A California resident has found a new lease on life and significant financial relief after relocating to Prescott, Arizona. Brenda Duncan Cusick, who spent nearly two decades in Moorpark, decided to move due to escalating wildfire risks and rising living expenses. Her transition not only cut her monthly bills but also opened up new opportunities for personal growth and community involvement. In this article, we explore the reasons behind her decision, the financial benefits she enjoys, and how Prescott's charm has influenced her lifestyle.
In 2020, Brenda Duncan Cusick made the bold decision to leave her home in Moorpark, California, for Prescott, Arizona. The catalyst for this move was the increasing frequency of wildfires and the associated rise in insurance premiums. Moorpark, located an hour northwest of Los Angeles, had become a hotbed for evacuations due to fires like the Woolsey Fire of 2018, which devastated thousands of homes. As an insurance agent, Cusick witnessed firsthand how these disasters were impacting her clients' ability to afford coverage. Between 2015 and 2023, insurance rates skyrocketed, making it challenging for many residents to maintain adequate protection.
The cumulative effect of higher insurance costs, utility bills, gas prices, and car registration fees convinced Cusick that retiring in California was no longer feasible. She noted that while she loved her home state, the financial strain became too much to bear. The tipping point came when the COVID-19 pandemic allowed her and her husband the flexibility to work remotely. This newfound freedom enabled them to consider moving to a more affordable location without sacrificing their quality of life.
Prescott, Arizona, emerged as the perfect destination. Known for its charming, historic downtown and cooler summer temperatures, Prescott offers a laid-back lifestyle reminiscent of small-town America. The city's rich history, surrounded by national forests and natural beauty, provides a serene environment ideal for retirees. Cusick mentioned that Prescott reminded her of growing up in California, with its western ambiance and picturesque landscapes. Moreover, the town attracts thousands of tourists each year, thanks to events like the annual rodeo and its proximity to attractions such as Phoenix and the Grand Canyon.
Since moving to Prescott, Cusick has experienced a substantial reduction in her monthly expenses. The family downsized from a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home in Moorpark to a three-bedroom, two-bathroom property in Prescott. Their mortgage payments dropped from $3,309 to $1,672 per month, and utility and HOA bills now average around $373, compared to the fluctuating range of $400 to $1,200 in California. This financial relief has given Cusick the opportunity to pursue new interests, such as starting a local food tour, which she finds far more fulfilling than her previous career in insurance.
Beyond the financial savings, Cusick's move has brought a renewed sense of purpose. She has become actively involved in the community, participating in local charities and sharing her love for Prescott through her food tours. For Cusick, the decision to relocate has been transformative, offering both economic stability and a richer, more meaningful life. Her story highlights how natural disaster risks and rising living costs can drive people to seek new beginnings in more affordable and welcoming communities.