Get to know:
Vail, Arizona
Scroll Down
Population:
About: 16,300
Size:
≈23 Square Miles
Homeownership
91% Percent
Median Income
$131,000
What Is It Like Living in Vail
Vail is a great place for those looking to be a little removed from Tucson without actually being that far away. It sits southeast of the city where things feel more open. You see more desert, more mountain views, and neighborhoods that don’t feel quite as packed together. It has grown a lot over the years, so it’s definitely not the little outskirt it once was. Instead, here you'll find a relaxed and residential with easy access to the city when you want it!
What are homes like in Vail
One of the nice things about Vail is how many different types of homes you can find throughout the area. Newer planned communities make up a big part of Vail, but there are also custom homes, older properties, larger desert lots, and places that feel much more rural.
Some neighborhoods have community parks, sidewalks, and amenities nearby, while others give you more land, fewer neighbors, plus a little extra privacy. It really comes down to what kind of lifestyle you want, because Vail gives you plenty of different ways to make the area feel like home!
Shopping and Amenities
Vail has gotten a lot more convenient as the area has grown. There are everyday options within Vail, and even more shopping and services a short drive away along the Houghton Road corridor. Nearby, the Houghton Town Center, has Walmart, Home Depot, T.J. Maxx, Ross, Petco, restaurants, medical offices, and other everyday services.
For bigger shopping trips or something more specialized, you may still head farther into Tucson, but most day-to-day needs are pretty easy to handle nearby.
Cafés, Restaurants & Bars
Vail has added a lot more local dining over the years, especially as the southeast side has continued to grow. There are plenty of casual places for an easy breakfast, lunch, or dinner without having to go far!
A few local spots include:
-
Montgomery's Grill & Saloon
-
Argenziano's
-
Arizona Pizza Company
-
Taco Giro
-
The Rattler at del Lago
As the area continues to grow, more places will be added, so stay tuned if you're looking for the next great eatery!
Vail Schools
Much of Vail is served by the Vail Unified School District.
Some of the schools in the district include:
-
Cienega High School
-
Empire High School
-
Mica Mountain High School
-
Old Vail Middle School
-
Corona Foothills Middle School
-
Desert Sky Middle School
-
Acacia Elementary School
-
Mesquite Elementary School
-
Sycamore Elementary School
One thing newcomers may notice is that the school calendar works a little differently than a traditional school schedule. Vail has used a modified year-round style calendar, with organized breaks throughout the year instead of relying mainly on one long summer vacation. Exact calendars and school assignments can be differ from school to school, so it is always worth checking the district's current schedule when looking for a specific home!
Local Nature
One of the best parts of Vail is how close you are to the desert!
Saguaro National Park East and Colossal Cave Mountain Park are both nearby, along with plenty of places for hiking, biking, and exploring. If you’re an horse fan, there’s plenty of properties suited for all your equestrian needs. The scenery is a big part of everyday life too. Depending on where you live, you may have views of the Rincon Mountains, Santa Rita Mountains, or wide stretches of desert right from your neighborhood. Sunsets out here are hard to beat!
Walkability
30 out of 100
Vail can be a little mixed when it comes to walkability. You’ll probably want a car for most errands and for your daily commute, but a lot of neighborhoods have parks, clubhouses, walking paths, or other spots close enough to reach on foot or by bike.
For more spread out homes, or for those who prioritize having privacy, cars are a must-have!