T he city was incorporated in 1877 and is the Pima County seat. At 2,389 feet, it is known for wonderfully warm winters. T he natural beauty of the area along with the near-perfect weather conditions makes Tucson a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. T he University of Arizona remains the largest single employer with more than 10,000 employees. Davis-Monthan Air Force Base has over 8,000 military and civilian employees.
M anufacturing plays a major role in the economy.
Manufacturing employment in Metropolitan Tucson has more than doubled in the past ten years. The growth is due to the increase in high-technology manufacturers such as Hughes Missile Co., AiResearch, Sargent Controls, Opto Power, Burr Brown, and Raytheon Company, which have all located and expanded here. A rea attractions include San Xavier Mission, Saguaro National Park, Old Tucson Studio, Biosphere 2, and Kitt Peak National Observatory. Mexico is an hour away via Interstate 19. Tombstone, home of the famous OK Corral, is only 70 miles to the east.