Things to do / Travel Guide
Southern Arizona is one of the fastest growing regions in the United States, thanks to the year-round sunshine, strong economy and relaxed lifestyle. The combined population of the region's two largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix and Tucson, currently stands at about five million. It is estimated that within the next 40 years the population could easily increase to double its size, due to immigration in the area. More and more people are attracted to the opportunities and the atmosphere of southern Arizona. Just outside of Phoenix lies the city of Mesa, it has the largest percentage of Mormons than any other major city in the world, including Salt Lake City.
The ethnic makeup of Phoenix and Tucson are similar: over half are Caucasian; African-Americans, Asians, and Native Americans make up less than 5% of the population respectively. Hispanics in both cities compromises about a third of the total population.
The region attracts a variety of people. Tourism is big business and the region's spas and resorts, “Old West” attractions, and desert tours provide varied employment opportunities for the local residents. The thriving aerospace, high-tech, and optics industries attract professionals looking to combine a fast-paced career with a causal after-hours lifestyle. The region's temperate climate in the winter has also made southern Arizona a popular place for retirees.
In terms of population, southern Arizona is one of the fastest growing regions in the United States, and it's not just because of the region's thriving economy. The 300-plus sunny days per year and the casual, outdoors-oriented lifestyle attract young professionals from all parts of the United States. Retirees also enjoy the warm climate, spectacular scenery, and many activities that the region has to offer.
On weekends, it sometimes seems like the only people who aren't heading to one of the dozens of hiking trails out in the wilderness are the ones who are heading to one of the man-made lakes that can be found outside of Phoenix. After dark, there are cultural events and nightclubs in the larger cities, but the locals can also be found spending the evening chatting at a coffeehouse or lingering over a Western-style steak dinner.
This region possesses a very eclectic mix of three very different cultures: Native American, Hispanic, and European. Don't be surprised to find Mexican restaurants, Indian reservations, and high-tech industry all in close proximity to one another. No matter the cultural differences, all are attracted to this area because of the great weather and stunning scenery that envelops the entire region.
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