Catalina Foothills
Welcome to Catalina Foothills, the elevated and prestigious neighborhood nestled on the north side of Tucson. With its breathtaking mountain and city views, this area offers a captivating setting that sets it apart from the rest of Tucson. Catalina Foothills is renowned for its upscale properties, commanding higher prices compared to other areas in town. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning multi-million dollar custom homes that grace this community.
Most residences in Catalina Foothills consist of single-family homes, many of which are situated on expansive parcels of land, ranging from 3/4 of an acre to even larger sizes. In the 1970s and 1980s, developers introduced more affordable yet upscale townhomes and condos, offering a wider range of housing options in the area.
As the community evolved, newer homes were constructed within established neighborhoods, often dividing larger lots. While some neighborhoods feature gated entrances, many remain unenclosed. The community encompasses a mix of neighborhoods with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and those without, catering to diverse preferences.
Navigating Catalina Foothills is a unique experience. The major arterial roads generally follow a grid-like pattern, although they meander in certain areas. On the other hand, the residential roads boast charming curvilinear layouts, deviating from the traditional grid design.
The rich history and development of Catalina Foothills can be traced back to the 1920s when John and Helen Murphey, along with their architect Josias Joesler, established the area. Joesler’s expertise in blending Spanish Colonial Revival style with the enchanting beauty of the Sonoran Desert resulted in the creation of Catalina Foothills Estates. These homes were originally marketed to affluent families from the eastern United States seeking a part-time winter retreat. Even today, Joesler’s architectural marvels remain highly sought after due to their exquisite designs and sprawling saguaro-studded lots.
The distinctive architecture of Catalina Foothills showcases the influence of renowned architect Josias Joesler, who crafted many homes in Catalina Foothills Estates for the Murpheys. These residences typically feature Spanish Colonial Revival elements, combining burnt adobe, white stucco, and red tile roofs.
Catalina Foothills proudly hosts two National Historic Districts: Catalina Foothills Estates Apartments and Catalina Townhouses. Developed by the Murpheys and designed by architect Juan Worner Baz following Joesler’s untimely passing in 1956, these neighborhoods exemplify the unique charm and historical significance of the area.
During the 1950s and 1960s, other builders contributed to the architectural tapestry of Catalina Foothills by constructing expansive ranch-style homes using burnt adobe or red brick, accentuated by steel casement windows and low rooflines. Territorial style burnt adobe homes also gained popularity during that era.
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the emergence of more affordable townhomes and condos, diversifying the housing options in the neighborhood. In the following decades, high-end custom homes took center stage, defining the epitome of luxury living in Catalina Foothills.
Throughout its history, Catalina Foothills has been graced by the talents of numerous local architects and builders. From the visionary designs of Josias Joesler to the contributions of Tom Gist, Judith Chafee, Nicholas Sakellar, Kevin Howard, Rob Robinette, Rob Paulus, David Tyson, and many others, the area showcases a dazzling array of architectural styles and influences.
Experience the allure of Catalina Foothills, where breathtaking natural beauty intertwines with remarkable architecture to create an unparalleled living environment. Discover a place where luxury and sophistication meet in perfect harmony.
Welcome to Catalina Foothills, the elevated and prestigious neighborhood nestled on the north side of Tucson. With its breathtaking mountain and city views, this area offers a captivating setting that sets it apart from the rest of Tucson. Catalina Foothills is renowned for its upscale properties, commanding higher prices compared to other areas in town. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning multi-million dollar custom homes that grace this community.
Most residences in Catalina Foothills consist of single-family homes, many of which are situated on expansive parcels of land, ranging from 3/4 of an acre to even larger sizes. In the 1970s and 1980s, developers introduced more affordable yet upscale townhomes and condos, offering a wider range of housing options in the area.
As the community evolved, newer homes were constructed within established neighborhoods, often dividing larger lots. While some neighborhoods feature gated entrances, many remain unenclosed. The community encompasses a mix of neighborhoods with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and those without, catering to diverse preferences.
Navigating Catalina Foothills is a unique experience. The major arterial roads generally follow a grid-like pattern, although they meander in certain areas. On the other hand, the residential roads boast charming curvilinear layouts, deviating from the traditional grid design.
The rich history and development of Catalina Foothills can be traced back to the 1920s when John and Helen Murphey, along with their architect Josias Joesler, established the area. Joesler’s expertise in blending Spanish Colonial Revival style with the enchanting beauty of the Sonoran Desert resulted in the creation of Catalina Foothills Estates. These homes were originally marketed to affluent families from the eastern United States seeking a part-time winter retreat. Even today, Joesler’s architectural marvels remain highly sought after due to their exquisite designs and sprawling saguaro-studded lots.
The distinctive architecture of Catalina Foothills showcases the influence of renowned architect Josias Joesler, who crafted many homes in Catalina Foothills Estates for the Murpheys. These residences typically feature Spanish Colonial Revival elements, combining burnt adobe, white stucco, and red tile roofs.
Catalina Foothills proudly hosts two National Historic Districts: Catalina Foothills Estates Apartments and Catalina Townhouses. Developed by the Murpheys and designed by architect Juan Worner Baz following Joesler’s untimely passing in 1956, these neighborhoods exemplify the unique charm and historical significance of the area.
During the 1950s and 1960s, other builders contributed to the architectural tapestry of Catalina Foothills by constructing expansive ranch-style homes using burnt adobe or red brick, accentuated by steel casement windows and low rooflines. Territorial style burnt adobe homes also gained popularity during that era.
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the emergence of more affordable townhomes and condos, diversifying the housing options in the neighborhood. In the following decades, high-end custom homes took center stage, defining the epitome of luxury living in Catalina Foothills.
Throughout its history, Catalina Foothills has been graced by the talents of numerous local architects and builders. From the visionary designs of Josias Joesler to the contributions of Tom Gist, Judith Chafee, Nicholas Sakellar, Kevin Howard, Rob Robinette, Rob Paulus, David Tyson, and many others, the area showcases a dazzling array of architectural styles and influences.
Experience the allure of Catalina Foothills, where breathtaking natural beauty intertwines with remarkable architecture to create an unparalleled living environment. Discover a place where luxury and sophistication meet in perfect harmony.
(47)
Listing Courtesy of Real Broker
(39)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(51)
Listing Courtesy of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
(50)
Listing Courtesy of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
(17)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(13)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(19)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Virtual Tour
(51)
Listing Courtesy of Engel & Volkers Tucson
(50)
Listing Courtesy of Andy Courtney Properties, Ltd.
Virtual Tour
(49)
Listing Courtesy of Tierra Antigua Realty
(51)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(44)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Listing No. 22403310
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Listing No. 22510826
Listing Courtesy of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Listing No. 22427465
Listing Courtesy of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Listing No. 22420842
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Listing No. 22427081
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Listing No. 22415974
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Listing No. 22503865
Listing Courtesy of Engel & Volkers Tucson
Listing No. 22513775
Listing Courtesy of Andy Courtney Properties, Ltd.
Listing No. 22419428
Listing Courtesy of Tierra Antigua Realty
Listing No. 22514259
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
Listing No. 22503891
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(47)
$740,000
3 3 Beds
2 | 1 2 | 1 Baths
2,819 Sqft 2,819 Sqft
22505689 Listing No. 22505689
House Property Type: House
(47)
Listing Courtesy of Real Broker
(39)
$12,950,000
7 7 Beds
7 | 4 7 | 4 Baths
18,653 Sqft 18,653 Sqft
22403310 Listing No. 22403310
House Property Type: House
(39)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(51)
$12,000,000
4 4 Beds
5 | 1 5 | 1 Baths
10,431 Sqft 10,431 Sqft
22510826 Listing No. 22510826
House Property Type: House
(51)
Listing Courtesy of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
(50)
$10,000,000
5 5 Beds
5 | 1 5 | 1 Baths
8,292 Sqft 8,292 Sqft
22427465 Listing No. 22427465
House Property Type: House
(50)
Listing Courtesy of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
(17)
$9,750,000
6 6 Beds
6 | 3 6 | 3 Baths
8,000 Sqft 8,000 Sqft
22420842 Listing No. 22420842
House Property Type: House
(17)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(13)
$7,800,000
5 5 Beds
5 5 Baths
7,300 Sqft 7,300 Sqft
22427081 Listing No. 22427081
House Property Type: House
(13)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(19)
$7,500,000
6 6 Beds
7 | 1 7 | 1 Baths
7,200 Sqft 7,200 Sqft
22415974 Listing No. 22415974
House Property Type: House
(19)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
VIRTUAL TOUR
(51)
$5,999,000
6 6 Beds
6 | 1 6 | 1 Baths
5,430 Sqft 5,430 Sqft
22503865 Listing No. 22503865
House Property Type: House
VIRTUAL TOUR
(51)
Listing Courtesy of Engel & Volkers Tucson
(50)
$4,950,000
5 5 Beds
6 | 2 6 | 2 Baths
7,295 Sqft 7,295 Sqft
22513775 Listing No. 22513775
House Property Type: House
(50)
Listing Courtesy of Andy Courtney Properties, Ltd.
VIRTUAL TOUR
(49)
$4,525,000
4 4 Beds
4 | 1 4 | 1 Baths
5,370 Sqft 5,370 Sqft
22419428 Listing No. 22419428
House Property Type: House
VIRTUAL TOUR
(49)
Listing Courtesy of Tierra Antigua Realty
(51)
$3,995,000
6 6 Beds
5 | 3 5 | 3 Baths
7,842 Sqft 7,842 Sqft
22514259 Listing No. 22514259
House Property Type: House
(51)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
(44)
$3,950,000
4 4 Beds
4 | 2 4 | 2 Baths
6,576 Sqft 6,576 Sqft
22503891 Listing No. 22503891
House Property Type: House
(44)
Listing Courtesy of Long Realty
The data relating to real estate listings on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) program of Multiple Listing Service of Southern Arizona. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Listings provided by brokerages other than Real Broker AZ, LLC are identified with the MLSSAZ IDX Logo. All Information Is Deemed Reliable But Is Not Guaranteed Accurate. Listing information Copyright 2025 MLS of Southern Arizona. All Rights Reserved.