Arizona’s second biggest city and home of the University of Arizona, Tucson is a bustling city with so much to offer visitors and residents alike. There are many obvious things that make Tucson great but what about the lesser published facts about Tucson that make it truly unique? Here are 11 things you probably didn’t know about Tucson, Arizona.
- Here comes the sun
Seeking a little sunshine? With 350 days of sunshine a year Tucson is the sunniest city in the United States. Tucson has an average year-round temperature of 83 degrees offering residents a beautiful sunny and warm climate most of the year. The sizzling hot summer months take place between May and September where temperatures range between 90 and 100 degrees!
- Spell it again
Tuscon or should we say Tucson is the second most misspelled city in the States. It is pronounced too-son which makes everything a little bit more confusing!
- A birding paradise
After the Amazon Rainforest Tucson has more bird species than anywhere else in the world! Birders from all around flock to Tucson to view the extensive and diverse species such as Gambel’s Quail, Moring Dove, Cactus Wren and many more.
- Education over Insanity
In 1885 residents of Tucson bid for a $100,000 grant to host the state’s insane asylum. Unfortunately, it was Phoenix who won the bid for the asylum and Tucson got handed $25,000 to build a University instead. The process of acquiring land and building the University moved at a snail’s pace and in 1891 the University of Arizona finally opened the doors for its first class.
- Equality in Education
The University of Arizona allowed women to study medicine in the 1890’s which is well before the majority of University’s granted women this right.
- Population dichotomies
With an abundant student population and one of the country’s largest senior populations Tucson has two parallel population groups co-existing in harmony.
- Justin Bieber loves Tucson
Yep- that’s right! Justin Bieber is said to own several acres of land in Marana, AZ just outside of Tucson. Although you may not see him frequent the town, he obviously believes the area is a good investment!
- Breathe easy
Tucson has been rated as having the third cleanest air of any city in the United States according to the American Lung Association. Breathe easy knowing your lung are processing pure clean Tucson air.
- Agricultural roots
Tumamoc Hill, a popular hike in Tucson, is home to one of the earliest examples of agriculture. Today the site functions as an archaeological dig site where ongoing research continues to investigate the sites agricultural roots.
- Foot (or hoof) powered rodeo
The Tucson Rodeo, held annually in February, is the largest non-motorized parade in the world. Horses out number contestants at the Tucson Rodeo and roughly 60,000 people attend each year.
- Low cost of living
Compared to the rest of American, Tucson’s cost of living is 8.5% lower than the national average. With so much to offer in the way of natural attractions, arts, culture and education Tucson is a great place to call home.
Looking for a property rental in Tucson? Stargate West offers luxury apartment rentals tucked away against the backdrop of Tucson’s mountains. Stargate West is a great community for students, located close to the University of Arizona, hospitals and shopping. With flexible and functional floor plans, modern interiors and luxury resort style amenities read about why people love living here!