Sign In Register
Mackenzie Ward best-worst

Best and worst neighborhoods in Tucson Mountains

Been meaning to ask this. We have two kids and It's a a small town city with about 11,428 people. Median household income is $132,946, which feels pretty solid for the area. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Would love some local perspective. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
2 upvotes

5 Replies

Genesis Peterson
not my experience at all
40 upvotes
Amelia Evans
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Eastside for 5 years. Moved from Minneapolis for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.

**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are underrated. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.

**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited entertainment options. And housing market can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Elijah
I'm a data analyst and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
10 upvotes
Thomas C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a pharmacist, 24, moved here 3 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Eastside and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Nice parks and green spaces
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Highland: More affordable, family-friendly.

**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.

**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Baltimore, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.

**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
5 upvotes
brielle_life
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
1 upvotes
← Back to Tucson Mountains Community