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
Audrey Hogue,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Recent upgrades make this home truly stand out, including a newer roof (October 2022), fresh interior and exterior paint, and three beautifully remodeled bathrooms. Additional improvements include updated ceiling fans and lighting, along with a new stainless steel refrigerator, gas stove and dishwasher--making this home completely move-in ready.Outside, you'll find a fully fenced yard, a
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in the scenic mountain town of Payson. This move-in-ready property has been thoughtfully upgraded with a brand-new roof, new windows, fresh interior and exterior paint, and modern finishes throughout. The cozy fireplace with stylish tile creates a warm focal point, while the updated kitchen features new cabinets and appliances for easy
Nestled on a beautifully landscaped, park-like lot, this charming property is surrounded by lush lawns, vibrant flower gardens, and mature shade trees that create a peaceful, private setting. A welcoming covered front porch invites you inside to a warm and inviting great room featuring rustic wide-plank pine flooring, a soaring tongue-and-groove vaulted wood ceiling, and a cozy corner
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This charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home offers approximately 1,400 sq. ft. of comfortable living space on a spacious .46-acre lot right in the heart of town. Inside, you'll find an open floor plan with a formal dining room, a large kitchen with plenty of storage and workspace, and a layout perfect for everyday living or entertaining.The property also includes an additional home built in
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For rent: Beautiful fully furnished 3BR/2BA condo in scenic Payson. Stylish, move-in ready with Restoration Hardware bedroom sets. Bright, open living area, modern kitchen, in-unit laundry, and private outdoor space. Lovely community near trails, shops, and dining. Quick move-in available. No cats allowed.
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For sale or rent, listed at a drastically reduced price. This Charming A-frame cabin 1BR can also be used as a bonus room or office, with private balcony access, and is set in a quiet, family neighborhood on a large lot with room to expand. The kitchen features wood floors and refinished cabinets, and the home has fresh interior paint. The living room offers space for an upright stove-top
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FURNISHED MAIN HOUSE ON ESTATE w/HORSE FACILITIES in TOWN OF PAYSON. 2 bedrm, 2 bath, king bed in extra large master w/ walk in shower and large walk in closet. Quest bedrm queen bed w/step in closet, 2nd bath has tub shower. Long greatrm has real wood floors, built in captain (twin) bed, french doors, fireplace and big comfortable furniture including desk and dining table. Big counters in large
Lisa JohnsonWest USA Realty
$2,600 per month
Furnished - Executive 3 bed / 3 bath Home with Huge Bonus/Game Room
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This beautiful 2 bed + loft / 2 bath townhome is located across the street from Green Valley Park. There is 1 bed and bath downstairs + 1 bedroom, a loft, and bath upstairs. Assigned, covered parking + private back yard and amazing location make this the perfect home for your family. All electric home; owner pays sewer, trash, and HOA ~ tenant pays APS, Water, & optional TV / Internet if desired.
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