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
Ron Acosta,
an experienced agent in this area.
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MOTIVATED TO SELL! Awesome location for this well-maintained gem! Enjoy the convenience of walking to Green Valley Park, or relax in your private backyard with stunning views of the Mogollon Rim. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home has been thoughtfully updated throughout, featuring newer kitchen appliances, updated HVAC, new smoke detectors, fresh interior paint, and laminate flooring with updated
Tucked away near the tranquil East Verde River in the storybook setting of Beaver Valley Estates, this inviting 4-bedroom home offers the kind of lifestyle buyers dream about--peaceful, scenic, and surrounded by nature.Step inside to a warm, open-concept living and kitchen area featuring rich wood floors, expansive counter space, abundant cabinetry, and a large pantry--perfect for gathering,
Priceless Views with Privacy! Nestled at the top of Golden Frontier with spectacular 180 degree views from the Trex wrap-around deck and open and bright interiors-this home surrounds you in luxury and serenity. Brick Fireplace. A private retreat-the master suite features a pampering bath with a double walk-in travertine shower, Granite countertops, custom cherry wood cabinets, stainless steel
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
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
This luxurious 5,847 square-foot mountain and executive retreat is surrounded by the scenic splendor of Rim Country, the area of Payson, Arizona, that sits below the Mogollon Rim in the world's largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest. Located within a private gated community within the exclusive Chaparral Pines Golf Club, this multi-level home is complete with an ELEVATOR, offers incredible
Experience elevated mountain living in this private 4.75-acre modern retreat with sweeping views of the Granite Dells and the Gibson Range. Beautifully updated and thoughtfully designed, this 3,058 sq. ft. residence offers 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms, and a dedicated office/den, blending luxury finishes with the serenity of Northern Arizona living. Nestled in the picturesque mountain town of
Spacious and versatile 6-bedroom, 2.5 bath multi-level home with thoughtful updates and exceptional income potential. This 2,832 sq ft residence is designed for flexible living ideal for multi-generational households, roommates, or short-term rental opportunities.Each level features two bedrooms, offering privacy and functionality, while two separate living rooms both with cozy fireplaces create
Custom-built home on over two acres in Payson's highly regarded Forest Edge community, set at the foothills of the Granite Dells with views of both the Mogollon Rim and surrounding mountain ranges. This single-level residence offers a split floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, designed for comfort, privacy, and easy living. Hardwood floors run throughout the main living areas, while large
Start your first year of homeownership with a lower payment. Lock rate by 6/30/26 and receive a 1% interest rate buydown for the first 12 months when financing through Trusted Lending Center. Trade the noise for towering pines, cool mountain air, and the relaxed lifestyle that makes Payson one of Arizona's favorite getaway destinations. This fully updated condo offers the perfect blend of
Build your future in the heart of Rim Country on this 1.10-acre parcel in Payson, Arizona. This beautiful property offers sweeping views of the Granite Dells and is dotted with majestic pine trees, creating a serene and picturesque setting for your custom home.Situated within Payson town limits, you'll enjoy the perfect combination of peaceful surroundings and everyday convenience. Shopping,
Located within the gates of the private golf country club community of Chaparral Pines, this beautiful single-level home offers 3 bedrooms plus an office that can easily serve as a 4th bedroom.Set on a .65-acre homesite with breathtaking Mogollon Rim views, the home combines mountain luxury with comfort and functionality. An oversized 3-car garage provides plenty of room for vehicles,
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
This stunning Country Home at 228 S Windmill Rd in the peaceful Deer Creek Village is the perfect retreat for young families seeking adventure and space to grow, or retirees ready to embrace a serene, nature-filled lifestyle! Imagine waking up to breathtaking mountain views and the gentle rustle of towering sycamore trees right in your backyard -- a true escape into Arizona's beautiful
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.
Property Id: 1957245UTILITIES INCLUDED, FURNISHED - Available August Move-In Ready Payson Living - All Utilities & Internet Included!Welcome to your beautiful, stress-free home available this August! This spacious ground-floor unit comes completely furnished and features lovely views right from your private patio. Situated just minutes from downtown Payson, you are perfectly
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
Prime Medical Office Building for Lease - Beeline Highway, Payson, ArizonaPositioned on the highly visible Beeline Highway in Payson, Arizona, this 8744 sq ft medical office building is situated on a 1/2-acre lot with abundant parking and excellent exposure.Main Level:The main level, accessible at ground level from the east, includes 15 exam rooms, two restrooms, a spacious waiting area, x-ray
Jim JakubekBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Advantage Realty - PAYSON
Charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath house in Payson, AZ, situated on a large shared lot. The home offers a compact, functional layout with comfortable living space and a private bathroom. Outdoor space on the shared lot provides room for gardening or outdoor seating. Conveniently located in Payson, this property is a simple, well-sized option for those seeking single-level living with outdoor access. This
Remodeled single-story 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers comfort, convenience, and a prime central location. Enjoy brand-new carpet throughout and easy access to nearby restaurants, grocery stores, and everyday essentials. The community features on-site laundry facilities and maintains a no-smoking, no-animal policy for a clean and peaceful living environment. Background check required.
Unit E1 is a ground floor, corner unit in the new building. This 2 bed / 2 bath condo has in unit washer/dryer, full kitchen with fridge, microwave, dishwasher, electric stove, 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
Charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath house in Payson, AZ, situated on a large shared lot. The home offers a compact, functional layout with comfortable living space and a private bathroom. Outdoor space on the shared lot provides room for gardening or outdoor seating. Conveniently located in Payson, this property is a simple, well-sized option for those seeking single-level living with outdoor access. This
Unit C5 is a 2nd floor, corner unit in the quiet Bison Cove Complex. This 2 bed / 2 bath condo has in unit washer/dryer, plus a bright kitchen with fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and electric stove. Enjoy this comfortable 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
Ready to move in, new roof will be installed next week, house was painted outside last month along with the patio. New landscaping etc. Magnificent Golf view at Chaparral Pines Community. Spectacular four bedroom/ five bath...Light and bright, featuring dark walnut flooring, white custom cabinetry, the kitchen is extraordinary featuring Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances. The white Italian Carrera
Senad SmjecaninHomeSmart
$2,700 per month
Furnished - Executive 3 bed / 3 bath Home with Huge Bonus/Game Room
Welcome to Your Beautiful Fully-Furnished Home in Payson! Available for immediate occupancy. Don't miss this opportunity to live in a stylish, updated, and fully-furnished 3-bedroom, 3-bath + huge bonus room home tucked in the heart of Payson! This spacious 2-story home (2,289 sq ft) is packed with upgrades: brand-new Samsung washer and dryer, new TVs in both living rooms and the master bedroom.
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
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