Are you ready to embark on a new chapter in the vibrant desert oasis of San Luis, Arizona? Like a shimmering mirage in the vast expanse, this city offers a warm and welcoming community, educational opportunities, and a rich cultural tapestry.
With its mild winters, hot summers, and a range of media publications, San Luis is a place where you can truly carve out a fulfilling life.
Join us as we explore the demographics, cost of living, crime rate, economy, education, and more in this comprehensive guide to moving to San Luis AZ.
Key Takeaways
- San Luis, AZ offers educational opportunities through its partnership with Gadsden Elementary School District at Southwest Junior High, providing options for families with school-aged children.
- The city has a variety of local publications, such as Bajo el Sol, The Yuma Sun, The Super Shopper, New Homes, San Luis AZ News, and Diario Noticias, providing residents with access to news and information.
- San Luis operates under a Council-Manager form of government, with a seven-member council appointing city officials. The city has experienced political turmoil in the past, including recalls and changes in leadership.
- The city has transportation options including public transit provided by Yuma County Area Transit, highways connecting to Yuma, and ports of entry connecting the town to San Luis Río Colorado, Mexico.
Demographics
If you’re considering moving to San Luis, AZ, it’s important to know that the city has a diverse racial composition. The majority of the population is White, but there is also a significant population of individuals with two or more races. According to the demographics, the racial breakdown of San Luis includes 64.42% White, 28.42% Two or more races, 4.54% Other race, 1.27% Native American, 1.25% Black or African American, 0.07% Asian, and 0.03% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander.
The city’s population is projected to be 39,761, with a population growth rate of 3.2%. Additionally, the average household size in San Luis is 3.67, and the percentage of renters is 64.7%.
This information provides insight into the cultural diversity and housing situation in the city, which can be helpful when considering a move to San Luis.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in San Luis, Arizona is approximately the same as the annual cost of living for Arizona and less than the national average. Here are three key points to consider:
1) Housing affordability: The median home value in San Luis is $115,500, which is lower than the national median. This means that buying a home in San Luis may be more affordable compared to other parts of the country.
2) Transportation expenses: About 88.80% of commuters in San Luis drive to work, higher than the national rate. However, the average commute time is longer than the national average. It’s important to factor in transportation costs such as gas, public transit, and car maintenance when budgeting for living in San Luis.
3) Health care expenses: Out-of-pocket health care costs and insurance premiums in San Luis are higher than the national and state averages. The average health care costs for a single adult in San Luis is $7,176 per year. It’s crucial to consider health care expenses when planning your budget in San Luis.
Crime Rate
Despite being lower than the national average, the crime rate in San Luis, AZ is still a concern for residents. According to recent data, the chance of being a victim of violent crime in San Luis is 1 in 1204, and property crime is 1 in 1541.
While these numbers may be lower compared to other areas, it is important to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure personal safety. The northeast part of the city is generally considered the safest area in San Luis, with a lower chance of being a victim of crime, approximately 1 in 49.
It is always advisable to stay informed about the local crime trends, utilize security measures, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Economy
With a growing population and a steady job market, San Luis, AZ offers opportunities for businesses to thrive.
The city has seen a 4.0% increase in population between April 2020 and July 2021, indicating a growing customer base.
Additionally, the job market has seen a 0.4% increase over the last year, with future job growth predicted to be 3.5% over the next ten years. Although this is lower than the US average, it still presents potential for businesses to expand and create new job opportunities.
The city’s resources, such as the San Luis Business Incubator, provide support and services for startups and growing businesses. Oportun, a loan agency, offers affordable loans to help businesses move onward and upward.
San Luis is indeed an exciting place to start and operate a business, with ample potential for success.
Education
If you’re interested in education in San Luis, AZ, you’ll be pleased to know that there are multiple schools and universities available for students of all ages. In San Luis, there are 8 elementary schools and 4 high schools serving a total of 7,551 students. The top-ranked public schools in the area include Desert View Elementary School, Southwest Junior High School, and San Luis Middle School. These schools prioritize the development of students’ math and reading proficiency, ensuring a high-quality education. Additionally, Arizona Western College San Luis Learning Center is a community college located in San Luis, providing further educational opportunities. If you’re looking for higher education options, there are several colleges and universities within 40 miles of San Luis. With a strong focus on education, San Luis offers a variety of institutions to support the academic growth of its residents.
| School Name | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Desert View Elementary School | Top ranked |
| Southwest Junior High School | Highly ranked |
| San Luis Middle School | Highly ranked |
Healthcare
There are multiple healthcare options available in San Luis, including clinics, hospitals, and an urgent care clinic.
- Clinics:
- Yuma Regional Medical Center Primary Care-San Luis
- San Luis Medical Clinics Health & Welfare Clinics
- Sanando Integrative Med Clinic, P Clinics
- San Luis Clinic Clinics Physicians & Surgeons, Internal Medicine
- Chicanos Por La Causa Clinics Medical Clinics
- San Luis Outpatient Surgery Center Clinics
- San Luis Walk-in Clinic, Inc Clinics
- Regional Center For Border Health Inc Clinics
- Hospitals:
- There are 3 hospitals in or near San Luis, AZ.
- Urgent Care:
- San Luis Urgent Care
These options provide a range of medical services to meet the healthcare needs of the community. Whether you require primary care, specialized treatment, or immediate attention for minor emergencies, San Luis has healthcare facilities to serve you.
It is important to consider your specific medical needs and choose a provider that aligns with your preferences and requirements. Additionally, the presence of multiple clinics and hospitals indicates that you have options for seeking care, ensuring accessibility and convenience.
Housing Market
The housing market in San Luis, AZ offers a variety of options for homebuyers and renters. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, there are neighborhoods that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some affordable neighborhoods in San Luis include San Luis Plaza, San Luis Townsite, San Luis Rio Colorado, Los Alamos, and Los Jardines, with median home values ranging from $150,111 to $165,000. On the other hand, if you’re looking for more upscale options, neighborhoods like Los Olivos, San Luis Townsite, San Luis Rio Colorado, Los Alamos, and Los Jardines offer higher median home values ranging from $220,000 to $250,000. The housing market in San Luis, AZ provides a range of choices to suit your needs and budget.
| Affordable Neighborhoods | Median Home Value |
|---|---|
| San Luis Plaza | $150,111 |
| San Luis Townsite | $156,000 |
| San Luis Rio Colorado | $160,000 |
| Los Alamos | $165,000 |
| Upscale Neighborhoods | Median Home Value |
|---|---|
| Los Olivos | $250,000 |
| San Luis Townsite | $240,000 |
| San Luis Rio Colorado | $230,000 |
| Los Alamos | $220,000 |
Job Market
Now that you’ve learned about the housing market in San Luis, AZ, let’s shift our focus to the job market in the area. San Luis offers a range of employment opportunities across various industries. Here are three key points to consider:
- Diverse Industries: San Luis boasts a diverse economy with major industries including agriculture, construction, and educational services. The city’s strategic location near the border allows for logistics and distribution, food technology and agribusiness, and industrial manufacturing to thrive.
- Agricultural Hub: With its proximity to Yuma, San Luis plays a vital role in the region’s $2.3 billion per year agriculture industry. The city is known for its production of leafy greens and year-round cultivation of over 150 different crops. This sector provides numerous job opportunities, especially for seasonal workers.
- High-Paying Jobs: While there are many job opportunities available in San Luis, some positions offer lucrative salaries. High-paying jobs in the area include mortgage loan originators, physician assistants, and commercial tire service managers.
With a diverse job market and opportunities in various industries, San Luis presents an attractive option for those seeking employment in a thriving community.
Public Transportation
To make your way around San Luis, AZ, you can rely on the convenient public transportation options available.
San Luis is served by the Yuma County Area Transit, which provides bus services connecting the city to Yuma and other nearby areas. Greyhound also operates in the area, offering multiple daily scheduled trips.
If you prefer a faster option, taxis are available for hire within the city boundaries.
Additionally, U.S. Route 95 and Arizona State Route 195 connect San Luis to Yuma, allowing for easy access by car.
For those traveling to Mexico, the San Luis Port of Entry and San Luis II Port of Entry provide connections to San Luis Río Colorado.
Overall, whether you choose to take the bus, hire a taxi, or drive yourself, getting around San Luis is convenient and accessible.
Tax Rates
You’ll find the total sales tax rate in San Luis, AZ is 10.712%, which includes the Arizona state sales tax, Yuma County sales tax, and the local San Luis tax.
This means that when you make taxable purchases in San Luis, you will be required to pay the 10.712% sales tax on top of the cost of the items you are buying.
The breakdown of the sales tax rate is as follows: 5.6% is the Arizona state sales tax, 1.112% is the Yuma County sales tax, and 4% is the San Luis tax.
It’s important to keep these tax rates in mind when budgeting for your expenses in San Luis, as they will affect the total cost of your purchases.
For more detailed information about taxes, including sales tax and license requirements for businesses, you can visit the official tax website of the city.
Weather and Climate
Be prepared for hot summers and mild winters in San Luis. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures ranging from 84.9°F to 106.2°F. The desert climate of San Luis means you’ll experience scorching heat during the summer months. However, the winters are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F.
Here are a few important things to know about the weather and climate in San Luis:
- San Luis experiences a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters.
- The average high temperature in July is 106.2°F, while the average low temperature is 84.9°F.
- December is the coldest month, with an average high temperature of 65°F and an average low temperature of 36°F.
- Don’t expect any snow in San Luis, as the city receives an average of 0 inches of snow per year.
So, make sure to pack your sunscreen and drink plenty of water during the hot summer months, and enjoy the pleasant temperatures during the mild winters.
Pros and cons
Now that you have learned about the weather and climate in San Luis Obispo, let’s dive into the pros and cons of living in this vibrant city.
San Luis Obispo offers a plethora of benefits that make it an attractive place to call home. Firstly, you can expect top-notch schools and a diverse economy, providing plenty of job opportunities. Additionally, the city boasts easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, ensuring you’ll never run out of things to do. The breathtaking natural scenery, with its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rolling hills, adds to the overall charm of the area.
However, it’s important to consider the drawbacks as well. The higher cost of living compared to other cities in the region and the challenge of finding parking in some areas can be a downside. Traffic can also be an issue during peak hours.
Despite these drawbacks, San Luis Obispo offers a perfect balance for those looking for a new place to call home. It’s all about making the most of what the city has to offer and weighing the pros and cons to find your perfect fit.
Bars and Restaurants
When looking for a place to dine or grab a drink, there are plenty of options in San Luis.
If you’re in the mood for some delicious Mexican food, Birria el Viejon and Birrieria la unica #2 are great choices. They offer amazing tacos, quesatacos, and flavorful consome. Don’t forget to try their special salsas for an extra kick of flavor.
For seafood lovers, Mariscos El Navegante, La Cruda Seafood, and Tacos Y Mariscos La India are highly recommended. They serve mouthwatering dishes like shrimp cocktail, shrimp ceviche, and shrimp tacos.
If you’re craving a tasty torta or some Mexican hotdogs, Tortas Mexico and La Sanluisina Tacos y Hot Dogs y más are the places to go.
And for a nice cup of coffee or authentic Mexican cuisine, Azul Cafe San Luis and Panchita’s Restaurant won’t disappoint. With their rich espresso, amazing baked goods, and flavorful dishes, you’re in for a treat.
Things to do
There are several activities to enjoy in San Luis, Arizona, including visiting parks, exploring museums, and shopping at local markets. Here are four things you can do in San Luis:
- Visit Joe Orduno Park: Located in downtown San Luis, this park offers a variety of amenities such as cultural and aquatic centers, a baseball field, playground, covered barbeque areas, and a soccer field. It’s a great place to spend time with family and friends.
- Explore the Robert J. Moody Demonstration Garden: This educational facility, part of the University of Arizona, showcases a wide variety of plants, trees, cacti, and wildflowers. It’s a perfect place for residents and school children to learn about the desert flora.
- Enjoy the Lake Martinez Recreation Area: Located on the grounds of the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, this recreation area offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. It’s a scenic spot with an abundance of wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers.
- Discover the Yuma Conservation Garden: This garden showcases desert plants and animals, including antique farm machinery. It was donated to the city of Yuma by the United States Bureau of Land Management and is home to various species of cactus, wildflowers, and desert tortoises. It’s a unique destination for those interested in desert ecology.
Best neighborhoods
For the best neighborhoods to consider, you should explore the small city of San Luis, Arizona. This charming city offers a mix of suburban and rural feel, creating a unique atmosphere that appeals to many residents.
One of the key highlights of San Luis is its strong family values and close-knit community, making it an ideal place for families to settle down. Additionally, the low cost of living is another attractive factor, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
If you prefer a recently built house, you’re in luck, as a large proportion of the houses in San Luis are new. Furthermore, the city’s proximity to the Mexican border adds a cultural touch, with open-air markets offering a variety of Mexican souvenirs, dentists, doctors, and pharmacies.
Overall, San Luis offers a range of neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and lifestyles, ensuring you’ll find the perfect place to call home.
Conclusion
Congratulations on your decision to move to San Luis, AZ! With its desert climate, educational opportunities, and vibrant media scene, this city is a unique and inviting place to call home.
The Council-Manager form of government ensures efficient management, and the transportation system connects you to neighboring cities and Mexico. While political turmoil has occurred in the past, the city continues to thrive.
Enjoy the affordable cost of living, explore the diverse bars and restaurants, and take advantage of the numerous activities available.
San Luis, AZ is truly a sunny and sensational spot to settle down!