Tucson, AZ Community Information

In addition to vacationers, a significant number of winter residents, or what locals call, 'snowbirds,' are attracted by Tucson's mild winters and affordable housing. The median home price in Tucson is $243,000. Snowbirds often purchase second homes in Tucson and nearby areas, contributing significantly to the property tax base and local economy. Other snowbirds and perpetual travelers can be seen in large numbers arriving in autumn in large RV's towing small cars.

Expansive and covering a large area, this beautiful metropolis is home to many distinct neighborhoods. Downtown Tucson is undergoing a revitalization effort by city planners and the business community. The primary project is Rio Nuevo, a large retail and community center that has been in planning for more than 10 years. The area is divided into the Presidio District, Convention District and the Congress Street Arts and Entertainment District.

As one of the oldest parts of town, Central Tucson is anchored by the Broadway Village shopping center designed by local architect Josias Joesler at the intersection of Broadway Boulevard and Country Club Road. The 4th Avenue Shopping District, between downtown, the university and the Lost Barrio neighborhood, is also know for its unique and popular stores.

North Tucson includes the urban neighborhoods of Amphitheater and Flowing Wells. Many of the city's most upscale boutiques, restaurants and art galleries are located in this area.

Also on the north side is the suburban community of Catalina Foothills, located in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains just north of the city limits. This community includes among the area's most expensive homes, commonly multimillion dollar estates. The Foothills area is generally defined as north of River Road, east of Oracle Road and west of Sabino Creek. Some of the area's major resorts are located in the Catalina Foothills, including the Hacienda Del Sol, Westin La Paloma Resort and Canyon Ranch Resort. La Encantada, an upscale outdoor shopping mall, is also in the Foothills. The foothills area is home to Tohono Chul Park, a botanical garden near the intersection of Oracle Road and Ina.

Many young families in recent years have headed out to northwest side of Tucson, where master-planned communities such as Continental Ranch (Marana), Dove Mountain (Marana), and Rancho Vistoso (Oro Valley) are located. The area has experienced rapid growth and is the home to thousands of new residents. From the forested flanks of Mount Lemmon to the rolling foothills of Saguaro National Park, this gorgeous Southwest city offers picturesque landscapes and affordable homes. So start your Tucson real estate search today!

Sources and more information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tucson,_Arizona
http://www.tucsonaz.gov/index.php
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-807497-tucson_tucson-i;_ylt=AnCO16gvFByvbZQItAzAc6s1FmoL