Characteristics and Attitudes of Pima County Residents Related to Urban Expansion Into Rural Areas

Abstract

Economically, the most efficient way for a city to grow is by high-density infill where maximum advantage is taken of existing infrastructure, short travd distances, and the energy benefits of common walls. In spite of Tucson's having an exceptionally high proportion of internal undeveloped land, however, growth is occurring predominantly by low-density expansion into rural areas in single-family detached homes.

Nine hundred Tucson, Arizona area households responded to a survey assessing characteristics, attitudes, and perceptions that might reflect on their decision to locate in a more urban (higher density) or a more rural (lower density) setting. Census tracts were chosen to obtain a sizable sample of urban, suburban, and rural respondents. Rural respondents reported a higher overall satisfaction with where they live, as well as a strong tendency for their satisfaction to increase with time. All three categories of respondents favored a move to a more rural (lower density) setting if forced to move. All strongly preferred detached single-family housing over attached housing, yards or outdoor space to do with as they please, and a view of desert or mountains. Advantages of location and better public services for urban dwellers and the disadvantages of location for rural respondents seem to be relatively unimportant in influencing satisfaction with present housing or desires for new housing.