Are you considering moving to Nogales, Arizona?
Well, here’s an interesting fact for you: Nogales has the most frequently crossed border in the world, with 3.5 million crossings each year.
Living in this border city means experiencing a unique cultural and economic relationship with its Mexican counterpart, Nogales, Sonora.
However, there are challenges and dangers that come with the high traffic and security measures.
In this article, we’ll explore the demographics, cost of living, crime rate, economy, education, and more to help you make an informed decision about moving to Nogales, AZ.
Key Takeaways
- Nogales is a US-Mexico border city with a 10-mile border fence made of steel tubes and plates, which serves as both a barrier and a point of connection for families.
- The border crossing process can be intimidating, with passport and customs examinations required to enter the US. Nogales is one of the most-crossed borders in the US, with 3.5 million crossings annually.
- Poverty and begging are prevalent in Nogales, with many families and children in need of assistance. Witnessing this situation can be emotionally distressing and leave a lasting impact.
- Nogales, Arizona residents often cross the border to take advantage of cheaper goods and services in Nogales, Mexico, while the Mexican Nogales benefits from the influx of US residents’ money. The economic relationship between the two cities is complex.
Demographics
In Nogales, AZ, you’ll find a racially diverse population. The majority of residents are White, followed by a significant number of individuals who identify as Two or more races. There is also a smaller percentage of other races such as Black, Asian, and Native American. If you’re considering moving to Nogales, you can expect to live in a community that reflects this diversity.
The population density is 945.70/sq mi, and the current population stands at 19,684. The town has experienced a slight decline in population growth, with a -0.21% growth rate.
The majority of residents are fluent in Spanish, with 90.87% of the population being Spanish speakers. Nogales also has a relatively high poverty rate, with 29.79% of residents living below the poverty line. However, it’s important to note that there are variances in poverty rates among different racial groups, with Black individuals being the most likely to be in poverty.
Despite these challenges, Nogales offers a unique and diverse community for those considering a move to the area.
Cost of Living
When considering the cost of living in Nogales, Arizona, it’s important to note that the median home value is lower than the national average. In Nogales, the median home value is $119,800, while the national median home value is $204,900. This makes housing more affordable in Nogales compared to other parts of the country. Additionally, the majority of occupied homes in Nogales are rented, with a renter rate of 52.10%, higher than the national average of 36.2%. The typical renter in Nogales spends $550 a month on housing. Transportation costs in Nogales are also relatively low, with 93.50% of commuters driving to work and an average commute time of 19.1 minutes. Overall, the cost of living in Nogales is lower than both the state and national averages, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable living options.
| Category | Nogales, Arizona |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $119,800 |
| Renter Rate | 52.10% |
| Average Monthly Rent | $550 |
| Commuter Drive Rate | 93.50% |
| Average Commute Time | 19.1 minutes |
Crime Rate
To get a better understanding of the crime rate, you should know that Nogales, Arizona has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes. Here are some key points about the crime rate in Nogales:
- Nogales has a crime rate of 33 per one thousand residents, making it one of the highest crime rates in America.
- The violent crime rate in Nogales is 189.8 per 100,000 people, which is significantly lower than the national and Arizona rates.
Crime rates can vary depending on the specific area within Nogales. People who live in Nogales generally consider the northeast part of the city to be the safest. Your chance of being a victim of crime in Nogales may be as high as 1 in 10 in the central neighborhoods, or as low as 1 in 42 in the northeast part of the city.
Economy
Explore the diverse economy of Nogales, AZ and discover the opportunities it offers for entrepreneurs and businesses.
Nogales has seen a slight increase in the job market and is ranked first in projected job growth and economic growth prospects in Arizona. The city is home to top-rated companies like Fujitsu, UPS, The Home Depot, and Teleperformance.
Starting a business in Arizona is advantageous due to its low cost of living, low taxes, and business-friendly environment. The streamlined process for registering a business with the state makes it easier for entrepreneurs to establish their presence in Nogales.
With its status as the #1 Port of Entry in the Southwestern United States, Nogales serves as a gateway for international trade and commerce.
The city offers a range of opportunities for businesses to thrive and contribute to its growing economy.
Education
Discover the educational opportunities available in Nogales, AZ and how they can benefit you.
While Nogales may have its challenges, it also offers several top-rated public schools that strive to provide quality education to its students. Mexicayotl Charter School, Nusd Online, and Pierson High School are among the top-rated schools in Nogales, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for academic growth.
Additionally, for those seeking higher education, The University of Arizona Nogales provides undergraduate and graduate programs to the communities of Nogales, Sonora, Nogales, Arizona, and the greater Santa Cruz County area. Although there is no university directly located in Nogales, the regional location of The University of Arizona Nogales ensures that residents have access to higher education options.
Embrace the educational possibilities in Nogales and let them guide you towards a bright future.
Healthcare
Experience the quality healthcare services available in Nogales, AZ and let them provide you with the best possible care. Nogales offers a few healthcare centers that are committed to maintaining good health and providing top-notch care for their patients. One option is Mariposa Community Health Center, located at 1852 N. Mastick Way, Nogales, AZ 85621. They offer a wide range of healthcare services to meet your needs. Another option is Holy Cross Hospital, located at 1171 W Target Range Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621. They provide emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging, among other services. Here is a table summarizing the healthcare centers in Nogales, AZ:
| Healthcare Center | Location |
|---|---|
| Mariposa Community Health Center | 1852 N. Mastick Way, Nogales, AZ 85621 |
| Holy Cross Hospital | 1171 W Target Range Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621 |
No matter which healthcare center you choose, you can expect quality care and a commitment to your well-being.
Housing Market
The housing market in Nogales, AZ has seen significant changes in rent prices and home values. Here are four key points to understand about the housing market in Nogales:
- Rent Prices: The median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Nogales, AZ is $3,450/mo, which is a 57% increase compared to the previous year. On the other hand, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is $995/mo, showing a 50% decrease.
- Affordability: Some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Nogales, AZ by home value include Desert Hills, with a median listing home price of $150K, and Canyon View, with a median listing home price of $175K.
- Expensive Neighborhoods: On the other hand, Nogales also has some expensive neighborhoods. Paradise Valley tops the list, with a median listing home price of $3.2M, followed by Pinnacle Peak with $1.4M.
- Overall Ranking: Nogales, AZ ranks #1,348 out of 6,406 places to live in America, indicating that it offers a range of housing options for residents.
These changes in rent prices and home values reflect the dynamics of the housing market in Nogales, AZ.
Job Market
If you’re looking for job opportunities in Nogales, there are various industries with high demand. These include construction, healthcare, professional and technical services, information technology, finance and insurance, manufacturing, and transportation and warehousing.
Nogales, AZ has a diverse job market, with the largest industries being Retail Trade, Transportation & Warehousing, and Health Care & Social Assistance. Some of the top-rated companies in the area include McDonald’s, Fujitsu, UPS, The Home Depot, and Teleperformance.
The most common job groups in Nogales, AZ are Office & Administrative Support Occupations, Sales & Related Occupations, and Material Moving Occupations. Currently, there are many job opportunities available, such as food prep helper, production team leader, office assistant, human resources specialist, and customer service representative.
You can find job listings on websites like Indeed.com and SimplyHired.com.
Public Transportation
Now that you have learned about the job market in Nogales, AZ, let’s explore the public transportation options available in the city.
If you don’t have a car, don’t worry! There are several ways to get around Nogales without one.
One option is to take a bus from Phoenix to Nogales via Tufesa Mexico. The bus runs every 4 hours and tickets cost between $16-$50.
Another option is to rent a car from Hertz or Enterprise Rent-a-car in Nogales. If you prefer not to drive, you can also take a bus or hire a shuttle within the city.
Additionally, Uber and Lyft are available in Nogales, offering convenient and safe transportation options.
So, whether you choose to take a bus, rent a car, or use ride-sharing services, getting around Nogales without a car is definitely feasible.
Tax Rates
To understand the tax rates in Nogales, AZ, you should visit the Santa Cruz County Assessor’s Office website. They are responsible for administering and collecting property taxes in Nogales.
If you need to pay your property taxes, you have the option to do so in person at their office located at 2150 N. Congress Dr. #104 Nogales, AZ 85621, or you can pay them online.
The tax rate in Nogales consists of three components: the Arizona state sales tax, the Santa Cruz County sales tax, and the Nogales tax. The total sales tax rate is 8.6%, with the Arizona state sales tax accounting for 5.6% and the Santa Cruz County and Nogales taxes adding up to 3%.
It’s important to be aware of these tax rates when considering a move to Nogales, AZ.
Weather and Climate
The weather in Nogales, AZ is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, you can expect average high temperatures of 95°F (35°C) and average low temperatures of 66°F (19°C). It can get quite hot, so be prepared for the heat and make sure to stay hydrated.
In the winter, the average high temperature drops to 64°F (17.8°C) and the average low temperature is around 36°F (2.2°C). While winters are generally mild, there may be some colder days, especially in December. Snowfall is possible from November through April, but it usually occurs in small amounts.
Overall, the weather in Nogales, AZ is relatively pleasant, with warm summers and mild winters.
Pros and Cons
One of the pros of living in Nogales, AZ is the relatively pleasant weather with warm summers and mild winters. Nogales has a climate similar to Phoenix but less hot, making it a comfortable place to live throughout the year.
The city receives a significant amount of rainfall and experiences heavy storms during monsoon season, which can be a refreshing change. Unlike other parts of Arizona, Nogales does not have extreme temperatures, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about scorching heat or freezing cold.
Whether you’re exploring the beautiful national forests, playing golf, or simply enjoying the scenery, the weather in Nogales provides a favorable environment for outdoor adventures.
Additionally, the moderate climate makes it easier to adapt and enjoy all that this border city has to offer.
Bars and Restaurants
There are several bars and restaurants in Nogales, AZ that offer a variety of delicious cuisines. Here are three notable establishments worth checking out:
- La Cabaña Restaurant: This humble eatery at 840 N Grand Ave is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. From traditional dishes like tacos and enchiladas to flavorful salsas and homemade tortillas, La Cabaña Restaurant offers a taste of Mexico that will leave you satisfied.
- El Zarape: Located at 694 N Grand Ave, this popular spot is a go-to for breakfast and lunch. With its extensive menu featuring Mexican favorites like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles, El Zarape is the perfect place to start your day or grab a midday bite.
- Ragazzi Italian Restaurant: If you’re craving Italian flavors, head to 204 W Mariposa Rd. Ragazzi Italian Restaurant offers a romantic and family-friendly dining experience. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas, you’ll find a taste of Italy right in Nogales.
Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican or Italian cuisine, Nogales, AZ has a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
Things to Do
Now that you’ve explored the vibrant bar and restaurant scene in Nogales, Arizona, it’s time to discover the exciting things to do in this border city. Nogales offers a rich history and cultural experience for visitors to enjoy.
Immerse yourself in the city’s heritage by visiting historical sites and museums such as the Santa Cruz County Courthouse, which houses a small museum showcasing Nogales’ history. For art enthusiasts, the Hilltop Art Gallery is a must-visit, offering unique arts and crafts that highlight the U.S. and Mexican cultures.
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, head to Old Presidio Traders, a family-owned business selling Native American items. For a taste of local craftsmanship, don’t miss the Paul Bond Boot Company, where you can find high-quality custom-made boots. And if you’re up for a quirky adventure, visit the Ruby Ghost Town in nearby Arizona.
Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you explore the diverse attractions Nogales has to offer.
Best Neighborhoods
If you’re looking for the best neighborhoods to explore in Nogales, AZ, start by checking out the vibrant downtown area. Here, you’ll find a high walk score, indicating proximity to a variety of amenities such as stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and schools. The downtown area offers a bustling atmosphere with plenty of things to do and see.
To help you navigate the different neighborhoods, here is a table showcasing some of the best neighborhoods in Nogales, AZ:
| Neighborhood | Housing Affordability | Walkability |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | Affordable | High |
| Eastside | Affordable | Moderate |
| Westside | Affordable | Moderate |
Each neighborhood offers its own unique charm and character, so explore them all to find the one that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for affordability, walkability, or a combination of both, Nogales, AZ has a neighborhood that will make you feel right at home.
Conclusion
Well, congratulations on your decision to move to Nogales, Arizona! You’ll surely enjoy the unique cultural experience of living in a border city. The constant flow of people and goods between the US and Mexico adds a certain charm to the area.
Just remember, as you witness the poverty and begging, it might make you question your decision. But hey, who needs a peaceful, prosperous neighborhood when you can have heart-wrenching scenes of neglect?
So go ahead, embrace the irony, and enjoy your time in Nogales!