Living in Tucson
Tucson is located in the breathtaking Sonoran Desert and is also surrounded by mountains, offering truly unique scenery along with ample sunshine and jaw-dropping sunsets. Unlike other major cities, Tucson is also filled with plenty of wide open spaces and some of the cleanest air in the country, giving you opportunities to truly enjoy the outdoors. However, living in Tucson isn’t just about the outdoors. The area offers excellent educational opportunities, a diverse culture, loads of family attractions, and an affordable cost of living. Residents enjoy big-city amenities with a small-town feel, making it a desirable place to settle down.
Weather in Tucson
Given its location in the desert, you can expect hot summers and winters that are cool and dry. The area only sees an average of 10 inches of rain a year, meaning much of the year is sunny and dry. That means residents can enjoy the many parks, recreation, and outdoor activities year-round.
Cost of Living in Tucson
With a cost of living that is 6% below the national average and 5% below the state average, Tucson is a very attractive place for those looking for a high quality of life at an affordable price. Average rental prices in Tucson typically range between $800-$1300, while the average cost of a home in Tucson is around $250,000.
Excellent Education
As part of the Tucson Unified School District, Tucson is home to some of the best public schools in not only the state but also in the nation. In fact, Tucson Unified’s University High has been ranked as the 17th best school in the United States, followed by Basis Oro Valley Charter School at number 23 and Basis Tucson North at 47. If you are moving with school-aged children, there are 337 public and 54 private schools to serve their educational needs. The University of Arizona and Pima Medical Institute are also located in the city for those looking for higher education opportunities.
Where to Live in Tucson
Choosing a neighborhood is one of the most important decisions you will face when moving to a new city. Fortunately, Tucson has a number of diverse neighborhoods to choose from, so there is something to fit any budget or lifestyle. Here are some of the top neighborhoods in Tucson.
Sam Hughes: Home to the University of Arizona, this neighborhood has a college vibe and is packed with parks, coffee shops, and restaurants that are within walking distance. This neighborhood appeals to students, professors, young professionals, and even families looking for a peaceful and safe community.
Dove Mountain: This upscale golf course development is located at the base of the Tortolita Mountains in the suburb of Marana. It is just minutes away from the city, but the easy access to the highway has made it a desirable destination.
Catalina Foothills: As the name suggests, this neighborhood is located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains and offers some of the best views in the area. The subdivisions have been built to blend in with the desert landscapes, giving the neighborhood a natural and minimalist feel. There are also excellent restaurants, shops, and art galleries located nearby,
Armory Park: Located downtown, Armory Park is a beautiful neighborhood that is part of the National Register of Historic Places. It features wide streets lined with various style homes including Victorian, Queen Anne, Greek Revival, and Territorial.
Outdoor Activities
One of the best parts of living in Tucson is the ability to enjoy the outdoors all year round. The area is home to a number of national parks and recreation areas, making it an excellent place to live for outdoor enthusiasts. They include Tucson Mountain Park, Gates Pass, Catalina State Park, Saguaro National Park, and Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. These parks are perfect for hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, or simply taking in the incredible views and sunsets. Tucson also has an impressive number of championship golf courses that offer high-end experiences.
Ready to Move to Tucson? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Beloved for its warm weather and sunshine, Tucson is a great place to settle down and enjoy life. If you are ready to make the move to Tucson, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines assist you with your relocation. With over 95 years of experience in the moving industry, we know exactly what it takes to handle your move. Whether you are moving across the state or across the country, Allied is prepared to help you every step of the way. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.