Tucson split up into dozens of little neighborhoods, each with its own history and vibe. One of Tucson's oldest neighborhood pockets, which was designated as a historic district in 1994, is Sam Hughes. The square-mile district is centrally located within the surrounding metro and is known for its close proximity to Downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona. Therefore, the resident population of about 3,600 people primarily includes a happy balance of local students, professors, and families.
Not only is the location excellent, but it is packed full of convenient amenities. To the north is one of Tucson’s nicest greenspaces, Himmel Park. The 23-acre park features playgrounds, a fitness area, grills, bike tracks, tennis courts, and so much more. Additionally, the area is home to a public library, a supermarket, and plenty of great restaurants and bars. It’s a great walking and biking area.
No wonder Same Hughes has become one of Tucson's most desirable neighborhoods.
A History of Sam Hughes
According to the neighborhood association, Sam Hughes was named after its resentment school, whose namesake is Samuel C. Hughes, a Welsh immigrant. Hughes arrived in the United States as a child before making his way to Arizona's desert to seek a cure for his advanced tuberculosis. Once recovered, Hughes became an integral member of the community, started the city's first bank, sat on the city council, and worked hard to establish a public school system. As a 32nd degree mason, Hughes was generous with his success and donated land and money to churches, schools, and the poor.
It wasn't after Hughes' death in 1917 that the development of the Sam Hughes neighborhood began. Most of the older homes are examples of the Spanish eclectic style, and those built recently are Ranch style with hints of Craftsman, Pueblo Revival, and Modern. Today, most homes are established and updated, and several apartment complexes are scattered throughout the area.
Life in Sam Hughes
Sam Hughes's central positioning and proximity to Tucson's major universities and employment centers have made the neighborhood popular and a bit pricey. However, it's an exceptionally walkable area, and if you're exploring, don't miss the cute unpaved alleyways that will take you off the beaten path and might get you to your destination a little faster.
The area is considered laid back, and many residents appreciate a quieter lifestyle. As a result, the community is exceptionally welcoming. You'll find that people are engaging and relaxed and that they embrace local activities and events.
Despite being well connected to the local universities and having a large higher education student population, there are also plenty of families with children. The local schools are a part of the Tucson Unified School District and include Mansfeld Middle School, Hughes Elementary School, and Tucson High School.
Real Estate in Sam Hughes
The neighborhood's easy lifestyle and period homes has boosted its popularity and resulted in it being one of the more expressive areas in Tucson. Houses for sale have a much higher price per square foot, but it's absolutely worth it for the right buyer. For more information on Sam Hughes or to take a peek at some new listings, get in touch!