I have lived here for 13 years. It gets hot, but not like those that visit for a weekend like to say it does. You get used to it very quickly. The heat is so much better than the bitter cold, and the winters make it well worth it. It's about 4 months of hot. 4 hours from the closet beach, 4 hours from Vegas, 2 hours from quality skiing, camping, hiking, off roading, kayaking, etc all within minutes. I always tell my family that when I moved here I didn't have to give up hobbies, but if I was to move back to Iowa I have to give some up.
I in no way regret moving here, and I will never move back to the Midwest. I'm not saying I won't move, but East of the rockies is not happening. I enjoy what the west has to offer from an outdoor perspective too much.
If you seriously decide to make the move feel free to PM and I am more than happy to answer any questions.