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The Ultimate Guide for New Residents in Yuma

Updated: Aug 1

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Welcome to Yuma, Arizona! Known for its sunny weather, rich history, and friendly community, Yuma is a great place to call home. Whether you're moving for military service, retirement, work, or just a change of scenery, this guide will help you settle in smoothly.

1. Getting Settled in Yuma

Finding a Place to Live

Yuma offers a variety of housing options, from affordable apartments to suburban homes and retirement communities.

  • Popular neighborhoods:

    • Foothills – Upscale homes, great views, and newer developments.

    • Historic North End – Charming older homes near downtown.

    • Somerton & San Luis – More affordable options, popular with families.

    • Military Housing – Available near MCAS Yuma for service members.

  • Rental & Real Estate Resources:

    • Zillow, Realtor.com, and local agencies like Yuma Realty Group or Desert Sun Realty.

    • Check Facebook Marketplace for rentals and roommates.

Setting Up Utilities

  • Electricity: Arizona Public Service (APS) or Sunset Power (for some areas).

  • Water & Trash: City of Yuma Utilities (within city limits) or Yuma County Water (outside city).

  • Internet/Cable: Spectrum, CenturyLink, or Mediacom.

  • Gas: Southwest Gas.

Registering Your Vehicle & Driver’s License

  • MVD (Motor Vehicle Division): Visit the Yuma MVD Office (2855 S. Avenue 3) to transfer your license and registration.

  • Emissions Testing: Required for vehicles registered in Yuma County (unless exempt).

2. Essential Services & Shopping

Groceries & Everyday Shopping

  • Fry’s Food & Drug (Kroger-owned, great rewards program)

  • Albertsons (Local chain with good deals)

  • Walmart Supercenter & Sam’s Club (Budget-friendly bulk shopping)

  • Sprouts (For organic and specialty foods)

Healthcare in Yuma

  • Hospitals:

    • Yuma Regional Medical Center (Main hospital, 24/7 emergency care)

    • Sunset Health Clinics (Affordable care for uninsured)

  • Pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, and Fry’s Pharmacy.

  • Dentists & Specialists: Check with your insurance provider for in-network options.

3. Getting Around Yuma

  • Public Transit: Yuma County Area Transit (YCAT) offers bus services ($1.50 per ride).

  • Biking: Yuma has bike-friendly lanes and trails.

  • Rideshare: Uber & Lyft operate here.

  • Car Dependency: Most residents drive, so having a car is helpful.

4. Things to Do & Explore

Outdoor Activities

  • Colorado River & Parks: Picnic at Gateway Park or West Wetlands Park.

  • Hiking & Desert Trails: Painted Desert Trail, Telegraph Pass.

  • Imperial Sand Dunes (Glamis): Popular for off-roading (about 30 miles west).

Local Attractions

  • Historic Downtown Yuma: Visit the Yuma Territorial Prison and Main Street shops.

  • Farmers Markets: Yuma Farmers Market (Wednesdays & Saturdays).

  • Events: Yuma Medjool Date Festival, Midnight at the Oasis Car Show.

5. Making Friends & Getting Involved

Social & Community Groups

  • Meetup.com – Hiking groups, book clubs, and social events.

  • YMCA & Yuma Parks & Rec – Sports leagues, fitness classes.

  • VFW & American Legion – For veterans and military families.

  • Churches & Religious Groups – Many welcoming congregations.

For Military Families (MCAS Yuma)

  • MCAS Yuma MWR (Morale, Welfare, Recreation) – Events, gym, and family programs.

  • Spouse Clubs & Support Groups – Great for networking.

6. Schools & Education

  • Public Schools: Yuma Union High School District & Crane Elementary District.

  • Charter/Private Schools: Harvest Preparatory Academy, Yuma Catholic High School.

  • Higher Ed: Arizona Western College (AWC), Northern Arizona University-Yuma.

7. Weather & How to Prepare

  • Summers (May-Sept): Extremely hot (100°F+), stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and limit outdoor activity.

  • Winters (Nov-Feb): Mild (60s-70s), perfect for outdoor fun.

  • Monsoon Season (July-Sept): Sudden dust storms & rain—drive carefully.

8. Final Tips for New Residents

✅ Get a sunshade for your car – Summer heat is no joke!

✅ Explore local Mexican food – Yuma has amazing tacos & Sonoran hot dogs.

✅ Join a club or volunteer – Great way to meet people.

✅ Stay cool in summer – Many locals escape to San Diego or Flagstaff for weekend trips.

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