Marana Named Top Engineering Hub in the Southwest by Livability.com

Published on July 24, 2026

MARANA – The Town of Marana has been recognized by Livability.com as one of the Best Cities for Engineers in 2026, earning distinction as the No. 1 engineering hub in the Southwest among small- to mid-sized communities.

The ranking evaluated more than 2,500 communities nationwide with populations between 50,000 and 500,000. The analysis measured engineering career opportunities using four key factors: job availability, earnings adjusted for cost of living, long-term workforce demand, and career advancement potential.

Marana earned top marks for its Growth & Demand performance, reflecting the strength of the region's expanding aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing industries. The Town's proximity to major employers, including Raytheon in nearby Tucson, combined with a growing economy, business-friendly environment, and quality of life, helped position Marana as the Southwest's leading destination for engineering professionals.

"This is huge for the Town and represents another milestone in the growing national recognition of Marana," said Town Manager Terry Rozema.

Earlier this year, U.S. News & World Report ranked Marana as the third-best place to live in Arizona, and #115 among the nation's 250 best places to live.

“Being named both one of the best places for engineers to live and the number one engineering hub in the Southwest further reinforces the momentum we're building,” continued Rozema. “These national recognitions reflect the investments we've made to create a community where people want to live, work, and build their futures."

In addition to strong employment prospects, the Marana community offers award-winning parks and recreation amenities, a trail system, high public safety, highly rated schools, and convenient access to both the Tucson and Phoenix metropolitan areas.

About the ranking

The ranking was developed by Livability in partnership with labor market experts at Chmura Economics & Analytics and is designed to help engineering professionals identify communities where they can build successful careers while enjoying an outstanding quality of life.

To develop the rankings, Chmura Economics & Analytics evaluated communities using four workforce-focused categories:

• Opportunity: Local specialization in engineering occupations and current hiring activity.
• Earnings Quality: Engineering wages adjusted for the local cost of living.
• Growth & Demand: Long-term job growth, sustained hiring, and talent attraction.
• Career Acceleration: Career mobility, advancement opportunities, and long-term employment stability.

The complete Best Cities for Engineers rankings are available at Livability.com.