The area now known as Downtown Tucson, where skyscrapers sit in the shadow of five different mountain ranges, has been inhabited for thousands of years. Prior to the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the late 1600s, Tucson was home to the Hohokam Indians, who cultivated the land between the Santa Cruz and Rillito Rivers. This fertile region — along with the rest of Arizona and New Mexico — officially became a part of the United States after the 1854 Gadsden Purchase. In the decades that followed, Tucson was like something out of an old Hollywood Western. One of the era’s most famous shoot-outs happened at the O.K. Corral just an hour’s drive from the city, and a theme park known as Old Tucson, located in Tucson Mountain Park, gives modern-day visitors a taste of the Wild Wild West. “Tucson has been a mecca for a lot of historic movies,” says Nicole Brule-Fisher with RE/MAX Professionals, a Tuscon native who’s worked in real estate for over 20 years. “We also have some wonderful, wonderful historic ranches and resorts where people like Eleanor Roosevelt have stayed,” she adds. Arizona State University, a four-year research institution with an undergraduate population of over 40,000, is located on the outskirts of the city center, and residents are a walk away from art museums, large-scale entertainment venues and world-class restaurants. 8-foot-tall cacti, meanwhile, are a short drive north in Saguaro National Park.
Historic homes on Main Avenue in Downtown Tucson dazzle walkers.
Downtown Tucson is easily walkable, with a variety of shopping, dining, and nightlife.
1/2
Lofts, condominiums and single-family homes to the south
In Downtown Tucson, prospective buyers will find mostly lofts and condominiums, some of which have balconies looking out onto the city. A 2,200-square-foot Broadway Boulevard unit, for instance, can sell for upwards of $900,000. Rentals, meanwhile, are available in large-scale apartment buildings throughout the downtown area and come with community amenities like fitness rooms and rooftop decks. Single-family homes are found to the south of Downtown Tucson in Barria Viejo, which means “old neighborhood” in Spanish. Here, adobe and Mission-inspired properties can date back to the 19th century and typically hover between $400,000 and $700,000 depending on bedroom count. Lot sizes are relatively compact, generally under 9,000 square feet, and front yards are decorated with gravel and cacti rather than grass.
RendezVous Urban Flats (apts)
Vibrant Barrio-style casitas border the Downtown Tucson neighborhood.
1/2
A mix of global cuisines within walking distance
“Tucson is the first City of Gastronomy designated in the United States,” says Brule-Fishe, adding, “Our foodie culture is incredibly rich and deep dating back thousands of years.” In Downtown Tucson residents have their pick of cuisines — everything from vegan burgers to handmade pasta is within walking distance for most. Stop by Bata for an ever-changing menu inspired by seasonal produce. Meanwhile, Batch on East Congress Street pairs fresh-made donuts with a boutique whiskey collection. Bombolé is an Indian and Mexican fusion restaurant a few blocks away; stop by to try their matar paneer empanadas. Brule-Fishe also recommends Cup Cafe. “It’s at the historic Hotel Congress where John Dillinger was captured,” she notes.
When it comes time for groceries, Johnny Gibson’s Downtown Market provides fresh fish, meats and produce to Tucson residents. Or stop by Safeway or Whole Foods for larger hauls. Big box retailers like Walmart and Target can also be found in El Con Center 4 miles east along Broadway Boulevard and the Tucson Mall to the north houses over 170 retailers.
Try one of over 1,100 different whiskeys at Batch Whiskey and be sure to visit the speakeasy!
Pick up groceries and dinner to go at Johny Gibsons Downtown Market.
1/2
Visual arts, live theater and outdoor markets
The Tucson Museum of Art, the city’s convention center and a children’s museum are all within walking distance for downtown residents. The art museum is free to visit on the first Thursday evening and second Sunday of every month and houses a large collection of indigenous works. In early spring, stop by an outdoor artisan market organized by the TMA Museum Store where over 100 local makers sell their wares under the cover of tents. The Tucson Convention Center, meanwhile, serves as home base for the University of Arizona’s hockey team as well as the Tucson Road Runners. Nearby, The Linda Ronstadt Music Hall (named after the famed singer and Tucson native) hosts touring musicians and comedians. Of course, there’s also the Rialto Theatre, a Tucson staple since 1919. The space once hosted Vaudeville shows and screened silent movies; these days, it serves as one of the city’s premiere indoor concert venues.
See your favorite band perform at the Rialto Theatre in Downtown Tucson.
The Linda Ronstadt Music Hall in Downtown Tucson fills with entertainers year-round.
Vendors sell a variety of foods freshly made at Tucson Meet Yourself.
1/3
Miles of hiking trails, an old Hollywood film set and horseshoe pits in local parks
Tucson Mountain Park, which was established in the late 1920s and spans over 20,000 acres, is located just about 7 miles west of the city’s downtown. Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders can make use of the 60-plus miles of rugged trails; make sure to pack plenty of water. The Saguaro cacti may be tall, but they don’t provide much relief from the mid-day heat. Within Tucson Mountain Park is Old Town Tucson, a Hollywood movie set built in 1939 that’s played host to actors like John Wayne and Paul Newman. Since the 1960s, it’s been used as an Old West theme park. Drive past the theme park to find the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, known for its expansive zoo and botanical gardens. A bit closer to home, residents can play horseshoe or bocce in Armory Park or sit by the fountain and take in history at Rosendo S. Perez Park. A year-round Sunday morning farmers market is held in Rillito Park, located north near the Tucson Mall.
Rosendo S. Perez Park features a vivid mural and historic plaques.
Downtown Tucson is only 15 minutes away from Tucson Mountain Park.
1/2
Magnet schools have strong ties with the University of Arizona
Area students are incorporated into the Tucson Unified District and can attend schools like Drachman Primary Magnet School for Grades Prekindergarten through 8 and Tucson High Magnet School until Grade 12. Both schools received a B-minus or higher from the educational review site Niche, and Tucson High is the oldest public high school in all of Arizona; it first opened its doors in 1906. New students can audition to be part of the school’s Fine & Performing Arts Academy, and some courses are taught by University of Arizona Professors. Select STEM classes can visit the college’s campus for a more hands-on learning experience. Other schools serving the downtown area include Roskruge Bilingual Magnet Middle School, which earned a C from Niche, as well as Paulo Freire Freedom School and City High, both charter schools with an A-minus or higher.
Tucson High Magnet School serves grades 9-12 in Tucson, Arizona.
City High School serves grades 9-12 in Tucson, Arizona.
1/2
A free public transit system and the Tuscon International Airport
Tucson residents can make use of the area’s free public transit system, made up of the Sun Tran, the Sun Express and the Sun Link. There are nearly 30 bus routes servicing the Tucson area and 23 stops along the separate Sun Link streetcar line. Downtown, Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train passes through Tucson on the way from New Orleans to Los Angeles. Or head to Tuscon International Airport 9 miles — or about 15 minutes — outside the city. From here, residents can book nonstop flights to 20 unique locations. Residents seeking medical attention can travel to the Banner-University Medical Center, a teaching hospital that’s a leader in acute, specialty and trauma care. There’s also St. Mary’s, home to the Carondelet Heart & Vascular Institute, just 2 miles away.
The Sun Link Street Car takes riders from Downtown Tucson to the UArizona Campus.
Tucson Amtrak Station provides service in Downtown Tucson to cities across the United States.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Live, work, play in the heart of Downtown Tucson Incredible picture-perfect city and mountain views from the 8th floor! This beautifully renovated 2-bedroom 2-bathroom condo is located near 5 of the top ten largest employers in town. Own a piece of downtown and enjoy state-of-the-art fitness center, pool, meeting rooms and secure off- street parking, covered parking available. Bark Park adjacent
Experience luxury living at Redondo Tower, Downtown Tucson's only high-rise condominium community! Incredible picture postcard views! This beautifully renovated 2 bed, 2 bath condo is perfect for people who want to own where they work and play. Enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, pool, meeting rooms, secure off-street parking, covered parking, dog yard, and controlled access. Walking
Property DescriptionExperience luxury living at Redondo Tower, Downtown Tucson's only high-rise condominium community! Incredible picture postcard views! This beautifully renovated 1 bed, 1 bath condo is perfect for people who want to own where they work and play. Enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, pool, meeting rooms, secure off-street parking, covered parking, dog yard, and controlled
Welcome to Presidio Palms Apartments! Located at 475 North Granada Avenue, our community promises an experience that is the perfect mix of sophistication and convenience. With floor plans covering between 315 and 740 square feet, our studio and one-bedroom homes are thoughtfully planned out with your comfort in mind. Inside, youll find a variety of features such as spacious walk-in closets and
Located in the historic El Presidio neighborhood, just blocks away from downtown Tucson!This tastefully fully furnished 3bdr/2.5ba home is a Must See!Bright/open living room, fabulous kitchen w/dining room and counter seating.Bedroom downstairs and half bath.Spacious primary bedroom upstairs features two walk-in closets, private patio, King Size bed and office area.3rd bedroom offers two Queen
Welcome to 255 North, where modern sophistication meets everyday comfort in the heart of Tucson. Our uncommonly spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartment homes offer a perfect retreat, surrounded by beautifully lush grounds and a vibrant community atmosphere. Enjoy our resort-style pool, on-site dog park, and state-of-the-art fitness center. Inside, you'll find vaulted ceilings, a cozy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michael Oliver,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
1,172
Median Age
36
Population Density
4 ppl/acre
Population under 18
12.8%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$38,490
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$55,753
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.7%
College Graduates
57.1%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
32.3%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
67.2%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
10''
Average Winter Low Temperature
39°F
Average Summer High Temperature
102°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
100/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
80/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
70/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
