South Tucson, AZ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,550
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$33,598/yr
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,034
13.6% year-over-year change

South Tucson population

How many people live in South Tucson

South Tucson is home to 4,550 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.1% of South Tucson locals are male, and 47.9% are female.

Total population
4,550
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.1%
2,369
Female
47.9%
2,181
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,369 52.1% -0.7%
Female 2,181 47.9% -1.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in South Tucson is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 16.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
16.1%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 834 18.3% -21.5%
15 to 24 734 16.1% -2.4%
25 to 44 1,088 23.9% 0.2%
45 to 64 1,249 27.4% 11.9%
Over 65 645 14.2% 10.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In South Tucson, 76.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 26.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.4% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 25.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12%
Non-citizens
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,472 76.3% -5.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 546 12% 7.1%
Non-citizens 532 11.7% 30.7%
Racial breakdown
White
26.5%
Black or African American
2.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
10.8%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
25.6%
Other
34.5%
Value Percent
White 1,205 26.5%
Black or African American 107 2.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 490 10.8%
Asian 14 0.3%
Two or more races 1,165 25.6%
Other 1,569 34.5%

Households in South Tucson

A peek inside South Tucson households

South Tucson has 1,729 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,729
17.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
631
Family households
1,098
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 631 36.5% 41.2%
Family households 1,098 63.5% 7.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in South Tucson

The housing landscape of South Tucson

South Tucson's housing consists of 2,034 units, with 62.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,034
13.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,266 62.2%
1 unit, attached 105 5.2%
2 units 104 5.1%
3 or 4 units 57 2.8%
5 to 9 units 78 3.8%
10 to 19 units 124 6.1%
20 to 49 units 62 3%
50 or more units 153 7.5%
Mobile home 85 4.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Tucson

In South Tucson, the median construction year is 1967. About 6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 122 6% -20.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 316 15.5% 7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 352 17.3% 32.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 337 16.6% 26.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 231 11.4% 7.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 197 9.7% 11.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 106 5.2% 63.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 196 9.6% 14.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 177 8.7% -3.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

South Tucson occupancy rates

Out of the 1,729 occupied housing units in South Tucson, 34.4% are owner-occupied, while 65.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,729
17.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,135
Owner occupied
594
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,135 65.6% 13.2%
Owner occupied 594 34.4% 26.6%
Unoccupied housing units
15.0%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

South Tucson housing costs

Housing costs in South Tucson come to a median of $868 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $941.

Median housing costs per month
$868/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in South Tucson
$941/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in South Tucson

South Tucson education at a glance

About 51.2% of the population in South Tucson went to high school, while 18% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 6.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 492 14.4% -14.0%
High school diploma 1,747 51.2% 8.1%
College diploma 613 18% 2.2%
Associate degree 171 5% -19.0%
Bachelor's degree 234 6.9% 81.4%
Graduate degree 153 4.5% 50.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in South Tucson

How much people earn in South Tucson

The average annual household income in South Tucson was $51,942 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -9.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $33,598, reflecting a -0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Tucson
$51,942/year
-9.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Tucson
$33,598/year
-0.4% year-over-year change

South Tucson income by age

In South Tucson, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $35,298. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $31,373 overall. Overall, 69.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $35,298 5.8%
45 - 64 $31,373 12.3%
Over 65 $35,083 -6.0%
Above poverty level
3,135
Below poverty level
1,369
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,135 69.6% 7.4%
Below poverty level 1,369 30.4% -14.1%

Average renter income in South Tucson

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South Tucson, their median household income was $26,806 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,806
Rent-to-income ratio
42.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in South Tucson

Workforce and job types in South Tucson

The job market in South Tucson is powered by 1,697 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 66.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,697
11.5% year-over-year change
White collar
1,112
Blue collar
585
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,112 65.5% 5.5%
Blue collar 585 34.5% 25.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
66.9%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 116 6.8% 14.8%
Private companies 1,135 66.9% 4.7%
Governmental workers 279 16.4% 11.6%
Not for profit companies 167 9.8% 92.0%
Unemployment rate
10.6%
21.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Tucson stands at 10.6%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in South Tucson

How people get around in South Tucson

In South Tucson, the average commute time is 20 minutes.

Commute time
20 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,353 80.9% 14.5%
Taxicab 6 0.4% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 122 7.3% -19.7%
Motorcycle 21 1.3% 162.5%
Bicycle 7 0.4% N/A
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in South Tucson by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
85713 46,439 17,115 $53,152 $68,192

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FAQs about South Tucson demographics 

What is the total population of South Tucson?

South Tucson has a total population of 4,550 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Tucson?

The gender ratio in South Tucson is as follows:
  • 52.1% males (2,369 residents)
  • 47.9% females (2,181 residents)

What is the median age in South Tucson?

The median age in South Tucson is 41.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Tucson?

The age distribution in South Tucson is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (834 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.1% (734 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (1,088 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (1,249 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (645 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Tucson?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Tucson is as follows:
  • White: 26.5% (1,205 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.4% (107 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 10.8% (490 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (14 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 25.6% (1,165 residents)
  • Other: 34.5% (1,569 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Tucson are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.3% of the population in South Tucson.

How many housing units are there in South Tucson?

There are 2,034 housing units in South Tucson, reflecting a +13.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Tucson and what is the average household size?

South Tucson has a total of 1,729 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Tucson?

South Tucson has a median household income of $33,598, representing a -0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Tucson?

The employment rate is 89.4% in South Tucson, with a workforce of 1,697 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.5% (1,112 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.5% (585 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (116 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.9% (1,135 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (279 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (167 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025