If you’re like many people, a move to Sierra Vista is on the horizon — but what’s it like to live here, and what can you expect as far as weather, lifestyle, housing, the local economy and schools? Is there anything to do in Sierra Vista? This guide gives you the most comprehensive look at living in Sierra Vista, Arizona, including what it’s like and how you can make the most of it.
Living in Sierra Vista, AZ: The Complete Guide
Whether you’re moving to Sierra Vista with the military, for work, to retire or for any other reason, this guide gives you a complete look at living in this beautiful mountain community. The following sections explain everything you need to know before you start your search for housing in Sierra Vista or near Fort Huachuca.
Sierra Vista is in Cochise County, just north of the U.S.-Mexico Border. It’s home to U.S. Army Fort Huachuca and fairly close to the neighboring communities of Bisbee, Tombstone, Douglas, Huachuca City, Whetstone, Sonoita and Benson.
Sierra Vista’s Climate and Weather
Sierra Vista, also known as the Hummingbird Capital of the United States, has a high desert climate that many people quickly fall in love with. The city itself is located more than 4,600 feet above sea level, so the temperatures here are cooler than they are in other parts of Arizona — particularly the low desert areas like Tucson and Phoenix.
Summers in Sierra Vista are warm, and daytime highs are typically in the 90s. However, as is common in most of Arizona, the evenings cool down considerably. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop into the 60s at night. The winter months here are typically mild, and often, daytime temperatures get into the 50s and 60s, while night time lows are in the 30s. Snow is rare, but it does happen sometimes. Usually, we only get an inch or two; then, it melts pretty quickly. That means you’ll still need a winter coat when you move here.
On average, Sierra Vista gets more than 280 sunny days each year.
Sierra Vista’s Community and Lifestyle
Living in Sierra Vista means embracing a lifestyle that balances simplicity, natural beauty and outdoor experiences. People here are friendly, and there are several annual community events throughout the year, including the Southwest Wings Birding Festival, Art in the Park, and the Huachuca Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show.
Because this community lies in the mountains, there’s plenty of natural beauty surrounding the entire city. Hiking, biking and bird watching are all popular activities, and the city has invested heavily in recreational facilities, including a city aquatics facility, parks and playgrounds (including a skate park) and a number of sports fields. Although the area is steadily growing, Sierra Vista is hanging on to its small-town charm — and that makes it one of the most appealing places to live in Southern Arizona.
Related: Sierra Vista demographics
Exploring the Housing Market in Sierra Vista
Sierra vistas real estate market is very diverse, and you’ll find properties matching nearly any budget our preference. Whether you want a spacious single-family home, a luxurious ranch style property with panoramic views of the mountains, or something else, we can help you find your dream home here.
Throughout Sierra Vista, you’ll find established neighborhoods with mature landscaping and newer developments featuring modern amenities. Home prices fluctuate with market changes, but it’s an attractive option for many buyers, including those purchasing for the first time, those coming in using a VA loan to buy a home in Sierra Vista, and retirees.
Many people move here because of the military and decide to stay (or come back after retirement). Others choose it because they want a high quality of life where property values hold steady, the people are friendly, and the climate is nearly perfect.
Related: The ultimate Sierra Vista house-hunting checklist
Sierra Vista’s Local Economy
Sierra Vista ‘s economy is anchored by a combination of defense, retail, healthcare and education. Fort Huachuca, a U.S. Army post, is the largest employer in the area. The installation employs a number of locals and contributes significantly to the local economy. Many residents here work in military related fields, including defense contracting and technology.
Entrepreneurs typically find a supportive environment in Sierra Vista, and there are numerous resources and organizations dedicated to promoting local businesses.
$750,000
Active
3123 N THISTLE Road Sierra Vista, Arizona
6 Beds 4 Baths 4,853 SqFt 5.163 Acres
$715,000
Active
1544 N SAN FRANCISCO Circle Sierra Vista, Arizona
4 Beds 2 Baths 1,997 SqFt 1.642 Acres
$700,000
Active
4951 S Laredo Pass Sierra Vista, Arizona
3 Beds 3.5 Baths 2,913 SqFt 2.008 Acres
$698,000
Active
2922 Cabo Busto Court Sierra Vista, Arizona
4 Beds 3 Baths 3,149 SqFt 0.602 Acres
Attractions and Activities in Sierra Vista
One of the things people love most about Sierra Vista is its unparalleled access to outdoor activities. With its proximity to the Huachuca Mountains, Coronado National Memorial, the San Pedro Trail, Cochise Stronghold, Kartchner Caverns State Park, and so much more, there are numerous hiking, biking and other outdoor opportunities. The community is also about an hour from Tucson, which means you can enjoy everything the city has to offer with a short drive.
Sierra Vista is also close to numerous attractions such as historic Tombstone, which is a 20-minute drive away, the beautiful mountain town of Bisbee, and several mines, mountain drives, and other attractions.
Sierra Vista Schools
Kids living in Sierra Vista are part of the Sierra Vista Unified School District. There are a number of public schools within the district, as well as a few charter schools and private schools. If you live on Fort Huachuca with kids, they’ll attend Fort Huachuca Accommodation Schools.
Fort Huachuca Schools
- Colonel Johnston Elementary School (K-2)
- General Myer Elementary School (3-5)
- Colonel Smith Middle School
Elementary Schools in Sierra Vista
- All Saints Catholic School
- Bella Vista Elementary School
- Berean Academy
- Carmichael Elementary School
- Center for Academic Success (public charter)
- Coronado Elementary School
- First Baptist Christian Academy
- Huachuca Mountain Elementary School
- Leman Academy of Excellence
- Pueblo Del Sol Elementary School
- Town & Country Elementary School
- Veritas Christian Community School
- Village Meadows Elementary School
Middle Schools in Sierra Vista
- All Saints Catholic School
- Berean Academy
- Center for Academic Success
- Joyce Clark Middle School
- Veritas Christian Community School
High Schools in Sierra Vista
- Buena High School
- Center for Academic Success
- Veritas Christian Community School
Are You Buying a Home in Sierra Vista or Cochise County?
If you’re buying a home in Sierra Vista, Huachuca City, Palominas, Tombstone, Bisbee or elsewhere in Cochise County, the Amanda Ohnstad Team is here to help you have fun and get it done. While you’re here, check out our hottest home searches:
- Homes for sale in Sierra Vista
- Hereford and Palominas homes for sale
- Homes for sale in Huachuca City and Whetstone
- Bisbee homes for sale
- Tombstone homes for sale
Thinking about selling? Find out how much your home is worth now!
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