AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Tucson, AZ — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Tucson neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,200/mo
Median Rent
542,629
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
University of Arizona
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Tucson? What Renters Need to Know

Tucson is one of the most affordable major cities in the Southwest, with a median rent of around $1,200/month. Catalina Foothills and Oro Valley command $1,600-$1,800 for premium amenities, while central neighborhoods can be found well under $1,100.

Quick Facts

Population 542,629
Median Rent $1,200/mo
Top Employer University of Arizona
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,200 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Tucson median rent is $300 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Tucson is University of Arizona, making the Sam Hughes area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Tucson

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Sam Hughes

Score: 90/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 68
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 9/10
#2

Armory Park

Score: 84/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 75
Avg Rent $1,300
Schools 7/10
#3

Barrio Viejo

Score: 80/100
Safety B
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,200
Schools 6/10

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#4

Catalina Foothills

Score: 92/100
Safety A
Walk Score 30
Avg Rent $1,800
Schools 10/10
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#5

Midtown Tucson

Score: 77/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 58
Avg Rent $1,100
Schools 6/10
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#6

Rincon Heights

Score: 78/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 52
Avg Rent $1,050
Schools 6/10
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#7

Oro Valley

Score: 88/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 35
Avg Rent $1,600
Schools 9/10
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#8

South Tucson

Score: 60/100
Safety C-
Walk Score 60
Avg Rent $850
Schools 3/10
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See All 8 Tucson Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Tucson Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Tucson renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Tucson.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Tucson properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Tucson

What is the average rent in Tucson?

Tucson is one of the most affordable major cities in the Southwest, with a median rent of around $1,200/month. Catalina Foothills and Oro Valley command $1,600-$1,800 for premium amenities, while central neighborhoods can be found well under $1,100.

What is it like to live in Tucson?

Tucson offers a relaxed, desert lifestyle with strong arts and culture scenes, excellent Mexican food, and stunning Sonoran Desert landscapes. The University of Arizona gives the city a youthful energy and drives much of its economic and cultural activity.

How hot is Tucson?

Tucson summers are hot, with June temperatures regularly reaching 100-105°F before the summer monsoon season begins in July. However, Tucson's 2,400-foot elevation makes it slightly cooler than Phoenix, and monsoon rains dramatically transform the landscape.

Is Tucson good for outdoor activities?

Tucson is exceptional for outdoor recreation, surrounded by five distinct mountain ranges including the Catalinas and Rincons. Saguaro National Park borders the city on both sides, and world-class hiking, birding, and cycling are accessible year-round.

How is the job market in Tucson?

The University of Arizona, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, and a growing semiconductor/aerospace cluster anchor Tucson's economy. Raytheon Missiles & Defense is a major private employer. The job market is growing but lags behind Phoenix and Scottsdale.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.