Anyone currently considering a move to Green Valley, Arizona, will want to know the benefits and drawbacks of living in this area.
There are many reasons to move to this small city with its charm and scenery, but there are also plenty of reasons why it’s not perfect for everyone.
Keep reading to find out more about the top pros and cons of living in this section of Arizona.
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Pros of Living in Green Valley, Arizona
Individuals who may move to Green Valley, Arizona, in the near future want to know the top reasons why people enjoy living there.
1. Close to a Major City
Green Valley is located close to Tucson, Arizona, which means there is access to all the amenities and features that come along with living in an urban area without having to navigate the city itself daily.
It takes less than an hour to reach Tucson, which means that everything is a convenient drive.
Additionally, Green Valley is also not far away from Phoenix, which is an even larger city.
2. Low Crime Rate
Green Valley, Arizona, is a relatively quiet and peaceful area with a higher number of retirees.
This small city has a lower crime rate, and it could make for the perfect place to settle down and raise a family or even retire.
Green Valley, Arizona, is a relatively quiet and peaceful area with a higher number of retirees.
This small city has a lower crime rate, and it could make for the perfect place to settle down and raise a family or even retire.
Perhaps this would make a good location if one were to accept a job in nearby Tucson, making living conditions ideal with a relatively short back-and-forth trip worth the drive.
3. Plenty of Available Jobs
There is a healthy job market in Green Valley, Arizona.
There are plentiful numbers of positions in both professional career fields and standard wage jobs.
Anyone currently looking for a quiet, friendly town to settle into where there are abundant job opportunities may want to consider moving to this area.
4. Good Healthcare
Individuals concerned with finding adequate health care will be pleasantly surprised by the level of options and healthcare providers in the area.
This area has many highly skilled and respected medical experts and caregivers, partially due to the mature population.
However, this city offers exceptional health care for individuals of all ages.
5. A Mild Climate in Fall and Winter
People who want to settle in an area that has a mild fall and winter will be pleased with the climate conditions in Green Valley, Arizona.
Most days during the cooler weather months are ideal for outdoor activities.
However, occasionally, winter systems can bring snow and ice to portions of the region.
Unlike in the northern part of the country, however, individuals will unlikely have to deal with prolonged periods of subarctic temperatures in deep snow.
6. Clean and Scenic
Not only is Green Valley, Arizona welcoming and perfect for settling down with a family or for retirement, but it is also clean and scenic.
Because of its location in the Southwest, there are sweeping views of desert landscapes outside the city.
There are also programs and community efforts to help keep the area looking great.
Anyone currently looking for a clean and comfortable location to move to in Arizona will love Green Valley.
7. Good Economy
People who live in Green Valley, Arizona, can look forward to having a good economy in the area.
There are plenty of job opportunities, and prices are moderate compared with the rest of the country in terms of consumer goods, utilities, and services.
Because of the healthy economy in this area, there is a low homeless population and fewer issues related to criminal activity.
8. Affordable Housing
The housing price in Green Valley, Arizona, is affordable compared to many other similar cities across the country.
Anyone currently interested in either purchasing or renting a property will be surprised at its affordability.
This is especially helpful for individuals who want to settle outside a larger city and save money and then commute the short trip to Tucson or Phoenix.
Cons of Living in Green Valley, Arizona
There are some great reasons to live in Green Valley, Arizona, but there are also some downsides to consider.
1. Lack of Diversity
Unfortunately, there is a notable lack of diversity in Green Valley, Arizona.
The general population tends to be older retired individuals or younger families living on Tucson’s outskirts and commuting there for work or other opportunities.
However, although there is less diversity in this city than in many others across the country, the individuals who reside there are friendly and welcoming to all people who decide to move to this small city.
2. Few Entertainment Options
There are not many entertainment options in Green Valley, Arizona.
There are a few things that are enjoyable for most age groups, such as movie theaters and bowling; however, in terms of a healthy entertainment scene, Green Valley is lacking.
The good news is that Tucson is a short drive away and provides unlimited entertainment options for people of all interests.
3. Extremely Hot Summers
Because Green Valley is located in the desert Southwest, it experiences sweltering and dry summers yearly.
Sometimes the temperatures can soar to well above 100 degrees and stay that way while the sun is above the horizon.
Anyone sensitive to heat must be aware of this potential risk and stay indoors during times of excessive heat.
4. No High Schools or Middle Schools
Unfortunately, no high or middle schools are located in Green Valley, Arizona.
Individuals who have children requiring middle or high school education may consider attending a private school outside of Green Valley or choose to take an online education opportunity.
5. Frequent Poor Air Quality
There are frequent poor air quality warnings in Green Valley, Arizona.
This is because the city is located outside two major cities, in addition to the dust and debris kicked up by desert winds in extremely dry conditions.
Anyone with breathing issues such as asthma or COPD will want to stay alert for poor air quality days and remain inside for their safety.
6. Very Dry Conditions
Green Valley, Arizona, is an arid city.
It is located in the desert Southwest, so there may be times when water is not plentiful for recreational use.
There are frequent times when water conservation is critical to ensure everyone has plenty of water to drink or use for hygiene purposes.
Additionally, some individuals may have problems with their skin or any skin conditions because of the extremely dry climate.
7. High Utility Bills
People who decide to move to Green Valley, Arizona, will notice that they have high utility bills during certain times of the year.
This is especially true during the hot summer months when temperatures can soar well over 100°.
This temperature fluctuation can strain HVAC units and require individuals to run their air conditioners and fans around the clock to maintain adequate indoor temperatures.
8. Limited Cuisine
Unfortunately, there is a lack of available ethnic cuisines aside from traditional Tex-Mex or Mexican fare.
There may be an occasional Italian or similar familiar ethnic cuisine in the area, but this area is not as diverse as its dining options in nearby Tucson or Phoenix.
The best way to get around this lack of diversity in terms of food is to order any personal favorites from an online delivery service from a large retailer.
Pros and Cons of Living in Green Valley, AZ – Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Green Valley, Arizona | Cons of Living in Green Valley, Arizona |
|---|---|
| 1. Close to a Major City | 1. Lack of Diversity |
| 2. Low Crime Rate | 2. Few Entertainment Options |
| 3. Plenty of Available Jobs | 3. Extremely Hot Summers |
| 4. Good Healthcare | 4. No High Schools or Middle Schools |
| 5. A Mild Climate in Fall and Winter | 5. Frequent Poor Air Quality |
| 6. Clean and Scenic | 6. Very Dry Conditions |
| 7. Good Economy | 7. High Utility Bills |
| 8. Affordable Housing | 8. Limited Cuisine |
Arizona Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Arizona Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the average annual rainfall in Green Valley, Arizona?
The average annual rainfall for Green Valley, Arizona, is 14.5 inches.
This is a minimal amount of rain because the city is located in the desert Southwest where rainfall is scarce.
On average, this area gets approximately 54 days where rainfall throughout the year.
Because of this problem, individuals may have to conserve water and avoid watering their lawn or using water for other recreational activities besides hygiene or drinking.
What's the average monthly cost of living in Green Valley, Arizona?
It is estimated that it costs approximately $1,000 per month to live in Green Valley, Arizona, for a single individual, not including rent.
That means it costs just over $3,500 for a family of four to live each month without adding the cost of housing.
What are the educational opportunities like in Green Valley, Arizona?
There are not many educational opportunities in Green Valley, Arizona.
There are limited school options for younger children, and no middle or high school is located within the city’s limits.
In terms of educational opportunities, these are extremely limited, and anyone who wants to attend classes may select to participate in online courses or travel to nearby Tucson to get a university-style education.
There may be a few educational facilities for technical training or other vocations, but they are very limited due to the lack of diversity and the older general age of the population of the city.
What is the crime rate in Green Valley, Arizona?
Green Valley has a crime rate of 33.1, which is relatively low compared to other neighboring cities.
Of 365 crimes reported over the last year, 21 were violent crimes.
This statistic provides an idea of the city’s safety and whether it is an ideal place to settle down and retire or raise a family.
What is the altitude of Green Valley, Arizona?
Green Valley, Arizona, is relatively high in altitude at $2,980 ft.
Because of its higher location, the air is thinner and drier than in most other areas of the United States.
Other cities in the area are at similar altitudes, such as Tucson and Phoenix.
This says good healthcare in Green Valley, that’s not really true. There are not enough doctors for the growing population. If you don’t mind driving to Tucson then you have more options. If you’re used to calling. Doctor and making an appointment for a day or two out. Forget it! It can take months. We are currently thinking of moving back to Oregon for that reason.
Where in Oregon did you move from? We have been thinking of moving to Florence (probably similar problems with finding a doctor, though). Also, considering Clark County, WA and possibly Sequim, WA (though may be shortage of doctors there).
Best wishes.
Healthcare is horrible ! I’ve been in medical field over 50 years. I’ve had 4 jobs in a year and I almost lost my hand due to the ineptitude of medical professional in Green Valley. I have to say tbst. Fivetidty and high utility bills are the only bad things other than thst it’s a great place .
Can I help you pack . Oregon has DEPLORABLE weather year round . Also a “V – E R Y” expensive state to live in .
I have to agree. We just moved here 2 months ago and we’re already on our second round of finding a Dr. Most of the problem seems to be front desk issues. They rarely answer the phone. Very short handed with Medical Assistants. Wait list for new patient is at least one month.
If you are a qualified veteran the Tucson VA facility is a full care hospital. My wife and I are both veterans and the drive from Green Valley is 25 minutes. As for quality ethnic food I’ll give it a 4 on a scale of 10
If you don’t like it stay away
Low diversity is a huge plus. Almost no Spookaboo here in AZ. Which means very low crime. Keep those Spookaboo thugs in the blue cities. Let Darwinism cleanse those hellholes. Give them more ammo in Detroit, Baltimore, St Louis, Memphis & other Boo Cities.
If this area has more people like you…
I’d never move to Green Valley
Ignorant for sure..ugh..
Joe mama there plenty of crime and more of it in red cities and town. Here texas we have mass shooting in white dominated Republican areas.
Green Valley has enough food diversity for me. There is Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Mexican and American cuisine. Also, most of the national fast food places are in the area including McDonald, Culvers, Denny’s, PopEye, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Starbucks, Dutch Brothers. That’s enough for me, but there are also small family restaurants to explore. Have fine.
Arizona is “N O T” for everyone . But GreenValley is an almost perfect place to live . Anyone who would not like GreenValley would complain if the rope they were being hung w/was “N O T” new ! !
Altitude is not similar to PHX or Tucson. Higher elevation = cooler. Not even close to being as hot as PHX. Food diversity is a little weak, as are grocery stores, but you can easily drive 25 min to Tubac or Tucson for finer dining.
Dr situation tough almost anywhere but I have access to Mayo Clinic via PHX and will have to go to Tucson for everything else.
Not perfect but very nice community.
Absolutely true about poor medical care. My wife and I each spent 8 hrs in a local hospital ER for issues that could have been resolved quickly. The hospital shut down about a year later. Had an appointment for a minor condition at a local urgent care facility and had to wait 1 1/2 hrs after the appointment time until the entire waiting room was emptied before being seen. Have heard stories about the new hospital in Sahuarita that are unpleasant including waiting for days as an inpatient before being sent to another hospital in Tuscon for treatment.
Health care is a disaster here. I have difficulty driving to Tucson for health care. the older O get the more unsure I feel driving. no other option. I don’t have Xtra money to hire a driver. My third year here and look forward to leaving .
I am a senior with health issues and need to be. close to medical. it isn’t here. 5 months for Drs appointment. No way doable for me. I think most of GV are in terrific health the way they talk.