Marana, Arizona

Marana is a rapidly growing town located in Pima County, Arizona, situated just northwest of Tucson. Originally an agricultural and ranching community, Marana has transitioned into a modern, master-planned suburb that skillfully balances urban amenities with vast stretches of untouched Sonoran Desert. It’s known for its outdoor adventure opportunities, scenic beauty, and a blend of luxury resorts and accessible family living.

Population: As of the 2020 census, Marana had a population of 51,908. The town has experienced significant growth and is one of the fastest-growing communities in Southern Arizona. Current estimates for 2024 place its population at approximately 60,366, with projections showing continued rapid expansion.

Climate/Landscape: Marana is firmly rooted in the Sonoran Desert, offering a classic hot and dry Arizona climate with unique geographical features.

• Climate: Marana experiences a hot and arid desert climate with an abundance of sunshine (over 350 days annually).
  • Summers are intensely hot, with average daily temperatures in July often exceeding 100°F (38°C) and reaching up to 107°F (42°C). The monsoon season from July through September brings occasional, brief, but often dramatic thunderstorms.
  • Winters are mild and very pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging in the mid-60s to low 70s°F (18-23°C) and cool evenings. This makes the cooler months ideal for outdoor exploration.
• Landscape: The landscape is characterized by rolling desert terrain, often dotted with iconic saguaro cacti, ironwood trees (some over 800 years old), and other native desert flora. The town is dramatically framed by the Tortolita Mountains to the north and the Tucson Mountains to the south and west. A significant portion of Saguaro National Park (Tucson Mountain District – West) shares a boundary with Marana, providing vast protected areas of saguaro forests. The historic Santa Cruz River also flows through parts of Marana, supporting riparian habitats like the El Rio Preserve.