9 Charming Small Towns in Arizona You’ll Want to Call Home
9 hours ago
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If you’re thinking about moving to Arizona, bustling cities like Phoenix or Tucson might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Arizona’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 9 charming small towns in Arizona, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
Payson sits at the base of the Mogollon Rim, offering breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails like the Horton Creek Trail, where locals love to explore. Payson is also home to the world’s oldest continuous rodeo. The Payson Pro Rodeo is held annually each summer and residents love coming for a weekend of cowboy culture and entertainment. During cooler months, locals often head to the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, which has one of the largest natural travertine bridges in the world.
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Camp Verde is a small town located in the Verde Valley. Montezuma Castle National Monument, a well-preserved cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people, is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Each October, Camp Verde comes alive with its annual Cornfest, a fun-filled event celebrating the local agriculture with fresh corn, live music, and games. There are also lots of outdoor activities in the surrounding area. The Verde River offers kayaking and fishing opportunities for those looking to enjoy the region’s landscape.
Wickenburg captures the spirit of the Old West with its cowboy heritage and historical charm. The town’s Desert Caballeros Western Museum gives people a glimpse into Wickenburg’s frontier past, featuring art and artifacts from the region’s early days. Every year, the town hosts the Gold Rush Days, a celebration of Wickenburg’s mining history. The event is complete with rodeos, parades, and a carnival that brings the community together. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking and horseback riding in the nearby Hassayampa River Preserve, a lush oasis in the desert.
Winslow, immortalized in the Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy,” is a Route 66 town that embraces its place in pop culture history. Standing on the Corner Park, a tribute to the famous song attracts visitors who snap photos with the bronze statue and classic red flatbed Ford parked nearby. Winslow is also home to La Posada Hotel, a beautifully restored historic hotel designed by renowned architect Mary Colter. Looking for more to do? Each September, the town hosts the annual Standin’ on the Corner Festival, featuring live music, classic cars, and local vendors.
Paulden is a peaceful, rural town just north of Prescott. This unincorporated town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to the Chino Valley and Verde River for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Locals enjoy the simple pleasures of small-town life, from riding horses along quiet dirt roads to spending time in local ranches. Paulden is also home to the first section of the Arizona Trail, a renowned long-distance hiking trail that stretches across the state.
Located at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Catalina has fantastic mountain views and a laid-back lifestyle. Just a short drive from Tucson, this small town gives residents the convenience of city amenities while still offering plenty of peace and quiet. Catalina State Park is a favorite weekend destination. The park has miles of hiking trails through desert landscapes and opportunities to spot wildlife like bobcats and deer. The park’s Romero Ruins trail also takes visitors to an ancient Hohokam village site, adding a layer of history to the area’s natural beauty.
Residents in Three Points appreciate the slower pace of life, where you can take in stunning sunsets over the desert and enjoy peaceful evenings under star-filled skies. The town is close to the Kitt Peak National Observatory, one of the largest astronomical observatories in the world, making it a popular spot for stargazing. Nearby, the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors opportunities to explore diverse desert ecosystems and spot wildlife.
Holbrook is another a historic town along Route 66. The Petrified Forest National Park, just outside of town, draws visitors eager to explore ancient fossilized trees and colorful badlands. Holbrook is also home to the iconic Wigwam Motel, where you can spend the night in vintage, teepee-shaped accommodations that recall the heyday of road trips along Route 66. The town’s annual Hashknife Pony Express Reenactment, is a local favorite where riders deliver mail on horseback, honoring Holbrook’s Wild West roots.
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Somerton is located near the U.S.-Mexico. The town’s close-knit community comes together every year for the Somerton Tamale Festival. The event which draws crowds from across the region to enjoy delicious homemade tamales and live entertainment. The surrounding fields are known for growing crops like lettuce and melons. This highlights Somerton’s role as a key player in Arizona’s agricultural industry. The town’s proximity to the Colorado River offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxing along its scenic banks.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center.
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