Living in Marana Arizona - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Marana Arizona Like?
Marana, Arizona, located in Pima County, is home to approximately 59,000 people. The town offers a unique blend of desert living and modern amenities, making it a popular place to live. Situated northwest of Tucson, Marana provides easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The town is conveniently located near Interstate 10, allowing for convenient travel to other cities and attractions in the area. Marana embodies the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with its breathtaking landscapes, stunning sunsets, and close proximity to the Saguaro National Park. Residents and visitors of Marana can enjoy recreational activities like horseback riding, bird watching, and exploring the nearby Picacho Peak State Park.
One of the main attractions in Marana, Arizona, is the Marana Heritage River Park, a beautiful outdoor space that offers walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground for children. It is a popular spot for locals to enjoy the area's natural beauty and spend time with family and friends. Another attraction in the area is the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain, a luxury resort that offers world-class amenities such as golf courses, spa services, and fine dining options. Marana also has several other parks, including Crossroads at Silverbell District Park and Ora Mae Harn District Park, which offer amenities such as sports fields, dog parks, and splash pads, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
There are a number of large employers in and around Marana, Arizona, including Raytheon, which has a large facility in nearby Tucson, the Town of Marana, with a range of municipal services, including administration, public safety, public works, and community development, and Marana Unified School District, one of the largest school districts in the region.
The cost of living in Marana, Arizona, is lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in the Southwest. Today, the average home value in Marana stands around $425,000, and the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Marana is around $1000 a month. There are a variety of housing options available for Marana residents to choose from, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments.
If you're looking for a small town with easy access to bigger cities, a lower cost of living, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Marana, Arizona, would be the perfect place for you! Keep reading to learn more about living in Marana, including details about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in Marana, Arizona. This information should help you determine whether living in Marana, Arizona, is the right choice for you.
Are You Thinking About Buying a Home in Marana Arizona?
Would you like to buy a home in Marana, Arizona? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Marana area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Marana, Arizona, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Marana, 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 Marana Arizona?
If you're exploring a move to Marana, 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 Marana, Arizona, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Marana, Arizona, and rent, you would need to make $50,000 a year. To live in Marana, Arizona, and buy a home, you would need to make $60,000 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 Marana City Tips/Info/Blog Posts
23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE
18 MORTGAGE FAQs > CLICK HERE
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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 Marana Arizona
Marana, Arizona, offers a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. From tranquil suburban communities to master-planned developments, Marana's neighborhoods cater to a range of lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly environment, upscale luxury living, or a close-knit active adult community, Marana has something to offer. Below are six popular Marana neighborhoods for you to consider:
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Gladden Farms: Gladden Farms is a family-friendly community with a mix of single-family homes. It offers a suburban feel with well-maintained parks, playgrounds, and walking trails. The neighborhood features a variety of home styles and sizes, making it suitable for a range of situations. Nearby attractions include the Gladden Farms Splash Pad and the Gladden Farms Community Park. Residents can enjoy local dining options and convenience stores within a short distance.
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Dove Mountain: Dove Mountain is known for its luxury homes, golf courses, and resort-style living. This master-planned community offers various housing options, including single-family homes and upscale estates. The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, is a prominent feature, providing golf, spa services, and fine dining. The area boasts hiking and biking trails, and the nearby Tortolita Mountains provide stunning views and outdoor activities.
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Heritage Highlands at Dove Mountain: This active adult community offers resort-style living for individuals aged 55 and older. The neighborhood features single-family homes and amenities such as golf courses, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Residents can enjoy the Heritage Highlands Golf Club and the social activities organized within the community.
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Glacier Park: Glacier Park is a newer neighborhood featuring single-family homes with modern designs. It's located close to parks and recreational facilities, making it family-friendly. Residents have access to nearby parks like Ora Mae Harn Park and Crossroads at Silverbell District Park. Shopping and dining options are within a short drive.
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Saguaro Bloom: Saguaro Bloom is a master-planned community offering single-family homes and townhomes. The neighborhood features scenic views of the surrounding desert landscape and is known for its community parks, open spaces, and walking trails. Nearby attractions include the Saguaro National Park, offering opportunities for outdoor exploration.
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Tangerine Crossing: Tangerine Crossing is a community that offers a mix of single-family homes in a suburban setting. The neighborhood is characterized by its family-oriented environment, parks, and green spaces. Residents can enjoy parks like Crossroads at Silverbell District Park and Tangerine Sky Park. While the area offers a more residential feel, there are local businesses, restaurants, and amenities nearby.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Marana Arizona
Living in Marana Arizona Pros
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Scenic Desert Landscape: Marana's stunning Sonoran Desert backdrop provides breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking and birdwatching.
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Relaxed Lifestyle: The town's suburban and rural atmosphere offers a slower pace of life, making it a peaceful and serene place to live.
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Proximity to Tucson: Marana's proximity to Tucson provides easy access to urban amenities, cultural attractions, and entertainment options.
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Outdoor Activities: With nearby parks, trails, and recreational facilities, Marana is a haven for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, golfing, and stargazing.
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Master-Planned Communities: The town features well-designed neighborhoods with amenities like parks, pools, and community centers that foster a sense of community.
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Saguaro National Park: The nearby Saguaro National Park is a unique natural treasure, showcasing iconic saguaro cacti and offering opportunities for exploration.
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Affordable Housing: Marana generally offers more affordable housing options compared to larger urban areas, making it attractive to those looking for budget-friendly homes.
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Growing Economy: The town's strategic location has led to economic growth, bringing new businesses and job opportunities to the area.
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Family-Friendly Environment: Marana's schools, community events, and recreational facilities make it an ideal place for families to settle and thrive.
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Southwestern Culture: Experience the rich Southwestern culture and heritage through local festivals, cuisine, and cultural events.
Living in Marana Arizona Cons
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Limited Urban Amenities: Marana's suburban nature means there may be fewer urban amenities and entertainment options than larger cities.
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Hot Summers: Summers in Marana can be extremely hot, which might be uncomfortable for individuals not used to desert climates.
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Distance from Major Cities: While Marana is close to Tucson, it can still be a distance away from other major cities and their amenities.
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Limited Nightlife: The nightlife and entertainment scene might be quieter compared to larger urban centers.
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Limited Job Market: Depending on your profession, job opportunities in specific industries may be more limited compared to larger cities.
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Water Scarcity: As a desert region, water scarcity can be a concern, and water conservation efforts might be necessary.
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Healthcare Access: Access to specialized medical facilities and healthcare services might be more limited than in urban medical centers.
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Outdoor Activity Restrictions: Extreme heat during summer months can limit certain outdoor activities or require them to be done during cooler times of day.
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Remote Feeling: Some individuals may find Marana's suburban and rural environment isolating compared to more bustling city environments.
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Limited Shopping Options: While there are shopping centers, major retail options might be more limited compared to bigger cities.
FAQs About Living in Marana Arizona
What is Marana Arizona known for?
Marana, Arizona, is most known for its annual Cotton Festival, which takes place every October and celebrates the harvest of cotton in the region. The festival attracts visitors from all over the state and features various events and activities such as cotton field tours, art exhibits, live performances, and a marketplace. The vast fields of cotton are a mesmerizing sight and have become a symbol of Marana's agricultural heritage and the surrounding area.
What cities and attractions is Marana close to?
Marana, Arizona, is situated in Pima County, within the Sonoran Desert region in the southern part of the state. The town is approximately 20 miles northwest of Tucson and 120 miles southeast of Phoenix. Marana is in close proximity to several other cities in the area, including Oro Valley, about 10 miles to the northeast, and Casa Grande, about 60 miles to the northwest. The town is also conveniently located near popular attractions in the region, such as Saguaro National Park, Catalina State Park, and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Marana's central location in Pima County makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding desert landscapes and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Marna Arizona?
Living in Marana, Arizona, you can expect hot and dry 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 any snowfall during the winter. Summers in Marana are extremely hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 100°F to 105°F and occasional heatwaves reaching temperatures above 110°F. The city receives very little rainfall, with an average of only 12 inches of precipitation annually, mostly occurring during the monsoon season in the summer months.
Does Marana Arizona have good public schools?
Students in Marana, Arizona, attend public school in the Marana Unified School District, which serves the town of Marana and some surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks the Marana Unified School District #41 among 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' diverse interests and needs. With a diverse student population and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses, families residing in Marana, Arizona, can have confidence in the public school system's ability to provide their children with a high-quality education.
Is Marana Arizona safe?
Living in Marana, Arizona, you'll find it a pretty safe place. Property crime rates in Marana are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. NeighborhoodScout.com states Marana has a crime rate lower than 68% of all US cities. Marana, Arizona, residents should feel relatively safe in their daily lives.
What is there to do living in Marana Arizona?
Living in Marana, Arizona, you will always have things to do. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Saguaro National Park and the Tortolita Mountains, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. Marana boasts several parks, including Crossroads at Silverbell District Park and Ora Mae Harn District Park, which feature playgrounds, sports fields, and scenic walking trails. The town hosts several annual events, including the Marana Bluegrass Festival, which attracts music lovers from all over, and the Marana Pumpkin Patch and Farm Festival, offering pumpkin picking, hayrides, and live entertainment. If you're looking for a day trip, Marana is located near attractions like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and the Pima Air & Space Museum. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Marana, Arizona.
Who are the large employers in Marana Arizona?
If living in Marana, Arizona, some of the top employers include the Marana Unified School District, which employs over 1,500 workers, the Town of Marana, which employs over 500 people, and the Marana Health Center, which employs over 400 people. Other notable employers in Marana include the Marana Aerospace Solutions, Hexagon Mining, and various construction companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Marana can find opportunities in education, government, healthcare, aerospace, and construction industries.
How is the healthcare in Marana Arizona?
Living in Marana, Arizona, puts you near the Marana Health Center, which is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a wide range of medical services. With its state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated healthcare professionals, this center is well-equipped to meet most of your medical needs. However, if you require specialized care that is not available in Marana, you are approximately 20 miles away from the Banner - University Medical Center Tucson, which is a renowned hospital with a wide range of specialties and advanced medical technologies.
Is living in Marana Arizona good for retirees?
If you're retired or thinking of retiring, Marana, Arizona, can be a good choice for many reasons. The weather in Marana 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 Saguaro National 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 county within Arizona, but overall, property taxes in Arizona are fairly low. Marana's pleasant weather, diverse recreational activities, and affordable tax policies make it an appealing destination for retirees seeking a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
Is Marana Arizona a good place to live?
Marana, Arizona is a great place to live due to its warm climate and abundance of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and golfing. Additionally, the town offers a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a low crime rate, making it an ideal place to raise a family.
I want to relocate to Marana Arizona. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Marana, 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 Marana 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 Marana, Arizona, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.