A Great Place to Live
    Tucson was chosen as the fifth best place in America to live, out of a field of 331 communities in 2006 by MSN.com. The ranking takes into account the cost of living, crime rate, education, home prices and weather. Arizona is a fast growing state with a population of 6.5 million (2008). Tucson has a population of ~546,000 and Pima County is home to 1.021 million persons. The population swells annually with students and winter visitors.

    Living expenditures are typically the most significant aspect of your annual costs. The cost of living in Tucson is slightly below the national average at 97.3% in the first quarter of 2009 (down by 2 points from 2008) (ACCRA Cost of Living Index). Because Tucson is a winter tourist destination, rents can be slightly higher than expected, but are lower than many major metropolitan rental markets.

    Eighty percent of UA students live off campus. The HUD Fair Market rents for Tucson for 2009 are slightly lower than 2007/2008:

• Studio: $ 493
• 1-bedroom: $ 579
• 2-bedroom: $ 743
• 3-bedroom: $1070
• 4-bedroom: $1131

    The Arizona Multihousing Association reports Tucson average rents in the 4th quarter of 2008 were $648 and units had an 11.6% vacancy rate. Check the online Housing Guide on the Student Union web site for additional information on housing. Residence Life Job Openings may also provide support for housing.

    Car and student health insurance, particularly for dependents, can be relatively costly. Many students qualify for Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System - AHCCS, Arizona's subsidized health insurance program.

    Many fellows elect to use buses, the university shuttle service, and bikes, though a car is helpful especially if your internship is some distance away. The U-Pass system is a discounted bus pass for students.

    Some Fellows are members of the Food Conspiracy Coop and several CSA's and lower cost groceries can be found in Tucson. Excellent, inexpensive eateries abound with interesting international eating choices.

    Students may qualify for a UA childcare subsidy assistance.

    Remember to factor in moving costs and other projected travel expenses into your calculations. Although we work to establish your internship to begin at the beginning of the school year, it is desirable to have some funds available in reserve at the start of school.