Tucson Neighborhoods
The Tucson Valley contains a wide variety of historic adobes, modern single-family homes, tightly knit townhouse communities and various other neighborhoods. Below are some of my favorite and the more recognized neighborhoods throughout the valley, divided into geographic areas followed by golf communities and retirement living.
To narrow your viewing to a specific area, please select a general area from the following list:
Catalina Foothills includes 3 country clubs, many gated communities and homes often views of the Tucson valley and/or up-close-and-personal views of the 9000+ foot high Santa Catalina Mountains.
Central Tucson is where you'll find historic neighborhoods and places you close to downtown Tucson and the Convention Center, the University of Arizona and the University Medical Center. The quick commute will save gas and there is a public transportation option.
NorthWest Tucson, including Oro Valley and Marana just doesn't stop growing -- next on the horizon is a Ritz Carlton and two new golf courses. This is the home of Sahuaro Ranch, Dove Mountain, Rancho Vistoso, Honey Bee Estates and La Reserve.
NorthEast Tucson offers the lush Tanque Verde and Agua Caliente areas, acreage with horse facilities and also provides for a quick drive to Mt. Lemmon
East Tucson reaches to the Rincon Mountains
SouthEast Tucson, including Vail is a developing area including family subdivisions as well as ranch land, horse property and wide open spaces
West Tucson begins west of I-10 and continues up into the Tucson mountains
Golf Communities in some cases include a resort and/or a country club and in all cases provide a dream location for the golf enthusiasts -- or for those just enjoying the green verdant environment
Adult Communities can be located throughout the Tucson Valley and provide a variety of recreation, activities and housing choices.
In the Catalina foothills area,
on the north side of Tucson, gorgeous homes are scattered across
the foothills of the majestic Catalina Mountain range. The
sweeping panoramas and lush desert vegetation make this area truly
beautiful. Views of the mountains and the valley below are available
from many of the home sites. In the prestigious foothills area
there is a variety of home choices ranging from apartments, town homes,
patio homes and single-family homes. Below are some of the larger
of the over 400 unique neighborhoods found in the Catalina Foothills.
Alta Vista – This is a geographically large
area with plenty of existing and buildable properties. It is located
between Craycroft on the west and Kolb Road on the east, Craycroft on
the north where it curves around to Ventana Canyon on Kolb. This
neighborhood is recognized for its large lots with spectacular city and
mountain views. Homes range from approximately $400,000 to
$3,000,000. Expect good views -- city lights and/or an "up close"
view of the Catalinas. The area feeds into Ventana Vista Elementary,
Esperero Middle School and Catalina Foothills High School. It is close
to Loew's Ventana Canyon Resort Ventana Canyon Country Club.
Catalina Foothills – Encompassing many smaller
neighborhoods, the Catalina Foothills Developments is a diverse and
expansive area running to the east and west of Campbell Avenue between
Sunrise and River Roads. There are townhomes, single-family homes that
range from new construction to historical architecture, including those
built by Josias Joesler. Nearby are resorts, golf courses, shopping and
some of Tucson's finest dining. Catalina Foothills #10 and Camino Real
are two of the notable neighborhoods within this broader grouping. In
the center of the foothills, these neighborhoods are recognized for
their diversity and views.
Cimarron Estates - City lights and/or
spectacular Catalina Mountain views are offered from many of these
ridge top homes. Look for charm and uniqueness in these homes currently
reselling between $275,000 and $800,000. Lots size and age of home vary
in this community of 380 homes. It is located just North of Sunrise
along the West of Craycroft on your way to Alta Vista, Finesterra and
Ventana Canyon and is in Catalina Foothills School District 16.
Cobblestone – This gated community sits at the
top of Campbell Avenue and borders Coronado National Forest land. Homes
are placed on large lots and enjoy up-close mountain and spectacular
city views as well as seclusion from the hustle of the expanding
foothills. Homes are ultra-custom and are priced beginning at
around $750,000. The altitude is 4000 feet at the gatehouse.
Fairfield - No discussion about foothills
neighborhoods would be complete without Fairfield ! For
homeowners in one of the many Fairfield communities, their neighborhood
is almost a religion. Homes are manicured and maintained; they are also
masonry or stucco over masonry. Their style is distinctive and they dot
the hills and valleys between Craycroft and Kolb / River Road and
Sunrise. The neighborhoods are identified with names such as: Fairfield
Sunrise East, Sunrise Presidio East, Sunrise Ridge Townhomes, Sunrise
Territory Estates and Sunrise Mtn View Estates. A 2-bedroom townhome
might still be found for $265,000, but a 4 bedroom single family
residence may also sell for $1,200,000. Many homes have excellent
mountain or city views and homes are positioned to take advantage of
planned common area. And DON'T speed in these neighborhoods --
the homeowners are "on patrol".
Finisterra
– This is a small gated prestigious community (less than 170 homes)
that offers town homes and single-family homes on large lots and
borders Coronado National Forest land. It is located on the west
side of Craycroft Road, approximately 2 miles above Sunrise Drive. The
elevation at the gatehouse is 3800 and residences are even higher
! Finisterra means "the end of the land" and it is! The
Homeowner's Association dues support a community pool, tennis courts,
and large community building for homeowners to use for entertaining.
Like the other Foothills properties, Finisterra also offers city and
mountain views with close proximity to Country Clubs and golf courses.
Townhomes are priced from about $400,000 and single family homes begin
at about $850,000. Finisterra is located in the Catalina Foothills
School District.
Flecha Caida - One of the first foothills
planned neighborhood communities stretching east and west of Swan Road, between River Road and Valley View Road.
Many of the earlier homes have been remodeled and/or updated. Flecha
Caida offers mountain and city views, proximity to clubs, resorts,
shopping and fine dining.
Hacienda del Sol – Hacienda del Sol is a
meandering road reaching from Sunrise to River Road. There is
also the Hacienda del Sol Guest Resort and Restaurant. Hacienda
del Sol is also a grouping of upscale neighborhoods – surrounding the
Resort of the same name and positioned along the length of Hacienda del
Sol road. Some of the individual neighborhoods are gated and lots are
large. Residents partake in breathtaking mountain and city views and
still enjoy proximity to shopping, dining, resorts and Country
Clubs. Most areas feed into Catalina Foothills School District.
La Paloma - At the heart of the La Paloma
community is the prestigious Westin La Paloma Resort and Country Club.
The discriminating home buyer can select from apartments, condominiums,
townhomes, patio homes, and 127 stunning single family residences.
These elegant gated properties are in the heart of the foothills
running on the north and south of Sunrise Drive between Pontatoc and
Campbell Avenue. The resort has access to the challenging Jack Nicholas
27-hole golf course and club membership is private. Prices for
single-family homes begin around $500,000 with some estates in the
$2,500,000 - $3,000,000 range. Townhome prices begin in the mid
$300,000's. Catalina Foothills High School, Sunrise Drive School and
Orange Grove Middle School are the designated schools for this
community.
Las Alturas - This is "central
foothills"! About midway between River Road and Sunrise, only 167 homes
are positioned along the curving, hilly roads; lot sizes range between
.5 and .9 acres. Houses are all custom and vary from two bedroom
to five bedroom. While some homes were built in the mid-80's, two new
homes were just completed. This is a very quiet "destination"
neighborhood. Homes are selling between the high $400,000's up to
$1,200,000. I grew up in mid-town Tucson (yes, I was born here!) and I
always wanted to live between Campbell and Swan / north of River Road;
so, when the time was right, this is where we built our home -- we love
this neighborhood !
Rancho Sin Vacas - Adobe architecture abounds
in picturesque Rancho Sin Vacas (Ranch With Cows). Pride of ownership abounds
in the gated community with walking paths lined by desert vegetation
and rare two hundred years old saguaros. gorgeous southwestern
landscaping, Arizona wildlife, mesquite trees, 24-hour security at the
gate, a fully equipped club house, hot tubs, heated pools, exercise
rooms, palm trees, and all this is located only five minutes from
shopping and dining, and just fifteen minutes to Downtown Tucson and
the University of Arizona. Homes were built from 1982 to present
ranging from $600,000 to $1,500,000 on lots up to 80 acres. Perched
high on hills magnificent city and mountain views
Sabino Mountain
- Just south of the
intersection at Snyder Road and Sabino Canyon an ascending,
mountain-style curing road delivers you to the entrance of Sabino
Mountain -- a two-gated community of several neighborhoods; houses
range from 2000 sqft developer-built (i.e. Monterey) homes to 4000 sqft
custom homes. Lot sizes range from less than .15 acres to nearly an
acre. Homes in this community have been built in the early 2000's and
incorporate high ceilings, large windows and many offer 3-car garages.
Many homes offer incredible views of the Catalinas to the north and
views of the city to the south. Expect to pay between $400,000 and
$2,500,000. There are a few custom home lots
remaining.
Shadow Hills - This is a large family-oriented
neighborhood with views of the Catalina Mountains. It is located just
south of Orange Grove Road between 1st Avenue and Ina Road. The
neighborhood schools are Manzanita Elementary, Orange Grove Middle
School and Catalina Foothills High School.
Skyline Bel Air Estates - Large lots, offering
breathtaking mountain views and many with city views, as well.
Within the neighborhood are a variety of single-family homes, town
homes and apartments. Most of the 470 homes were built between 1960 and
1985, however many have been remodeled or updated. Depending on the
age, size and view, prices range from approximately $400,000 to
$700,000. It is a lively family neighborhood with Olympic size
community pool and tennis court facility maintained by the homeowners
association. Within walking distance to Sunrise Drive Elementary School
and Catalina Foothills and on the bus route to Orange Grove Middle
School.
Skyline Country Club – Just North of Skyline
Drive, off of Swan Road, Skyline Country Club borders the Coronado
National Forest. The 260+ luxury homes sit high above the city for
sweeping city views and mountain splendor. Skyline offers single-family
homes or town homes. It was the first gated golf and country club
community in the foothills. Lots are situated around the 18-hole
mountain golf course. Because some of the homes were built in the early
1960's, prices vary; but, for a large home, new or recently remodeled
with outstanding views, expect to pay over $1,000,000. There is some
new construction in Skyline Country Club -- homeowners are bulldozing
older homes and building fantastic new estates with some of the best
views imaginable! Club membership is not required of residents.
Catalina Foothills High School, Esperero Canyon Middle School and
Sunrise Drive Elementary School are the designated schools for this
community.
Ventana Canyon Estates - Nestled close to
Coronado National Forest, homeowners enjoy spectacular desert habitats
while living in this golf community with private club and 5-Star Loew's
Ventana Canyon Resort. Started in the 1980's, this is one of Tucson's
newer and best foothills residential areas. Ventana Canyon falls
between the Catalina Foothills and Sabino Canyon areas and north of
Sunrise Drive. Home options include townhomes, patio homes, golf
villas, and single-family homes/estates with city and mountain views.
Townhomes are priced beginning in the high $300,000's. Custom,
single family homes can run up to several millions; a few lots with
spectacular views are still available. Membership to the Country Club
is not mandatory of homeowners and is purchased separately.
Central Tucson (aka Midtown) has
its share of outstanding, more diverse, neighborhoods. It is home to
some of Tucson's neighborhoods recognized on the National Historic
Register and also includes new neighborhoods. It is in fact a microcosm
of Tucson. "Parts of it were developed prior to World War II and some
of it is still being developed today," said David Taylor, a city
planner. "It's a mixture of land uses, except industrial." Some of my
favorite "midtown" neighborhoods follow.
Barrio Historico is one of the few neighborhoods to survive the ravages
of modern development. Bounded by Cushing Street on the north,
Stone Avenue on the east, Interstate 10 on the west and 18th Street on
the south – Barrio Historico shelters some of the city's most enigmatic
treasures, such as the historic Drachman and Carrillo elementary
schools and El Tiradito wishing well, a neighborhood shrine to a local
sinner. The barrio's narrow streets are lined with an eclectic
architectural mix of bungalows, territorial, mission and
transformed-Sonoran styles, and even some Pueblo Revival elements. Many
of the current adobe Barrio homes were built in the 1870's or earlier.
The pride and genuine affection of the neighborhood's residents are
evident in the care bestowed upon blossoming yards and fragrant desert
gardens, colorful coats of new and old paint and a general atmosphere
of comfort and community. The neighborhood association sponsors a home
tour once a year--usually in the spring--but visitors can wander at
their leisure throughout the year.
El Encanto - The exclusive El Encanto neighborhood (near El Con Mall at Broadway and Country Club between Broadway and 5th Street) is a series of streets that meander with 140+ homes situated on near-acre lots. Home styles include late 10th and 20th Century Revivals, Modern Movement as well as Spanish, Ranch and territorial styles. El Encanto was developed in the late 1920's and has been referred to as "The Beverly Hills of Tucson". This is an elegant Spanish or Moorish style community laid out along streets that form circles around a central plaza. During the initial development of El Encanto, Mexican fan palms and date palms along with citrus, olive and eucalyptus trees were planted. It has now been entered into the El Encanto Estates Residential Historic District. The homes today generally sell between $600,000 and $1,000,000.
Ft. Lowell - The old Fort Lowell neighborhood has been called a microcosm of southwest history because of the many cultures that are a part of its past – the Hohokam Indians around 300 AD and the US Cavalry in the 1870s and 1880s were early inhabitants. Once the Indian Wars ended and the Cavalry moved out, a small Mexican settlement moved in. This history left behind an area that still reflects the early inhabitants and their building techniques. Mud adobe homes with structural viga beamed ceilings, and Spanish Colonial architecture are common in the area, as well as shady mesquite bosques. The Ft. Lowell area extends from Craycroft to the East and Swan to the West and from Ft. Lowell Road to the south and the Rillito River on the North.
Sam Hughes - Historic bungalows from the '20s
and '30s glow behind carefully landscaped yards. Bounded by Speedway,
Broadway, Campbell Avenue and Country Club Road, Sam Hughes is that
enviable neighborhood where residents are guaranteed a sense of
history, a handy central location and a politically correct address.
Because of its proximity to the University of Arizona, many UA faculty
and staff live in Sam Hughes district. It was named in honor of
Sam Hughes who came to Tucson in 1858 and was an early proponent of a
free public school system. Sam Hughes Elementary School is in the
middle of the neighborhood. In 1994 the neighborhood was added to
the National Register of Historic Places; home styles include Tudor
Revival and Mission/Spanish Revival. It's citrus and palm tree-lined
streets offer a collection of stucco and brick, pansies and palo
verdes, bicycles and baby-joggers. There is a nostalgic '50s sense of
community in the Sam Hughes area. Unlike some of the newer areas of
Tucson, shade is abundant, thanks to mature vegetation. Homestyles
range from tiny bungalows to massive estates – and revitalization,
remodeling and add-ons are prevalent. There are nearly 1750 homes in
the Sam Hughes area with a wide range of prices – from approximately
$100,000 to over $800,000.
Winterhaven – Longing for green lawns?
20-foot evergreens? Streets named "Christmas Avenue"? Look no
farther. Between Country Club and Tucson Boulevards and Ft. Lowell and
Prince Roads lies the neighborhood called
Winterhaven. Perhaps the only succulent-free oasis in the
whole Southwest, its no wonder the nestled neighborhood of Winterhaven,
attracts year-round strollers and Yuletide spirit. For nearly 50 years
it has been best known for the annual Christmas light extravaganza
complete with hot cocoa, carriage rides and all the typical Christmas
caricatures, Winterhaven is a guilty pleasure of lush lawns and
towering pines. Picturesque houses recount Winterhaven's weathered
history. Passersby are bewitched by their unheeding mantra: "Nope, no
desert out here."
NorthWest Tucson
(many communities actually fall into the town of Marana) is one of the
fastest growing areas in Tucson. Family communities, posh upscale golf
and country club communities and retirement communities all blend to
form a dynamic mix. Neighborhoods are near Interstate 10 with quick
access to downtown Tucson, the Tucson International Airport and the
University of Arizona Technology Park to the south, as well as Phoenix
and Sky Harbor Airport to the north. Residences range from $100,000 to
over $1,000,000. Panoramic views of Pusch Ridge at the northwest edge
of the Catalina Mountains and the Tortolita Mountains are absolutely
stunning and are typical in this part of town. Tangerine Crossing,
Butterfly Mountain, and SkyRanch are three more communities that have
been developed in this section within the the 2006 through 2008 decades.
Canada Hills - Represented by several builders, this community is
situated West of La Canada Drive between Naranja Drive and Lambert
Lane. Both one and two story homes are situated on or near sections of
the Conquistador golf course. Homes range from 2900 to 4100 sq ft and
are currently reselling between $275,000 - $900,000. Social and fitness
memberships are available at Conquistador Country Club.
Catalina Shadows - This quiet community sits
southeast of the intersection of 1st Avenue and Tangerine Road.
It is a family community of one and two story homes ranging from
1300 to 2500 sq ft. Current resale pricing ranges between $160,000 to
$265,000. While some flat-roofed Santa Fe style homes are sprinkled
throughout the neighborhood, the majority of homes are
contemporary-Mediterranean with tile roofs; some homes have panoramic
Catalina or Tortolita mountain views.
Copper Creek - Located between Tangerine Road and Naranja Drive and
East of La Canada Drive this family neighborhood of curving streets
represent several builders. Both one and two story single family homes,
with up to five bedrooms range in price from $195,000 to $350,000.
Dove Mountain – This is one of the Tucson
metropolitan area's newest upscale neighborhoods; it is located 25
minutes northwest of Tucson. Some of the custom lots sell for as much
as $1.1 million; custom homes range from $900,000 to over $2,000,000;
semi-custom homes are between $500,000 and $800,000; golf cottages and
villas begin around $500,000; and, builder homes begin at about
$200,000. Heritage Highlands, an active adult community is also located
within the greater Dove Mountain area -- complete with its own golf
course and community center. Custom homes are nestled into canyons of
the Tortolita Mountains, views are far-reaching – from city lights to
far off mountain ranges. The 18-hole, championship golf course, called
The Gallery, is receiving endorsements. This is also the newly
announced home for the Ritz Carlton as well as two new Jack
Nicklaus-design golf courses -- one of which will debut with the 2009
Accenture Match Play Championship. Additional information can be found
at http://www.dovemountain.com/
La Reserve - Located on the western slope of
the Catalina Mountains, this gated community offers custom homes,
semi-custom homes built by several builders. Some lots have incredible
views of the rugged, dramatic mountain vistas. Homes range in size from
1600 to 4500 sq ft and are priced between $250,000 to $1,500,000.
Memberships for use of pool and tennis at the Hilton-Conquistador hotel
are available. Located just outside the gates of La Reserve is a
condo-conversion project.
Oro Valley Country Club - Town houses as well
as custom homes are clustered around the Oro Valley Country Club;
prices range between $150,000 to mid $900,000's. Some homes were built
n the 1970's; other homes and town homes were built more recently.
Rancho Vistoso – Oro Valley is home to the
master planned community of Rancho Vistoso. Located 20 minutes from the
City of Tucson, Rancho Vistoso is comprised of 7,750 acres of lush
desert vegetation with expansive views of both the Tortolita Mountain
and Catalina Mountain ranges. The elevation is close to 3,000 feet
which makes the climate a few degrees cooler than Tucson; views of the
Santa Catalina and Tortilita Mountain ranges are showcased from many
lots in the community. Several builders are represented, such as KB
Homes, US Homes, Monterey Homes, and Pepper Viner. In addition to the
housing, the communities 7,750 acres includes two shopping centers,
banks, churches, medical and professional offices as well as golf
courses. Rancho Vistoso is one of the newest large-scale golf
communities in Southern Arizona. Rancho Vistoso Golf Club is earning
rave reviews from Golf Magazine and Golf Digest. When completed, Rancho
Vistoso is planning two or more destination resorts. A Four Star resort
is planned in the near future. A wide selection of housing styles are
available: resort casitas, town houses, one and two story single family
homes, custom estate homes, and a Continuing Care Retirement community.
Current resale pricing is from $175,000 (casitas) to over $2,500,000
(custom estates).
Saguaro Ranch - Approach Saguaro Ranch through a 700-ft long tunnel
carved through solid rock separating this unique 1,035-acre community
from the outside world. Saguaro Ranch (named for the cactus dubbed "the
monarch of the Sonoran desert") offers 180 four- to five-acre
homesites. The custom homes will comprise only 20 percent of the total
community allowing the unspoiled beauty of the Sonoran Desert to
provide stunning surroundings and secluded tranquilty. Though just a
short drive from downtown Tucson, Dramatic views of the surrounding
Santa Catalina Mountains, Santa Rita Mountains, Tucson Mountains, and
Tortolita Mountain Park are available throughout Saguaro Ranch.
Stone Canyon - Stone Canyon is an exclusive,
private and gated pristine community of 1400 acres located at the end
of Vistoso Highlands Drive nestled deep within the Tortolita Mountains.
Distinctive custom properties range from one to five acres, offering
impressive views of the Catalina Mountains and city lights of Tucson.
At completion, approximately 700 home sites will be available ranging
from between $225,000 to $1,500,000. Along the western edge of Stone
Canyon, a new neighborhood of 43 custom homes, Tuscan Estates,
ranging between $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 offer four models from which
to choose. Incorporated within and winding through the community is a
Signature Design May Morrish 18-hole golf course which was completed
February 2000. Memberships will be limited to 390. On November 2004,
the 9000 sq ft state-of-the-art Swim, Tennis and Fitness Center held
it's grand opening.
The Estates at Honey Bee Ridge - A few custom
home sites are still available in this exclusive gated community --
ranging in price from $275,000 to $415,000. The development
consists of only 128 custom home sites on Silver Cloud Drive accessible
off of Rancho Vistoso Boulevard. All homes will be single story ranging
from 3600 to 5300 sq ft, lot sizes are a minimum of one acre and design
guidelines will keep 75% of the development pristine and untouched.
Homes are selling for between $1,300,000 and $4,000,000. The Estates at
Honeybee Ridge is the only development outside of Stone Canyon eligible
to offer Stone Canyon memberships to the new private 18-hole
championship golf course designed by Jay Morrish at the Stone Canyon
Club.
Vistosa Resort Casitas - Located just off Rancho Vistosa Boulevard, the Vistoso Resort Casitas offer resort-style living with community pool and spa, BBQ, putting green, and fitness center. The casitas are located around the Vistoso Golf Course. Home owner association fees include cable, water, sewer, garbage collection, building insurance, maintenance and landscaping. Larger units (3 bedroom
NorthEast Tucson:
This section of Tucson exploded in the 60's and 70's; consequently at
that time in Tucson, land was plentiful, and sprawling ranch style
homes were in vogue. Closeness to the Catalina and the northern area of
the Rincon mountain ranges have encouraged the development of horse
properties and "unsubdivided" housing. The lush Tanque Verde and rugged
Reddington Pass are found in this sector. "In fill" and
developments stretching toward the mountains have completed the housing
inventory in northeast Tucson.
Forty Niners Country Club Estates - Wrapping
around the upscale semi-private golf club and facility, these
estate homes are positioned on meandering streets among mature stands
of mesquite, giant cottonwood, eucalyptus and weeping willow
trees. Views of the lush green golf course and Catalina and
Rincon Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for these homes built
beginning in the mid-60's all the way through the early 2000's -- quite
a diversity. Brick, block, stucco; flat roofs, tile roofs; lush yards
w/mature vegetation and desert xeriscape landscapes mingle together
throughout this community located off of east Tanque Verde Road. Houses
range from 2500 sq ft to 4000 sq ft on lots from ½ to ¾ acre. Prices
reflect the age of the home, it's size, and its views.
La Cebadilla Estates - Way out East !
Large homes and estates, large acreage, large views. This is "cowboy
country" complete with hiking and riding trails. Homes are
strategically placed among gigantic boulders and towering sahuaros.
This is the setting of Wild West films. But, don't expect homes to be
rustic and without style -- far from it! While you can find some
charming abodes, many of the estates offer spaciousness, wide open
living and the most luxurious of details.
Lakes at Castle Rock - Behind the gates
(in fact there are two entrances) along Tanque Verde Road, lies a
Tucson surprise -- lakes in the desert. Some homes actually have
water-front property. Meandering streets lead from one
builder-developed mini-subdivision to another.
Sabino Springs - Arranged around the greens and
fairways of the Arizona National Golf Club, these homes and estates
range from seasonal second homes to expansive estates -- there are even
casitas for the very short-term visitor. This is the home of the
University of Arizona golf team -- premier Pac-10 and NCAA championship
contenders. The setting is incredible -- a lush golf course abutting
national forest with the stately Santa Catalina mountains forming the
backdrop. And, if you are eager to visit Summerhaven Ski Valley (the
southern most ski lift in the United States), you are positioned for a
quick trek up dramatic Catalina Highway.
Tucson Country Club Estates - Situated around
the golf course and club house, these estates reflect grace and
elegance. Building began in the mid-50's and driving through the
meandering, peaceful streets there are still some 50's-era homes
remaining -- surrounded by towering, mature green vegetation and yards.
Quite a site to behold! These are estates -- 4,000 sqft homes, many
with guest quarters, and 1 acre lots are not uncommon. The location and
reputation of Tucson Country Club is so respected, that as some of the
older homes are resold, they are being totally remodeled -- in some
cases, from the ground up. To encourage longevity of the green
landscape, homeowners can choose to have two plumbing systems -- one
for drinking water, the other for maintenance of their lawns and
vegetation.
East Tucson: I have not yet completed the neighborhoods for this section of Tucson
Silverado Hills - Close to the Saguaro National
Monument-East with views of the Catalina and Rincon Mountains. The
community is located on about 500 acres and consists of 9 sub-divisions
for a total of 804 homes. Forty percent of the community is dedicated
to open space providing wildlife corridors to help protect indigenous
animal species and nataive vegetation. Wide, curving short roads with
an abundance of cul-de-sacs help to maintaina the beauty of this area.
SouthEast Tucson:
Before reaching the Saguaro National Monument-East, the ranches of
Patagonia and Sonoita, the intrigue of Kartchner Caverns, or the
booming growth of Benson, the communities comprising SE Tucson are
accessed via either Old Spanish Trail or Interstate-10.
Surrounded by the southern edge of the Rincon Mountains, the Santa
Rita's and the Patagonia and Huachuca mountains, this area of the
Tucson valley enjoys expansive vistas and quick access to the UA
Technology Park and a comfortable drive to Davis Monthan Air Force Base
and Tucson International Airport. Housing ranges from planned
subdivisions to custom ranch estates.
Civano – This unique community is designed to
take advantage of our warm western sun and warm western hospitality.
Civano energy-efficient homes feature the latest technology, designed
to use 50% less energy for heating and cooling than a typical home of
the same size. Reflecting the natural colors of the desert and the rich
history and environment of Southern Arizona, these uniquiely styled
homes offer great floor plans and quality construction. Front porches
encourage relaxation; front yards and porches as well as access to
community walking paths, encourage residents to get to know their
neighbors! It is perfect for families - located in the desirable Vail
School District.
Coyote Creek - Coyote Creek, carefully nestled
in the foothills of the Rincon Mountains, is a master-planned
development combining contemporary metropolitan living with quiet
desert open space. Homesites offer a unique blend of privacy and
community. Uncompromising views of the Rincon Mountains, Saguaro
National Park and the city of Tucson have been meticulously
preserved. Planned to incorporate the existing desert
environment, Coyote Creek offers the discerning homeowner boundless
recreational opportunities. The Equestrian Center offers excellent
amenities for residents with horses. The Center is a beautiful,
contemporary facility, complete with stables, workout rings and a show
arena. There are 395 homesites ranging in size from one to four
acres.
Rancho del Lago – With the Rincon Mountains
providing the spectacular backdrop, this community, representing a wide
range of home builders - such as A.F. Sterling, Richmond America,
Pepper-Viner, and Pulte - includes an 18-hole golf course and offers
K-12 education in the award-winning Vail School District. At an
elevation of 3,400 feet, it averages 5 degrees cooler than Tucson
during the summer months. Homes are spacious and are predominantly of
Santa Fe, Territorial or Mission style. Prices range from $200,000 to
the mid-$400,000's.
Rita Ranch – Located in southeast Tucson just
off I-10 and Houghton Road, the master-planned community of Rita Ranch
is comprised of desert-colored homes designed to blend with the
serenity of the surrounding desert landscape. As rumor goes, the land
originally belonged to Howard Hughes and he named the area after Rita
Hayworth. Homes are affordable ranging from $225,000 to $375,000.
West Tucson:
The west side of Interstate-10, adjacent to "downtown" Tucson and
encompassing the communities dotted across the Tucson mountains is
rapidly becoming a popular housing destination. The addition of the JW
Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa enhanced the growth of this
diverse area. Many of the homes in this sector are in "unsubdivided"
areas (i.e. not in a subdivision). Community names such as Saguaro
Cliffs, Quail Ridge and Tohono Ridge appropriately define the
landscape. With proximity to the government and legal center of
downtown Tucson, as well as convenience to the University of Arizona
and Interstate 10, this area has been discovered!
Rancho Agua Dulce and Agua Dulce – Behind the gates, several builders converged to create a community of wide, curving streets, strategically placed common areas and several community pools. Home styles range from Santa Fe to 2-story southwestern and are situated on lots between .11 acre to .8 acres. Homes were built between the late 90's to early 2000's and range between 1280 sqft to 3000 sqft.
StarPass – This "community" consists of many
individual subdivisions and is comprised of condos, patio homes,
private residences and custom estates. This is one area of Tucson where
a singular "view" can consist of the both "the lights of Tucson" with
the Catalina Mountains providing the backdrop -- quite a site.
Homes are strategically arranged throughout the hilly terrain and range
in price from $175,000 to over $1,000,000. Custom home sites up to 3.3
acres, include Coyote Pass and the Estates at Starr Pass - each is
situated above the city with captivating views during the day and at
night. Residents enjoy the ultimate lifestyle – from a most beautiful
location, to hiking, biking and access to championship golf just
outside their doorsteps.
Trails End - Private, protected and part
of nature -- almost the "end of the trail". These estates are custom
built beauties with expansive views of the valley and mountain boulders
just out your window. Live with nature on these multi-acred, million
dollar homes.
Tucson Mountain Park - These homes in this
small gated community are a compromise between Trails End and Agua
Dulce. Mostly built within the last decade, these custom homes are on
large 1 to 3 acre lots and range in price from between $700,000 and
several million. The terrain is hilly, and like Trails End, views,
nature and privacy are abundant.
SouthWest Tucson:
The volume of new housing in SW Tucson since 2000 has been astounding.
New subdivisions are expanding across this rolling desert terrain from
I-19 on the east along Highway 86, Valencia and Irvington Roads to the
south and west. Affordable housing is actually available within 20
minutes of downtown and the Tucson International Airport; and if Casino
gaming is of interest, you can't get much closer!
Star Valley - This master planned community,
off of Valencia and west of Interstate 19 offers single family
residences by several builders - Richmond American, US Home/Lennar to
name a few. Nearby are the communities of Camino Verde and Eagle Point.
A future resort and golf course are discussed as additions to the
nearby casino; shopping venues will soon be developed. Expect to find 2
to 4 bedroom homes -- with nice sized back yards -- at an economical
price. A percentage of land has been set aside for common area and
parks.
Midvale Park, Midvale Terrace, Midvale . . .
- Located east of Interstate 19 and south of Irvington Road, the
various Midvale communities offer a wide variety of affordable housing.
Various builders, building over the last 15 years, have created several
neighborhoods of single family residences supported by local schools
and shopping.
Golf Communities
Imagine this - - - your backyard is an expanse of manicured green lawn,
stretching almost as far as the eye can see. Here and there, the scene
is broken with rows of trees or natural desert. An occasional
roadrunner or covey of quail perches atop your patio wall. The nicest
part of it? You don't need to worry about mowing the grass,
trimming the bushes, or cleaning the debris.
This is the setting for thousands of residents who have homes situated
on the golf course in one of the numerous golf communities dotting the
Tucson-area landscape.
While golf may be the focus of these communities, many non-golfers are
also attracted to the amenities that are included – such as spacious
club houses for residents and guests to use for dining, card games,
fitness classes or recreation. There are also swimming pools and/or tennis
courts.
There are many Country Club golf communities that dot the Tucson
valley. Most are designed for the private use of the residents and
their guests, but some are semi-private, as indicated below. Further
explanation about the golf courses can be found at the link below.
Arizona National (formerly The Raven) - Private
El Conquistador – Private
Forty-Niners (49ers) – Private
Gallery at Dove Mountain - Private
Heritage Highlands- Private
La Paloma - Private
Oro Valley - Private
Rancho Vistoso - Public
SaddleBrooke – Semi-Private
Skyline - Private
Starr Pass – Semi-Private
Stone Canyon - Private
Sun City Vistoso Golf Club - Private
Tucson Country Club Estates – Private
Tucson National – Semi-Private
Ventana Canyon - Private
Visit http://www.dotucson.com/visit.asp?qry=999 to see a map depicting the location of golf courses in and near Tucson.
Adult Communities
With our abundant sunshine and reasonable cost of living, Tucson has
traditionally been a favorite destination of retirees, or more lovingly
called "snow birds". Many spend from 3 to 5 months over the
fall/winter/spring and return to their northern or eastern homes for
the summer months. Others, however, have permanently relocated to
Tucson. "Retirement Places Rated, Sixth Edition," by David Savageau
rates Tucson as the 6th out of 203 rated locations based on criteria
such as ambiance, costs of living, climate, personal safety (crime),
services, and the economy. While many of the communities listed
in other categories are excellent for both the part-time and permanent
seasonal/vacation/retirement resident, Tucson has several designated
"adult" communities. Also, Green Valley, approximately 25 miles
south of Tucson, is an adult but not age-restricted town.
In selecting the adult community just right for you, here are some items to consider.
| Infrastructure / water / utilities |
Have
the infrastructure and water sources kept pace with the area's growth?
How is the water quality? Who provides water, electricity, gas, and
sewage treatment? Police and fire protection? |
| Location / traffic | Is
it close to shopping, healthcare and other services, entertainment,
recreation, and an airport? How congested are the streets and highways
in the surrounding area?
|
| Nuisance factors | Are there nearby sources of air pollution, noise, excessive dust, smoke, or offensive odors?
|
| Recreation amenities | Does
the property offer the types of amenities you want? Who will own the
golf courses, pools, and recreation centers after buildout -- residents
or the developer?
|
| Security / CC&R | What's
the crime rate in the area? Ask to see the Covenants, Conditions,
and Restrictions (the unique set of rules that govern each adult
property).
|
| Taxes | How much are sales and property taxes? Any new schools or major public works projects planned?
|
Academy Village at Rocking K Ranch - The
residences at Academy Village are southwestern in style and offered
with Mediterranean tiled roofs as an option. It is part of the
3,000-acre Rocking-K Ranch master-planned community in the Rincon
Valley, southeast of Tucson. The Academy Village is a retirement
community that appeals to "endlessly active" minds. The community
Learning Center is a popular amenity. Members of the Academy may attend
lectures, participate in discussion groups, improve on a favorite
activity and enjoy concerts and other artistic performances. They also
have access to The University of Arizona library and communication
technology. Eight floor plans are available and prices range from
$148,500 for a townhome to over $300,000 for a single family home.
Read more about Academy Village: http://www.theacademyvillage.com/
Heritage Highlands is set at the base of
the Tortolita Mountains, just north of Tucson, AZ. The landscape is
lush and green, dotted with the majestic saguaro cactus and a profusion
of wildflowers in the spring. This is the high Sonoran Desert, known
for its stark beauty, expansive vistas and abundance of native
vegetation and wildlife. With the mountains as a backdrop, the view in
all directions from Heritage Highlands is remarkable. Amenities include
a large clubhouse, bar and grill, fitness center, library, heated pool,
arts and crafts center, tennis courts and the jewel in the crown – the 18-Hole
Championship Golf Course. To learn more, visit:
http://www.heritagehighlands.com/
Saddlebrook, located north of Tucson, was
developed by Robson Communities, a builder of master-planned
subdivisions throughout the West. It is a large community of over 5000
homes with another 1000 under construction. The subdivision is tucked
away northwest of the Santa Catalina Mountains approximately 14 miles
north of Ina Road. It has incredible mountain views plus a huge
clubhouse (and one more being built), championship golf courses (45
holes), 14 tennis courts, swimming, lovely dining, arts and crafts,
activities and more. To learn more, visit:
http://www.robson.com/cgi-bin/foxweb.exe/robsonfox/programs/pagegen?pageid=332
Vistoso Village, a Hughes Development, is
located within the Rancho Vistoso planned community. This gated
neighborhood consists of 269 homes and offers a rec center with pool,
lap pool, spa, billiards, fitness center, and club house facilities.
Sun City Vistoso was developed by Del Webb, one of the largest builders
of retirement communities in the West. Begun in 1987, it was completed
in 1997. It is nestled in Oro Valley (estimated 2002 population of
32,500) a northwest suburb of Tucson, adjacent to and part of the 7,750
acre master-planned community of Rancho Vistoso.
Sun City Vistoso is an
adult community oriented towards the active adult. Views of
Catalina and Tortolita Mountain ranges can be seen from most lots in
the community. There are recreational facilities which host social
functions, billiards, a library, a gym, an 18-hole golf course, tennis,
basketball, swimming and more. The community comprises 1,000 acres with
a population of nearly 4,500. The golf course uses 150 acres, 350
acres are left as "green" or natural area and the balance of 500 acres
are built with homes. There are approximately 2,500 home sites.
To learn more, visit: http://www.suncity-vistoso.com/
Sunflower is a one-of-a-kind Del Webb community
with less than 1000 homes. Located in Marana's Continental Ranch
master-planned community, it also offers breathtaking views of the
Santa Catalina, the Tortolita Mountains and Sombrero Peak. Sunflower is
convenient to shopping, hospital facilities and all of the outstanding
Tucson attractions. Sunflower is approximately 15 minutes from downtown
Tucson. More about this new community:
http://www.delwebb.com/activeadult/arizona/sunflower/index.shtml
http://www.retirenet.com/arizona/index.html
