Special Sector Reports
This series of reports focuses on several sectors of Arizona’s economy that do not fall out neatly from a purely sectoral analysis using traditional data sources. The list of sectors was developed by the Technical Advisory Committee and is based on their experience in working with these sectors.
These reports vary in length and approach. This is not a reflection of the relative importance of the special sector, but rather the availability of current information and, perhaps, related work by the researcher on similar subjects.
Arizona’s Agricultural Sector
This report presents an overview of agriculture’s role in Arizona’s economy. Trends at the state, and county levels are identified as the industry has undergone significant change in recent years as agricultural land in and around urban areas has been converted to residential uses.
Arizona’s Border Issues
Starting by defining the border region, this report examines the sensitivity of the border economy to Mexico. While the border shares many economic and infrastructure challenges with other parts of the state, addressing them is complicated by a web of relationships with federal and local agencies on both sides of the international line.
Cost of Doing Business in Arizona and How Does Arizona’s Cost of Living Compare?
The Cost of Doing Business and Arizona’s Cost of Living reports evaluate the State within regional and national perspectives, benchmarking Arizona against other states.
Arizona’s International Exports
Arizona’s exports to other countries are examined in this section. It identifies what Arizona is exporting where and establishes a context for evaluating the state’s sensitivity to changing global markets.
Retirement Migration in Arizona
Arizona has been an attractive retirement destination for many years. This section analyzes the past and emerging patterns affecting retirement migration and the cost/benefit of this group on the state’s economy. Based on demographic data from the Census 2000, the study identifies where the seniors are and where they are not.
The Tourism Industry in Arizona
Long considered one of Arizona’s traditional industries, the tourism industry is difficult to assess because of its many components. While activity in the hotel and lodging sector can be analyzed, much of the benefit from tourists is a result of their retail spending patterns. The report identifies how much national and international travelers are spending in the state.