Living in Oro Valley Arizona - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Oro Valley Arizona Like?
Oro Valley, Arizona, located in Pima County, is home to approximately 49,000 people. The town offers its residents a unique blend of desert living and modern amenities, making it an attractive location to live. Situated just north of Tucson, Oro Valley provides easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and biking. The town is conveniently located near State Route 77, which connects to other cities and attractions in the area. Oro Valley embodies the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with its stunning landscapes, mountain views, and proximity to the Catalina Mountains. Residents and visitors of Oro Valley can enjoy recreational activities such as exploring the nearby Catalina State Park, golfing at world-class courses, and shopping at the Oro Valley Marketplace. The Best of Oro Valley includes a charming town center, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with breathtaking views of the desert.
One of the main attractions in Oro Valley, Arizona, is Catalina State Park, which offers hiking trails, camping sites, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another attraction in the area is Pusch Ridge Wilderness Area, which offers hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor exploration in a stunning natural environment. Oro Valley has several other parks, including Naranja Park and Riverfront Park. These parks offer amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
There are several large employers in and around Oro Valley, Arizona, including Honeywell Aerospace, which has a significant presence in the area, and the Town of Oro Valley itself, which operates various businesses and services.
The cost of living in Oro Valley, Arizona, is close to the national average, but more affordable than many other cities in Arizona. Today, the average home value in Oro Valley stands around $490,000, making homeownership accessible for many individuals and families living in Oro Valley, Arizona. If you are looking to rent, you'll find the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Oro Valley is around $1,400 a month. There are a variety of housing options available for Oro Valley residents to choose from, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments.
If you're looking for a smaller town with easy access to bigger cities, a charming downtown, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Oro Valley, Arizona, would be the perfect place for you! Keep reading to learn more about what it's like to live in Oro Valley, including details about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in Oro Valley, Arizona. This information should help you determine if living in Oro Valley, Arizona is the right choice for you.
Are You Thinking About Buying a Home in Oro Valley Arizona?
Would you like to buy a home in Oro Valley, Arizona? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Oro Valley area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Oro Valley, Arizona, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Oro Valley, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Oro Valley Arizona?
If you're exploring a move to Oro Valley, Arizona, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Oro Valley, Arizona, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Oro Valley, Arizona, and rent, you would need to make $45,000 a year. To live in Oro Valley, Arizona, and buy a home, you would need to make $64,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Oro Valley Arizona Tips/Info/Blog Posts
23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE
18 MORTGAGE FAQs > CLICK HERE
NEW BLOG ALERT SIGN UP > CLICK HERE
WANT TO KNOW WHEN A HOME MATCHING YOUR CRITERIA GETS LISTED? SIGN UP FOR LISTING ALERT > CLICK HERE
MORTGAGE INFO > CLICK HERE
FREE HOME OWNERSHIP GUIDE > CLICK HERE
Top Neighborhoods in Oro Valley Arizona
Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Oro Valley, Arizona, where stunning desert landscapes and a vibrant community converge. From master-planned communities with family-friendly parks to upscale enclaves nestled against the Catalina Mountains, each neighborhood offers unique housing options and a range of attractions for residents to enjoy. Below are details about six of Oro Valley's top neighborhoods:
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Rancho Vistoso: Rancho Vistoso is a master-planned community known for its well-maintained landscaping and picturesque views of the Catalina Mountains. It offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. The neighborhood features numerous parks and green spaces, making it family-friendly and great for outdoor activities. Catalina State Park is nearby, providing opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. Local dining options include various restaurants offering diverse cuisines, and Oro Valley Marketplace provides shopping and entertainment.
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Sun City Vistoso: Sun City Vistoso is a 55+ active adult community within Oro Valley. It primarily offers single-family homes and attached patio homes. The neighborhood is designed to cater to an active retirement lifestyle, with amenities like golf courses, recreation centers, and organized activities. The stunning mountain views and well-maintained landscapes add to its charm. Residents can enjoy the Vistoso Golf Club, nearby trails, and a sense of community.
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Stone Canyon: Stone Canyon is a prestigious gated community with luxurious custom homes and home sites. This high-end neighborhood is known for its private golf club designed by Jay Morrish. The homes here often offer premium features and stunning desert views. While the focus is on exclusivity and privacy, nearby amenities include upscale dining options and boutique shops.
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La Reserve: La Reserve is a residential area nestled against the Catalina Mountains, offering a mix of single-family homes and townhomes. The neighborhood boasts scenic views and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Catalina State Park and Honeybee Canyon Park are nearby, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Residents can also find local restaurants and shops, creating a convenient yet peaceful living environment.
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Vistoso Highlands: Vistoso Highlands is a community with a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhomes. It features a family-friendly atmosphere with parks, playgrounds, and walking paths. The nearby Oro Valley Community Center offers recreational facilities, and the neighborhood is conveniently located to various shopping centers and dining options.
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Canada Hills: Canada Hills is a well-established neighborhood known for its golf courses and upscale living. Single-family homes dominate the housing landscape, often with golf course or mountain views. The neighborhood has a country club atmosphere, with access to the El Conquistador Golf & Tennis facility. Local restaurants and shopping centers provide convenience, and the Canada del Oro Riverfront Park offers additional outdoor activities.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Oro Valley Arizona
Living in Oro Valley Arizona Pros
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Scenic Beauty: Oro Valley is nestled against the Santa Catalina Mountains and offers stunning desert and mountain views. Residents can enjoy picturesque sunsets and a natural, serene environment.
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Outdoor Recreation: The area boasts numerous hiking and biking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Catalina State Park and the nearby Coronado National Forest provide ample opportunities for exploring nature.
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Climate: Oro Valley enjoys a mild desert climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. Winters are typically mild, making it appealing for those who prefer to avoid harsh winters.
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Education: The area is home to highly regarded public and private schools, making it a great place for families with school-age children.
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Safety: Oro Valley consistently ranks as one of the safest communities in Arizona, providing residents with a sense of security.
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Community Amenities: The town offers a range of community amenities, including parks, recreational facilities, and cultural centers that host events and activities for residents of all ages.
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Golf Courses: For golf enthusiasts, Oro Valley has several top-rated golf courses that provide both leisure and competitive options.
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Healthcare Facilities: The presence of quality healthcare facilities and medical services ensures that residents have access to necessary medical care.
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Retirement Destination: The tranquil environment, excellent healthcare options, and array of recreational activities make Oro Valley a popular retirement destination.
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Cultural Opportunities: While Oro Valley offers a quieter lifestyle, it's not far from the cultural amenities of Tucson, including museums, theaters, and art galleries, providing a balance between relaxation and cultural engagement.
Living in Oro Valley Arizona Cons
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Limited Nightlife: Oro Valley is more focused on a quieter, suburban lifestyle, so if you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, you might need to travel to nearby Tucson.
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Hot Summers: While the mild winters are a pro, the summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C).
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Limited Public Transportation: Public transportation options in Oro Valley and the surrounding areas are limited, so having a personal vehicle is almost a necessity.
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Wildlife Encounters: Being nestled against the desert and mountains, Oro Valley residents might occasionally encounter wildlife such as snakes, scorpions, or javelinas, which can be unfamiliar and sometimes pose safety concerns.
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Distance from Major Cities: Oro Valley is relatively isolated from major metropolitan areas, which might limit access to certain amenities or employment opportunities.
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Tourist Activity: The area's popularity among tourists might lead to seasonal fluctuations in traffic and crowds.
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Water Scarcity: Arizona's desert climate can lead to water scarcity concerns, and water restrictions might be in place during drought periods.
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Lack of Public Services: The smaller size of Oro Valley means that certain public services and amenities might be limited compared to larger cities.
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Limited Entertainment Options: While Oro Valley offers recreational activities, larger entertainment venues and options might be more accessible in bigger cities.
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Monsoon Season Challenges: The monsoon season in Arizona can bring heavy rainfall, flash floods, and storms, which can occasionally disrupt daily life and pose safety concerns.
FAQs About Living in Oro Valley Arizona
What is Oro Valley Arizona known for?
Oro Valley, Arizona, is most known for its annual Oro Valley Music Festival, which takes place every October and celebrates the vibrant music scene in the area. The festival attracts music lovers from all over the world and features various performances and activities such as live concerts, art exhibits, food vendors, and a street fair. The energetic atmosphere and diverse range of musical genres showcased at the festival have become an iconic symbol of Oro Valley and the surrounding region.
What cities and attractions is Oro Valley close to?
Oro Valley, Arizona, is situated in Pima County, within the Sonoran Desert region in the southern part of the state. The town is approximately 6 miles north of Tucson and 110 miles southeast of Phoenix. Oro Valley is in close proximity to several other cities in the area, including Marana, about 10 miles to the northwest, and Sahuarita, about 15 miles to the south. The town is also conveniently located near popular attractions in the region, such as Saguaro National Park, Catalina State Park, and the Santa Catalina Mountains. Oro Valley's central location in Pima County makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders and nearby towns.
What is the weather like in Oro Valley Arizona?
Living in Oro Valley, Arizona, you can expect mild weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 65°F to 70°F, and the average low temperatures range from 40°F to 45°F. The city rarely experiences snowfall during the winter, with an average of less than an inch of snowfall annually. Summers in Oro Valley are hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 95°F to 100°F and occasional heatwaves reaching temperatures above 110°F. The city receives around 12 inches of rain yearly, with most precipitation occurring in the monsoon season during the summer months.
Does Oro Valley have good public schools?
Students in Oro Valley, Arizona, attend public school in the Amphitheater Public Schools District, which serves the town of Oro Valley and some surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks the Amphitheater Public Schools District #23 out of all school districts in Arizona, giving it an overall B+ rating. The district is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education, including arts and athletics, and offers a wide range of programs to cater to students with diverse interests and needs. With a diverse student population and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses, families living in Oro Valley, Arizona, can have confidence their children will receive an excellent education.
Is Oro Valley Arizona safe?
Living in Oro Valley, Arizona, you'll find it an incredibly safe place. Property crime rates in Oro Valley are significantly lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are impressively lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Oro Valley has a crime rate lower than 85% of all US cities. Oro Valley, Arizona, residents can feel extremely secure in their day-to-day lives.
What is there to do living in Oro Valley Arizona?
Living in Oro Valley, Arizona, you will always have things to do. The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Sonoran Desert, providing endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Oro Valley boasts several parks, such as Naranja Park and James D. Kriegh Park, which offer recreational facilities, sports fields, and beautiful walking paths. The town also hosts various annual events, such as the Oro Valley Music Festival and the Oro Valley Farmers Market, showcasing local talent and produce. If you're up for a day trip, Oro Valley is conveniently located near attractions like Catalina State Park and the Biosphere 2. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Oro Valley, Arizona, has something for everyone.
Who are the large employers in Oro Valley Arizona?
If living in Oro Valley, Arizona, some of the top employers include the Oro Valley Hospital, which employs over 1,000 workers, the Amphitheater Public School District, which employs over 800 people, and the Town of Oro Valley, which employs over 500 people. Other notable employers in Oro Valley include Ventana Medical Systems, Honeywell Aerospace, and various technology companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Oro Valley can find opportunities in healthcare, education, aerospace, and technology industries.
How is the healthcare in Oro Valley Arizona?
Living in Oro Valley, Arizona, puts you near the Oro Valley Hospital, which is a level III trauma center and has 48 beds. This hospital would likely be able to provide you with most of your medical needs. If looking for a specialist and can't find them in the Oro Valley area, you're around 10 miles away from the Northwest Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona, which is the largest hospital in the region and has over 300 beds.
Is living in Oro Valley Arizona good for retirees?
If you're retired or thinking of retiring, Oro Valley, Arizona, can be a good choice for many reasons. The weather in Oro Valley is one of its primary attractions, with its warm, sunny climate providing an inviting environment for retirees seeking to escape colder regions. The abundance of outdoor activities, such as golfing, hiking, and exploring nearby natural wonders like Catalina State Park, ensures retirees can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Taxes can be a big consideration, especially in retirement. Arizona does not tax Social Security benefits, the state's income tax rates are relatively moderate, and the sales tax isn't high, providing some financial relief for retirees. Property taxes can vary depending on the specific location within Arizona, but overall, property taxes in Arizona are fairly low. Oro Valley's pleasant weather, diverse recreational activities, and affordable tax policies make it an appealing destination for retirees seeking a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
Is Oro Valley Arizona a good place to live?
Oro Valley, Arizona is a great place to live due to its stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and numerous hiking trails. Additionally, the town offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, a low crime rate, and a strong sense of community.
I want to relocate to Oro Valley Arizona. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Oro Valley, Arizona. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Arizona where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Oro Valley area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Oro Valley, Arizona, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.