Arizona’s second city: a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, home to the University of Arizona, Saguaro National Park and Mount Lemmon.
Population: about 547,000 · Vibe: Laid-back, artsy, authentic · Best for: Value, culture, university, outdoors
Tucson feels more relaxed than Phoenix, with a strong arts scene, deep Mexican-American heritage, and mountains on every side. It’s a favorite of retirees, creatives and military families at Davis-Monthan AFB.
Highlights
- Saguaro National Park (east and west)
- Mount Lemmon, 20–30 degrees cooler
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Sonoran food, from Sonoran hot dogs to fine dining
- Fourth Avenue and downtown
Moving to Tucson
Tucson homes generally cost less than in metro Phoenix. Electric is TEP, and emissions testing applies in the Tucson metro area.
New to Arizona? Start with The Complete Guide to Moving to Arizona, then see Best Places to Live.
Get Your Personal Arizona Move Plan
Tell a local Arizona Realtor where you’re coming from and what matters to you. You’ll get a custom plan back: the 3 cities that fit you best, real home and rent prices, school notes, and a step-by-step moving timeline.
- Best-fit cities & neighborhoods for your budget
- Rent-vs-buy math for your situation
- License, utilities & registration checklist
- Off-market & new-build options before you arrive
Craig Citizen, REALTOR® · West USA Realty · Free, no obligation