Vail

Nature, Community, and Wide-Open Skies

Property Listings

Search Homes

Welcome to Vail

Nature, Community, and Wide-Open Skies

Vail offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle set against the breathtaking backdrop of Southern Arizona’s Mica Mountain and Rincon Peak, with Saguaro National Park as its eastern neighbor. Located just 24 miles southeast of Tucson, this unincorporated Pima County community has maintained its small-town charm while providing convenient access to the city. Originally established as a siding and water stop on the Southern Pacific Railroad, Vail’s ranching heritage and connection to the land continue to shape its identity today.

Residents are drawn to Vail for its stunning mountain sunsets, expansive desert landscapes, and welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. Whether exploring the nearby trails of the Arizona Trail or enjoying local events hosted by the Greater Vail Area Chamber of Commerce, life in Vail offers a blend of outdoor adventure, connection with nature, and a strong sense of belonging, making it an ideal place for those seeking a quiet yet active lifestyle in the desert.

What to Love

  • Stunning mountain and desert views with colorful sunsets
  • Access to Saguaro National Park and outdoor recreation
  • A strong, welcoming, community-focused environment
  • Rural feel with wide-open spaces
  • Locally owned dining and family-friendly amenities

Local Lifestyle

Life in Vail centers around enjoying the natural surroundings and participating in a close-knit community. Residents often start the day with a sunrise hike or a bike ride along the Julian Wash section of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, followed by coffee with neighbors at local spots. Afternoons may include trips to nearby nature preserves, while evenings are spent enjoying family dinners at locally owned restaurants or relaxing under the expansive Arizona skies. With excellent schools and a strong community culture, Vail offers an appealing lifestyle for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and retirees seeking peace without sacrificing connection.

Dining and Shopping

Vail offers a selection of locally owned dining options that add to the area’s community-focused feel. Argenziano’s, a family-owned Italian restaurant, is a local favorite known for its calzones and warm, welcoming atmosphere, while Montgomery’s Grill & Saloon provides a sit-down dining experience perfect for a casual evening out. Arizona Pizza Company offers handcrafted pizzas in a relaxed setting, making it a convenient option for family meals or gatherings with friends.

For daily needs, Fry’s Food & Drug in Vail provides a comprehensive shopping experience, with a wide selection of fresh produce, a bakery, deli, sushi, and pharmacy services. Residents appreciate the convenience of having a large grocery option within easy reach while maintaining the small-town feel of the community. While Vail does not have large shopping centers within its immediate boundaries, residents can access nearby Tucson for expanded retail options while enjoying Vail’s quieter, rural living.

Things to Do

Outdoor recreation is central to life in Vail, with residents taking advantage of its location near some of Southern Arizona’s best natural attractions. The nearby Colossal Cave Mountain Park offers cave tours, hiking trails, camping, and horseback riding, providing opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts to explore the desert’s hidden wonders. Saguaro National Park East offers numerous trails and scenic drives through the iconic saguaro-studded landscapes, making it a favorite for hiking, photography, and wildlife observation.

Vail’s connection to the Arizona Trail, a Gateway Community segment, offers residents and visitors access to miles of hiking and biking opportunities. The Cienega Creek Natural Preserve, accessible via the Gabe Zimmerman Memorial Trailhead, is a hidden gem for hiking and birdwatching, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region. Community events organized by the Greater Vail Area Chamber of Commerce and the strong involvement of the Vail School District further contribute to the area’s sense of community, providing opportunities to connect with neighbors while enjoying the best of Southern Arizona’s outdoor lifestyle.

Overview for Vail, AZ

31,665 people live in Vail, where the median age is 39.7 and the average individual income is $45,637. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

31,665

Total Population

39.7 years

Median Age

Medium

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$45,637

Average individual Income

Around Vail, AZ

There's plenty to do around Vail, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Molecular Munchies, El Giro Food Truck, and Boomerang Riding Adventures.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 4.83 miles 20 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.82 miles 12 reviews 4.9/5 stars
Active 1.01 miles 14 reviews 4.9/5 stars
Active 2.82 miles 10 reviews 4.9/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Vail, AZ

Vail has 10,723 households, with an average household size of 2.95. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Vail do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 31,665 people call Vail home. The population density is 92.21 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

31,665

Total Population

Medium

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

39.7

Median Age

52.49 / 47.51%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
10,723

Total Households

2.95

Average Household Size

$45,637

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Vail, AZ

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Vail. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

We'd love to Connect!

Follow on social media for the most exclusive real estate news and photos from amazing property listings and community happenings. You'll even get a splash of Arizona history and an occasional laugh.

Follow Me on Instagram