Incredible 2025 Marana Neighborhood Guide

Marana Heritage Park Water Tower
Photo credit: George Romero

Table of Contents

Marana, Arizona

So, how far is Marana from Phoenix? Just about 90 miles southeast, which makes it a super manageable drive for weekend getaways or business trips. We’re close enough to big-city access but tucked away in our own peaceful pocket of the Sonoran Desert. And bonus: we’ve got our own regional airport, complete with a flight school, and we’re just 34 minutes from Tucson International Airport, or 80 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor.

One of the things I love most about Marana is the mix of old and new. Historically, this area was known for its rich farmland: crops like cotton and grains were everywhere. Fast forward to today, and Marana is thriving with new downtown development, creative events, expanding neighborhoods, and plenty of modern conveniences. Think dentist offices, eye care clinics, fire departments, and even a fully accessible hospital with an emergency center.

Weather-wise, it’s gorgeous most of the year, mild winters and those classic Arizona hot summers. Thanks to our slightly higher elevation compared to Phoenix, it’s just a little more comfortable during the peak heat.

And yes, there’s so much to do here! For kids, there’s fun splash pads, the MARC (Marana Aquatic and Recreation Center), and tons of sports and seasonal events. Grown-ups can check out local golf courses, try skydiving for a thrill, or join clubs at the active senior center. Whether you’re new to town or a longtime local, you’ll never run out of ways to connect and enjoy life here.

Marana’s that perfect blend of community charm, open space, and everyday convenience, and it’s only getting better.

Gladden Farms

Gladden Farms is a family-friendly master-planned community in northwest Marana, known for its parks, trails, and wide-open green spaces. To get there, take I-10 Exit 240 (Tangerine Rd.) and head west toward the community.

Gladden Farms Developments & Surrounding Areas:

San Lucas

The Village at Barnett – new construction with DR Horton

Fianchetto Farms

Rancho Marana

Farm Field Five

Payson Farms

Vanderbilt Farms

Dove Mountain

Dove Mountain is a scenic master-planned community nestled in the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains. Many of its neighborhoods are tucked away from the bustle of town, offering a peaceful desert retreat.

Some locals have deemed it the largest cul-de-sac in the United States 😉

You can reach it by taking I-10 Exit 240 (Tangerine Road) and heading east toward the mountains.

Dove Mountain Developments & Surrounding Areas:

Blue Agave

The Bluffs

Boulder Pass

Boulder Canyon at Dove Mountain

Butterfly Mountain

Canyon Pass

Casa Sevilla

Del Webb

Dos Lagos

Dove Creek

The Gallery

Garden Estates

Golden Barrel

Hidden Springs

The Highlands at Dove Mountain

Los Saguaros

The Preserve

Quail Crossing

Quail Crossing II

The Ritz Carlton Residences

Solana

Saguaro Ranch

Saguaro Reserve at Dove Mountain

Sky Ranch

Sonoran Preserve

Tangerine Crossing

Tortolita Reserve

Tortolita Vistas

Tortolita Ridge

Tortolita 30

The Villages at Dove Mountain

The Villages at Twin Peaks

Continental Ranch

Continental Ranch is a well-established community in northwest Marana, conveniently located near shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. You can reach it by taking I-10 Exit 246 (Cortaro Road) and heading west.

Continental Ranch Developments & Surrounding Areas

Future Master-Planned Communities

Monarch – 1300 planned homes coming Q4 2025 by Lennar and Richmond American

Mandarina – 2500 planned homes coming soon by Meritage

Tortolita Shadows – 2500 planned homes coming soon

Learn more about the Top Home Builders in Marana.

Search Marana Area Homes for Sale

Picture of Liz J.

Liz J.

Hi, I’m Liz J., when I’m not making home buyers’ and sellers’ dreams come true, you’ll find me taking advantage of everything Marana has to offer. I am a proud resident of Gladden Farms in Marana! Come with me as I explore all the best events, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and outdoor fun in the Greater Marana area.