We all know that Tucson is amazing but it’s always great to hear it mentioned by outside sources. This time Tucson made the top 10 list of hidden gems by the National Association of Realtors for 2022. Let’s look at what qualifies as a hidden gem market.
What is a Hidden Gems Market?
According to the NAR a hidden gem market has “strong underlying housing market fundamentals but where home prices are undervalue and relatively affordable. As such, these hidden gem markets are expected to experience stronger price appreciation in 2022.”
There’s a more technical definition with numbers, income indicators, technical jargon, etc. But the basics are Tucson is undervalued and still relatively affordable. Now some might argue that locals are getting priced out by cash buyers. Usually from other states looking for “investment properties.” That is indeed happening. But, the fact that Tucson is still a hidden gem is the important part for locals.
What They Said
“Tucson is very affordable in comparison to Phoenix. As of 2021 Q2, the median property value was $261,046. This is equivalent to 3 times the median family income in comparison to the median property value in Phoenix, $364,186, which is 4.3 times the median family income. Among the top 10 undervalued markets, Tucson had the third-largest net domestic migration in 2020, at 10,778 (next to Dallas and San Antonio). Due to strong population growth and net domestic migration, home prices rose at a 3-year cumulative rate from 2018 Q2—2021 Q2 of 23.6%, outpacing wage gains of 15.6%.”
What we heard was, Tucson is better than Phoenix! Tucson is more affordable than Phoenix. And Tucson is up and coming and ready for a population boom! Now is the time to think about your current home and what your needs might be in the future. Is it time to upgrade? If the answer is yes, or even a maybe, I can help make those dreams a reality.
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 Haven
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 Explore
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.
Travel And Leisure Rank Tucson Top 50 Places to Visit in 2021
According to Travel & Leisure, our very own desert jewel Tucson is ranked #45 in their top 50 list of places to visit in 2021. And let’s face it, after 2020 we are ready to spread our wings and fly. For some of us, we don’t have to go far since we already live in paradise!
What They Said
Hotel Tuxon
T&L acknowledges that while we’ve often been in the shadows of our larger more metropolitan sisters like Phoenix and Santa Fe. However, we were catering to the wellness crowd years before “wellness” was really a thing. Our beautiful rolling vistas are a favorite of spas, outdoor enthusiasts, and artists.
As beautiful as we are, we are also quirky and filled with personality. The accommodation for out-of-town visitors is unparalleled. From the Tuxon to Hotel McCoy you’re sure to enjoy the personality these venues offer. Or perhaps you’re looking for something a little less commercial. The Joshua Tree House Tucson boasts 5 beautiful suites backed up right next to the Saguaro National Park.
Did you know that Tucson ranks gold as a bike city? Oh yea, it’s so great for cyclists that a new bike guest ranch is in the works to cater specifically to bicyclists! The Bike Ranch will be Tucson’s first sustainable eco-resort.
Come On Down
Yes, we know that 2021 is halfway over but we are confident that Tucson is going to remain in the top places to visit for years to come. We’ve already been identified as one of the top cities poised for recovery after the pandemic. Don’t believe us? Well, you’ll just have to come visit and make up your mind, it’s okay, we’ll wait.
If you ask Tucson music fans and artists alike they will tell you: Tucson is a great music town.
Best Music City: Tucson, AZ
A national survey released in 2016 shows that we’re better than great: We are really, really great.
In the list of top music cities in the United States, Tucson comes in seventh overall. Yay Confetti!
In the regional rankings, Tucson is second overall, right behind Austin, Texas — to which Tucson is often compared to.
The Value Penguin does demographically-based consumer lists and this is what they found about music cities in the U.S.:
• Tucson Ranked 7th Overall Nationally
Nashville, Tennessee
Urban Honolulu, Hawaii
Seattle, Washington
Madison, Wisconsin
Austin, Texas
Albany-Schenectady, New York
Tucson, Arizona
*Phoenix-Mesa landed at 103rd overall.
• Tucson ranked 2nd regionally, right behind Austin and before Tulsa, Oklahoma.
• Tucson tanked to the bottom of the pile though, for having the most radio stations, coming in at 104 on the list of 200 cities
• We are number 39 for the number of record stores.
• Tucson came in 31st for the percentage of the population with music degrees.
The Value Penguin study evaluated 200 metropolitan areas using statistical data from sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, Thrillist, the Burau of Labor Statistics and several media surveys including USA Today and Travel & Leisure.
Here is a PDF of the original article if you’d like to see it.
https://www.valuepenguin.com/2016/best-cities-music-fans
The Tucson Music Scene, from a Local’s Perspective
To expand on this article’s findings, as a Tucsonan, I can provide you with some first-hand feedback about the music scene. If I were going to describes Tucson’s music scene with a movie title I’d name it, Boogy Nights.
From local musicians – to emerging underground artists – to the biggest names in music, you will find it all here.
Geography
Simply thinking about geography, Tucson is a convenient travel stop next to L.A., San Diego, Las Vegas and Phoenix.
Tucson ranked best music city in USA
Artists Love the Crowd at Tucson, Unless they Tell that to Everybody…
Not only is Tucson a convenient stop, but artists say they love coming to Tucson because the crowd gives them all “the feels”.
This isn’t a surprise to me — Tucsonans are friendly, energetic and love to dance. It’s a pleasure to be a part of a good community and then to show artists and visitors what we’re all about.
Intimate Venues
If big crowds aren’t your thing and you are more into the private party style vibe, you’ll appreciate how the style is in Tucson. You won’t have to fight LA style crowds here and smaller venues = better views.
Tucson Music Venues
One of Tucson’s most popular music venues is the Rialto Theater, and it has a capacity of 1,200 people making it a small-big venue. This historic venue is congruent with Tucson in the same way that Tucson is a big city with a small-town vibe (Tucson’s population: 500,000 people).
There are many popular Tucson venues that are a lot smaller than The Rialto, like Hotel Congress, The Rock, Flycatcher, Solar Culture, 191 Toole and many more. Bigger venues are also present in Tucson like the Fox Theater, Tucson Convention Center, Casino del Sol and The Pima County Fairgrounds.
Proximity to Other Happening Places
Did you know that Phoenix is the 6th largest city in America? The drive to get there is easy and simple, a nice straight-shot up I-10 for about 75 minutes will open up another world. Enjoy the happenings and amenities of this big city and then return home to your quiet, safe, better-weathered community (Yes, Tucson has better weather than Phoenix, it’s cooler.). When the moment strikes for different adventures, you also have Vegas, San Diego, and L.A. all in close proximity for a road trip or a short flight.
Smaller Town Lifestyle with Big City Amenities
This is what Tucson is known for. It’s easy to have the best of all worlds living in Tucson. You get small town community with all the big city action coming straight to Tucson and nearby.
Do you want to learn about upcoming concerts in Tucson? Here’s a music meetup group and you can also check our events calendar.
Are you wanting to know even more about Tucson? Do you think Tucson might be a good place for you to live? I am a Tucson realtor with a passion and appreciation for this city. There are many articles on this site for you to go through to learn more and I am happy to help you learn more about Tucson and maybe even help pick out the perfect home for you. As one of the most affordable places to live in the country, home prices are low, making the point-of-entry to own a home actually accessible. There really are some great reasons why you should consider Tucson to build your life, home and business. I’d love to talk with you.
Take care of yourself and if we don’t speak on the phone soon, I will see you on the dance floor.
We all know that Tucson is amazing but it’s always great to hear it mentioned by outside sources. This time Tucson made the top 10 list of hidden gems by the National Association of Realtors for 2022. Let’s look at what qualifies as a hidden gem market.
