Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tucson, AZ
Thinking of moving to Tucson, AZ? With a population of over 545,000, Tucson offers affordable living with median home prices around $285,000 and average rents near $1,250. The city enjoys 85% sunny days each year and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Commute times are short (22 minutes), and Tucson is home to the University of Arizona, diverse cultural life, and top hospitals. While crime rates are above national averages, residents benefit from a vibrant community, affordable housing, and abundant sunshine.
Demographics - Tucson, AZ
Demographics - Tucson, AZ
Tucson is home to about 545,000 residents with a median age of 34.6, reflecting a vibrant and youthful community. The city is ethnically diverse, with nearly half the population identifying as non-white and 29% speaking a language other than English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density make it welcoming for individuals and families alike.
Population:
545,340
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
29.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
43.6%
Black:
5.0%
Asian:
3.1%
Others:
48.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tucson, AZ?
Tucson offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value around $285,000 and average rents near $1,250 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, especially for housing and healthcare, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without high expenses. State income taxes remain relatively low, adding to the city's financial appeal.
Median House Value:
$285,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,430
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,520
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.0
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
83.1
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
97.5
Health Care:
92.4
Miscellaneous:
99.0
Crime
Is Tucson, AZ a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Tucson are higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 133 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 31 chance for property crime. While this may be a concern for newcomers, many neighborhoods offer strong community ties and active safety initiatives. Awareness and engagement with local resources can help foster a safer environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
753
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,270
Crime Index:
4,023
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 133
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Tucson, AZ year-round?
Tucson boasts a warm, sunny climate with 85% of days enjoying clear skies and mild winters where temperatures rarely dip below 42°F. Summers can be hot, often exceeding 100°F, but the dry heat and low average rainfall of 12.2 inches per year make outdoor activities enjoyable for much of the year. The consistent sunshine is a major draw for those seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
85°F
Summer
Min:
73°F
Max:
102°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
87°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
85%
Neighbors
Residents in Tucson experience a median household income of about $50,700, with a notable poverty rate of nearly 20%. Educational attainment is solid, with over 87% having completed high school and 29% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most residents enjoy short commutes and a modest cost of living, creating a friendly, accessible atmosphere.
Median Income:
$31,700
Household Income:
$50,700
Family Income:
$63,300
Per Capita Income:
$28,200
Income Male:
$38,100
Income Female:
$32,400
Poverty Rate:
19.7%
Non English Speakers:
29.0%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.7%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.3%
Bachelors or More:
29.4%
Education
How are the schools in Tucson, AZ?
Tucson is an educational hub featuring the University of Arizona and Pima Community College, providing ample opportunities for higher learning. The city’s public and private schools cater to a range of student needs, with well-regarded institutions and strong student-teacher ratios. Families and students benefit from a comprehensive educational environment.
Public Schools
Name:
University High School
Street:
421 N. Arcadia Ave
Phone:
520-232-5900
Students:
1,095
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.0
Name:
Tucson High Magnet School
Street:
400 N. 2nd Ave
Phone:
520-225-5000
Students:
3,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.5
Private Schools
Name:
The Gregory School
Street:
3231 N. Craycroft Rd
Phone:
520-327-6395
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
University of Arizona
City:
Tucson
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
49,400
Name:
Pima Community College
City:
Tucson
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
21,600
Healthcare
Tucson offers robust healthcare services, anchored by major hospitals like Banner – University Medical Center and Tucson Medical Center, both providing comprehensive emergency care. With 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% health insurance coverage, the city ensures quality medical access. Its healthcare index reflects generally positive outcomes and resources for residents.
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:
Tucson Medical Center
Address:
5301 E. Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712
Phone:
(520) 327-5461
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.8%
Health Care Index:
70.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tucson, AZ?
The housing market in Tucson is accessible, with median home prices at $285,000 and rent for a two-bedroom apartment averaging $1,250. A majority of homes are owner-occupied and the city has a healthy rental vacancy rate of 7.3%, making it attractive for both buyers and renters. Home values have seen a steady appreciation, adding to the market’s long-term appeal.
Median Home Price:
$285,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.8%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Tucson residents are served by the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located on Camino del Rio. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing and vehicle registration, with additional resources available online and by phone. This accessibility helps streamline moving and settling in the city.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
3939 W. Camino del Rio, Tucson, AZ 85741
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.