Situated in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is framed by five majestic mountain ranges and is a haven for nature lovers. The city officially became part of the U.S. in 1854, and its blend of Native American, Mexican, and Western American influences continue to make Tucson a fascinating tapestry.
Tucson’s landscape is cinematic, with towering prickly plants dotting the rugged desert terrain, creating a backdrop you’ll easily recognize from films but may never tire of seeing as a resident. Tucson’s weather is a highlight, offering gentle winters and more than 300 days of sunshine annually. With such inviting weather, it’s no wonder many are drawn to the city—not just for its sun-soaked days, but also for its affordable lifestyle. Let’s explore some of the most affordable neighborhoods in the city fondly known as “the Old Pueblo.”
Corbett
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Tucson: $1,008/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Corbett: $717/month
- Median Home List Price in Corbett: $303,627
Corbett is located in the southeastern part of Tucson, approximately seven miles from downtown. The neighborhood features homes with ranch-style layouts and inviting front yards. Many properties were constructed during the mid-20th century, giving the area a vintage vibe that is both nostalgic and inviting.
Things to do in Corbett
After window shopping at Park Place Mall, end your day by aiming for strikes at Round1 Bowling. Time outdoors can be spent at Freedom Park, a beloved local green space that provides walking paths, sports facilities, and picnic spots. Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby Pima Air & Space Museum, which has nearly 400 exhibits of historic aircraft.
Transportation
Several Sun Tran bus routes service the neighborhood, making car-free travel around Tucson easy. Cyclists will also appreciate the city’s bike-friendly infrastructure, with major roads offering designated bike lanes. With its proximity to key highways like Interstate 10, Corbett offers residents a convenient commute.
Ward 3
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Tucson: $1,008/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Ward 3: $800/month
- Median Home List Price in Ward 3: $308,000
Ward 3 sits just northwest of downtown Tucson. This neighborhood experienced a surge in development during the 1920s. Today, the area is characterized by mid-century ranch homes, many of which still showcase their original charming layouts. Alongside these, you’ll find scattered mobile home parks and older, modestly sized houses.
Things to do in Ward 3
Spend an afternoon practicing your aim at St. Hubert's Hatchet House, a venue for indoor axe-throwing. The Tucson Botanical Gardens, located less than three miles away, offers a monthly events calendar full of exhibits and enrichment classes. Before leaving the Gardens, stop by Edna’s Eatery for a fresh garden salad and a brisket sandwich. When you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, Aqui Con El Nene is sure to hit the spot with its “best in Tucson” carne asada and salsa bar.
Transportation
Most residents rely on cars, as the walkability varies and transit options are somewhat limited. The area’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes it easier for cyclists to navigate the area, while rentable scooters offer a flexible, car-free transit option.
Campus Farm
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Tucson: $1,008/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Campus Farm: $942/month
- Median Home List Price in Campus Farm: $346,500
Campus Farm, nestled in the northern part of Tucson, has a history that dates back to 1909 when the University of Arizona purchased an 80-acre farm. Over the years, the area transitioned from ranchland into a residential neighborhood, with the University’s Campus Agricultural Center remaining a central feature.
Most homes in Campus Farm were constructed as single-story brick designs, which became prominent by the 1950s. A few horse properties and farms still dot the area, retaining its pastoral character. The surrounding views of the Catalina Mountains and open space provided by the Agricultural Center give Campus Farm an unmatched scenic beauty.
Things to do in Campus Farm
For a day of mini-golf and bumper boats, the Funtasticks theme park is less than three miles away. Wildlife enthusiasts can marvel at the Mexican free-tailed bats that roost under the Campbell Avenue Bridge, creating a stunning spectacle at dusk from June to August. Finish a long day at Guadalajara Original Grill, famous for its fresh salsa made right at your table. Tucson Mall, the city’s largest shopping venue with over 170 retail stores, is a nearby shop-til-you-drop destination.
Transportation
The neighborhood’s location provides easy access to two Sun Tran bus routes, #6 and #15, and a well-connected bike path leading to the University of Arizona. Campus Farm’s central location ensures that most parts of Tucson are reachable within 30 minutes.
Mountain View
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Tucson: $1,008/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Mountain View: $520/month
- Median Home List Price in Mountain View: $375,000
Mountain View is located in the central-north part of Tucson. Originally a low-population area with vast desert landscapes and abundant wildlife, Mountain View has evolved over time into a lively neighborhood. Historically, it was known for its quiet streets and natural beauty, with a mix of artistic homes. Over the years, the community has seen changes, including new developments, that introduced modern housing to the area.
Things to do in Mountain View
Mountain View has certainly earned its name with a beautiful view of the Catalina Mountains. Catalina State Park sits at the base of the mountains, where you can camp, hike, and ride horses. Rillito River Park provides picturesque views, perfect for photoshoots. The paved walking and biking trails are part of the famous Tucson Loop, a 131-mile path that connects parks, shopping areas, restaurants, and public works of art.
Transportation
Commuting in and around Mountain View is straightforward, with Halcyon Road providing one of the few through-street connections. While public transit options are limited, the abundance of nearby amenities—grocery stores, health care centers, and local businesses—means you’ll rarely need to travel far.
Amphi
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Tucson: $1,008/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Amphi: $812/month
- Median Home List Price in Amphi: $269,000
Amphi, established in the late 19th century, takes its name from the amphitheater-like geography of the surrounding mountains that inspired its founders in 1893. Amphi became home to its own school district, the Amphitheater Public School District, which remains one of Tucson's largest with 22 campuses.
You will find homes with adobe or brick construction, alongside Spanish-style elements like red tile roofs. Many streets feature traditional-style homes with warm pops of color, as well as duplexes and triplexes.
Things to do in Amphi
Bookworms shouldn’t skip a visit to the Woods Memorial Library, a community hub since 1968. The library offers monthly events, as well as unique features like a seed library, where you can borrow seeds to plant and return new ones after harvest.
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures has dozens of exhibits, some dating back to the 1700s. Pack a magnifying glass and a flashlight to fully enjoy the tiny displays. After gazing at miniatures, set your sights on the food at Doughbird, a modern, upscale restaurant with white table napkins serving American classics such as mashed potatoes and gravy, chicken pot pie, and prime rib sandwiches.
Transportation
The neighborhood is well-served by Tucson's Sun Tran bus system, with several routes running along major roads like Oracle and Stone Avenues. For cyclists, Tucson is highly bike-friendly, and Amphi benefits from access to the city's extensive network of bike paths, including car-free shared-use paths. Drivers can easily connect to Interstate 10, which provides access to downtown Tucson, the Tucson International Airport, and beyond. Additionally, the Amtrak station downtown is just a short drive away, offering train travel options.
If waking up every day to the beauty of towering mountain ranges is calling your name, Tucson is waiting to welcome you. Search Apartments.com for homes in Tucson and start packing!
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s June 2025 reports
