An infatuation with the desert Southwest is spreading throughout our national population. Tucson, Arizona, is just one of the cities enjoying the economic effects of that infatuation. It might seem odd to outsiders that a city whose temperatures have been known to creep up to 117 degrees in the summertime, and whose landscape is often defined as stark, red, dusty and even prickly, is a source of inspiration and wonderment for millions of visitors each year. But arguably, once you've been to Arizona, you won't soon forget it -- if ever. Its environment is unlike anything else the United States has to offer.

While Phoenix, Arizona's larger capital city, attracts more high-tech, high-dollar firms, Tucson has attracted smaller start-up companies, resulting in a comparatively lower average annual income. But the city offers a smaller-town environment for potential relocators to Arizona. Locals have been known to oppose encroaching urban growth -- skyscrapers, highways and other large-scale construction ventures -- in favor of preserving its natural resources. Yet the city continues to expand wherever it can to accommodate incoming businesses and families. Despite occasional community protests, the only strict barriers to continued development in Tucson are proving to be the surrounding mountains and a series of nearby Indian reservations.

With an average annual rainfall of less than 12 inches, Tucson is home to some interesting critters: a variety of insects, snakes (yes, some poisonous), lizards and a proliferation of scorpions. (So the good news for relocating families to Tucson is that you'll be provided with a few "pets" without having to head to your local animal shelter.) Longtime residents have grown accustomed to doing routine searches of their bedsheets each night before hitting the hay. Tucson is indeed a fascinating playground for wildlife. Perhaps that's why the city has a large assortment of environmental organizations dedicated to wildlife and land preservation. Not surprisingly, some of these organizations also are opposed to urban growth at the expense of the land and natural habitats.

Don't let this barren landscape fool you. Tuscon is rich in history and is the site of many significant events in our nation's past. For a quick introduction to historic Tucson, take a two-hour narrated bus tour offered by the Metropolitan Tucson Convention and Visitors Bureau. Among other points of interest, the tour leads visitors through the city's historic downtown district.

If you choose to navigate your way through Tucson on foot, you'll witness architectural styles unique to this region of the desert Southwest. A few recommended stops on your tour: the St. Augustine Cathedral; Charles O. Brown House; El Presidio Park; the Pima County Courthouse, which contains a portion of an original Presidio wall and displays some of the best features of Southwestern and Spanish architecture; Old Town Artisans, housed in an original 19th century adobe, and which serves as a marketplace for local artisans; 407 N. Meyer Ave, a late 19th century adobe listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the Tucson Museum of Art, which includes five historic houses on premises; and La Casa Cordova, Tucson's oldest home.

One of the best aspects of living in Tucson is that you may opt for a more traditional Southwest look (the city has a mix of historic and new adobes), or from less regional architecture -- whether it's a contemporary single-family home, condominium, townhome or planned community. Due to the city's rapid growth in recent years, real estate developers have been busy trying to accommodate both newcomers and move-up families. Northwest Tucson is considered to be the most rapidly growing sector. That's due partly to its convenient access to downtown Tucson. Northwest Tucson offers a diverse selection of housing options, including retirement communities, and has experienced a recent surge of new businesses, medical facilities, and even resorts.

Homes on the West side of Tucson sit at the foothills of the Tucson Mountains and offer picturesque views of both the city and the surrounding desert. Homeowners on the West side also enjoy up-close-and-personal views of local wildlife. The West side offers the best of both worlds: natural beauty combined with easy access to downtown Tucson via I-10. And West Tuscson is close to other natural wonders, including Saguaro National Park West, the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum and Gates Pass. Homeowners in this region may select from more suburban, close-knit communities or more rural homes on larger parcels of land.

If you're looking for a home with a little history, head to downtown Tucson, which contains the city's most well-preserved properties. Like many other cities, Tucson has initiated a renewal effort for its historic buildings and is converting many of them into multifamily residences. Newer homers and condominiums also are available. Downtown Tucson's lively atmosphere and its convenience to key corporate players and a wealth of resources -- including a vibrant arts district -- make it a top choice among young professionals and others who have grown tired of lengthy commutes to work.

If you're hankering for some property, Far East Tucson fits the bill. Lots here are larger in size, and many contain ranch-style homes and wide-stretching views of the Arizona horizon. Many newer subdivisions are under construction in this sector, as well.

The North side of Tucson appeals to upper-class homeowners, although townhomes, apartments and condominums are available in the area. This sector is revered for its palatial homes, many of them located in the Catalina foothills region. You'll find on the North side a mix of older and well-preserved homes and more resort-style developments. Regardless of the size of your home, you'll enjoy breathtaking views here -- of the surrounding mountains and unique desert blooms.

While its healthy local economy certainly is a draw for relocating families, Tucson's stark beauty and dry heat make the city an even bigger draw for prospective residents. This jewel of the Southwest is likely to remain one of the region's hottest residential real estate markets -- in more ways than one.

Read More Community Profiles

Published: January 7, 1999

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.

---

---