Tucson, AZ Vacation Rental Market Analysis: What Investors Should Know Before Buying
With world-class golf courses, 249 scenic trails, and a thriving food and arts scene, Tucson continues to grow as a standout tourism destination in the Southwest.
From snowbirds and retirees chasing winter sunshine to families drawn by Tucson’s many kid-friendly attractions, more than six million visitors travel to the Old Pueblo and southern Arizona each year. That steady flow of travelers makes Tucson real estate especially appealing for buyers interested in vacation rental income.
To help you evaluate the opportunity this market presents, we created a free, downloadable Tucson Vacation Rental Market Analysis that breaks down performance trends and earning potential. Inside the report, you’ll find:
- Rental income potential by property size
- Average occupancy by property size
- Average daily rate (ADR) by property size
- Booking lead times and length of stay
- Monthly occupancy rates
- Vacation rental inventory by property size across the Tucson market
The data in this analysis is based on Evolve’s Tucson market averages from the last year and is intended to provide a helpful baseline for making smart investment decisions.
👉 Download the complete Tucson Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Why Tucson Is a Great Place to Own Vacation Rental Property
With sunny weather and an impressive mix of attractions, Tucson offers consistent short-term rental demand throughout the year. Popular draws include:
- The Tucson Loop (and a thriving biking scene)
- A lively downtown packed with local shops, museums, events, and restaurants
Tucson is also the first city in the United States to be designated by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy, hosting year-round events like farmers’ markets, fairs, tastings, and dozens of food festivals.
That said, demand does peak at certain times of the year. High season typically runs from November through March, when dry, sunny days and mild temperatures (generally between 45 and 75 degrees) make outdoor exploration especially appealing. A second demand spike often occurs in mid-August, when families travel to help students settle in for the start of the school year at U of A.
In terms of affordability, the city’s median home price of ~$318,000 makes it a more accessible investment market than other desert destinations like Palm Springs. With 175 neighborhoods, investors can choose from a wide range of property types, sizes, and price points.
How Much Money Can You Earn With a Tucson Vacation Rental?
Tucson’s year-round tourism and diverse traveler base create strong long-term potential for vacation rental owners. To maximize performance, it’s important to focus on a few key property characteristics.
Property Size
Larger homes tend to generate the highest annual revenue in Tucson. Five-bedroom properties often earn the most thanks to their ability to host large families or groups and command higher nightly rates. However, these homes make up a small share of local inventory, so buyers may need to act quickly when one becomes available.
Three- and four-bedroom homes are another strong option. They:
- See the highest number of nights booked annually
- Represent a larger share of available inventory
- Can sometimes outperform larger homes with the right location and setup
For investors seeking a lower purchase price, one-bedroom properties can also perform well. These homes often appeal to:
- Retired couples and snowbirds
- Solo travelers
As a result, smaller properties can maintain solid occupancy year-round.
Property Location
Tucson covers a large geographic area, but our experts say homes near downtown tend to offer the most convenience for travelers. Properties within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and entertainment are often especially appealing.
Location can also be tailored to specific traveler types:
- Near the University of Arizona for families and campus visitors
- Adjacent to golf courses for golf-focused trips
- Close to hiking and biking trails or outdoor recreation areas for nature lovers
Aligning your property’s location with guest interests can help boost bookings and overall income.
Property Amenities
Outdoor living is a major draw in Tucson, making on-site outdoor spaces especially valuable. Look for homes with a deck or patio and enhance them with amenities like:
- Grills and fire pits
- Shaded seating for hot desert days
- Comfortable outdoor furniture
Pools are one of the most searched-for amenities in Tucson and consistently attract travelers of all ages. While a private pool is ideal, access to a well-maintained community pool can also be a strong booking driver.
Finally, thoughtful touches that increase accessibility can broaden your guest appeal, help create a comfortable stay, and encourage five-star reviews. Try features like:
- Kid-friendly amenities (Cribs, high chairs, or Pack N’ Plays)
- Single-story layouts and walk-in showers for older guests
Download Our Full Tucson, AZ Vacation Rental Market Analysis
With flourishing tourism, an inviting climate, and year-round attractions, Tucson continues to stand out as a strong vacation rental investment market.
For a deeper look at the data behind the destination, download our free Tucson Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
- Average daily rate (ADR) by property size
- Average high- and low-season length of stay
- Market inventory insights
- Demand seasonality
Finding the right real estate opportunity in Tucson doesn’t have to feel like searching for water in the desert. Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help make your investment journey an easy one.