Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sierra Vista, AZ
Considering a move to Sierra Vista, AZ? With a friendly population of about 44,000 and a median home price around $244,000, Sierra Vista offers affordable living and stunning Arizona sunshine, boasting 82% sunny days each year. Commutes are a breeze at just over 17 minutes, and local schools and healthcare are solid, with college options in town. While crime rates are close to national averages, the city stands out for its low cost of living, mild winters, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Sierra Vista, AZ
Demographics - Sierra Vista, AZ
Sierra Vista is home to about 44,000 residents, offering a balanced mix of age groups with a median age of 36.8 years and a nearly even gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, with a notable presence of Black, Asian, and other ethnic backgrounds, and around 14% of locals speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density gives the city a suburban feel while maintaining cultural diversity.
Population:
44,067
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
68.9%
Black:
7.0%
Asian:
3.1%
Others:
21.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sierra Vista, AZ?
Living in Sierra Vista is affordable, with a median home value of $244,000 and a cost of living index below the national average at 92.3. Housing costs are particularly reasonable, and renters pay about $1,170 per month. Utilities and transportation costs are average for Arizona, making this city attractive for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$244,000
Gross Rent:
$1,170
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,370
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,330
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.3
Grocery:
96.2
Housing:
80.4
Utilities:
104.2
Transportation:
104.9
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
97.5
Crime
Is Sierra Vista, AZ a safe place to live?
Sierra Vista's crime rates are close to national averages, with a chance of experiencing violent crime at about 1 in 336 and property crime at 1 in 48. The city maintains a moderate level of safety, allowing residents to feel secure while enjoying local amenities. Community vigilance and local law enforcement contribute to a generally safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
298
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,082
Crime Index:
2,380
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 336
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Sierra Vista, AZ year-round?
Sierra Vista enjoys mild, sunny weather throughout the year, with over 80% of days featuring sunshine. Winters are comfortable, with highs in the low 60s, while summer temperatures peak in the low 90s. The city receives about 16 inches of rainfall annually, making it a pleasant place for outdoor activities and recreation.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
62°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
82%
Neighbors
Residents of Sierra Vista benefit from a median household income of $65,600 and a relatively low poverty rate of 13.3%. The community is well-educated, with over 93% having at least a high school diploma, and average commutes are short at under 18 minutes. The area offers a friendly, close-knit atmosphere with a mix of renters and homeowners.
Median Income:
$31,900
Household Income:
$65,600
Family Income:
$74,400
Per Capita Income:
$30,800
Income Male:
$43,200
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
13.3%
Non English Speakers:
13.8%
Rent:
$1,170
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
17.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
28.0%
Education
How are the schools in Sierra Vista, AZ?
Education in Sierra Vista is well-supported, with a selection of public and private schools, including Buena High School and Sierra Lutheran School. Higher education options are available locally at Cochise College and the University of Arizona South, giving students a range of choices close to home. The city’s schools offer reasonable class sizes and access to quality resources for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Buena High School
Street:
5225 E Buena School Blvd
Phone:
520-515-2800
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Name:
Town & Country Elementary School
Street:
1313 S Lenzner Ave
Phone:
520-515-2714
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.0
Private Schools
Name:
Sierra Lutheran School
Street:
101 N Lenzner Ave
Phone:
520-459-0444
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Cochise College
City:
Sierra Vista
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,900
Name:
University of Arizona South
City:
Sierra Vista
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Sierra Vista offers solid healthcare access, anchored by Canyon Vista Medical Center and a physician availability of 2.1 per 1,000 residents. Nearly 90% of the population has health insurance, ensuring most residents are covered for medical needs. The city’s healthcare index reflects reliable and accessible medical services for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Canyon Vista Medical Center
Address:
5700 E. Hwy 90, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
Phone:
(520) 263-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.3%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sierra Vista, AZ?
The housing market in Sierra Vista is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $244,000 and a 62.5% owner-occupied rate. Rent for a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,170, and the vacancy rate remains low, indicating steady demand. Home values have appreciated modestly, making it an attractive market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$244,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,170
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Sierra Vista’s residents are served by the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division located conveniently within the city. The office provides a full range of DMV services, including licensing, registration, and title transfers. For more information or to make appointments, residents can visit the state’s official DMV website or call the local office.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
5224 E Charleston Rd, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
Phone:
1-800-251-5866
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.