Arizona’s Gateway for People and Commerce

Nogales Ports Where Commerce and Community Meet

In 2024, over 3.2 million pedestrian crossings were recorded, highlighting the steady flow of people between Mexico and the United States. The ports also accommodate substantial commercial traffic, including trucks and trains carrying cargo in full and empty containers, making Nogales a critical hub for trade and commerce in southern Arizona.
 
This activity contributes to the region’s vibrant economy, impacting local businesses, employment, and housing demand. Infrastructure investments, like the upgrades to the Mariposa Port of Entry, ensure the ports continue to support growth and maintain efficiency for residents and businesses alike.
 
For homebuyers and investors, understanding Nogales’ role as a trade and transit hub offers insight into the area’s economic vitality, regional connectivity, and long-term real estate potential.
 

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The Heart of Cross-Border Trade

Nogales, Arizona, thrives as a hub of international trade and economic activity. Daily crossings from Mexico account for an estimated 60–70 % of local sales tax revenue, supporting retail, services, and community development. The city, together with its sister community Nogales, Sonora, hosts one of the largest manufacturing (maquiladora) clusters in the region and handles over 4 billion pounds of fruits and vegetables annually through the Mariposa Port of Entry.
 
This robust commerce directly influences the local housing market. Steady cross-border traffic, employment in manufacturing, logistics, and retail, as well as growing tourism, drive demand for both rental and owner-occupied housing. Investors and homebuyers benefit from a dynamic economy, diverse neighborhoods, and opportunities linked to trade-driven growth.
 
Nogales’ position on the CANAMEX corridor — a key trade route linking Mexico, the U.S., and Canada — ensures ongoing regional connectivity, infrastructure improvements, and long-term economic stability, making the city a strong choice for real estate investment.

Send Me A Message

If you are relocating to the area or just visiting, and are looking for more specific information feel free to ask me a question. I have crossed the border at all Nogales Ports of Entry for many years so I would be more than happy to provide any additional details of Ambos Nogales.  
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Foreign Investment in Real Property

Foreign Buyers have the ability to own real estate property in the United States. According to NAR's 2013 survey, Arizona is ranked one of the top five states where international buyers are purchasing real estate. In addition, Mexican and Canadian buyers are flocking to Arizona due to affordable housing and weather.

Traveler Programs

Customs and Border Protection's Trusted Traveler Programs provide expedited travel for pre-approved, low risk travelers through dedicated lanes and kiosks. SENTRI is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Participants may enter the United States by using dedicated primary lanes into the United States at Southern land border ports. You can find the SENTRI dedicated lane at the Deconcini port of entry in Nogales.

Port of Entry Wait Times

If you are planning on visiting Mexico the US Customs and Border Patrol provides estimated wait times for reaching the primary inspection booth. Each border location updates its estimated wait times hourly. To make sure you have our current information by refreshing your browser. Keep in mind that later in the day will have longer traffic delays. 

Know Before You Go

CBP officers welcome international travelers into the U.S. In screening both foreign visitors and returning U.S. citizens, CBP uses a variety of techniques to assure that global tourism remains safe and strong.