The residential city of Cottonwood rests centrally located in Arizona's wine country. The city developed similarly to most in the Verde Valley, expanding in size and population during the mining boom of the 1900s. Today, the city has a population of about 13,000 and continues growing, adding planned communities and nature trails to the landscape. “The city has been revived in the Old Town section to have great wineries and great restaurants that are individually crafted and owned,” says Realtor Jacque Weems with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, serving Verde Valley since 1996.
In addition to wine, the healthcare industry, city government and school districts fuel the local economy.
Get a taste of Americana in Cottonwood.
Many wine tasting rooms are located within walking distance of each other in Cottonwood.
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Old Town, wine tasting and national retailers
Streetlamps and sidewalks line Old Town Cottonwood, guiding the way to locally owned storefronts. Bars, cafes and restaurants, ranging from coffeehouses to surf and turf eateries, help shape the downtown district. Big box stores, major retailers and national chain grocery stores are located in various shopping centers via local highways. Old Town is part of the Verde Valley wine trail, which is dotted with wine-centric establishments and tasting rooms.
Old Town Cottonwood is a great place to spend the evening shopping, dining, and wine tasting.
Vino Zona is one of many stops on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, showcasing a variety of Arizona wines.
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Western-themed shows, Verde Valley Fairgrounds and museums
For over 30 years, Blazin’ M Ranch has served Western-themed dinners to go along with a music-packed show in northern Cottonwood. The Old Town Center for the Arts is a 130-seat theater with adjoining Studio B, for instructor-led classes, and hosts the Monday Movies on Main series. The Verde Valley Fairgrounds hosts camps for agricultural organizations, a fall festival in October, and the Verde Valley Fair during the first week in May. Nearby attractions include the Clemenceau Heritage Museum, focused on Verde Valley History, and The Science Vortex, a STEAM-centered children’s museum.
Catch a western themed dinner show at Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood.
Cottonwood’s Old Town Center for the Arts is host to many artistic businesses, including a tattoo shop.
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Communities of ranch-style houses and Spanish Revivals
Cottonwood neighborhoods include Verde Village, which has ranch-style homes, adobe new traditionals and manufactured home communities. The Verde Santa Fe community is home to the Agave Highlands Golf Course. Single-story Spanish Revival houses are found in cul-de-sacs and along fairways. The median single-family home price is $435,000, while Yavapai County has a median value of $470,000. There are also adobe townhouses with an average price of $251,000.
Mid-century ranch homes can be found throughout Cottonwood.
Many newer homes in Cottonwood are built in a Spanish style with stucco finishes and tile roofs.
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School districts and trade classes through VACTE
The city is zoned across two districts, the Cottonwood-Oak Creek Elementary School District, which earns a C grade from Niche, and Mingus Union High School District, which receives a B. The latter offers various Advanced Placement (AP) programs, dual enrollment courses and trade classes through its partnership with the Valley Academy for Career and Technology Education (VACTE). The VACTE’s programs include agriculture, graphic design and culinary arts.
Football is popular at Cottonwood’s Mingus Union High School.
Valley Academy for Career & Technology Education serves high school students of Cottonwood and beyond.
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Nature trails and neighborhood parks
Neighborhood parks include natural open space, ramadas and playgrounds. Trails are laced through Dead Horse Ranch State Park, the Cottonwood Ranch Community and the Tuzigoot National Monument. In September, Riverfront Park hosts the Thunder Valley Rally, which includes live music, food vendors, a bike show and a poker run. The Cottonwood Aquatics Center sits adjacent to the Cottonwood Recreation Center, which has indoor fitness facilities and exercise classes. Weems says the area has four seasons with a long fall, so opportunities to access nature are abundant. Regional concerns include wildfires and heat offset by monsoons from mid-June to September. One of Arizona’s two wild rivers, the Verde River, runs through Cottonwood, so riverside communities are susceptible to flooding.
Enjoy the incredible views from Clarkdale’s Tuzigoot National Monument, near Cottonwood.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood is a close drive to get away from it all.
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Highway connections and medical center care
The Verde Valley Medical Center is centrally located and has emergency and general care facilities. State Highway 89A connects Cottonwood to Prescott, about 45 miles southwest, and Flagstaff, around 65 miles northeast. Camp Verde-Bridgeport Highway branches south of AZ-89A and intersects Interstate 17, a highway tying the city to Phoenix and its regional airport for select domestic flights, about 100 miles south.
Cottonwood crime trends and climate
According to the Cottonwood Police Department, violent and property crime figures have both trended downward. Violent crime counts decreased by 40% from 2021 to 2023; property crime counts decreased by about 37%. Countywide, violent crime counts decreased by about 9% during the same period, and property crime counts decreased by about 18%, according to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office.
According to Weems, residents experience all four seasons with a long fall. Regional concerns include occasional heatwaves and potential wildfires, though with the possibility of being offset by monsoons from mid-June to September. One of Arizona’s two wild rivers, the Verde River, runs through Cottonwood, so riverside homes could be susceptible to flooding during monsoon season.
Written By
Lauren Melton
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Nelson
Video By
Austin Lewis
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melani Beauregard,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cottonwood, AZ sell after 60 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Cottonwood, AZ over the last 12 months is $370,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
You will be charmed as soon as you enter the home and see the gas fireplace and the bay window in the living room! Move-in ready, remodeled 3 beds/2 baths/1 car garage in the heart of Cottonwood, a stone throw away from all amenities. All you need to do is bring your tooth brush and you'll be home. A new roof was installed in 2022 and the lovely semi-fenced backyard offers endless options to
Located in a prime Cottonwood location just above Old Town, this gorgeous 2021 home offers views of Sedona, Sycamore Canyon, and Jerome with direct trail access into Old Town's shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Situated in a non-HOA area with no rental restrictions, the home is an ideal as a residence, vacation home, or investment. The custom designed home offers a split 3-bedroom, 2-bath
Welcome to easy living in Pine Shadows, a sought-after 55+ community where comfort, connection, and convenience come together beautifully. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home offers a warm and inviting layout designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. The heart of the home features a generously sized kitchen with abundant countertop space--perfect for cooking,
Call it HOME, call it an INVESTMENT, call it a RENTAL, — whatever your vision, this property delivers. This 1782 SF, 5 BD, 3 BA home offers a bonus loft, office/ alcove on the upper level, attached 2 car garage, & drywalled workshop/ shed out back. Whether you need space for a large family, roommates, guests, or hobbies, this home fits the bill. Step out onto the elevated deck and take in
Golf course living w/ energy savings in sought-after 55+ community--just steps from clubhouse! This 2 bed, 2 bath home w/ a spacious den w/ French doors features an open layout, laminate flooring, abundant natural light. The kitchen offers ample cabinetry & counter space, flowing seamlessly into the dining & living areas. Relax on the covered deck w/ stunning golf course & Mountain views.
Completely remodeled and move-in ready, this beautifully updated home offers comfort, efficiency, and thoughtful upgrades throughout.Enjoy peace of mind with a new roof (2024), gutters installed in 2022, fresh exterior paint, and a meticulously maintained property that truly shows pride of ownership. Inside, you'll find upgraded flooring, new windows, modern fixtures, updated appliances, and a
Christopher Hall
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate BloomTree Realty
Discover this charming Craftsman home in the heart of the booming Old Town Cottonwood neighborhood. 'The Heart of Arizona Wine Country' has so much to offer, with tons of wineries, art galleries, shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as parks and river access, this home provides a very walkable, peaceful and desirable lifestyle. The historic charm has been preserved and elevated,
Riverside Luxury AwaitsExperience the pinnacle of Arizona living in this exclusive 4,975-square-foot estate, where the tranquil Verde River flows directly through your own backyard. Situated on a private 2.5-acre lot, the grounds are a lush, meticulously landscaped sanctuary featuring vibrant green lawns, fruitful nut trees, and flourishing vines. While the home sits elegantly on a bluff
This 1 acre home is for the NATURE LOVER or GARDNER or CAR COLLECTOR, or the person with all the toys that needs the 6 CAR GARAGE plus RV garage and a BASEMENT the full length of the home. Meticulously maintained by the original owners. Did you know that Cottonwood is in the heart of Arizona wine country? Cottonwood is quickly becoming the next hot spot to live in within Arizona with all of its
Own an amazing 2 acre residential lot in Cottonwood. Ready for your dream home!. Enjoy mountain views and tranquility, yet minutes from town amenities. Excellent opportunity for custom build or investment.. Don't miss this piece of Arizona paradise!
Nestled on 2.42 acres, this Arizona property offers serenity with breathtaking mountain and redrock views. The protected view corridor guarantees unobstructed vistas and a picturesque backdrop for daily life. Located at a cul-de-sac's end, ensuring a private and tranquil paradise. Purchase as an investment for later building or use our assistance to arrange professional help envisioning and
Welcome to Bow Maker Trail — a brand-new, custom-built dual-living estate on just over 1.5 acres, centrally located less than a mile from Walmart, Home Depot, and Mingus Union High School, and only two miles from Verde Valley Medical Center. Surrounded by panoramic Verde Valley and Mingus Mountain views, this 6-bedroom, 4-bath masterpiece offers 3,950 sq ft of livable space (5,030 sq ft under
A Slice of Paradise, Step into a world of comfort and romance in this beautiful 4-bedroom, 2-bath home on one of the largest, most scenic view lots in Grey Fox Ridge. From the moment you walk in you'll feel the warmth and charm of this thoughtfully designed home. Rich engineered wood flooring flows throughout, complemented by elegant cabinetry and upgraded granite countertops.The home also has
Prime 2.6-Acre Development Parcel - Cottonwood, AZZoned Commercial/Residential - Endless Potential in the Heart of the Verde Valley! An exceptional opportunity awaits with this stunning 2.6-acre parcel, perfectly positioned in the vibrant center of Cottonwood. Whether you envision a boutique hotel, mixed-use development, upscale townhomes, or a signature restaurant/retail space, this property
Beautifully maintained and highly flexible C-1 commercial building in Cottonwood's sought-after medical and professional corridor. This 2,365 sq ft property features two fully independent suites, offering a total of 10 rooms that can function as treatment rooms, private offices, or specialized service spaces. The smaller 533 sq ft suite includes two private rooms, its own restroom, and a private
Nestled into the wine country of the Valley Verde, Inspiration Apartments blends luxury with natural beauty. At Inspiration you will be located next to Arizona's most prized views. A close drive into Phoenix and Sedona, you will be in the prime location for entertainment and sightseeing. Choose from a variety of one, two and three bedroom floor plans, all furnished with the newest finishes. Enjoy
Come experience the best in the Verde Valley with Mountain View Villa Apartments! Our apartments in Cottonwood, AZ, create an award-winning level of luxury living beyond compare. Our studio, one, and two bedroom apartment homes combine a wealth of amenities and an excellent location to deliver your ideal living experience.
This second-floor 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment offers a practical layout with features that support long-term tenant demand, including added security of upper-level living, a dedicated parking space, and on-site coin-operated laundry. Water and trash are owner-paid, simplifying utilities for tenants. Conveniently located near Highway 260, providing easy commuter access and broad rental appeal. A
Property Id: 12993262024 RENOVATION!. Location, privacy, charm. This one bedroom cottage includes a semi private side yard with a storage shed. Enjoy big shade trees, a friendly community and an amazing location to parks and all old town has to offer.All are welcome to apply and all people are required to see the property before applying.
Property Id: 1305582Old Town Cottonwood is the best. This is a fully FULLY REMODELED historic cottage.New flooring, new paint, new shower. It's beautiful.If you know old town you’ll want to be here. All are welcome to apply.
Fully-furnished, QUIET condo with two rooms, a queen bed plus a desk, queen bed plus dresser, full-sized laundry in-unit, pool and gym within 1 minute walk and included in rent also has a small outdoor mountain-view balcony! Fully renovated and updated kitchen and bathroom. Beautiful views of Mingus Mtn & pine trees. Close to the hospital & Main St Cottonwood w a bus stop out from to Sedona! Well
***$2500 Refundable Security Deposit due at lease signing. This property at 240 S 12th St offers a 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom front unit with 1500 sq. ft. This unit features a beautiful, private outdoor oasis for dining outside or relaxing by the firepit surrounded by a full wood privacy fence. Essential amenities such as air conditioning, a dishwasher, and in-unit washer/dryer for
Lease Duration: 6 months12 monthsUtilities included: TrashUtilities not included: GasElectricWaterNot permissible:Smoking inside the premisesPets:Pet liability coverageOne-time cleaning fee included in the deposit (Non-Refundable):325$
The master-planned community of Verde Santa Fe (VSF) sits halfway between the Arizona wine country capital of Cottonwood and the famous red rocks of Sedona. “Verde Santa Fe is desirable for a lot of people who want to have a secure, easy-to-maintain property without a lot of upkeep,” says Realtor Dyanna Nichols with Realty ONE Group Mountain Desert Sedona. “A lot of people specifically from Phoenix and California really like Verde Santa Fe because it looks like a master-planned community from southern California, with the same vibe and aesthetics.” Within VSF’s boundaries, subcommunities vary from 55+ to multi-age sections, and some neighborhoods are gated. Not only are Verde Santa Fe’s members just a short drive from a regional hub and picturesque nature, but they have opportunities to golf, swim and socialize within their neighborhood.
Much of Verde Santa Fe was designed as an “active adult community” for 55+ residents, encouraging neighborly engagement through clubhouse activities and opportunities for keeping in shape. “The Verde Santa Fe HOA has a clubhouse with a beautiful pool, and there’s also a hot tub, a workout room and a golf course that many vacation-home owners and second-home owners like,” says Nichols.” The 18-hole, par-71 Agave Highlands golf course, just next to the clubhouse, lets golfers go about their leisurely pastime in their own backyard. “It’s got beautiful views of the Mingus Mountains, which runs through a big portion of the Verde Valley,” Nichols says. Adventurous residents can hike the dozens of trails that branch off from Cornville and Tissaw Roads and run into the desert.
Verde Santa Fe is almost entirely residential, meaning that shoppers will have to travel into Cottonwood to pick up groceries. The nearest Fry’s Food Stores supermarket is a 4-mile drive down Route 89A, as are several brand-name restaurants and big box stores. Across the street from Fry’s, VSF residents can stop by the Tortas de Fuego family restaurant for its “Margarita Mondays” happy hour or the “Taco Tuesdays” $1 taco night.
Verde Santa Fe’s 953 lots were developed from 1998 into the early 2000s, with this neighborhood’s homes designed with Spanish Revival influences. “The floor plans are spacious, and a lot of them are split, which many people from Phoenix and southern California prefer,” Nichols says. “The gravel backyards and front yards are seen as very desirable for people who want to have a second home or vacation home.” Red-tile roofs sit atop pink, beige and white-colored single-floor residences, which vary in size from 1,377-square-foot, 2-bedroom homes to sprawling 4,063-square-foot, 3-bedroom houses. Smaller homes range in value from $350,000 to $600,000, while homes with up to 4 bedrooms can cost between $645,000 and $935,000. There are no sidewalks, and cars are parked in paved driveways.
Commuters can travel 4 miles down Mingus Avenue to reach the heart of Cottonwood, with its healthcare and shopping conveniences, while Sedona sits 19 miles up Route 89A. “You can see the old mining town of Jerome, the copper capital of the nation, nestled in the mountains; it’s a fun trip for Verde Valley residents,” Nichols adds. “Old Town Cottonwood and its restaurants are about a 10-minute drive.”
Verde Santa Fe’s K-12 students can start their education at Cottonwood Community School, which Niche gives a C rating, before attending the B-rated Mingus Union High School. Mingus Union, a Title I school, helps students build strong career skills through extracurricular programs like Auto Club, Debate Club and Future Farmers of America. VSF’s continuing learners can take classes at the Yavapai College Verde Valley Campus, which offers community education programs. These courses include “Active Mind & Body” classes, programs educating community members on how to use computers and the latest technology and even broaden their minds through philosophy, current affairs and language classes.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Cottonwood Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
9
Median Rent
$1,690
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,895
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$1,895
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,095
Median 2 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$1,095
Median Condo Rent
$1,350
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,395
Demographics
Total Population
13,375
Median Age
47
Population Density
115 ppl/acre
Population under 18
20.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
28.7%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$43,633
Significantly below the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$58,620
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
91.8%
College Graduates
22.1%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
5.4%
% Population in Labor Force
55.5%
Below the national average
64.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
15''
Average Winter Low Temperature
28°F
Average Summer High Temperature
99°F
Annual Snowfall
3''
Area Factors
Somewhat friendly
Bike Score®®
30/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Walk Score®®
20/ 100
Not friendly
Transit Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
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.
