Nicknamed the "Heart of Arizona," the small town of Payson is set in just about the center of the state. This is what's known as Rim Country, close to the Mogollon Rim of the Colorado Plateau and surrounded by the mountains, lakes, pines and desert of the almost 3 million-acre Tonto National Forest. “I love living here because I can go fishing, kayaking, hiking and horseback riding,” says Payson resident Kathy Justesen, a Realtor with West USA Realty. “Everything is so close. In 15 minutes, I can be on the water or hiking in the forest.” Wildlife sightings are common, according to fourth-generation Payson native Hannah Lusk, an agent with ERA Young Real Estate and Investment. “Elk cross the street and roam the town,” she says. “I'll commonly see them lying in my neighbors' yards on my way to work."
Many of Payson’s nearly 17,000 residents are either retirees or live in the community part time; according to Lusk, those still in the workforce commonly commute 90 miles to Phoenix. “There are a lot of second homeowners here who want a cabin in the woods or just a place to escape from the summer heat in the Valley,” Justesen says. “A lot of people from out of state are also purchasing a second home here for when they retire. The weather is pretty mild, so we have four seasons and we’re about 20 degrees cooler than Phoenix in the summer.”
A wide range of housing options to a wide range of budgets and lifestyles
As of late 2024, Payson’s median home price is nearly $435,000, up 2% from the previous year and compared to Phoenix's $441,000. Payson's average home value is $438,000, compared to the nation's $554,000.
Homes in Payson date as far back as the late 20th century and options include manufactured homes, townhouses and condominiums, as well as sprawling luxury builds on acreage with mountain and forest views. There are also undeveloped lots for buyers who want to build custom homes.
Many housing options near Payson's city center include condo's and townhomes.
Payson also offers residents sprawling luxury builds on acreage with mountain and forest views.
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Abundant recreation opportunities between Tonto National Forest and community parks
Surrounded by the vast wilderness of Tonto National Forest, Payson residents have tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The lakes and tributaries of Tonto National Forest are stocked with trout, and there are dozens of trails through groves of Ponderosa pines and up in the White Mountains. The Tonto Apache Tribe who lives adjacent to Payson are descended from one of several prehistoric tribes who called the forest home; signs of some of these prehistoric civilizations are still found throughout the forest at various archaeological sites.
The 82-acre Rumsey Park is Payson’s largest park, where residents can work up a sweat at its many sports facilities, practice tricks at the skate park and cool off in the community pool. Locally referred to as the “Jewel of Payson," the 43-acre Green Valley Park has plenty of open space and three fishing lakes, and hosts community events like the town’s summer concert series and Fourth of July fireworks.
Locally referred to as the “Jewel of Payson," the 43-acre Green Valley Park has plenty of open space and three fishing lakes, and hosts community events like the town’s summer concert series and Fourth of July fireworks.
The Tonto Apache Tribe who lives adjacent to Payson are descended from one of several prehistoric tribes who called the forest home; signs of some of these prehistoric civilizations are still found throughout the forest at various archaeological sites.
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Western-themed community events, including the nation's oldest continuous rodeo
The town’s Western culture is a point of pride for the community. Residents gather several times a year for shows put on by Payson Pro Rodeo, the oldest continuous rodeo in the country, which has been entertaining locals since 1884. "They have all types of events like tie-down roping, bareback bull riding and Mutton Bustin' where kids jump on the back of sheep, which is really fun to watch," Lusk says. "They raise money and give it to multiple non-profits, so those that attend aren't just there for the rodeo, they're supporting the community."
Each September at the Fiddle and Food Truck Festival, Payson hosts Arizona’s State Fiddling Championship, inviting residents from all over the state to enjoy the talents of fiddlers of all ages.
National grocery, retail and dining chains mesh with locally owned shops and eateries
Most stores and restaurants are concentrated along State Route 87, known locally as Beeline Highway, and Highway 260, which intersect at the center of town. Residents can stop into fast food restaurants and familiar national chains for a bite to eat, though most of the town’s dining options are locally owned. Many of the local eateries serve hearty comfort fare in a cozy and casual setting that caters to the town’s down-home crowd.
Safeway, Bashas’ and Walmart are the local go-tos for groceries, and while there are a handful of big-box chain stores, the town’s retail market is dominated by locally owned antique, consignment and shops with eclectic offerings.
Basha's is one of a few options that the residents of Payson to buy groceries.
Payson residents enjoy a quick bite to eat at the national chain restaurant, Chili's.
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Flexible and online learning options in the Payson Unified School District
The Payson Unified School District earns a B-minus from Niche and serves about 2,300 students across one high school, one middle school and two elementary schools. Payson High School offers online learning and flexible hybrid scheduling options through the Payson Center for Success. Eastern Arizona College also has a satellite campus in Payson.
Payson High School offers online learning and flexible hybrid scheduling options through the Payson Center for Success.
Julia Randall Elementary School receives a B rating from Niche and sits at the corner of the three lakes in Green Valley Park.
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A local bus line and access to Beeline Highway
State Route 87, locally known as Beeline Highway, runs north-south through the center of town, leading about 90 miles southwest to Phoenix. Via the Beeline Bus, residents can travel throughout Payson and to the nearby communities of Star Valley and Mesa Del Caballo. Payson is home to the Banner Payson Medical Center and the general aviation Payson Municipal Airport; for commercial flights, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is roughly 80 miles away.
A recent decrease in overall crime
According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, reported incidents of violent crime in Payson decreased by 38% between 2022 and 2023. Reported incidents of burglary also decreased by about 23% during this time, though larceny increased by about 39%.
Written By
Lauren Schott
Photography Contributed By
John Williams
Video By
Bill Jennings
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michelle Lohman,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Priced at 649,900 - below recent appraised value! Wake up to mountain and treetop views, enjoy cool breezes from two decks, and stay fully connected with fiber-optic internet. Step outside to the Graff Trailhead for daily hiking, biking, and fresh-air adventure. The layout is open and airy perfect for relaxing, hosting friends, or simply breathing a little deeper. And if you work remotely? This
This beautiful, updated home backs to National Forest, sits on a cul-de-sac, and is directly across from the only public golf course in Payson! Close to Green Valley Park and historic Main Street with local shops and restaurants.Newly remodeled with 4 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus an office (approx. 300 sq ft added). The 4th bedroom has its own private outside access Kitchen has tile
NEW PRICE!!!Spacious 2,678 sqft 3 bedroom, 2 bath site built home sitting on a .38-acre corner lot with MOUNTAIN VIEWS in Payson, AZ. The additional BONUS room serves perfectly as a home office, media hobby room, or extra gathering area.Recent updates include a newer roof and newer HVAC system. The corner lot provides added space and flexibility for outdoor living, gardening, or simply enjoying
Located in a highly desired neighborhood within walking distance to Rumsey Park, this beautifully remodeled home offers quality craftsmanship and modern upgrades throughout. The property has undergone a complete renovation. Recent improvements include brand-new windows & sliders throughout the whole home, a new roof, a new AC unit, and new drywall. The fully updated kitchen features new custom
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WELCOME TO YOUR MOUNTAIN RETREATUnwind with ultimate golf resort living in this 4-Bedroom, 3-BATH, 3450 SqFt. custom-built home, located in the heart of Rim Country. Enjoy peace and quiet, nestled in a tranquil location with beautiful private views of Ponderosa Pines. This split-level home with vaulted ceilings offers tremendous privacy for family and guests alike. Enjoy the cool mountain air in
NO HOA AND NOT A LAND LEASE! You own the lot. This cute, clean, quaint cul-de-sac house is ready for you to call home or home away from home. Or it could be a great Air BNB/vacation getaway should you choose to purchase it with all the furnishings. The grounds consist of a beautiful plum tree and well taken care of yard. Outdoor storage room, covered parking and large covered patio perfect for
Discover your dream mountain retreat in the heart of beautiful Payson, Arizona!This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is move-in ready and bursting with charm--perfectfor those craving the ultimate mountain lifestyle! Step into the expansive living room featuring acozy stone-clad fireplace, soaring vaulted ceilings, and rich warm wood accents that instantlywrap you in that welcoming cabin feel
Premier .54-acre homesite gracefully positioned at the end of a secluded cul-de-sac within the prestigious gates of The Rim Golf Club. This exceptional parcel enjoys a truly remarkable setting, with much of the eastern property line bordering National Forest, creating a breathtaking backdrop of towering pines, natural beauty, and remarkable privacy. Opportunities to secure homesites with a
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Escape to this charming rustic cabin in Payson, Arizona, where comfort meets mountain living. Nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this three-bedroom, one-bath home features a cozy fireplace, metal roof, and timeless cabin character. Enjoy modern upgrades including a tankless water heater and mini-split climate control. The fully fenced property offers a private outdoor space perfect for relaxing
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Domino's anchor Rim Plaza. Terrific Traffic Counts and Visibility. Placement on Monument sign with your Business Logo / Name. Negotiate your term of lease and enjoy the Location!
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Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with stunning views of the Mazatzal Mountains, Payson Golf Course, mature trees, and unforgettable sunsets. This spacious home features a large open great room concept with a cozy fireplace--perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances and plenty of counter space, opening to the living and dining areas. A separate laundry
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home featuring a rare and highly functional layout with two master suites one upstairs and one downstairs perfect for multi-generational living or added privacy.The home offers two separate living rooms (upstairs and downstairs), giving you flexible space for entertaining, relaxing, or creating a home office or media area.Enjoy outdoor
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Unit A5 is a 2nd floor, corner unit in the new building. This 2 bed / 2 bath condo has washer/dryer, full kitchen with stainless appliances, granite countertops, and too many beautiful upgrades to list. Enjoy this modern unit in the heart of Payson and still feel away from it all in a quiet, pine covered community. Owner pays sewer, trash, and HOA / tenant pays electric & water + internet/TV if
NON-SMOKERS ONLY, NO PETS! 3 MONTH LEASE JUNE, JULY & AUGUST 2026. AMAZING VIEWS OF GREEN VALLEY LAKE AT GREEN VALLEY PARK, KNOWN AS THE JEWEL OF PAYSON. $3500 /. MONTHLY RENT INCLUDES ALL UTILITIES & INTERNET. BEAUTRIFUL FURNISHED PROPERTY RENOVATED 2025, 2 MASTER BEDROOM SUITES WITH KING BED IN EACH,, 2 FULL BATHS & ONE HALF BATH, 2 CAR GARAGE. 2 NEW BALCONY DECKS, NEW VINYL WOOD LIKE PLANK
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Fully Furnished & Remodeled 3-Bedroom Home with Den/Office & 2 Baths. This beautiful home, located just 1-2 miles from town center. Primary bedroom has a king-size bed, private bath with dual sinks, standalone tub, walk-in shower, and large walk-in closet. Home is a split floor plan with two additional bedrooms and bath on the other side of the home for extra privacy! Guest Rooms: one has a queen
Unit E4 is a ground floor, corner unit in the new building. This 2 bed / 2 bath condo has washer/dryer, full kitchen with stainless appliances, granite countertops, and too many beautiful upgrades to list. Enjoy this modern unit in the heart of Payson and still feel away from it all in a quiet, pine covered community. Owner pays sewer, trash, and HOA / tenant pays electric & water + internet/TV
Completely remodeled and ready to enjoy, this ground-level 2-bed, 2-bath condo in the sought-after Four Seasons community brings the good vibes from the moment you walk in. With 1,350 sq ft of open living space, stylish tile floors throughout, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace, it's equal parts modern farmhouse and mountain retreat. Step out to your private covered patio and soak in all four
Robert GaetanoHomeSmart Pros
$1,800 per month
3 Bed / 2 Bath Home + 1 bed / 1 bath Casita & work shop
3 bed / 2 bath home with 1 bed / 1 bath Casita + detached work shop with power (and on separate water heater). This home is on an oversized, fully fenced, corner lot with space for RV, boat, or trailer. Mature pines, large storage shed, and large front deck ~ this quaint but functional, pet friendly home is conveniently located across the street from middle school.
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