Pima County

Pima County
County	Pima County
State	Arizona
Founded	1864
Seat	Tucson
Largest city	Tucson
Area total sq mi	9189
Area land sq mi	9180
Area water sq mi	9.2
Population as of	2020
Population total	1047279
Population density sq mi	114
Time zone	Mountain
District	6th
District2	7th

Pima County is a county located in the south-central region of the U.S. state of Arizona. Established by the Arizona Territorial Legislature in 1864, it is the state's second-most populous county, with its county seat and largest city being Tucson. The county encompasses a vast and diverse landscape, from the Sonoran Desert to rugged mountain ranges, and is home to significant Native American communities, major military installations, and renowned scientific institutions.

Geography

Pima County covers over 9,000 square miles, bordered by Maricopa County to the north, Cochise County to the east, and the international border with Mexico to the south. The terrain is dominated by the Sonoran Desert, characterized by iconic saguaro cactus forests, and punctuated by several mountain ranges, including the Santa Catalina Mountains, the Rincon Mountains, and the Tucson Mountains. Significant waterways include the Santa Cruz River and the Rillito River, though they are often ephemeral. The county contains parts of the Coronado National Forest and is adjacent to Saguaro National Park, which protects vast tracts of the unique desert ecosystem. Other notable natural features include Sabino Canyon and Mount Lemmon, a popular recreational area.

History

The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous cultures, including the Hohokam, whose extensive irrigation canals are still evident. Later, it became homeland to the Tohono O'odham and the Pima. Spanish exploration began with figures like Father Eusebio Kino in the late 17th century, who established missions such as Mission San Xavier del Bac. Following the Gadsden Purchase in 1854, the region became part of the United States. The county was officially created in 1864, with Tucson as its seat. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1880 spurred growth, and the establishment of Davis–Monthan Air Force Base and Fort Huachuca in the 20th century cemented its strategic importance. The University of Arizona was founded in Tucson in 1885, becoming a cornerstone of the region's development.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 1,047,279, making it one of the most populous counties in Arizona. The racial and ethnic composition is diverse, with a significant Hispanic or Latino population, largely of Mexican descent. The county is also home to one of the largest populations of Native Americans in the state, primarily from the Tohono O'odham Nation and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Other major groups include non-Hispanic White and African American residents. The largest population center is the Tucson metropolitan area, which contains the majority of the county's residents.

Government and politics

Pima County operates under a Board of Supervisors form of government, with five elected members. Key elected officials include the County Attorney, the Sheriff, and the Recorder. The county government is based at the Pima County Courthouse in downtown Tucson. Politically, the county has historically been a Democratic stronghold within Arizona, often supporting Democratic candidates in presidential elections and for the United States Senate. It is represented in the U.S. House by members from Arizona's 6th congressional district and Arizona's 7th congressional district.

Economy

The economy is diverse, anchored by several major sectors. Davis–Monthan Air Force Base is a critical employer and home to the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG). The University of Arizona is a leading research institution and a major economic driver. Raytheon Missiles & Defense has a significant manufacturing presence. Tourism is vital, drawing visitors to Saguaro National Park, Mission San Xavier del Bac, and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Other important industries include healthcare, with systems like Banner Health and TMC HealthCare, and biotechnology, supported by entities like the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center.

Culture and recreation

The county boasts a rich cultural scene centered in Tucson, which is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Major institutions include the Arizona Theatre Company, the Tucson Museum of Art, and the Center for Creative Photography, which houses the archive of Ansel Adams. Annual events like the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show and the Tucson Festival of Books draw international crowds. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with hiking and rock climbing in Sabino Canyon and Mount Lemmon, birdwatching in the Madera Canyon, and stargazing due to the region's clear skies, supported by observatories like Kitt Peak National Observatory. The county is also home to Old Tucson, a historic film studio and theme park.

Category:Pima County, Arizona Category:Arizona counties Category:1864 establishments in Arizona Territory