Quiet master-planned living centered around community activities and recreation
Roughly 60 miles southeast of Phoenix, the master-planned, HOA-governed community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers recreation options and events that attract both retirees and families with young children. "We've got anything you want to do, whether it's crafts, dances, dinners, or pickleball,” says resident Claudia Wilson, an agent with Realty One Group. “It’s very pet friendly and you see people out and about all day long walking their dogs, riding their bikes, driving golf carts,” adds resident Ayanna Hawkins, a Realtor with Simple Realty Professionals. Within this largely residential development, the northern Sun City section welcomes buyers aged 55 and older, the southern Parkside section is open to residents of all ages, and everyone comes together at a shared community center. The CAP Index crime score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4 out of 10. Residents can do some grocery shopping and dining right in the neighborhood, but Hawkins notes that the area's shopping, dining and entertainment options are increasing with the continued development of nearby communities. "We're within striking distance of Queen Creek and San Tan Valley, which are growing exponentially right now,” she says.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is a mater planned community in the Sonoran Desert.
Pickleball is a growing sport among Anthem at Merrill Ranch residents.
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Private recreation amenities at the community center and neighboring park, plus a public golf course
While residents in the age-restricted portion of Anthem at Merrill Ranch have access to their own private pickleball courts, the Anthem Parkside Community Center welcomes everyone who lives in the community. The center offers outdoor tennis, pickleball and volleyball courts, as well as a pool with waterslides and lap-swimming lanes; indoors, residents can shoot hoops in the gym, climb the rock wall, or use the fitness center. The adjoining community park offers a large playground and splash pad, as well as fishing ponds, a dog park and fields for soccer and softball. On the neighborhood’s east side, the 18-hole Poston Butte Golf Course is open to the public; on a clear day, golfers teeing off from the fairway can catch a glimpse of the Temple of the Sun, a landmark built on top of Poston Butte Peak by explorer Charles Poston, known as the “Father of Arizona."
Golf is played year round in Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
Residents of Anthem at Merrill Ranch use the community center fields for many activities.
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All-ages events at the community center
Residents can enjoy a regular roster of special events at the community center, including trivia on the first Friday of each month and a neighborhood potluck on the second. "The HOA does a really good job of making sure we have regular things to do on a daily basis,” Hawkins says, adding that residents frequently look forward to drive-in movies at the park and golf course, or dive-in movies at the pool. "Every week there's something going on at our community center,” she says. “If you’re bored here, there might be something wrong with you.”
The pool at Anthem Parkside Community Center in Anthem at Merrill Ranch has fun of all.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is a proud Dell Webb community.
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Cohesive post-2000 builds
Home construction in Anthem at Merrill Ranch began in the early 2000s, but buyers can also find brand-new homes in both the Sun City and Parkside sections. All homes on the Sun City side are single-level ranch-style homes, while Parkside has two-story builds. Modest homes start at around $300,000, while larger versions, often with private swimming pools, can go up to $700,000. Most homes here have neutral-colored stucco walls and clay barrel-tile roofs, but some have brick-accented facades; nearly all homes here sit on quiet, sidewalk-lined streets and have attached, front-facing garages. Properties are well-maintained, and most feature low-water landscaping with gravel and desert plants.
Many residents that choose grass, opt for artificial turf in Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
Curb appeal doesn’t get much better than the homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
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Career courses at Florence High School
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is zoned for the Florence Unified School District. Local students can attend Anthem K-8 on the neighborhood’s south side before moving onto Florence High 10 miles southeast; both receive a C-plus rating from Niche. Florence High has a renowned music and fine arts program with several band and choir ensembles, and students here can enroll in a variety of career and technical education courses in fields like graphic design, agriscience and sports medicine.
Anthem K-8 in Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers an after school program for its students.
Florence High School was founded in 1916.
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Grocery shopping and several restaurants within the community
Residents can do some local dining and shopping on the neighborhood’s west side, at the intersection of Hunt Highway and Merrill Ranch Parkway. There's a Safeway for groceries, Valentino’s Eatery for classic Italian fare and lengthy wine, cocktail and dessert menus, and Chen’s Chinese Bistro for family-style dinners and takeout lunch specials. Further east at Poston Butte Golf Club’s Anthem Grille, folks can order smoked meat by the half pound or enjoy Sunday brunch on the patio. Retail options can be found less than 20 miles northwest in the Queen Creek community, including Target, Walmart and Kohl’s.
Residents of Anthem at Merrill Ranch pick up groceries at Safeway.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch residents enjoy lunch at Anthem Grille.
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Access to major routes via Hunt Highway
While residents don’t have direct freeway access in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Hunt Highway is a main thoroughfare for the area and wraps around the community to the south and the west, eventually connecting with Loop 202 to the north and State Route 87 to the south, which leads west to Interstate 10.
Residents don’t need to travel far for emergency and specialized medical care, as Florence Hospital can be found right within the community to the northeast. For air travel, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is roughly 25 miles northwest.
Florence Hospital in Anthem at Merrill Ranch is equipped with a helipad for emergencies.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is 30 minutes away from Phoenix - Mesa Gateway Airport.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Anthem at Merrill Ranch
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Anthem at Merrill Ranch Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Florence sell after 86 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Florence over the last 12 months is $369,795, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your dream home! Spanning 1823 square feet, the Cali is a charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering the perfect blend of comfort, style and convenience. This popular floor plan features an open and bright living area, perfect for entertaining or relaxing and a modern kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances & granite countertops. The primary suite is a true retreat,
The Harris floorplan! This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home boasts 1854 square feet of luxurious living space, perfect for families of all sizes. Step inside to a spacious kitchen overlooking the living and dining rooms. The Harris floor plan is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring a primary suite with an oversized closet and comfortable secondary bedrooms, providing ample space for everyone
Beautiful Pursuit floorplan located in the 55+ community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch Sun City. This 2 bed, 2 bath w/den home features an open layout with upscale finishes throughout--plus the added benefit of solar for energy efficiency and potential utility savings. The chef's kitchen showcases stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, tile backsplash, upgraded cabinetry, and convenient
Now offering a $1,000 backyard bonus! This single-story home in Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and 1,965 sq ft of open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings, a spacious great room, and a kitchen with granite counters, center island, pantry, and built-in appliances make it perfect for everyday life and entertaining. The private primary suite features a walk-in closet and
Spacious & Inviting! Enter a formal living & dining area with high ceilings & window shutters, flowing into the family room & kitchen, including an eat-in area, center island, dark cabinetry & countertops, plus a walk-in pantry. The family room brings in natural light with a glass slider to the beautiful backyard. The downstairs is complete with an office/den for preferred use & a separate
Why Wait for a New Build? Lower Your Monthly Payment & Move In NowMove right into this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, offering the upgrades, landscaping, and seller concessions buyers often wait months—and pay more—for with new construction. Seller incentives are available and may be applied toward closing costs or an interest rate buy-down, helping reduce monthly
Built in 2021, this beautiful 3 bedroom home features an office and a flex space that could be used as a 4th bedroom. This Manzanita floor plan in Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers modern style and everyday functionality. The open-concept layout features a spacious great room flowing into the kitchen and dining area--perfect for entertaining. The kitchen includes a large island, ample cabinetry, and
This 2012 Senita model by Pulte in Parkside Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a split floor plan with den and built-in Murphy bed. The upgraded kitchen features professionally painted cabinets with new hardware, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, newer refrigerator and microwave, gas stove, R/O system, and new gas hot water heater. Open living area includes 9+
Elevated design, modern finishes, and exceptional indoor-outdoor living define this stunning Endeavor model. Thoughtfully designed with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an expansive open-concept floor plan, for both everyday comfort and unforgettable entertaining. The chef-inspired kitchen is a showpiece, featuring a double oven, granite countertops, marble backsplash, an oversized island, butler's
This beautifully maintained Newport floorplan features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and versatile den. Situated on a desirable corner arroyo lot, this home offers added privacy and scenic surroundings. The inviting paver front courtyard creates the perfect space to enjoy Arizona's beautiful mornings, while the extended paver patio in the backyard provides plenty of room for relaxing or entertaining
This beautifully maintained Oasis floorplan offers 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in a layout designed for comfort and convenience. A charming paver patio in the front yard creates a warm welcome and the perfect spot to enjoy peaceful mornings. Your new home comes FULLY FURNISHED, making it truly move-in ready. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and staggered cherry
Welcome to this sought-after Creosote model in Anthem at Merrill Ranch! This 3 bed, 2 bath + den home offers an open layout with neutral tones, 9+ flat ceilings, and select coffered details. The kitchen features granite countertops and flows seamlessly into the main living space. Enjoy a front courtyard and covered back patio with pergola--perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Plantation shutters
This move-in ready home is packed with upgrades and storage. Enjoy a beautifully landscaped yard, extensive built-ins, accent walls, and surround sound. The kitchen includes granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and an RO water system. Owned solar keeps electric bills low, and major systems have been updated, including the 16 SEER Trane A/C, gas furnace, water heater, and water
Welcome to your next chapter in the heart of Florence, AZ. This stunning home in the highly sought-after Anthem at Merrill Ranch community offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and smart living--all wrapped into an impressive 3,737 sq ft floor plan designed for the way you live today.Feel the freedom of 5 spacious bedrooms + bonus rooms (up to 7 total spaces) and 3.5 baths, giving you
Kelli FrazierRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in the highly desirable Anthem at Merrill Ranch community! This single-level home features an open great room floorplan, spacious eat-in kitchen with pantry, and a primary suite with dual sinks, walk-in shower, and large walk-in closet. Additional highlights include ceiling fans, indoor laundry, and a 2-car garage. Enjoy a low-maintenance yard and
Welcome to resort-style living in Anthem at Merrill Ranch! This beautifully maintained 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath home offers 1,884 Sq Ft of thoughtfully designed space with a versatile den--perfect for a home office or guest area. This home feels like new and features an extended layout and an open concept living area ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. The upgraded Chef's kitchen is a standout,
Welcome to this well-maintained 3 bedroom + den, 2 bathroom home located in Anthem at Merrill Ranch community in Florence. This spacious single-level home offers approximately 1,600 square feet of comfortable living space with an open floor plan, split master suite, and tile flooring throughout the main living areas. The kitchen features ample cabinetry, solid surface countertops, and a breakfast
Beautiful home located in the resort style community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Spacious, open concept with huge island kitchen, extended kitchen cabinets, and granite countertops . Furnished home perfect for those who need a short term rental. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, plus a Den. Oversized ceramic tile floors, and carpet in the bedrooms. Enjoy the community ammentities, water park, lap pool, indoor
Welcome to your home away from home! Stunning fully furnished vacation rental in the highly desirable community of Anthem! Located just north of Historic Florence a highly desirable ''snow-bird'' town - This home is a three bedroom two bathroom, with full amenities including a heated pool in the back yard, perfect for those summer days and winter nights!
Beautiful 2 bed, 2 bath home just steps from the Sun City Anthem 55+ Community Center, offering golf, heated pools, water aerobics, a fitness center, and endless activities. The kitchen features granite countertops, a breakfast bar, pantry, and comes fully equipped with appliances, cookware, and utensils. Plantation shutters and brand-new owner-provided furnishings make this home truly turnkey. A
Looking for a vacation rental in the Florence Area? Your search is over! Beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath with all of the needed amenities, in the highly desired location of Sun City Anthem! The home features upgraded fixtures a spacious living area, with a stunning kitchen fit for anyone who loves to cook! Master bedroom has views of the beautifully designed back yard, while the master bathroom
Pest control, pool, and landscaping included!!! Gorgeous furnished home with an incredible back yard. Perfect for anyone waiting for their home to be built, extended vacation, or looking for an oasis in the desert. This home has spacious bedrooms, open floor plan, pool/spa, golf cart, and a home office space.
Looking to get away for the winter, but haven't found the right home? Look no further! This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom home in Sun City Anthem is the perfect get away! Located in Florence, AZ a popular destination for winter visitors! Sun City Anthem is an active 55+ Community, featuring an 18-hole Golf Course, Pools, Spa & many other activities that will keep you busy all winter long while enjoying
BEAUTIFUL, FULLY furnished home w/ AMAZING amenities incl. resident rate golf fees on award winning 18 hole course! Spacious, non-smoking home on lovely corner lot! 2 bdrms + office, 2 full baths & 2 car garage. Home fully equipped! Includes all utilities & wifi for short term rentals + smart TV's! NEW furniture inside & out. Large front & back patio w/ sunshades, grill, cozy fire-pit. Master has
Beautiful Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch vacation home that boasts luxury living in a 55+ golf community with ample amenities to suit the active lifestyle. This open floor plan offers 1,381 square feet, private master bedroom suite, second bedroom for guest, walk-in closet, tile floor in entry, kitchen, laundry and guest bath, upgraded cabinets and granite counter tops in kitchen. This fully
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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