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The Most Underrated City: Tucson

Tony Ray Baker
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The Most Underrated City: Tucson
underrated cities

 Most Underrated City: Tucson!

Tucson made Travel & Leisure’s List of the Most Underrated Cities. In fact, Tucson was ranked #3 on a list of 31 underrated cities.

It’s not all wild, wild west culture and year-round golf in this laid-back, nature lover’s paradise; With a population of 500,000+, Tucson has much to offer residents and vacationers alike.

Tucson’s natural beauty is enhanced by the magical weather patterns. Monsoon rain storms, rainbows, breath-taking sunrise and sunsets that always astonish locals and tourists alike.

Surrounded by mountains and The Saguaro National Park, Tucson attracts all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. The Tucson mountains bring together hikers, cyclists, rock climbers, bird watchers, storm chasers; all thrilled with what Tucson has to offer.

Downtown Tucson has an amazing list of attractions. Decade-long efforts to redevelop the area have resulted in top-rated restaurants for one. Tucson was also named UNESCO’s City of Gastronomy for one reason; the restaurants. Restaurants like The Downtown Kitchen + Cocktails and Poca Cosa.

In 2015, Tucson was even given this prestigious award for being a foodie’s paradise. Tucson was the first city in America to receive this honor. The city was also rated as most playable city for kids and families.

Download Travel and Leisure's Most Underrated Cities

Best City for Creatives, Writers and Artists

Tony Ray Baker
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Best City for Creatives, Writers and Artists
Tucson Voted Best City for Artists and Creatives
Tucson Voted Best City for Artists and Creatives

10 Cities That Creatives Should Move to That Are Not NYC or L.A.

With lush areas, that cater to rich people and a happening downtown attracting young adults in groves,  you’d never imagine it, but Tucson, Ariz. is becoming a great place for up-and-coming creatives to live.

Home to one of the country’s most fun party schools, that is paradoxically studious– The University of Arizona has been attracting the best and the brightest creatives to Tucson for years. Artists of all types who are catering to younger crowds are flourishing. But the city is also slick with wild wild west, cowboy, gunslingin’ desert history perfect for the budding mystery novelist. While the sun is down and the co-eds are at play, the thriving downtown music scene wherein artists like Calexico were born offers cheap amenities to up-and-coming bands plus primo weather for open-air shows and lugging gear back-and-forth as you please.

Located so close to L.A., San Diego, Las Vegas and Phoenix, Tucson has become a must-stop destination for all the big name musicians traveling through. Imagine seeing your favorite artist or DJ in an intimate venue with your closest friends? A luxury, a small, big city like Tucson can afford.

Tucson is quickly establishing itself in the technology world

Collaborative work spaces, trendy internet cafes, hole in the wall gems decorate the thriving, growing downtown area where you’ll find artist studios, galleries and performance venues. The magic of building community is a blossoming value to be discovered. There’s a reason they say Tucson is a small town in a big city.

Ramshackle mid-century hotels line the downtown streets and create an air of playful adventure. The historic, local favorite, Hotel Congress comes packaged with a story about being John Dillinger’s hide-out, a venue, and diner vibes near the trendy 4th Avenue.

Just imagine that Phoenix is like Dallas and Tucson is like Austin, only in a much cooler area, because, hello? Road trip to SoCal, and Las Vegas!

Complex.com’s list of the 10 Cities That Creatives Should Move to that aren’t LA or NYC:

  1. San Juan, Puerto Rico
  2. New Bedford, Mass.
  3. Providence, R.I.
  4. Tucson, Ariz.
  5. Athens, GA
  6. Hartford, Conn.
  7. Santa Cruz, Calif.
  8. Santa Fe, New Mex.
  9. Louisville, KY
  10. Big Sur, Calif.

Download Complex.com's List of the Top 10 Cities Creatives Should Move To

Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World’s Greatest Places 2023

jamesportis
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Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World’s Greatest Places 2023
Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World's Greatest Places 2023
Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World's Greatest Places 2023

Time Magazine has crowned Tucson as one of the World’s Greatest Places in 2023, and for good reason. The city stands as a testament to the evolving narratives of travel, embodying authenticity, sustainability, and vibrant cultural exchanges.

A Sustainable HavenTime Magazine Calls Tucson a Sustainable Haven in the World's Greatest Places 2023

In a world rekindling its love for travel, Tucson emerges as a destination aligning with the modern-day ethos of sustainability and genuine experiences. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while fostering responsible tourism is a call to the conscious traveler.

Moreover, Tucson’s efforts in promoting sustainable tourism extend to supporting local businesses and artisans. The city thrives on a community-centric ethos that not only boosts its local economy but also provides visitors with a unique, authentic experience. The array of farmer’s markets, locally-owned eateries, and artisan shops exemplify Tucson’s dedication to sustainability, offering a green retreat amidst the desert landscape.

Tucson’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary excellence offer a genuine taste of the Southwestern spirit. From the award-winning loaves of Barrio Bread to the stunning vistas of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is a haven for those seeking authenticity in their adventures.

Invitation to ExploreYou Have An Invitation To Explore Tucson, one of Time Magazine's World's Greatest Places 2023

As travel horizons expand, Tucson warmly extends an invitation to individuals across America to come and revel in its unique blend of tradition and modernity. The accolade from Time Magazine is not just a badge of honor; it’s a promise of enriching experiences awaiting in the heart of Southern Arizona.

There’s more to Tucson than meets the eye. Beyond the known landmarks, the city harbors hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the rhythmic beats of Native American drum circles or the serene escape of botanical gardens, every corner of Tucson is a gateway to new experiences. The invitation to explore is also an invitation to connect – with the land, the people, and the age-old traditions that make Tucson a realm of endless exploration and discovery.

The recognition from Time Magazine underscores Tucson’s allure as a destination where every nook and cranny tells a story. So, pack your bags and set your compass towards Tucson, where the heart of Arizona awaits to share tales of its glorious past and present, one authentic experience at a time.

Tucson AZ One of the Best Cities for Millennials

Tony Ray Baker
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Tucson AZ One of the Best Cities for Millennials
Tucson AZ One of the Best Cities for Millennials
Tucson AZ One of the Best Cities for Millennials

Tucson AZ is One of the 5 Best Cities for Millennials says Time.com/Money

Tucson and its downtown revitalization has caught the attention of many potential prospects. Being recognized by Time, Tucson AZ was placed among the 5 Best Cities for Millennials in the US. 24% of Tucson population (and possibly higher) is made up of individuals 20 years old to 34 years old. For those individuals looking for a place to with exceeding job growth opportunities, accessible amenities and an affordable housing market. This youthful city is a place for millennials to gather, meet, work, study, play and simply live.

Downtown, encompasses four main areas: Mercado San Agustin, Downtown Tucson, Fourth Ave and the University of Arizona Main Gate. Retail business owners, well know chefs, investors and developers are just some of the few looking at Tucson, many already part of its exciting new growth.

Most would have to agree that the introduction of the light rail played a big part in fueling this excitement, helping make a Downtown Tucson a place Millennials could live without a car. The light rail connects several main shopping areas together. This allows you, the rider, easy access to over 340 venues.  Beginning at Mercado San Agustin, the light rail passes through downtown Tucson, Fourth Ave shopping district, Main Gate at the UA and ends at the University Hospital.  The end being part of a loop, which will take you right back to the beginning.

This diverse downtown Tucson area is a great place for everyone.  Along the light rail, there are a lot of places to meet, work, study, play and live simply with great connectivity. Being connected to so much is one of the main reasons that Tucson is recognized as one of the best cities for millennials.

Low Cost of Living:

If you’re comparing possible cities for relocation, Tucson just looks better and better. Its hard not to consider a city with a low cost of living and affordable housing. The cost of living index for Tucson AZ is 105 which is well below the urban average of 117. According to research done by GOBankingRates, it costs $39,966 each year to comfortably live in Tucson AZ.  Therefore, Tucson ranks number 1 as most affordable city in the US.

  • Income needed: $39,966
  • 50 percent for necessities: $19,983
  • 30 percent for discretionary spending: $11,990
  • 20 percent for savings: $7,993

“With the lowest total needed to cover necessities out of the 50 biggest U.S. cities, Tucson residents can likely make do on the $37,149 median income, which is just $2,817 short of the amount needed to live well there.”

Affordable Housing:

Affordable housing attracts businesses and new businesses create new jobs and that is why affordable housing is so important.  Tucson’s medium home prices have always been among the lowest in the US.

On a side note: There is nothing like pride of ownership. When I purchased my first home in the North West area of Tucson, I felt like I had finally grown up. I remember how great it felt not having someone dictate what I could do in my own living space. Paying the mortgage felt so much better then paying the landlord. Most importantly, it was a new beginning that helped me focus more on career, finances and other long term goals. Everyone should be able to experience buying their first home.

Have a great day,
Tony Ray
(520) 631-TONY (8669)
Free relocation package and Tucson fun info

Download the Time Magazine / Money Best Cities for Millennials
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