Things to know before Moving To Douglas Az [2023]

Looking to make a move? Consider this: Did you know that approximately 5,941 properties in Douglas, AZ are at major risk of wildfires over the next 30 years? That’s just one of the factors you should take into account before moving to this city.

From limited airport access to a significant gender ratio imbalance, there are several aspects to consider. In this article, we’ll dive into the demographics, cost of living, crime rate, economy, education, and more, to help you make an informed decision about moving to Douglas, AZ.

Key Takeaways

  • Douglas is at high risk for wildfires, with all properties in the city facing the potential for damage or destruction.
  • The distance to the nearest airport is about 114 miles, making travel inconvenient and time-consuming for residents.
  • There is a significant gender ratio imbalance in Douglas, with the male population accounting for 62.4% of the city’s population, which may have social implications.
  • While Douglas may be safe from some natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, residents should still be aware of the risks present in the area, particularly from wildfires.

Demographics

Moving to Douglas, AZ will introduce you to a diverse racial composition. The majority of residents in Douglas are White, making up 66.64% of the population. There is also a significant population of individuals with two or more races, accounting for 17.37% of the community. Additionally, there is a presence of other races, comprising 9.96% of the population.

This diversity adds to the cultural fabric of the city and provides opportunities for cross-cultural interactions and experiences. When considering a move to Douglas, it’s important to embrace and appreciate the diversity within the community. Interacting with people from different racial backgrounds can broaden your perspective and enrich your overall experience in the city.

Cost of Living

Considering the cost of living in Douglas, it is important to note that the median home value is lower than the national average. This means that housing in Douglas is more affordable compared to other parts of the country. In addition, the renter rate in Douglas is similar to the national rate, and the typical rent for a monthly basis is also in line with the national median.

Moreover, the transportation costs in Douglas are higher than the national average, with a single person spending $10,590 per year on transportation expenses. This could be due to the fact that a large percentage of commuters in Douglas drive to work and the average commute time is shorter than the national average.

These factors should be taken into consideration when evaluating the cost of living in Douglas.

  • The median home value in Douglas is lower than the national average.
  • The renter rate in Douglas is similar to the national rate.
  • Transportation costs in Douglas are higher than the national average.

Crime Rate

When assessing the livability of an area, it is crucial to take into account the crime rate. In Douglas, AZ, the crime rate is higher than 71% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes. Compared to other communities of similar population, Douglas has a crime rate that is quite a bit higher than average. The southeast part of the city is generally considered the safest, with a lower chance of being a victim of crime. However, it is important to note that the overall crime rate in Douglas is still relatively high. To provide a visual representation of the crime rate, here is a table that compares Douglas to other cities in Arizona:

City Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents)
Douglas 5,152
City 2 X
City 3 X
City 4 X

Considering the crime rate is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Douglas, AZ.

Economy

The economy in Douglas, AZ has seen a decrease in job market growth over the past year, but future job growth is predicted to be positive.

According to Best Places, the unemployment rate in Douglas is 5.9%, and the job market has decreased by -0.9% in the last year. However, there is hope for the future, as job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 20.5%. This indicates that there is potential for new opportunities and businesses to thrive in the area.

Niche suggests that Douglas has character and needs new businesses to help it grow and return to its former state.

Additionally, Forbes Advisor states that Arizona is a great place to start a business, which may further contribute to the economic development of Douglas.

Education

Based on the information available, the public schools in Douglas, AZ have below-average proficiency scores in math and reading compared to the state average. According to PublicSchoolReview.com, the average math proficiency score in Douglas is only 10%, compared to the Arizona public school average of 31%. Similarly, the average reading proficiency score in Douglas is 24%, while the statewide average is 39%.

In terms of rankings, schools in Douglas have an average ranking of 2/10, placing them in the bottom 50% of Arizona public schools. However, there are some top-rated schools in Douglas, such as Liberty Traditional Charter School – Saddleback, Center For Academic Success #4, Stevenson Elementary School, Center For Academic Success #3 – Douglas K-4, and Omega Alpha Academy School.

While there are no universities directly located in Douglas, there is a community college called Cochise College that serves the residents of Cochise County. Additionally, The University of Arizona has a regional location in Douglas offering undergraduate and graduate programs.

Healthcare

Consider the healthcare services available in Douglas, AZ before making any decisions. Here are 3 important things to know:

  1. Copper Queen Community Hospital: Located just 20 miles away from Douglas, this hospital offers a wide range of services including Quickcare, Coumadin Clinic, laboratory and diagnostic imaging services, and an onsite surgery clinic. It provides convenient access to quality healthcare for residents.
  2. Chiricahua Community Health Centers: This healthcare center is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services to patients. Their Pediatric Center of Excellence is located in Douglas, offering specialized care for children. They are committed to ensuring the well-being of the community.
  3. Urgent Care Centers and Walk-in Clinics: In Douglas, you have access to convenient healthcare options such as the Copper Queen Community Hospital Douglas Rural Health Clinic and Chiricahua Community Health Centers Inc. These centers provide prompt medical care for non-life-threatening conditions, allowing you to receive treatment without the need for an appointment.

Having access to quality healthcare services is essential for a thriving community. In Douglas, you have options that prioritize your well-being and ensure you receive the care you need.

Housing Market

If you’re looking for affordable housing options, there are various neighborhoods in Douglas, AZ with different price ranges.

Some of the affordable neighborhoods include Pirtleville, AZ, where the median home price is $75,000 and the median rent is $600 per month.

Paul Spur, AZ is another option, with a median home price of $118,000 and a median rent of $650 per month.

Bisbee Junction, AZ offers a median home price of $86,000 and a median rent of $550 per month.

Don Luis, AZ has a median home price of $93,000 and a median rent of $600 per month.

These neighborhoods provide more affordable housing options compared to the city average.

So, if affordability is a priority for you, consider exploring these neighborhoods in Douglas, AZ.

Job Market

The job market in Douglas, AZ offers various opportunities in industries such as public administration, healthcare, social assistance, and education. Here are four examples of in-demand jobs in Douglas, AZ:

  1. Optometrist: Provide eye care services to patients, including diagnosing and treating visual problems.
  2. Delivery Driver: Responsible for delivering goods and products to customers in a timely and efficient manner.
  3. Customer Service Representative: Interact with customers to provide assistance, answer inquiries, and resolve issues.
  4. Outside Sales Associate: Develop and maintain relationships with clients, promote products or services, and achieve sales targets.

These job opportunities reflect the diverse employment landscape in Douglas, AZ, with positions available in healthcare, transportation, customer service, and sales.

Whether you have expertise in a specific field or are looking to explore new career paths, the job market in Douglas, AZ offers a range of options to suit different skills and interests.

Public Transportation

If you’re considering moving to Douglas, AZ, it’s important to take into account the availability of public transportation. The City of Douglas Transit provides public transportation services in the area, offering a convenient way to get around town. You can find bus schedules, route maps, and contact information on their website. The transit receives grant funding, ensuring that the services are reliable and accessible. Additionally, if you need to travel to Phoenix, there are bus options available that can get you there in about 9 hours and 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can choose to drive or fly. Having access to public transportation can make a significant difference in your daily commute and overall convenience. Take advantage of the services provided by the City of Douglas Transit to make your life in Douglas easier and more efficient.

Pros of Public Transportation in Douglas, AZ Cons of Public Transportation in Douglas, AZ
Convenient way to get around town Limited routes and schedules
Reliable and accessible Longer travel times compared to driving
Reduces the need for owning a car Limited options for traveling long distances
Environmentally friendly Less flexibility in travel plans
Can save money on transportation costs May not be suitable for certain destinations

Tax Rates

When considering living in Douglas, you should be aware of the tax rates in the city. Here are three important things to know about tax rates in Douglas, AZ:

  1. Sales Tax: The total sales tax rate in Douglas is 9.9%. This consists of 5.6% Arizona state sales tax, 0.5% Cochise County sales tax, and 3.8% Douglas tax. It is important to factor this into your budget and financial planning.
  2. Property Tax: Property tax is a primary funding source for local school districts, county government operations, fire, and special districts in Arizona. The Cochise County Assessor’s Office is responsible for locating, identifying, and valuing all locally assessable property in Cochise County at fair market value. It is essential to understand how property tax may impact your expenses as a homeowner in Douglas.
  3. Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT): If you plan to engage in business activities in Douglas, you will need a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license. This license allows you to pay your state, county, and city sales tax through the Arizona Department of Revenue. Make sure to follow the necessary steps and obtain the proper licenses to comply with tax regulations.

Being informed about the tax rates in Douglas will help you make educated decisions about your financial responsibilities when moving to the city.

Weather and Climate

Nestled in a desert climate, Douglas, AZ experiences hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, the average high temperature reaches around 95°F (35°C), providing plenty of warm, sunny days to enjoy outdoor activities. The average low temperature during this time is around 68°F (20°C), allowing for comfortable evenings.

As winter approaches, the temperatures cool down slightly, with an average high temperature of 62.6°F (17°C) in February, the last month of winter. The average low temperature during this time is around 41.2°F (5.1°C). While Douglas doesn’t typically receive any snow throughout the year, it does experience cooler temperatures during the winter months.

Overall, the climate in Douglas offers a pleasant balance between hot summers and mild winters, providing residents with a variety of weather conditions to enjoy throughout the year.

Pros and Cons

Consider the low property prices, high government spending, and motivated teachers at elementary and middle schools as you weigh the pros and cons of living in Douglas, Arizona.

  • Low property prices: One of the major advantages of living in Douglas is the affordability of property. With low property prices, you can find a home that suits your budget and potentially save money compared to other areas.
  • High government spending: Douglas benefits from high government spending, which can lead to improved infrastructure, services, and amenities in the community. This investment can enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
  • Motivated teachers at elementary and middle schools: The presence of motivated teachers at elementary and middle schools can greatly impact the education of children. Their dedication and enthusiasm can create a positive learning environment and contribute to the academic success of students.

These factors should be taken into consideration when evaluating whether Douglas is the right place for you to live.

Bars and Restaurants

If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite or have a drink, there are several great bars and restaurants in Douglas, AZ.

Some of the highly rated establishments in the area include Chatitas Steakhouse, known for its Latin American dishes, and El Chef Restaurant, a popular Mexican eatery with great menudo and service.

For those craving Latin cuisine, El Burron is considered one of the best options in town, with a salsa bar to enhance your dining experience. La Fiesta Cafe is another well-regarded Mexican restaurant that is worth a visit.

If you’re in the mood for something different, Golden Time Restaurant is known for its good green chili burritos.

Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, steakhouse, or fast food, Douglas has a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.

Things to Do

When exploring Douglas, you can visit the Douglas-Williams House, Cochise County Historical Society, and Slaughter Ranch Museum to learn about the town’s history and culture.

These historical sites and museums offer a glimpse into the rich past of Douglas.

The Douglas-Williams House, once the residence of James Douglas, displays exhibits and historical items related to Douglas history, including extensive records of genealogy.

The Cochise County Historical Society promotes the area’s history and culture through exhibits, documents, photos, and memorabilia. Named after Cochise, it also offers inexpensive memberships and volunteer opportunities.

The Slaughter Ranch Museum showcases life on a real cattle ranch in rural Arizona. With renovated buildings and affordable admission, it provides a unique experience for adults and free entry for children.

These attractions allow you to immerse yourself in Douglas’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for its heritage.

Best Neighborhoods

Explore the best neighborhoods in Douglas, AZ to find the perfect community for you.

While there is no specific information available about the neighborhood characteristics in Douglas, AZ, you can consider factors such as walkability, proximity to amenities, and noise levels when evaluating different neighborhoods.

Look for neighborhoods with a high walk score, as this indicates plenty of nearby places like stores, restaurants, and coffee shops. Proximity to grocery stores, dining options, and parks can also make a difference in your daily life.

Additionally, consider noise levels, as higher walk scores may indicate higher noise levels.

Take the time to visit different neighborhoods and talk to residents to get a sense of the community atmosphere.

Ultimately, finding the best neighborhood in Douglas, AZ will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re considering a move to Douglas, AZ, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.

While the city may offer affordable living and a variety of activities, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks.

With a high wildfire risk, limited airport access, and a gender ratio imbalance, there are factors to consider.

One statistic that may evoke an emotional response is the significant gender ratio imbalance, with males accounting for 62.4% of the population, which could potentially impact the community atmosphere.

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