Nestled into the Sonoran Desert, just south of Phoenix and north of the Nogales border, is where you’ll find Tucson. Between its historic districts and beautiful natural surroundings, there is much to love about living in Tucson, Arizona. What distinguishes this city from others? Well, let’s give you a few reasons to move to Tucson.

Why should you live in Tucson?

1. You’ll enjoy favorable weather in Tucson

Don’t like the winter? Hate shoveling snow off your driveway? You won’t have to deal with either of these nuisances in Tucson! Although it does drop to the low 40s at night during the coldest months, the days warm up to the 60s, on average. Summers get incredibly warm (this is in the desert, after all!), but that’s where your A/C will come in handy.

Reasonably warm weather year-round means ample time for hiking through the nearby canyons and recreation areas, days filled with poolside lounging, and plenty of opportunities to soak up that Vitamin D.

Tucson also boasts 350 days of sunshine every year, meaning your days will be spent hiking, biking, or swimming. Unlike other Southern states, Tucson still offers distinct seasons. You can spend your fall relaxing with friends around a campfire. Winter is chilly, but you’re unlikely to get any snow. Spring brings desert flowers, a unique sight you’ll come to love living in Tucson. Summer is typically divided into two sessions, dry and wet summer.

2. Tucson has a great college atmosphere

The University of Arizona is located here, and you’ll quickly realize this city loves its college teams. From championship-winning softball, basketball, and volleyball teams to a world-class gymnastics team, the Wildcats dominate the sports scene in Tucson.

Just outside of downtown to the northeast is where you’ll find the campus, and the shops and cafes catering to the college crowd. A stroll down N 4th Ave gives way to college students on pub crawls, packed sports bars showing all the Wildcats games, matches, and meets, and plenty of eateries to grab some grub. Just don’t forget your Wildcat apparel!

Even better, a lot of the restaurants and bars in the area offer drink specials on game nights. Attending these sporting events is a great way to find your new group of friends in the Tucson area. Once you find your friends, you’ll never run out of fun things to do since you can always attend a game.

3. Tucson has an affordable cost of living

With the highest median rent prices in the country coming in at almost $4,000, Tucson’s prices are a nice reprieve at just $950 for a one bedroom and $1,320 for a two bedroom. Along with cheap rent, though, will come some high utility costs. Residents pay, on average, around $245 for utilities, including the main drivers–A/C and electricity. Don’t worry; the cheap drinks in West University and plenty of free outdoor activities in the area will help keep you within budget.

4. There are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in Tucson

Speaking of outdoor activities, Tucson is surrounded by natural beauty that’s just a short drive from the city. Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park are within a 30-minute drive and offer hiking trails, incredible views, and the country’s largest cacti. While you’re here, don’t overlook the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and check out the archery and shooting ranges.

You’ll be in the Santa Catalina Mountains in just a little over an hour’s drive northeast of the city. Head out to the hiking trails in Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, grab a campsite at Whitetail for the weekend, or come in the winter and hit the slopes at Mt. Lemmon for some skiing. If you’re an adventurer who loves exploring the outdoors, you’ll love moving to Tucson. The mountainous landscape also makes it easy to keep up with your fitness goals while living in Tucson.

5. Tucson has a prominent sports fan base

Love hockey? Living in Tucson, Arizona, you can check out the up-and-coming talent. Tucson is home to the Roadrunners, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes. Catch a game at the Tucson Arena and watch budding stars take the ice. The arena is also home to the Arizona Wildcats NCAA men’s hockey team, and hosts live music and comedy shows by some of the biggest names in the industry.

6. You can experience fun day trips when living in Tucson

While living in Tucson, Arizona, offers you ample sports action, you can find even more with a short drive. Hop in the car and head north for a short, two-hour drive, and you’ll be in sports heaven! The Phoenix metro area hosts 15 Major League Baseball Teams for Spring Training every year at ten different ballparks, so head here to enjoy America’s pastime.

Golf more your thing? Moving to Tucson offers you endless opportunities to play at some of the country’s best golf courses. Phoenix is home to 200 golf courses, all four major professional sports teams, and the Phoenix Open.

The Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale and Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale are both great options for post-game (or pre-game) drinks, so get out there and enjoy the unique experience in these Phoenix neighborhoods.

Even better, Tucson has a few great public transportation options. This means you can use the Sun Link or Sun Tran to get to your favorite sporting or golf destinations.

7. Tucson is full of history and culture

Living in Tucson, Arizona, isn’t just all about sports. You also have plenty of opportunities to enjoy history in the area. The El Presidio Historic District area in downtown Tucson features El Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, a restored Spanish fort from 1775, the Tucson Museum of Art, and El Charro Cafe, the oldest Mexican food restaurant in the country and birthplace of the beloved chimichanga. Explore this historic district by foot and check out all the landmarks like Presidio Park and the Old Pima County Courthouse.

Frequently asked questions about living in Tucson

Tucson is a desert city with a lot of character, history, and plenty of entertainment options. Before you pack up and hit the road, find your next apartment so you can get settled and start enjoying living in Tucson right when you arrive!

The post 7 Reasons to Move to Tucson, AZ appeared first on The Zumper Blog.