Tucson Is Tops
Arizona Cities Excel in Income Growth Analysis
Tucson stands out in SmartAsset’s analysis of income growth among 124 major U.S. cities. Tucson secures an impressive 18th position in terms of income growth, showcasing positive economic trends in the region. This contrasts with cities like New York and San Francisco, which experienced income losses during the same period. The analysis underscores Tucson’s notable performance and highlights the city’s potential for economic growth within the national landscape. https://smartasset.com/data-studies/where-income-increased-most-2023 (August 2023)
University of Arizona named a “Best College”
The University of Arizona has once again been recognized by The Princeton Review in its list of America’s best universities. In The Best 389 Colleges: 2024 Edition, the university received high ratings in areas such as fire safety (98), sustainability (95), and quality of life (86), with all ratings based on a scale of 60 to 99. UArizona also performed well in admissions (85), financial aid (81), and academics (77). The university earned additional rankings in categories such as intramural sports participation (No. 5), health services (No. 12), student government activity (No. 25), and entrepreneurship (No. 45, No. 8 in the Southwest). The recognition reflects the university’s diverse academic opportunities, campus life, and positive feedback from students. The rankings are based on data collected from college administrators and surveys of 165,000 students at the listed schools. https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings/best-colleges (August 2023)
Banner University Medical Center Recognized Among Top Socially Responsible Hospitals
Banner University Medical Center South Campus has achieved recognition as one of the most socially responsible hospitals in the United States. The Lown Institute evaluated over 3,600 hospitals and identified Banner University Medical Center South as one of only 54 nationwide to receive “A” grades in Health Equity, Value, and Patient Outcomes, placing it 24th overall in the nation. In the state of Arizona, Banner University Medicine academic medical centers in Tucson stood out, with Banner University Medical Center South ranking first and Banner University Medical Center Tucson ranking second. The Lown Institute, an independent healthcare think tank, assessed various aspects of social responsibility, including community benefit, racial inclusivity, and avoiding overuse, utilizing data from sources such as Medicare claims and CMS patient safety data. This achievement underscores their commitment to social responsibility in healthcare. https://biztucson.com/banner-university-medical-center-south-earns-lown-national-honor-roll-status/ (August 2023)
Pima Community College Tops Forbes List as Arizona’s Best College Employer
Pima Community College has been recognized as the top college employer in Arizona according to Forbes’ annual list of Best Employers to Work For in the state. This prestigious ranking was based on a survey of over 70,000 employees from companies with at least 500 employees. PCC not only claimed the number one spot among colleges but also secured the 11th position overall in the state, surpassing prominent private companies like Southwest Airlines, USAA, and Boeing, as well as well-known public employers such as the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Arizona Public Service. PCC’s Interim Chancellor, Dolores Durán-Cerda, attributed this achievement to their commitment to fair compensation, excellent benefits, and development opportunities for all employees, fostering a caring environment for both employees and students. https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-employers-by-state/?sh=7ea331001983 (August 2023)
Tucson #1 Dog Friendly City
Tucson, Arizona has been named the top dog-friendly city in 2023 according to hepper. Rankings are assessed by various factors influencing the dog and dog owner experience. The city boasts an abundance of hiking trails suitable for dogs on leashes, making it an excellent place for dog owners. Tucson offers over 250 dog-friendly establishments where you can dine, drink, and socialize with your furry friend. Travelers will also find numerous dog-friendly hotels that don’t charge pet fees, particularly welcoming to multiple pets and large breed dogs. Leash laws are straightforward, requiring dogs to be contained on properties and leashed when off of them, while licensing fees remain affordable. The city’s biggest draw is its beautiful weather, featuring over 350 days of sunshine each year. https://www.hepper.com/most-dog-friendly-cities-us/ (August 2023)
Best Real Estate Markets
To determine the best real estate markets in the U.S., WalletHub analyzed 300 cities across 17 key indicators, including median home-price appreciation and job growth. In this ranking, Gilbert, Arizona stands out as one of the top markets for housing, securing the 10th position. Other Arizona cities also making appearances are Tempe at 25th place, Peoria at 15th place, Surprise at 21st place, Phoenix at 38th place, and Tucson at 124th place. These rankings consider various factors affecting housing-market attractiveness and economic strength, which can be essential for both real estate professionals and potential homebuyers.https://wallethub.com/edu/best-real-estate-markets/14889 (August 2023)
Arizona is No. 11 in the Country for Most Fun States to Visit
States vary in their ability to provide personalized enjoyment, leading some individuals to consider relocating for a better lifestyle. Certain states prioritize fun as an integral part of life, catering to diverse preferences for entertainment. WalletHub conducted a comprehensive comparison of all 50 states, analyzing 26 key indicators that encompass a range of enjoyable activities, ensuring affordability. These indicators span from movie expenses and access to national parks to the density of nightlife options per capita. Arizona comes in at #11 with a nightlife score of 23. https://wallethub.com/edu/most-fun-states/34665 (July 2023)
Tucson Ranks 13th in Emerging North American Tech-Talent Markets
Tucson ranks 13th on CBRE’s list of emerging North American tech-talent markets in the annual Scoring Tech Talent report, which evaluates 75 U.S. and Canadian markets based on their ability to attract and cultivate tech talent. Over the past five years, Tucson has experienced a 3% increase in local tech employment and a 13% rise in tech wages. The report highlights various emerging tech hubs across North America, including cities like Huntsville, Providence, and Albuquerque, as well as three Canadian cities. Tucson’s appeal is attributed to factors such as the University of Arizona, aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors, affordable cost of living, and rising tech wages. Tucson’s specific tech talent statistics further underline its positive trajectory in terms of employment, wages, and degree graduates. https://biztucson.com/cbre-tucson-a-top-city-for-tech-talent-growth/ (July 2023)
University of Arizona Shines as a Top Performer Worldwide
In the 2023 global rankings from EduRank, the University of Arizona holds the 36th position worldwide and the 30th spot in the United States. It ranks 1st in Arizona and Tucson. The university is acclaimed for its strong performance across various research topics, securing a place in the top 100 for 181 areas. Its ranking is determined by factors like research output, non-academic reputation, and notable alumni impact. The university excels in fields like Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Medicine, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Psychology, and Mathematics. https://edurank.org/uni/university-of-arizona/rankings/ (July 2023)
Arizona Shines in 2023 Sustainability Rankings
Arizona has earned recognition for their dedication to sustainability and environmental enhancement, with Site Selection Magazine’s 2023 Annual Sustainability Rankings positioning it as fifth nationally and first in the Mountain Region. The rankings were based on various factors like LEED-certified buildings, renewable energy capacity, eco-friendly initiatives, energy-efficient structures, green regulations, solar job data, and corporate social responsibility rankings. https://azbigmedia.com/business/greater-phoenix-ranks-among-top-10-in-u-s-for-sustainability/ (July 2023)
Tucson #5 of 10 Best U.S. Cities for Hiking
LawnStarter ranked Tucson, AZ as #5 in the top ten cities for hikers. Factors to determine this ranking included availability of trails, quality, climate, and safety. This ranking is most impressive as 200 of the biggest cities were compared to come to this conclusion. Tucson snagged #2 in both the access and quality category. https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/studies/best-cities-for-hiking/ (June 2023)
Tucson Top Birdwatching City
Ranked as #11 of 200, Tucson has a bird variety ranking of 73, according to Lawn Love! The factors taken into account for this include access and bird variety, species, birding popularity, and number of Audubon chapters. https://lawnlove.com/blog/best-cities-birdwatching/ (June 2023)
Tucson Ranked in Top 100 for Healthiest Cities
WalletHub has ranked Tucson #85 out of 182 cities for healthiest cities. The findings range from the cost of a medical visit to fruit and vegetable consumption, and even to the percentage of residents who are fully vaccinated. Living in healthy locations is a high priority for many, especially after the pandemic. https://wallethub.com/edu/healthiest-cities/31072 (June 2023)
Tucson Ranked in the Best Cities for Outdoor Activities in America
Tucson ranks #84 of 228 for best cities for outdoor activities in America according to Niche. The placement for these rankings is based on environment, surroundings, air quality, weather, and access to natural amenities and outdoor recreation. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-outdoors-cities/ (June 2023)
Best City for Staycation
WalletHub considered 42 key metrics in ranking U.S. cities for the best Staycation. Arizona claimed 3 spots, all within the top 31 out of 182 rankings. Tucson is sitting at the best ranked for Arizona at #14, Scottsdale is #15, and Tempe is #31. Around 85% of Americans plan to travel during the summer, however with inflation up, this may force people to take less extravagant trips. One doesn’t have to travel far to have a great time. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-cities-for-staycations/4341/ (June 2023)
Tucson Housing Affordability Rebounds
Housing affordability improved in the first quarter of 2023 for the Tucson Metropolitan Statistical Area. Tucson ranked second, just behind Albuquerque, for homes sold considered affordable to a family earning the local median income. The improvement was driven primarily by a decline in the median price of homes sold and a modest increase in median family income. https://azbigmedia.com/real-estate/tucson-housing-affordability-rebounds-from-record-lows/ (June 2023)
Arizona Great Place for Nurses
According to WalletHub, Arizona is ranked 8th in the U.S. as the best place to work for a nurse, including 6th highest for lowest competition. The study compared the 50 states across 20 key metrics that collectively speak to the job opportunities in each market. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-states-for-nurses/4041/ (May 2023)
UArizona #7 Best Hispanic Serving Institution in America
The University of Arizona is #7 in Best Hispanic Serving Institutions in America as listed by Niche. With diversity a growing subject in America, along with concerns of representation and cultural affirmation, this is a tremendous feat. UArizona also has great accessibility to language for serving the Hispanic community. https://www.niche.com/colleges/university-of-arizona/rankings/ (May 2023)
33 Arizona Restaurants Make Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in Southwest List
33 restaurants have made Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the Southwest category. Whether you are looking for the next place to eat out or planning for a party, here is a brief summary of the top 5 Arizona restaurants in the list of 33! 1. Tumerico, Tucson AZ, 3. Casa De Falafel, Glendale AZ, 5. Kabob Grill N’ Go, Phoenix AZ, 7. The Clinkscale, Jerome AZ and 10. Momo’s Kitchen, Sedona AZ. For the full list visit the link! https://azbigmedia.com/lifestyle/33-arizona-restaurants-make-yelps-top-100-places-to-eat-in-the-southwest-list/ (May 2023)
UArizona in Top 0.5% of Global Universities
The University of Arizona is ranked at #95 overall, #48 among U.S. institutions, and #25 among public colleges and universities in the annual Center for World University Rankings. These rankings are out of 20,000 global colleges in the annual Center for World University Rankings. This means that the University of Arizona is among the top 0.5% of universities worldwide. An outstanding feat for Arizonans to relish in. https://news.arizona.edu/story/center-world-university-rankings-places-uarizona-among-top-05-global-universities?utm_source=uanow&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign= (May 2023)
El Tour de Tucson Named Best Road Cycling Event
USA Today has named El Tour de Tucson as the Best Road Cycling Event for 2023. This race has been a part of Tucson’s rich culture for decades now. El Tour has beaten rides such as Ragbrai (Iowa) and Wilmington Grand Prix (Delaware). This now puts El Tour with the Huckleberry Loop trail, a two-time winner, as USA Today award winners! https://eltourdetucson.org/el-tour-de-tucson-wins-usa-todays-10best-readers-best-road-cycling-events/ (April 2023)
Arizona Best Charter High Schools in Nation
Arizona pushes forward with eight in the top ten Best Charter High Schools according to Niche. BASIS Scottsdale takes the #1 rank out of 2,409 schools. BASIS Tucson North, BASIS Phoenix, BASIS Oro Valley, BASIS Peoria, BASIS Mesa, BASIS Chandler, and BASIS Ahwatukee are the other seven places in the top ten. With Arizona growing at an exponential speed, it is impressive that parents have such a grand selection of schools to choose from. https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-charter-high-schools/ (April 2023)
Arizona’s 10 Safest Cities
Arizona saw the nation’s most significant decrease in violent crime and the second-most significant decrease in property crime year over year. According to this year’s SafeWise survey, Arizona’s crime statistics fell below the national average in every category. To determine the safest cities in Arizona, Safewise reviewed the most up-to-date FBI crime report statistics and population data. Oro Valley #2 and Sahuarita #3 were listed as two of the ten safest cities. https://www.safewise.com/blog/safest-cities-arizona/#:~:text=Property%20crime%20incidents%20dipped%20from,ninth%2Dlowest%20property%20crime%20rate (March 2023)
2023 Most Diverse Cities in America
The Niche Most Diverse Places ranking provides a comprehensive assessment of the overall diversity of an area. This grade takes into account key indicators of a location’s demographic composition, including the levels of variance in race, age, and income levels among residents. Tucson ranked #92 and Phoenix #57 out of 228. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/most-diverse-cities/ (March 2023)
2023 Best Arizona Golf Courses
The top golf courses in Arizona have been voted and rated by ArizonaGolfer.com golfers. Each year, users rate the courses. Courses making the list in Tucson include: The Ritz-Carlton #3, The Lodge at Ventana Canyon #11, La Paloma Country Club #12, Sewailo #13, Omni Tucson National Resort #17, and Star Pass #18. https://www.arizonagolfer.com/golfcourses/topgolfcourses.cfm (March 2023)
Tucson Makes the NY Times “52 Places to Go in 2023” List
The New York Times awarded Tucson the #15 spots on its “52 Places to Go in 2023” list, placing it ahead of amazing spots like Fukuoka, Japan; Guadalajara, Mexico; and Madrid, Spain. Tucson was described as a “rebounding center of art and adobe with centuries-old ties to Mexico.” The article featured Tucson’s Barrio Viejo, which is slated to receive a National Historic Landmark designation this year. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/travel/52-places-travel-2023.html (January 2023)
Economic Growth Ensures Arizona Will Have Lowest Flat Tax in 2023
The Goldwater Institute relayed that the Arizona state income tax rate beginning January 1, 2023 will be a flat 2.5%, one year earlier than originally anticipated. The state is forecast to have a budget surplus of more than $4 billion by 2024, and the Arizona economy is ranked #1 for economic performance and #3 in economic outlook among all 50 states according to the “American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) Rich States, Poor States” report. https://www.goldwaterinstitute.org/new-year-new-tax-rate-goldwaters-flat-tax-reform-takes-effect-to-kick-off-2023/ (January 2023)
Arizona Restaurants in Top 100 Places to Eat in US
In Yelp’s annual list honoring eateries across the US, four Arizona restaurants made the list of the top places to eat in 2023. Yelp looked at reviews received by businesses while considering both the ratings and the volume of reviews to determine the list. Restaurants on the list include: Tumerico #8 and Buendia Breakfast and Lunch Café #26 in Tucson, De Babel #39 in Scottsdale, and Cocina Madrigal #57 in Phoenix. https://www.yelp.com/article/yelps-top-100-us-restaurants-2023 (January 2023)
Best Cities for an Active Lifestyle
WalletHub ranked the 100 most populated cities in the U.S. based on how well they accommodate or encourage an active lifestyle and Tucson ranked #27. They analyzed 24 key metrics, ranging from the average monthly fitness club fee to the number of sports clubs per capita. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-and-worst-cities-for-an-active-lifestyle/8817/ (January 2023)
UArizona Recognized Nationally
Recognized by the Best Colleges 2023 edition of U.S. News & World Report, The University of Arizona was nationally ranked #105 (tie) among all universities and #48 (tie) among public universities. It was ranked #11 among all colleges and universities designated as Hispanic-Serving Institutions. U.S. News Best College Rankings – In addition to ranking #5 for Management Information Systems, UArizona also ranks #67 (tie) for Best Colleges for Veterans, #20 (tie) Accounting, #21 (tie) Entrepreneurship, #30 (tie) Business, #29 (tie) Nursing, #54 (tie) Computer Science and Engineering. U.S. News Best Grad School Rankings includes #3 Information Systems (#1 among public universities), #2 Geology, #9 (tie) Earth Sciences, #47 (tie) Business School, #43 (tie) Part-time MBA, #54 (tie) Best Education Schools, #64 (tie) Best Engineering Schools, #45 Best Law Schools, #74 (tie) Best Medical Schools: Research, #30 (tie) Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice and #34 (tie) Best Nursing Schools: Master’s. U.S. News Best Online Programs Rankings Includes #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs, #5 (tie) Best Online Master’s in Computer Information Technology Programs, #9 (tie) Best Online MBA Programs, #34 (tie) Best Online Master’s in Engineering Programs, #32 Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs, #4 Best Bachelor’s Programs for Vets, and #10 Best Online Bachelors Program. U.S. News Best Global University Rankings includes #108 Best Global Universities, #21 (tie) Water Resources, #58 (tie) Arts and Humanities, #123 Economics and Business, #49 Environment/Ecology, #65 (tie) Plant and Animal Science, #127 Psychiatry/Psychology, #144 (tie) Social Sciences and Public Health, #31 Geosciences and #10 (tie) Space Science. https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-arizona-104179/rankings (January 2023)
Arizona Ranks as Top Moving Destination
Arizona ranked #1 overall as the top moving destination for 2022, according to an annual study by Allied Van Lines. Last year, 64.5% of all Arizona moves were inbound compared to 35.5% that were outbound. Tucson ranked as the #1 overall top inbound city in the country. https://www.allied.com/migration-map (January 2023)
UArizona and ASU Rank High Among EPA’s Largest Green Power Users in the U.S.
Arizona State University has been ranked #3 and The University of Arizona #11 on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Top 30 College & University list of the largest green power users from the EPA’s Green Power Partnership – a voluntary program that supports organizations in procuring green power. ASU is also #62 and UArizona #100 on the EPA’s Top 100 list of the largest green power users in the United States. https://www.epa.gov/greenpower/green-power-partnership-top-30-college-university (January 2023)
Nation’s Report Card: Arizona 8th Grade Charter Students Score Among U.S. Best
Newly-released results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), better known as the Nation’s Report Card, demonstrate continued strong performance among students attending Arizona charter schools. Arizona 8th grade charter students performed especially well. In fact, if these charter attendees were grouped together as their own state, it would rank number 1 nationally in math and number 2 in reading. In both subject areas, Arizona 8th graders scored approximately one full grade level better than their district peers. https://chamberbusinessnews.com/2022/12/01/nations-report-card-arizona-8th-grade-charter-students-score-among-u-s-best/ (December 2022)
Four Arizona Cities Among Most Fun Cities in the U.S.
According to WalletHub, Tucson is #25 among the top 50 U.S. cities named as the Most Fun. In order to be considered “Fun,” WalletHub said the city has to provide a little bit of everything for everyone. The study compared the 150 largest U.S. cities based on 58 key metrics. They range from fitness centers per capita to movie costs to average open hours of breweries. Other Arizona cities making the top 50 list were Phoenix #28, Tempe #34, and Scottsdale #39. https://wallethub.com/edu/most-fun-cities-in-the-us/23455/ (December 2022)
Arizona 13th in Pentagon Spending
According to Defense Department data, Pentagon spending in Arizona places it at #13 nationally. Military contracts have long been a staple of the Arizona economy, which includes multinational defense manufacturers such as Boeing, Raytheon and Northrop Grumman, among others. Tucson and southern Arizona have the fifth-highest concentration of aerospace and defense employees in the country. The defense industry remains a pillar of the state’s economy, and will likely continue to be so for the foreseeable future. https://azbigmedia.com/business/arizona-slips-from-top-10-in-pentagon-spending-heres-where-we-rank/ (December 2022)
Top Public High Schools
Niche has released its 2023 Best Public High Schools ranking which is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, and high school ratings. Some of Arizona’s top ranked schools in Tucson, all receiving an A+ Grade, were: Basis Tucson North, Basis Oro Valley, University High School Tucson, and Catalina Foothills High School. https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-public-high-schools/ (October 2022)
Best Foodie Cities in America
According to WalletHub, several Arizona cities are among the best culinary hotspots in the U.S. Included on the list are: Phoenix #34, Tucson #46, Tempe #52, Scottsdale #57, and Gilbert #91. The list includes wallet-friendly cities that cater to diners who prefer to cook at home, explore local flavors or both. In order to determine the best and cheapest local foodie scenes, WalletHub compared 180 U.S. cities across 30 key indicators of foodie-friendliness. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-foodie-cities/7522/ (October 2022)
AZ Community Ranked for Solar Energy
SolSmart, a national designation program funded by U.S. Department of Energy SunShot (SPARC) Initiative, recognizes communities that have taken steps to advance solar energy growth. Pima County has received the Gold designation and Oro Valley received the Silver designation. https://www.solsmart.org/our-communities/designee-map/ (October 2022)
ASU and UArizona Named Top Universities in America
ASU is ranked #42 and The University of Arizona is ranked #65 of the top public universities in America according to Niche. The rankings were chosen by a rigorous analysis of academic admissions, financial and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with millions of reviews from students and alumni. The ranking compares more than 500 public colleges and state universities. https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/top-public-universities (October 2022)
Arizona Ranks as Number 15 Best State to Succeed in Business
Harrington Group International released this study after analyzing data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis data from 2020 to 2022. The rankings were determined by analyzing nine factors in three main categories: workforce and consumer habits, business culture, and financial climate. https://hgint.com/best-and-worst-states-to-succeed-in-business/ (October 2022)
Top U.S. Bike-Friendly City
Livability.com has ranked Tucson as the #2 Bike-Friendly City in the U.S. Finding your way around Tucson on two wheels is easy thanks to a network of multi-use trails. While biking to work is common, cycling isn’t limited to the workweek. With plenty of sunshine to encourage spending time outdoors, there are regular cycling events and rides for a variety of skill levels. https://livability.com/topics/healthy-places/8-surprisingly-bike-friendly-cities/ (September 2022)
UArizona and ASU Included in Forbes America’s Top Colleges
Forbes Top Colleges methodology includes measures pertaining to graduate success as well as academic excellence in its evaluation of 500 four-year schools drawn from nearly 2,700 higher education institutions in the United States. These measures include: alumni salary, debt, graduation and retention rates, and academic success measured by receipt of fellowships and doctorates. ASU ranked #125 and UArizona ranked #131. https://www.forbes.com/top-colleges/ (September 2022)
Best Places to Retire
Niche has released its 2022 Best Places to Retire list and has named Tucson #28. Scottsdale is the top city to retire in the U.S. Other Arizona cities that made the list: Mesa #12, Tempe #46 and Phoenix #59. This ranking takes into account key factors, such as weather, crime rates, residents 65 and older, housing costs, and access to amenities such as restaurants, golf courses, exercise facilities, and doctors, in an attempt to measure the appeal of an area for retirement. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-cities-to-retire/ (September 2022)
