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Vail, AZ

Frequently asked questions

Vail, AZ

Vail is a census-designated place (CDP) in Pima County, Arizona, United States. It is 24 miles (39 km) southeast of Tucson. The population was 10,208 at the 2010 census, up from 2484 in the 2000 census. The area is known for the nearby Colossal Cave, a large cave system, and the Rincon Mountains District of Saguaro National Park, a top tourism spot within Arizona.

Vail was originally a siding and water stop on the Southern Pacific Railroad. It was located on the last section of flat land before the train tracks followed the old wagon road into the Cienega Creek bed. Vail was named after pioneer ranchers Edward and Walter Vail, who established ranches in the area in the late 19th century. Vail deeded a right of way across his ranch to the railroad. Vail owned the Vail Ranch, and his brother Walter Vail owned the nearby Empire Ranch, now part of the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area. An attempt to incorporate the town was defeated in 2013.

Vail is located at 32°0′7″N 110°42′1″W (32.001939, -110.700286). According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 18.2 square miles (47 km2), all land.

As of the census of 2010, there were 10,208 people residing in Vail, Arizona (a 248% increase from 2000). The population density was 561.2 people per square mile. According to the census, Vail is 69.8% non-Hispanic white, 3.3% Black or African American, 0.9% Native American, 2.4% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 5.0% from other races, and 4.1% were mixed race. People of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 19.4% of the population.

People from 0–4 years old were 7.5% of the population, children from ages 5–17 were 23.2% of the population, adults 18–64 were 62.0% of the total, and people 65 and over were 7.3% of the population.

Health and wellness are priorities in Vail, with various healthcare facilities and wellness programs available to residents. University Medicine South is part of the Banner Health network and provides a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, diagnostic imaging, and specialty care. Tucson Medical Center (TMC) is a well-established hospital in Tucson, AZ, known for its quality healthcare services. Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital is part of the Carondelet Health Network and is committed to providing compassionate care to patients. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa offers a luxurious and tranquil retreat in the Sonoran Desert near Tucson. Canyon Ranch Tucson is a renowned wellness resort and spa that focuses on integrative health and wellness. Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort features a spa that combines traditional healing techniques with modern therapies.

Top sites in Vail, AZ are Pima Air & Space Museum, Colossal Cave Mountain Park, and Boomerang Riding Adventures. 

Population: 15,722 (2023). ZIP code: 85641. Area code: 520. Elevation: 3,238ft. Area: 18.2 square miles (47 km2).

FAQs

Is Vail, AZ a good place to live?

Vail is in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town is also home to the Colossal Cave Mountain Park, which offers hiking trails, cave tours, and other outdoor activities. The cost of living in Vail is lower than in many other parts of Arizona, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. Overall, Vail is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a rural lifestyle while still being close to the cities and amenities of Tucson, Arizona.

What are the demographics of Vail, AZ?

As of the census of 2010, there were 10,208 people residing in Vail, Arizona (a 248% increase from 2000). The population density was 561.2 people per square mile. According to the census, Vail is 69.8% non-Hispanic white, 3.3% Black or African American, 0.9% Native American, 2.4% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 5.0% from other races, and 4.1% were mixed race. People of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 19.4% of the population. People from 0–4 years old were 7.5% of the population, children from ages 5–17 were 23.2% of the population, adults 18–64 were 62.0% of the total, and people 65 and over were 7.3% of the population.

What is the history of Vail, AZ?

In 1880, train tracks were laid down east of Tucson. Walter Vail donated the land for the tracks and in recognition of that donation had the stop in “Vail” named after him. Although Vail was christened as a town in 1893, it was never incorporated. As such, the “town” of Vail has no official boundaries or legal status. It is only an area. Located on the main tracks and road east of Tucson, the town of Vail had its heyday in the early 1900’s. In addition to being a cattle-shipping center, Vail served as the storage and loading facility for ore from the Helvetia Copper Mine.

Sources

Pima County

Wikipedia

Greater Vail Chamber

Tucson Homes and Lots

Pima Air & Space Museum

Colossal Cave Mountain Park 

Boomerang Riding Adventures

University Medicine South

Tucson Medical Center (TMC)

Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

Canyon Ranch Tucson

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.