Santa Cruz County, AZ


0 Reviews



BestPlaces offers the best, most comprehensive city reports,
with insight into cost of living, crime, climate, and more.
United States / Arizona / No Metro Area / Santa Cruz County / Cities / Zip Codes
Santa Cruz County, AZ

About Santa Cruz County, AZ

Santa Cruz County is situated in southern Arizona near the Mexican border. Its major cities are Patagonia, Tubac and Nogales which offer rich cultural opportunities like exploring historic sites and art galleries with stunning views of the nearby mountains. Other attractions in the county include Sonoita Creek State Natural Area for bird watching and Kartchner Caverns State Park for spelunking. Small metro area set in the mountains and high desert of the Southwest. Primary industries include manufacturing and agriculture. - Located in southern Arizona, along the Mexican border, 60 miles south of Tucson and 200 miles southeast of Phoenix..

Location Details

State: Arizona
County: Santa Cruz County
Metro Area: No Metro Area
City: Rio Rico, Nogales, 10 total
Zip Codes: 85621 85648 85646 85624 85637 85611 85640
Cost of Living: -18.4% lower
Time zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)
Elevation: 3829 ft above sea level
Buying or selling a home?
Find top real estate agents in santa cruz.
Find A Top Agent

Dig Deeper on santa cruz

Nogales, Arizona, serves as a focal point for understanding the complex tapestry of American border towns. Situated on the United States-Mexico border, it is a city steeped in history, marked by its establishment in the late 19th century. The name "Nogales" is derived from the Spanish word for "walnut trees" that once flourished in the area. This city's inception and growth were significantly influenced by its position as a border crossing, shaping its cultural and economic landscape.

The geography of Nogales, characterized by its location in the Ambos Nogales—the term used to describe both the American and Mexican cities of Nogales—plays a critical role in its identity. The city is nestled among rolling hills at an elevation that affords it a more temperate climate than much of Arizona. This unique setting has implications not only for the lifestyle of its residents but also for the economic activities that are feasible in the region.

Economically, Nogales thrives primarily on international trade and commerce, facilitated by its status as a major port of entry between the United States and Mexico. The presence of customs and border protection operations underscores the city's pivotal role in cross-border relations, contributing to a dynamic local economy. Additionally, agriculture plays a significant part in the surrounding area's economy, with the favorable climate allowing for the cultivation of various crops. Retail and services oriented towards supporting the needs of both residents and those crossing the border also play a crucial role in the city's economic fabric.

When examining voting patterns, it becomes apparent that Nogales, like many border towns, exhibits trends reflective of its unique demographic and socio-economic composition. Voter participation in local, state, and federal elections tends to emphasize issues pertinent to border security, immigration, and bilateral trade agreements. These patterns underscore the community's engagement with topics that directly impact their daily lives and livelihoods.

Living in Nogales offers an experience deeply enriched by the city's bicultural atmosphere. Residents have the opportunity to engage with a variety of cultural events and traditions that reflect the community's diverse heritage. Activities in Nogales span across cultural festivals, historical exhibitions, and outdoor pursuits in the surrounding landscapes, offering a broad spectrum of experiences to those who call it home.

For new residents, it is essential to appreciate the complexity of life in a border town. Understanding the historical context and economic dynamics that shape Nogales provides a foundation for integrating into the community. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of the city's geographical position can enhance one’s appreciation of the unique opportunities and challenges faced by those living in Nogales. Newcomers should be prepared to embrace a community where two cultures converge, creating a unique environment defined by cooperation, resilience, and mutual respect.

santa cruz Cost of Living
$$$$

Affordable home prices, about an hour to tucson, and natural beauty make santa cruz a great place to live.

$253,600
-33.3% lower than avg
$45,089
-53.1% lower than avg
$910 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-57.1% lower than avg
santa cruz Crime
36.1 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in santa cruz, Arizona
$48,600
for a family
$27,600
for a single person
Pros & Cons of santa cruz
   Affordable home prices
Limited health care
   About an hour to Tucson
Summer heat
   Natural beauty
High unemployment
Cost of Living

The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.