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Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates, Tucson,AZ

Neighborhood Data
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If you're considering a move to the Tucson area, Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and desert charm in the southeast part of the city. This neighborhood is perfect for those who appreciate spacious living with a touch of natural beauty, featuring larger lots and plenty of greenery that complement the stunning desert landscape. Residents enjoy a peaceful atmosphere that's great for families, retirees, or anyone looking for a quieter pace without sacrificing access to city amenities. The neighborhood's scenic streets and well-maintained homes create a welcoming environment that truly feels like home.

One of the standout attractions near Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates is the proximity to the scenic Saguaro National Park, where outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of hiking trails and take in breathtaking views of the iconic saguaro cacti. Additionally, the area boasts convenient access to a variety of shopping and dining options along Wilmot Road, including local favorites and national chains alike. For those who enjoy cultural experiences, the nearby Tucson Botanical Gardens and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum provide educational and fun outings for all ages. This neighborhood strikes a wonderful balance between nature and urban convenience, offering plenty to see and do just minutes from home.

One of the great perks of living in Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates is its relatively short commute to Downtown Tucson, which is roughly 15 to 20 minutes away by car. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy the vibrant downtown scene, including the lively arts district, diverse restaurants, and historic sites without the hassle of long travel times. Whether you're heading to work, catching a show at the Fox Theatre, or exploring the local farmers' markets, the neighborhood's location makes city access a breeze. Overall, Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates in southeast Tucson is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a comfortable lifestyle with plenty of nearby attractions and easy connectivity to the heart of the city.

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates Demographics

Population 846
Density (People/sqml.) 4,241
Median Age 45.3
Married Couples
35%
35% of the population of Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
13%
13% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 35% of the Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 13% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates neighborhood age breakdown chart

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 846 residents, Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates is notably smaller than many other Tucson neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates has a population density of 4,241, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Tucson neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 45, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates neighborhood age breakdown chart

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates Crime Map

The Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $273,250
Median Rent $1,199
People/Household 1.7

Home Price Breakdown

Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 64% Own 36%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 68% After 2010 32%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year Home Prices YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates, the median home price is about $273,250, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,199, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Cinemark
Cinema
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Golf 'n Stuff
Theme Park
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Food & Drink

Chicago Bar
Bar
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RJ's Replays
Bar
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Groceries

Trader Joe's
Grocery Store
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Kimpo Oriental Market
Grocery Store
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Harold Bell Wright Park
Park
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Shops

Bookman's
Books
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Batteries Plus Bulbs
Electronics
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Wilmot/Rosemont
Bus Stop
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Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Clinic
Clinic
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Saint Joseph's Hospital
Hospital
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Health Care

Wilmot Family Dentistry
Dentist
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Tristan Berry, M.D.
Doctor
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Safety

Fire Station
Fire Station
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Tucson Fire Department Station 7
Fire Station
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Pcjted - University High School
6420 E. Broadway Blvd. Suite A, Tucson, AZ
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Hudlow Elementary School
502 N. Caribe, Tucson, AZ
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Pcjted - Rincon High School
6420 E. Broadway Blvd. Suite A, Tucson, AZ
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Pcjted - Aztec Middle College East
6420 E. Broadway Blvd. Suite A, Tucson, AZ
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Pcjted - Palo Verde High School
6420 E. Broadway Blvd. Suite A, Tucson, AZ
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Pcjted - Aztec Middle College
6420 E. Broadway Blvd. Suite A, Tucson, AZ
High School 9 - 12 School Score
W Arthur Sewell Elementary School
425 N. Sahuara Avenue, Tucson, AZ
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Thunderbird Heights-Wilmot Desert Estates offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.