The University of Arizona area represents one of Tucson’s most dynamic and diverse neighborhoods, where students, faculty, families, and long-time residents create a vibrant community centered around Arizona’s flagship university. As Tucson’s experienced moving professionals, Tucson Moving Service has helped thousands of students, faculty members, and families relocate to the areas surrounding the University of Arizona campus. From student apartments near East Speedway Boulevard to family homes in the Sam Hughes neighborhood, the university area offers diverse housing options and a unique blend of academic energy and established community character.
Understanding the University of Arizona Area
The University of Arizona area encompasses neighborhoods within approximately 2 miles of the main campus, bounded roughly by East Grant Road to the north, East 22nd Street to the south, North Campbell Avenue to the east, and North Stone Avenue to the west. This area includes several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal to different types of residents.
The university’s main campus spans 392 acres and houses over 45,000 students, making it one of the largest employers and economic drivers in southern Arizona. The surrounding neighborhoods reflect this academic influence while maintaining their unique residential character.
Key zip codes in the university area include 85719, 85721, and portions of 85701 and 85716, each offering different advantages for various types of residents.
Neighborhoods Around Campus
Sam Hughes Historic Neighborhood
The Sam Hughes neighborhood, bounded by East Speedway Boulevard, East 5th Street, North Campbell Avenue, and North Tucson Boulevard (85719), represents one of Tucson’s most desirable historic residential areas. This neighborhood features tree-lined streets with homes built primarily between 1920-1950, showcasing various architectural styles from Spanish Colonial Revival to Mid-Century Modern.
The Sam Hughes Neighborhood Association actively maintains the area’s historic character while welcoming new residents who appreciate the neighborhood’s walkable streets and proximity to both campus and downtown. Many university faculty and staff choose Sam Hughes for its established community feel and beautiful historic homes.
Properties in Sam Hughes often feature mature landscaping, original hardwood floors, and unique architectural details that require special care during moves. Our experienced moving team understands how to protect these historic features while efficiently relocating your belongings.
Jefferson Park
Located between East 6th Street and East Speedway Boulevard, east of North Campbell Avenue (85719), Jefferson Park offers a mix of student housing and family residences. This area provides easy walking or biking access to campus while maintaining a more residential feel than areas immediately adjacent to the university.
Jefferson Park Community Garden serves as a neighborhood focal point, bringing together residents of all ages for community gardening and social activities. The area’s mature trees and established infrastructure make it popular with graduate students and young faculty members.
West University
The area west of campus, between North Stone Avenue and North Park Avenue, from East University Boulevard to East 6th Street (85705), features a mix of historic homes and newer student-oriented developments. This neighborhood provides convenient access to both the university and downtown Tucson.
West University has experienced significant development in recent years, with new apartment complexes and condominiums increasing housing options for students and young professionals. The area’s proximity to the Historic Fourth Avenue district adds to its appeal for those seeking urban amenities.
Miramonte
Located southeast of campus between East Speedway Boulevard and East 22nd Street, east of North Campbell Avenue (85719), Miramonte offers family-friendly housing options with good schools and parks. This area attracts university employees and other professionals who want to live near campus while maintaining a suburban feel.
Miramonte Elementary School serves local families and maintains strong academic programs that appeal to faculty and staff with school-age children.
Student Housing Options
On-Campus Residence Halls
The University of Arizona offers numerous residence halls that provide convenient campus living for undergraduate and graduate students. Popular residence halls include Arizona-Sonora, Kaibab-Huachuca, and the newer Honors Village, each offering different amenities and community experiences.
Moving into residence halls requires coordination with university housing staff and adherence to specific move-in schedules and procedures. Our moving team works with families to ensure smooth transitions into campus housing.
Off-Campus Apartments
The university area features numerous apartment complexes designed specifically for students. Popular options include Campus Acquisitions properties, which manage several complexes near campus, and American Campus Communities developments that offer modern amenities and student-focused services.
Many off-campus apartments offer furnished units, which can simplify moving for students relocating from other states or countries. However, unfurnished options are also available for students who prefer to bring their own belongings.
Shared Housing
Many students choose shared housing arrangements in single-family homes throughout the university area. These arrangements often provide more space and privacy than apartment living while remaining cost-effective. Popular areas for student shared housing include neighborhoods along East Speedway Boulevard, East 6th Street, and East University Boulevard.
Faculty and Staff Housing
Established Neighborhoods
University faculty and staff often choose established neighborhoods like Sam Hughes, Miramonte, or areas near Reid Park that offer family-friendly amenities while maintaining reasonable commutes to campus. These areas provide excellent schools, parks, and community services that appeal to families.
New Developments
Some faculty and staff prefer newer developments in areas like Oro Valley or Marana that offer modern amenities and newer construction, though these require longer commutes to campus.
University Housing Programs
The University of Arizona occasionally offers faculty housing programs or assistance that can help new faculty members find appropriate housing near campus. These programs may include temporary housing or relocation assistance for new hires.
Transportation and Campus Access
Walking and Biking
The university area’s grid street pattern and relatively flat terrain make walking and biking popular transportation options. Many residents live within easy walking distance of campus, while others bike along designated bike lanes on major streets like East Speedway Boulevard and North Campbell Avenue.
The university provides bike parking throughout campus and encourages sustainable transportation options for students and employees.
Public Transportation
Sun Tran bus service provides convenient public transportation throughout the university area. Major bus routes run along East Speedway Boulevard, North Campbell Avenue, and East University Boulevard, connecting campus to other parts of Tucson.
The Sun Link Streetcar connects the university area to downtown Tucson and the Mercado District, providing car-free access to additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Parking Considerations
Parking near campus can be challenging, particularly during the academic year. The university operates numerous parking facilities for students, faculty, and staff, though permits are required and can be expensive.
Many off-campus housing options include parking, though street parking in some neighborhoods may have time restrictions or permit requirements during peak periods.
Academic and Cultural Amenities
Libraries and Study Spaces
The University of Arizona Libraries system includes the Main Library, Science-Engineering Library, and numerous specialized libraries that serve both university affiliates and community members. Many graduate students and faculty appreciate living within walking distance of these research facilities.
Cultural Venues
The university area features numerous cultural attractions, including the Arizona State Museum, University of Arizona Museum of Art, and Centennial Hall which hosts concerts, lectures, and theatrical performances.
The Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium provides educational and entertainment opportunities for families with children interested in science and astronomy.
Recreation Facilities
The Campus Recreation Center offers fitness facilities, group classes, and recreational sports programs. Many community members purchase memberships to access these modern facilities.
Dining and Entertainment
Campus Area Restaurants
The university area features diverse dining options ranging from student-friendly casual restaurants to upscale establishments popular with faculty and visitors. The Coronet on East University Boulevard offers fine dining, while numerous cafes and casual restaurants along East Speedway Boulevard cater to student budgets and schedules.
Fourth Avenue District
The nearby Historic Fourth Avenue district provides additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options within walking distance of campus. This area features eclectic shops, restaurants, bars, and hosts regular street fairs and events.
Campus Events
The university hosts numerous events throughout the academic year that are open to the community, including concerts, lectures, art exhibitions, and athletic events. Living in the university area provides easy access to these cultural and educational opportunities.
Moving Considerations for University Area
Academic Calendar Timing
Moving in the university area requires consideration of the academic calendar, as demand for moving services peaks during semester transitions. Late August (fall
