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
Melani Beauregard,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Florence, AZ sell after 64 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Florence, AZ over the last 12 months is $352,990, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
*Cash Price* Discover the largest home in our lineup - an expansive 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offering a den space, style & versatility. Step inside to find an inviting open floor plan that flows effortlessly from room to room. The spacious living area is perfect for gatherings, while the adjacent dining space & kitchen provide an ideal layout for everyday living. The den offers a flexible
*Cash Price* Discover the largest home in our lineup - an expansive 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offering a den space, style & versatility. Step inside to find an inviting open floor plan that flows effortlessly from room to room. The spacious living area is perfect for gatherings, while the adjacent dining space & kitchen provide an ideal layout for everyday living. The den offers a flexible
BRAND NEW | Estimated Completion 5/26/2026 | Pool Sized Lot w/ a Double Gate & no back neighbor! | This floorplan will make your jaw hit the floor! From the plethora of bedrooms and bathrooms to the gargantuan living space, this home has a place for everyone. Interior finishes include quartz kitchen & bathroom counter tops, white cabinets, and plank tile flooring throughout, except the bedrooms.
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
Welcome to this beautifully maintained single-level home located in the sought-after Magma Ranch community, offering a rare 3-car garage with upgraded epoxy floors, an oversized lot, and a thoughtfully designed open-concept layout. The home features 9+ flat ceilings, abundant natural light, and a clean, modern interior with tile flooring throughout the main living areas and plush carpet in the
Single story living with space where it matters most. Located in a peaceful master planned community with resort style pool, splash pad, parks and open green space, this move in ready home delivers comfort without the upkeep. The expansive great room flows into a kitchen with granite countertops, rich cabinetry and a true walk in pantry that provides real storage. A split floor plan offers
Seller will accept or counter offers between $310,000-$335,000. Experience the beauty of desert living in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath Mediterranean-style home set on 3 serene acres with breathtaking views of the Tortolita Mountains. Designed with classic charm, the home features stucco exterior walls, a tile roof, graceful archways, and warm wood accents that create a welcoming atmosphere.
SHORT SALE OPPORTUNITY! 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
You OWN THE LAND! This 30x42 lot in Caliente Casa de Sol, a vibrant 55+ active adult community in Florence, AZ, offers a turn-key setup with excellent proximity to amenities. Located on the sunny side of the street and facing the clubhouse parking lot, you're just steps from everything the community offers. The sale includes a 2012 Keystone Cougar 5th wheel featuring a bunk room, one bedroom, one
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
Looking for an RV lot in Florence AZ with utilities and workspace? This 30x42 lot at 110 E Mesquite in Caliente Casa De Sol is nicely landscaped and located on the sunny side of the street. The property features a Tuff Shed with workbench and electric, a covered carport, and is ready for RV setup with full hookups. This lot provides space for RV parking, storage, or workshop use within the
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
Beautifully upgraded 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with downstairs office space and an expansive loft offering functionality. The oversized loft provides endless possibilities for a media room, play area, or additional living space. Downstairs features brand-new tile flooring that complements the home's modern design and open-concept layout. The kitchen offers quartz countertops, brand new stainless
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+
Exclusive Mountain Retreat with BLM Views | Custom Home on 4+ Acres | Homestead Ready. Welcome to your private escape. where luxury meets the wild and freedom greets you at the door. Tucked away in a highly desirable area with breathtaking BLM land views and endless skies, this custom 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers the rare chance to live in peace, comfort, and complete self-sufficiency. Over
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
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
SPLIT THE PAYMENT! Reserve your new home by paying 50% of your security deposit now, with the remaining balance due before move-in.Updated photography will be forthcoming. Please call with questions.Discover the perfect blend of comfort and modern design at 6579 E Refuge Rd, a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence spanning 1,280 square feet. The inviting floor plan features a
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
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 $1749.90. That covers your base rent, $1690.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Smart
Reduced deposit: Get 25% off your security deposit based on 1 month's rent (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by May 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is professionally managed by AMH Living, a leading single-family rental company. We expect to
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
MOVE-IN READYThis home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Set in the growing Florence community, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 2,010 square feet of thoughtfully arranged living space with added smart home convenience, including a smart lock and smart thermostat. A welcoming foyer leads into an open main level where tile flooring flows
Property Id: 1232756Enjoy a peaceful stay at this fully furnished Florence rental! With multiple desk workspaces, free WiFi, and a convenient location near hospitals, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath house is ideal for traveling professionals and healthcare workers. Spend your free time relaxing on the patio or taking a stroll in the community's nearby park. Looking to venture out? Visit Casa
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
Located in the highly sought-after Magma Ranch community, this home offers access to incredible amenities including neighborhood parks, a clubhouse, fitness center, community center, playgrounds, tot lots, swimming pools, splash pads, basketball and pickleball courts, scenic walking trails, picnic pavilions, and a nearby elementary school. This charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home features an
This spacious and inviting residence features a thoughtful layout with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, providing plenty of room for family, guests, or a dedicated home office. The interior has been freshly updated to offer a modern, move-in-ready experience, boasting brand-new carpeting in the bedrooms for ultimate comfort and stylish new flooring throughout the main living areas. *BEWARE
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.
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.
