A growing rural community with a long history and a bright future
Set between Phoenix and Tuscon, Florence is one of Arizona's oldest towns, incorporated in 1866. It's also the county seat of Pinal County, and many of its roughly 25,000 residents are employed in local government and corrections. “We have seven private, state and federal prisons, and that helps drive our economic growth,” says third-generation Florence native Felicia Mandell-Snell, a Realtor with Long Realty. “The availability of jobs is a draw, and we’ve got an extremely low crime rate." Unlike back in the mid-1800s, when shootouts disputing U.S-Mexico territory rang throughout town, Florence's modern-day rates of property and violent crime are lower than both the state and the nation.
Home prices here are also lower than in many parts of Arizona, attracting first-time buyers and retirees, as well as families with young kids. "What people really love the most about Florence is its welcoming community," says resident Peter Kaulouris, owner of the local Mount Athos Restaurant & Cafe. "It's the kind of place where you see the bank teller and the sheriff talking with each other about their kids on a Saturday afternoon.” In summer, the sweltering heat inspires indoor fun, but the community celebrates an annual junior rodeo in November, and the Historic Home Tour each February. The city's downtown, designated a National Historic District, is now undergoing revitalization.
Step into Florence's welcoming neighborhood, where smiles greet you at every corner.
Visitors can travel back in time at the historic district of Florence, AZ.
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More affordable housing options than much of the state
In early 2025, the median home price in Florence is $340,000, down 1% from early 2024, and lower than the state and national medians. “Florence has seen a lot of growth in the last 20 years,” Mandell-Snell says. “We have new builds and new subdivisions going in, and then there’s the historic district in the town core where you can buy a home built in the 1800s.”
Many residents live in the sprawling master-planned community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch, and the gated Sun City portion of this Del Webb development is just one of several 55-and-older communities in Florence. “We have a lot of active adult areas with seasonal residents who come back year after year,” Mandell-Snell says. “Those places are very close-knit, and you really get to know all your neighbors.
In Florence, homes reflect a tapestry of styles, from quaint cottages to modern masterpieces.
In Florence, Spanish-style homes exude timeless elegance and Mediterranean charm.
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A historic downtown core undergoing a revamp
A handful of fast-food chains can be found throughout Florence, and the historic downtown is home to a small selection of lowkey mom-and-pop restaurants, shops and galleries. While downtown is far from bustling, in recent years there's been a focus on revamping storefronts to boost tourism and attract new commercial tenants. “It slows down a lot in the summertime, but as part of the revitalization, they’re asking businesses to stay open for people still in town,” Mandell-Snell says.
Also downtown, McFarland State Historic Park is home to the first Pinal County courthouse; built in 1878, it’s the oldest standing courthouse in Arizona and has since been transitioned into a museum and visitor’s center. On the second and fourth Fridays of every month, the Florence Farmers Market sets up on the front porch.
Savoring the flavors at LB Cantina, where every bite feels like a journey through Florence.
Embrace the cheerful atmosphere while shopping at Happy Adobe in Florence.
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The world's oldest junior rodeo and an annual historic home tour
“Florence is very socially driven, and the Chamber of Commerce puts on lots of events,” Mandell-Snell says, adding that the town's annual Historic Home Tour is among the most popular. “In February, we get almost a thousand people coming into town in one day to view all the historic buildings, and the people who own the town’s most historic homes volunteer to open them up,” Mandell-Snell says. "It’s a very busy day, and it’s something everybody looks forward to every year.”
Maintaining the Wild West tradition, Florence is also home to the Junior Parada, the world's longest-running junior rodeo. The three-day event takes place each November at the Charles Whitlow Rodeo Grounds and features calf roping, bull riding and a parade. Every April, the four-day Country Thunder music festival hosts some of the biggest names in country music, attracting over 30,000 daily attendees.
Golfing, off-roading and a short hike to the final resting place of the Father of Arizona
Florence has a small aquatic center and a few community parks, the largest of which is Heritage Park, which hosts the town’s annual 4th of July Freedom Fest fireworks show. Golfers can also tee off from 18 holes at the public Poston Butte Golf Club.
A mile-long round-trip hike to the top of a hill called Poston Butte offers panoramic views of the town below. The pyramid tomb of Charles Poston — known as the “Father of Arizona” for his efforts in establishing the Territory of Arizona — sits on top of the hill.
From rugged peaks to lush valleys, Florence's hiking community embraces nature's wonders.
Elevate your golfing experience at Poston Butte Golf Club, nestled in the beauty of Florence.
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Online learning options in the Florence Unified School District
The Florence Unified School District serves about 9,000 students and earns an overall B-minus rating from Niche. The district has eight elementary schools for kids from kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as three high schools and one alternative school for students of all grade levels. The Florence Virtual Academy allows district students from sixth through 12th grade to enroll in fully online courses.
Discover excellence in education at Florence K-8, where every child thrives.
Empowering students to reach their highest potential at Florence High School.
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Access to local buses and a 65-mile commute to Phoenix and Tuscon
Florence is served by the Central Arizona Regional Transit Department (CART), which operates buses between Florence, Coolidge and Casa Grande. State Route 79 and State Route 287 are the main thoroughfares that pass through Florence. Interstate 10 is about 25 miles away, connecting residents to Phoenix, roughly 65 miles away. HonorHealth Florence Medical Center is located right in town, and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is about 30 miles away, offering nonstop flights to over 40 destinations nationwide.
Discover Florence's charm at your own pace as you enjoy a scenic drive around town.
Iconic and towering, the Florence water tower stands as a symbol of the town's history.
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Written By
Lauren Schott
Photography Contributed By
Alex Medina
Video By
Pasha Chichagov
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Robert Urrutia,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Florence, AZ sell after 62 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Florence, AZ over the last 12 months is $339,990, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This 1983 1-bed, 1-bath park model in Caliente Casa De Sol 55+ Community is a clean, efficient space w/apprx 480 sqft of smart layout, covered carport, & no front neighbor, it's ideal for winter visitors, full-timers, or local professionals. Inside, you'll find a bright living room with a bay front window, eat-in kitchen, painted cabinets & updated hardware. Rare oversized bathroom that offers
Fully furnished and full of charm, this 1997 Hallmark Alexa sits on two covered lots directly across from the clubhouse—no front neighbor, just sunshine and convenience! Enjoy a well-equipped kitchen, pantry with pull out drawers, Bathroom with dual access, and cozy master bedroom. The Arizona Room adds space, privacy, and its own bath, while a bonus room with closet is perfect for TV time or
Beautiful NEW Home in in the highly desirable San Tan Valley area, close to major cities. FEBRUARY 2026 Move in. North/South exposure, bordering common area. Overlooking scenic desert views. Featuring countless upgrades such as 9' ceilings, Shaw Ceramic Tile Floors, Granite countertops in the kitchen. Whirlpool Stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry. Energy-efficient features throughout,
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
Experience modern comfort in this stunning and well-cared for 4 bedroom home, just minutes from historic Main Street in Florence. This home blends warm inviting spaces with modern finishes - including granite countertops throughout and a blend of laminate and carpet flooring. Enjoy the benefits of solar energy efficiency. The open layout makes it easy to gather with family and friends, while the
LUXURY LIVING IN A PREMIUM 55+ COMMUNITY! A lifestyle of leisure and luxury in this upgraded 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, complete with a den and 2-car garage, situated on a highly desirable premium lot! Enjoy a spacious layout bathed in natural light, with beautiful tile flooring throughout. The kitchen features staggered cabinetry with crown molding, gorgeous granite countertops, & stainless
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 separate shower, while three additional
Beautiful home on a premium golf course lot in Saddlebrooke Ranch. Enjoy this home with a gourmet kitchen, expansive breakfast bar, opening to the dining area and great room. Great for entertaining! The kitchen features granite counters and new LG appliances, including the refrigerator, range, and dishwasher. From the great room enter the large covered patio with expansive views of the golf
MOTIVATED SELLER. Beautifully updated 2-bed, 2-bath home with a split floor plan, solar panels, and modern finishes throughout. The open layout highlights a gorgeous updated kitchen with granite countertops, newer cabinets, stylish backsplash, and a spacious walk-in pantry. Enjoy the large Arizona room with dual exits, leading to a generous workshop and patio. A staircase in the fully fenced
401 E Pueblo Del Sol, this North/South facing corner lot measures 34 by 48 feet and offers flexible use for RV parking or a park model home. With full land ownership, you'll enjoy the freedom of no lot rent and a low annual HOA fee that grants access to the resort-style amenities in this 55+ community. Tierra Del Sol features a heated pool and spa, pickleball courts, a clubhouse for community
Situated on a premium oversized corner lot in the sought‑after Active Adult resort community of Sun City Anthem Merrill Ranch, this beautiful, almost‑new home offers an ideal blend of comfort, style, and low‑maintenance living, featuring 2 bedrooms, a den with elegant French doors, and 2 baths across 2,156 SqFt, with a spacious great room showcasing custom built‑in
This 1983 1-bed, 1-bath park model in Caliente Casa De Sol 55+ Community is a clean, efficient space w/apprx 480 sqft of smart layout, covered carport, & no front neighbor, it's ideal for winter visitors, full-timers, or local professionals. Inside, you'll find a bright living room with a bay front window, eat-in kitchen, painted cabinets & updated hardware. Rare oversized bathroom that offers
Well-maintained manufactured home offers the right balance of space, convenience, & privacy. Set on a corner lot w/four total parking spaces, including a covered carport, it's perfect for hosting guests, storing a golf cart, or simply enjoying room to breathe. Inside, you'll find 2- bedrooms, 1.5-bath, across 631 thoughtfully designed square feet. The bright open living area is filled w/natural
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a fully prepped vacant lot in the highly sought-after Florence Gardens 55+ community! This approx. 0.12-acre parcel features dimensions of 64 ft by 82.5 ft, & it's already landscaped, cleared, and has water connected, making it the ideal space to place your brand-new manufactured home with ease. Skip the hassle & jump straight into your custom build!
Located on a desirable corner in the 55+ Caliente Casa de Sol community, this fully furnished 1990 park model offers 385 square feet of clean, comfortable living w/land ownership-no lot rent. Home includes a private back patio w/patio furniture and patio heater. It backs up to Homeland Security, which allows for a larger, more open patio space w/added privacy. Adjacent Lot is an undeveloped lot
YOUR HOME: Florence Park Apartments in Florence, AZ offers 2 and 3 bedroom apartments at a reasonable price. In-home perks include spacious floor plans with washer and dryer included, all electric appliances and is pet friendly. Our community features a playground, refreshing outdoor pool and hot tub, and a fitness center.YOUR COMMUNITY: Florence Park has recently completed a number of
No Application Fees! Spacious single level 4 bedroom plus den Florence home located in the highly desirable Merrill Ranch community. This well designed split floor plan offers multiple living areas including a front living room, separate family room, and a dedicated den or home office. Interior upgrades include tile flooring throughout all living and high traffic areas, upgraded carpeting in the
Welcome home to Saguaro Gardens Apartments, where convenience, design and affordability create the ultimate package for your new home. Saguaro Gardens Apartments is nestled within a small community just off Highway 79B. Comfort, convenience and style are just a few of the features you'll find here at Saguaro Gardens. Choose one of our spaciously designed floor plans that will suit any
Charming Home on a Golf Course lot so no Homes behind you, Very Relaxing! All new exterior and interior paint, new roof & Bonus Solar Panels so you can Save money on Electric Bills. Step into the Spacious Great Room with a sliding door that opens to the huge patio and enjoy open space of the Golf Course View. Spacious eat in kitchen with breakfast bar and pantry, updated lighting. Master Bedroom
Brand NEW beautiful single level 3 bedroom + den, 2 bathroom Florence home with community pool. This home has upgraded throughout including tile flooring in all high traffic areas, upgraded neutral carpeting in bedrooms, upgraded window blinds and neutral paint throughout. Spacious kitchen includes upgraded cabinets, granite counter tops, island, pantry, gas burner stove, built-in microwave,
Welcome to a charming single-family home at located in the desirable Oasis at Magic Ranch community in Florence, AZ with three bedrooms and two bathrooms in a split floor plan. The home includes a master suite with a full bath and walk-in closet The exterior has low-maintenance rock landscaping and backs onto a community greenbelt, while the neighborhood provides a playground and walking paths,
AVAILABLE NOW! MI Special: FEB RENT FREE! Stunning 3BD 3BA HOME W/ NEXT GEN MOTHER IN LAW SUITE! Freshly Painted! It is located in Magma Ranch. The main home boasts 1393 sq. ft. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Upgraded kitchen w/ granite counter tops and appliances. Spacious Master suite has lots of windows for light, large walk in closet, dual sinks, walk in shower & separate exit to back patio.
Charming 1 bedroom, 1 bath home located in the retirement community of Florence Gardens. Home has been recently upgraded, with remodeled kitchen, flooring and paint. Brand new AC/HVAC unit just installed. Open concept kitchen, family room and dining area. Large bathroom with walk in shower. Covered parking and patio. Community amentities include 9 hole golf course, heated pool & spa, large
$150 off of first full months rent with a signed 12 month lease.This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a 2-car garage offers curb appeal with mature trees and low-maintenance desert landscaping. Inside, youll find vaulted ceilings, fresh neutral paint, and tile in high-traffic areas. The eat-in kitchen features wood cabinetry, ample counter space, a brand-new oven, and sliding doors
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!
This charming studio, 1-bath apartment offers an open-concept living and dining area with tile flooring throughout. The eat-in kitchen features a breakfast bar and includes all appliances for easy move-in. **No washer, dryer or dishwasher on premises. The bathroom offers a walk-in shower, and pull-down stairs lead to a unique loft-style bedroom area. Enjoy outdoor living in your private
Beautiful 3 Bedroom 2 Bath 1232 Sq Ft Newer Home is the popular JEROME floor plan and is situated in the amazing new community of Magma Ranch. Home comes with brand New Kitchen Appliances and Ceiling Fans. Landscaping Rock, Pavers and Artificial Turf in the backyard. This amenity rich community features a community center, pool, playground, tot lots, splash pad and picnic areas.
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.
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."
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.”
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.
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 schools 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.
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.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch doesn't have direct freeway access, but Hunt Highway wraps around the community to the south and west, eventually connecting with Loop 202 to the north and State Route 87 to the south; State Route 87 leads west to Interstate 10. Florence Hospital is at the northeast end of the community, and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is roughly 25 miles northwest.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Florence Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
21,738
Median Age
50
Population under 18
13.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
33.8%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$66,263
Below the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$86,690
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
82.1%
College Graduates
22.4%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
6.5%
% Population in Labor Force
35.3%
Significantly below the national average
64.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
7''
Average Winter Low Temperature
42°F
Average Summer High Temperature
105°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®®
24/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the 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.
