Honestly, I didn't have high expectations when I first heard the name Tucson.

The Korean community is small, and there aren't Korean supermarkets like in LA or New York.

However, the more I live here, the more I realize that this city has several aspects that surprisingly suit Koreans.

The first is the quality of life relative to the cost of living. Tucson offers a quietness and space that you can't find in LA or San Francisco.

Housing prices are relatively low, and rents are much more reasonable compared to California's major cities.

Many people who choose this city say that with the same amount of money, they can live in a larger home and with more comfort.

Since the city itself is not complicated, it is also relatively easy for those who are moving from Korea to adapt.

The second is the Korean community and churches. Although it's not large, the Korean community in Tucson is solid.

Communities are formed around Korean churches like Tucson True Light Church and Korean Presbyterian Church of Tucson, providing a network that offers practical help for newcomers settling in.

There are also Korean markets like Kimpo Oriental Market and Sandy Market, so finding Korean ingredients is not a major inconvenience.

The third is the educational environment. With the University of Arizona (UA) at its center, the educational infrastructure is well-established, and there are excellent schools like Catalina Foothills School District and University High within TUSD. It's an environment where you can receive quality education at a reasonable cost, rather than just preparing for prestigious Ivy League schools.

If you aim to attend UA, being nearby is an advantage in itself. The fourth is the natural environment. The Sonoran Desert, Mount Lemmon, and Saguaro National Park are all within 30 minutes from home, meaning there are places to go every weekend. For families with children, this city can provide a daily experience in nature.

Of course, there are downsides. The summer heat is a reality, and the Korean population is not large, so the options for Korean cultural content and food are not as abundant as in LA.

You should also be prepared for the inconvenience of living without a car. However, for those looking to start or settle into life in the U.S. quietly, safely, and at a relatively reasonable cost, Tucson is a city worth serious consideration. The longer you live here, the more its charm deepens.