and I always look forward to Fall.