Why Tucson is a Must-Visit Destination: Food, Culture, and Scenic Beauty
Moving to Tucson – Tips for Enjoying Year-Round Sunshine and Rich History
According to the Southwest Journal, Tucson, drawn by the Wild West, offers great food, sports, and a rich history. Its name means “at the foot of the black hill,” referring to Sentinel Peak. The city’s beautiful desert views, unique neighborhoods, and love for arts and books, showcased by the Tucson Festival of Books and the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, make it a vibrant destination. Tucson’s Sonoran-style Mexican food, including enchiladas and cactus tacos, earned it the UNESCO “Capital of Gastronomy” title. Enjoy year-round outdoor activities in the warm, sunny weather, but prepare for hot summers by staying hydrated. Here are some tips for a smooth move to Tucson, the Old Pueblo.
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(PHOTO: StorageCafe)
Car Registration
When moving to Tucson, you need to register your car. Arizona law requires it. If you buy a car in Arizona, register it within 15 days. You’ll also need a state driver’s license, which involves showing your ID and passing a vision test.
Job Opportunities in Healthcare
Tucson has many job opportunities, especially in healthcare. Major employers include the University of Arizona, the City of Tucson, IBM, Honeywell Aerospace, and Ventana Medical Systems. The leisure and hospitality sectors also employ many people.
Best Neighborhoods
Tucson has many unique neighborhoods:
- El Presidio Historic District: Historic homes, art, and El Charro Café.
- Armory Park: Old Homes and the Tucson Children’s Museum.
- Sam Hughes: Close to the University of Arizona, with many shops and restaurants.
- Dove Mountain: Golf community in Marana.
- Catalina Foothills: Beautiful views and upscale amenities.
Cost of Living
Moving to Tucson’s cost of living is lower than the national average. Some typical expenses include:
- Rent: $906 per month
- House Value: $66,680
- Utilities: $292 per month
- Childcare: $525 per month
- Gasoline: $2.48 per gallon
- Eggs: $2.51 per dozen
- Milk: $2.34 per gallon
- Dinner for Two: $52
Getting Around
A car is useful when moving to Tucson. Major roads include Interstate 10 and Interstate 19. Public transit options include Suntran buses and the Sun Link Streetcar. Tucson is also bike-friendly, with lots of sunshine for year-round cycling.
Education
The Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) has many public schools. The city is home to the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, among others.
Climate
If you move to Tucson, you’ll experience a warm climate, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F. Tucson has two distinct summer seasons: a dry period from April to June and a monsoon season that continues until August, bringing occasional heavy rains. Winters are mild, typically ranging from 65° to 75°F during the day.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Tucson promotes solar energy. Many businesses and residents use solar power. The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base has the largest solar capacity in the U.S., and the University of Arizona also supports green energy.
Water Management
Water is incredibly important in Tucson. The city carefully sources its water from Avra Valley and takes extra steps to recycle used water through the Central Arizona Project Aqueduct. This thoughtful approach ensures that Tucson can manage its precious water resources effectively, even in the desert.
Desert Wildlife
Moving to Tucson is home to a fascinating array of wildlife, from coyotes and deer to mountain lions and even jaguars. For a change of scenery, Mount Lemmon provides a refreshing environment with its cool streams and pine trees. Bird watchers will especially love the area, as it’s a haven for a wide variety of birds.
Book Lovers’ City
Tucson is known for its love of books. The University of Arizona contributes to this reputation. The city hosts the Tucson Festival of Books, one of the largest in the country.
Arts Scene
Moving to Tucson has a lively arts scene, with theater groups, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, and Broadway-style shows. The Tucson Fringe Festival in January features non-traditional performances.
Food Scene
Moving to Tucson’s food scene includes Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine and unique dishes like cactus tacos. UNESCO named Tucson a “Capital of Gastronomy” for its blend of Native American, Spanish colonial, and Mexican border cuisines.
Cultural Festivals
Tucson celebrates many cultural festivals, including the “All Souls Procession,” honoring the Day of the Dead. Thousands of people participate, showing Tucson’s rich cultural heritage.Enjoy Tucson’s culture, landscapes, and friendly community as you start your new adventure.
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