Rural desert life in the Phoenix metropolitan area
Home to about 40,000 people, the rural city of Apache Junction offers lower housing prices than Phoenix, 35 miles west, and a small-town feel beside the Superstition Mountains. The area was named after the Apache Trail, a scenic trade route built in the early 20th century; today, the trail is known as Route 88. “Apache Junction is amazing because the people are always welcoming," says Ryan Hunt, co-owner of Boba Shack, a local restaurant. "It still has the small-town vibes, but with both city and country folk.”
According to Apache Junction Economic Development, the city’s leading industries are retail, consumer services and healthcare. Mesa borders Apache Junction to the west, and many folks work at Mesa-based Fortune 500 companies like Boeing and Northrop Grumman. “People don’t need to get to Phoenix for work,” says Kristie Falb, a Realtor with Homesmart and over 10 years of experience. “There are so many big businesses booming around us.”
Meet majestic horses and ride through history at Goldfield Ghost Town in Apache Junction.
Find your slice of heaven in the Sonoran Desert in Apache Junction.
Take a scenic drive on the Apache Trail in Apache Junction.
Apache Junction residents who work at Boeing run into little traffic on their daily commute.
1/4
21st-century master-planned neighborhoods
The average home price in Apache Junction is $320,000, lower than the Phoenix average of about $623,000 and the national average of about $400,000. “People come this way because they’re finding lower home prices in this area,” Falb says. Developers are actively building here, and in 2023, over 900 home-building permits were issued by the city.
Most homes here are 21st-century new traditional Spanish-style, laid out in master-planned communities; however, there are also a few subdivisions' worth of late 20th-century ranch-style homes. There are also a few retirement communities, including the gated Dolce Vita neighborhood and the Shiprock RV Resort Mobile Home Park. Throughout the city, typical landscaping is gravel-packed and dotted by cacti and succulents.
Pueblo inspired architecture is more common on the east side of Apache Junction.
Spanish influenced homes in Apache Junction are typical in the area.
Some homeowners in Apache Junction have enough land to keep horses and cows.
Many 55+ RV communities can be found throughout Apache Junction.
1/4
Unique academic programs at Apache Junction schools
Apache Junction is part of the Apache Junction Unified School District, rated C overall by Niche. At the C-rated Four Peaks Elementary, students may apply for the Dual Language Learning Program, which evenly splits the learning day between English- and Spanish-language instruction. The B-rated Imagine Superstition Prep is a charter school for Grades 9-12 and offers STEM-related classes, like engineering and forensics.
Four Peaks Elementary is located in the northern part of Apache Junction.
Imagine Prep Superstition is a public middle and high school.
Cactus Canyon Junior High School entrance.
Apache Junction High School building.
1/4
Parks and natural beauty
The 16-acre Painted Sky Park is the largest in the city, offering a 3-acre playground, a catch-and-release fishing lake and games like bocce, cornhole and table tennis. Currently, the city is adding 16 new pickleball courts to Prospector Park, where folks also play softball, soccer, basketball and sand volleyball. Golfers can head to Apache Creek Golf Club for an 18-hole round on the desert-themed course.
According to Hunt, “You can drive 15 minutes in any direction and find a trail to hike, or just sit in nature." Lost Dutchman State Park offers dirt-packed hiking, biking and equestrian trails weaving up the Superstition Mountains, while Canyon Lake, a scenic 15-mile drive northwest, is popular for boating, fishing and swimming.
Apache Junction residents are loving the new pickleball courts at Prospector Park.
See the iconic saguaro cactus at Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction.
Apache Junction’s Painted Sky Park is a great spot to take the kids fishing.
Apache Junction’s Apache Creek Golf Club offers some of the best views in the valley.
1/4
Downtown shopping and dining
Downtown Apache Junction offers a modest shopping and dining scene that includes small businesses and locally owned cafes, breakfast diners and authentic Mexican restaurants. Though most downtown establishments are spread along the sidewalk-lined Apache Trail, Falb says most folks drive rather than walk to them. A couple of shopping centers have grocery stores, chain retailers and fast-food eateries. While nightlife is limited, there are a few saloon-style bars that offer live music and games like pool and darts.
Downtown Apache Junction will remind you of an old western downtown area.
Apache Junction’s Skies Bar and Grill serves up hot meals and cold beer.
Raise a glass to the Wild West experience at Goldfield Ghost Town's legendary Saloon.
Browse through history and find unique keepsakes at Apache Junction's Antique Mall.
1/4
Southwestern style and Lost Dutchman Days
“February is a big month for the city of Apache Junction,” Falb says. Lost Dutchman Days is a three-day celebration in February that includes a downtown parade, carnival and all kinds of rodeo fun, like bull riding and barrel racing. “Another big event is the Lost Dutchman Marathon that has almost 3,000 participants,” Falb says. The celebration is named after the fabled Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, which is alleged to be a lost mine of treasures in the Superstition Mountains. The Festival of the Superstitions Country Bash in November is another highlight, where folks can enjoy food trucks, local vendors and live music from country artists. Public art pieces, like downtown murals and park sculptures, showcase the city's southwestern style.
Apache Junction’s roots start in gold prospecting.
Apache Junction residents can drop water payments in this art piece.
1/2
Getting around from Apache Junction
Apache Junction is about 35 miles east of Phoenix, a 30- to 60-minute drive during rush hour. Mesa borders Apache Junction to the west, and Route 60 grants easy access to the rest of the Phoenix metro area. There isn’t any public transportation, so most locals are car dependent. Banner Goldfield Medical Center is located within the city, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is 15 miles southwest, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 30 miles west.
Crime and environmental factors
According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, Apache Junction’s total reported number of violent- and property-related crimes decreased from 1,300 in 2013 to 900 in 2023. The police department partners with neighborhood watch organizations to report and reduce crime.
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, so it’s common for folks to relax indoors or head to the aquatic center at Superstition Shadows Park to escape the extreme heat. The city is also at risk of wildfires, and folks may sign up for emergency alerts on the city's website.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Nelson
Video By
Michael Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Decker,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
Apache Junction (MGC) Multi-Generational Center / Parks and Rec Complex Park
Painted Sky Park
Apache Junction Housing Trends
On average, homes in Apache Junction, AZ sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Apache Junction, AZ over the last 12 months is $421,880, up 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Super clean and truly move-in ready, this beautifully maintained home is a rare find! The spacious interior features a large kitchen with abundant cabinetry, offering plenty of storage and prep space. Expansive front windows flood the home with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere throughout. Enjoy the convenience of an oversized indoor laundry room complete with washer and
Welcome to Apache East a 55+ age-qualified active and vibrant community, where you can find yourself in your dream home. We have a beautiful 1988 2 bed, 1 bath home for sale featuring 960.00 sq ft of beautifully designed living space. Located in Apache Junction, this property offers the perfect blend of modern amenities and timeless charm. Step inside to find hardwood floors. The cozy kitchen
This charming 416 square foot ]home, built in 2026 by Cavco, offers a cozy and efficient living space perfect for comfortable Arizona living. Featuring one bedroom and one bathroom, the home includes a spacious living room, a well-appointed kitchen equipped with modern appliances such as an oven, fridge, dishwasher, and microwave, and convenient washer/dryer hook-ups. Central A/C ensures
55+ | Lot Rent $850 Furnished 1 bed, 1 bath home in Pacific Manor with beautifully updated interiors. Two bedrooms were combined into one spacious suite with ample closet space. Open-concept layout features laminate wood flooring, carpeted bedroom, fresh paint, and an updated kitchen with painted shaker cabinets, new hardware, and eat-in dining. New roof, 3 new air conditioning units, and new
Upgrades, Furnished, and move-in ready! New floors, that were professionally leveled. New security door, new water heater, and professionally painted kitchen cabinets. Refrigerator and dishwasher are also new, washer dryer included. Roof has a lot of life left. All furniture can stay with this home. Unpack your bags and start living in this tight-knit community that enjoys stunning views of the
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom manufactured home offering 1,352 sq ft of comfortable living space in a desirable all-ages community! This charming double wide home is perfect for families, first-time buyers, or anyone looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle with resort-style amenities. Step inside to an open and inviting floor plan featuring a spacious living room, a
This well-maintained 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom manufactured home offers comfort, convenience, and plenty of space to enjoy your next chapter. Fully furnished and move-in ready, this home features stylish updates including a brand-new sofa, quality bedroom sets, and even an air purifier for added comfort. The kitchen is a standout feature with a custom oversized pantry-perfect for storage,
Vaulted Ceilings & Open Layout with No HOA! This home features a bright & open layout with vaulted ceilings, updated wood-look LVP flooring & a spacious main living area that flows naturally into the dining area & cozy family room. The kitchen has been updated with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, abundant cabinetry & a large sliding glass door providing easy access to the
Enjoy convenient living in this roomy 1-bedroom, 1-bath home featuring a versatile flex room perfect for an office, hobby space, guest area, or additional storage. Ideally located near shopping, restaurants, the Apache Junction Multigenerational Center, and a public dog park. Nestled in a quiet adult community offering a clubhouse, community dog park, and breathtaking Superstition Mountain views.
Experience exceptional desert living on 2.5 acres with unobstructed views of Superstition Mountain. This 2,400+ sq. ft. custom home offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a dedicated office/bonus room. The spacious primary suite includes a walk-in shower and ample storage. The home features a chef-style kitchen with granite countertops, Alderwood cabinetry, and LG Smart appliances. Interior upgrades
Step into this beautifully updated 55+ manufactured home featuring 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 modern baths—with the potential for a third bedroom if you choose to reinstall the wall. Enjoy a quiet, welcoming community filled with amenities, perfect for relaxation and everyday comfort. Stylish finishes, open living spaces, and a serene setting make this home an inviting retreat ready for its next
This charming 1 bedroom, 1 bath park model is ideally situated on a premium corner lot, offering breathtaking, unobstructed views of the iconic Superstition Mountains-perfect for enjoying Arizona's stunning sunrises and sunsets right from your doorstep. Step inside to find a well-maintained and inviting interior, complete with a generous amount of cabinetry and storage, making it easy to stay
REDUCED! Welcome home to this neat, clean, newly updated affordable home. It's located in a gated 55+ active adult community with low lot rent, Mountain views and a very large backyard. lSome of the NEW items include a 3 door refrigerator, new flooring & ceiling fans. Your kitchen also has a farm sink, plenaty of cabinets with new handles and drawer pulls and a coat or broom closet. Both
REDUCED 30K. Ignore the age! There's many newer updates from top to bottom plus newer paint in and out. The roof is 4 yrs with a 10 yr warranty. The water heater is 3 now. then there's a newer DW, 3 door Whirlpool refrigerator,painted cabinets with updated hardware, plus newer countertops & back splash in the kitchen plus a breakfast bar. There's even room for a kitchen office. The vinyl floor
Move-in ready single-level home in the heart of Apache Junction with NO HOA and RV parking. This updated 2-bed w/ den, 1-bath offers an open, light-filled layout with wood-look plank flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, ceiling fans, and dual-pane windows. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, an electric range, ample wood cabinetry, and a breakfast bar. The big-ticket updates
One month free! Welcome to this beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bath multi-family unit featuring gated parking and a private enclosed backyard. This well-maintained home offers a full-size kitchen with an electric range/oven, durable tile flooring throughout for easy maintenance, and a separate laundry room for added convenience. Step outside to a private backyard perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or
Explore Our Brand-New Homes in Apache JunctionWelcome home to Hampton Meridian! Our new homes in Apache Junction offers the perfect Apache Junction home with stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. Conveniently located off US-60 and near AZ-202, our pet-friendly apartments in Apache Junction features modern single-story detached and duplex homes with 1, 2, or 3-bedroom floor plans. You
Newly Remodeled & Updated 4 Bed | 2 Bath, Step inside this beautifully refreshed home featuring brand new flooring throughout, fresh interior & exterior paint, stunning new quartz countertops in the kitchen and both bathrooms, new tile backsplash, new ceiling fans & lighting, and modern faucets. The primary suite boasts a gorgeous tiled master shower with glass surround and a large walk-in
Welcome to Ironwood Station, a townhome community where luxury rental living feels like homeownership. Enjoy the space, privacy, and premium features typically found in a single-family home, without the responsibilities of ownership.These brand-new 3-bedroom townhomes in Apache Junction, AZ offer more than 1,800 square feet of thoughtfully crafted living space, complete with open-concept floor
Welcome to Chaparral Ranch, a peaceful 55 plus manufactured home community nestled at the base of the breathtaking Superstition Mountains in Apache Junction, Arizona. Whether you're looking for a full time residence or a seasonal retreat, this beautifully maintained 2020 Clayton built home offers comfort, convenience, and low maintenance living. Located at 925 N. Plaza Drive, Site 92, this
Golden Sands Apartments are located in Apache Junction, 35 miles directly east of Phoenix on Highway 60 (the Superstition Freeway). This is the easternmost community in the Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area. It is home to the legendary Superstition Mountains and the gateway to a wonderful outdoor recreational area. With a hometown feel, Apache Junction continues to value and respect the natural
The Havenly Superstition features new one- two- and three-bedroom detached homes ranging from 721 to 1,246 square feet to comfortably accommodate your lifestyle and space requirements. Our pet-friendly attitude and pet amenities mean your four-legged family member will feel right at home too!Ideally located near the city center which includes a terrific recreational facility. It is also close to
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2444.90. That covers your base rent, $2345.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Smart
Property Id: 1803886 The apartment is a 2 Bed/ 1 Bath, very clean, and in a nice building. No laundry room, but there are connections in the storage closet by parking lot (W&D not provided). Main crossroads S Idaho Rd - E Southern Ave. No pets allowed. Very clean and private, with good space to park. AVAILABLE IN AUG 2026 - 12-month lease, Rent $1250 + $37.50 Admin fee, security deposit
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the lease is signed by all applicants and security deposits are collected.Rent this home by August 17, 2026 and receive $500Interested in this home? You clearly have exceptional taste. This charming 3.0-bedroom, 2.0-bathroom home is not only pet-friendly, but also equipped with smart
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2069.90. That covers your base rent, $1970.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Smart
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.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
