Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Tucson, AZ
Considering South Tucson, AZ for your next move? This small, vibrant city of 4,800 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $118,000 and rents averaging $830. Enjoy a warm climate with 85% sunny days, easy commutes of about 23 minutes, and close access to major hospitals and higher education. While crime rates are above average, South Tucson boasts a rich cultural scene and proximity to Tucson’s amenities, making it a unique and budget-friendly choice in southern Arizona.
Demographics - South Tucson, AZ
Demographics - South Tucson, AZ
South Tucson is a compact city of 4,800 residents, notable for its youthful median age of 32 and a high population density. The community is predominantly composed of diverse ethnic backgrounds, with over half of residents speaking a language other than English at home, contributing to its vibrant multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
4,800
Density:
6,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.0
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
54.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
14.0%
Black:
2.8%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
81.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Tucson, AZ?
Living in South Tucson is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $118,000 and average rents around $830 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, especially in housing, making it an attractive choice for those seeking affordability in southern Arizona.
Median House Value:
$118,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$955
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$345
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
69.8
Utilities:
93.4
Transportation:
98.2
Health Care:
97.5
Miscellaneous:
91.6
Crime
Is South Tucson, AZ a safe place to live?
South Tucson experiences higher-than-average crime, with a violent crime rate of 1,400 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 4,900 per 100,000. Residents should be mindful of safety, as the chance of experiencing a property crime is about 1 in 21.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,400
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,900
Crime Index:
6,300
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 71
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 21
Weather
What is the weather like in South Tucson, AZ year-round?
The city enjoys a warm desert climate, featuring mild winters with highs in the upper 60s and hot summers reaching up to 102°F. With 85% sunny days and just over 12 inches of annual rainfall, South Tucson offers plenty of sunshine for outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F

Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
86°F

Summer
Min:
73°F
Max:
102°F

Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
88°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
85%
Neighbors
South Tucson’s neighborhoods have a median household income of $28,900 and a higher-than-average poverty rate, reflecting a working-class community. Most residents rent their homes, and the average commute time is just under 23 minutes, making daily life convenient for those working locally or in nearby Tucson.
Median Income:
$24,100
Household Income:
$28,900
Family Income:
$32,000
Per Capita Income:
$14,400
Income Male:
$27,500
Income Female:
$20,700
Poverty Rate:
38.6%
Non English Speakers:
54.0%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
7.9%
Public Transport Usage:
3.8%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
57.8%
Bachelors or More:
5.8%
Education
How are the schools in South Tucson, AZ?
South Tucson offers several public and private school options with favorable student-teacher ratios, and is close to major higher education institutions like Pima Community College and the University of Arizona. These resources provide accessible educational opportunities for families and students at all levels.

Public Schools
Name:
Mission View Elementary School
Street:
2600 S 8th Ave
Phone:
520-225-2300
Students:
280
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Name:
Ochoa Community Magnet School
Street:
101 W 25th St
Phone:
520-225-2400
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9

Private Schools
Name:
St. John the Evangelist Catholic School
Street:
602 W Ajo Way
Phone:
520-624-3865
Students:
170

Colleges
Name:
Pima Community College – Downtown Campus
City:
Tucson
State:
AZ
Distance:
2.5 miles
Students:
11,000
Name:
University of Arizona
City:
Tucson
State:
AZ
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
46,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is supported by nearby major hospitals, such as Banner – University Medical Center Tucson and St. Mary's Hospital. About 74% of residents have health insurance, and physician availability meets national averages, helping to ensure essential medical services are within reach.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner – University Medical Center Tucson
Address:
1501 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85724
Phone:
(520) 694-0111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Mary's Hospital
Address:
1601 W St Mary's Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745
Phone:
(520) 872-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
74.3%
Health Care Index:
65.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Tucson, AZ?
The housing market in South Tucson remains affordable, with a median home price of $118,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $850. Low owner-occupancy rates and a strong annual home appreciation of 8.4% indicate a dynamic, predominantly renter-friendly market.
Median Home Price:
$118,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
19.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents can conveniently handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division, located nearby on S Broadmont Dr in Tucson. The office offers a full range of DMV services both in-person and online for South Tucson locals.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
3565 S Broadmont Dr, Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone:
1-602-255-0072
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.