Nicknamed the “sunniest city on Earth,” Yuma, Arizona is set in the Sonoran Desert, halfway between Phoenix and San Diego, California. Since its late 19th-century founding as a trading hub along the Colorado River, Yuma has steadily grown to a population of about 95,000. Matias Rosales, a Realtor with Realty One Group Gateway and over 15 years of local experience, says part of the growth is because, "The price point is lower than California and Phoenix—you can buy a brand-new house out here for $260,000.” Compared to Phoenix, Yuma is a smaller, less walkable city, but still has big-city conveniences like parks, shopping and dining. Most locals drive or use public transportation to get around, and Route 95 provides a direct route to the U.S./Mexico border in San Luis, 25 miles away. The military and agriculture are major local industries; many residents here are stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma (MCAS Yuma), and top exports include lettuce, wheat and dates.
“There’s almost too much to do,” says Patti Bourelle, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty Yuma who has over 8 years of experience. “We have golf, camping, parks and fishing. We have everything.” During the winter, the population here nearly doubles due to snowbirds—a regional term for someone who moves to a warmer state during the winter months. “We have multiple events every weekend all winter because it’s a paradise here during that time,” Bourelle says. Seasonal residents typically live outside of the city in eastern Yuma County. “We call it ‘the foothills,’ but it’s east Yuma County,” Rosales says. Many residents hire house sitters to watch their homes during the off-season, while others rent out their properties.
West Wetlands Park in Yuma has a pond that attracts families who can enjoy fishing and swimming.
Lively restaurants and breweries in downtown Yuma are only minute from Avenue B and C.
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What to expect when house-hunting in Yuma
The median home price in Yuma is $330,000, compared to $440,000 in Phoenix and $925,000 in San Diego. “If a home’s priced right, it only stays on the market a day,” Bourelle says. “Our average number of days on the market is now around 30 days—and that’s not time until an offer, that’s time until closing.” According to Bourelle, the market is especially competitive in the summer, when school lets out and military assignments change.
Most housing in Yuma was built between the late 20th century and the 2020s, typically set in planned neighborhoods without homeowners associations. Single-family homes tend to be new traditional with Spanish- or Pueblo-style details, or minimal ranch-style; yards are generally landscaped with low-water desert plantings. Condo communities like Sunset Mesa often feature shared amenities like community pools and tennis courts. A handful of retirement communities, including the 55-plus Desert Palms Mobile Estates, offer late 20th-century manufactured homes with attached carports.
Country Estates is 3 miles southwest of downtown Yuma, AZ.
Spanish style houses with stucco exteriors are typical for Country Estates, AZ.
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Shopping and dining in Yuma
Shopping and dining are found throughout the city, but especially along thoroughfares like West 24th Street, West 16th Street and Avenue B. The Yuma Palms Regional Center, set just off Route 95, is the city's largest outdoor mall, a one-stop-shop for chain retail, dining and family entertainment. Most of the city's small local businesses are found in Downtown Yuma. “It’s where a lot of the residents like to go down and walk," Rosales says. "You have a lot of family-owned restaurants, and some nightclubs that attract the younger generation.”
Clothes, unique gifts and more can be found at Rebel and Rove near Country Estates, AZ.
Most local small businesses and retail can be found in old town Yuma near Country Estates.
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Parks, golf and community
Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert landscape, Yuma offers nearly 50 parks, golf courses and community centers. Set right on the Colorado River, the 110-acre West Wetlands Park offers boat access, enabling activities like kayaking or jet-skiing. The park also features fishing ponds stocked with catfish and trout, a disc golf course, and a sprawling, castle-themed playground built by community volunteers. Golfers may hit the links at the 18-hole Desert Hills Golf Course, popular for its rolling green fairways with distant mountain views. At the Valley Aquatic Center, residents can swim or take water aerobics in the community pool.
Fishing in the Colorado River is a popular activity at West Wetlands Park in Yuma,
The Imperial Sand Dunes are about an hour west from Yuma.
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Getting around Yuma
Rosales says cars are the most practical way to get around the city. Yuma is crossed by two major highways, Route 95 and Interstate 8. Route 95 leads about 25 miles to the U.S./Mexico border in San Luis, while I-8 travels 170 miles west to San Diego and 185 miles east to Phoenix. Residential neighborhoods and city streets are typically sidewalk-lined. As of 2024, the city is actively expanding its bikeways; in May 2024, the city added bike lanes around the Yuma Palms Regional Center. Locals may also ride Yuma County Area Transit buses to get around town. Yuma Regional Medical Center and Yuma International Airport are located within the city.
Schooling opportunities in Yuma
Yuma is served by several school districts, including the Crane Elementary and Yuma Union High districts, both rated C-plus by Niche. Many of the city’s public high schools offer career and technical education courses in fields ranging from the culinary arts and agriscience to sports medicine. There are also several private schools in the area, including the A-plus-rated Southwestern Christian School and the B-rated Yuma Catholic High. High school graduates may go on to attend the local community college, Arizona Western College, or satellite campuses for Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University and University of Arizona.
Locals love watching football games at The Arizona Stadium in Yuma.
Arizona Western College is a public community college in Yuma, Arizona.
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Public art and annual traditions
There are over 100 public art installations around Yuma, including lots of handcrafted sculptures and colorful murals around downtown—the hub for Yuma’s art venues and annual events. At the Yuma Art Center, locals may take classes in painting and pottery or catch a live show at the center’s historic Yuma Theatre, a city staple since 1912. In January, the Yuma Medjool Date Festival is a downtown celebration of the city’s agricultural history and date farmers. “They’ll have live music and different ways of preparing dates, like bacon-wrapped dates,” Rosales says. In April, the Yuma County Fair is held at the Yuma County Fairgrounds, where over 100,000 festivalgoers enjoy a lively 6-day celebration of everything Yuma. “It’s a fair—lots of overpriced fried foods, rides for the kids and a demolition derby,” Rosales says.
The Hot Air Balloon Festival is a must-see event near Country Estates, AZ.
The Yuma Art Center has art exhibits and events near Avenue B and C in Arizona.
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Crime and environmental factors
According to FBI data, Yuma's rates of property and violent crime are slightly lower than state and national averages. Between 2013 and 2023, the total number of crimes reported in Yuma decreased by 52%.
Extreme heat and wildfires are ongoing environmental concerns here. Summer temperatures regularly top 100 degrees, and Rosales says locals adapt by limiting their time outside. “For four months out of the year, everything is an evening event—activities start after 7 p.m.” Rosales says. In May 2024, the Refuge Fire burned about 1,000 acres of vegetation near Martinez Lake, about 35 miles away. There are six fire stations in Yuma that respond to local emergencies.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
Kalina Mondzholovska
Video By
Chris Freeman
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Yuma, AZ sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Yuma, AZ over the last 12 months is $325,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautifully maintained 2008 park model located in the desirable SunVista. This 408 sq. ft. home has been cared for with pride and offers comfortable, efficient living perfect for seasonal or full-time residence The extended covered Patio provides plenty of shaded outdoor living space. Under the Patio sits a versatile entertainment area -perfect for projects, storage, other recreational gear.
Home in Vista Del Sol with RV Access! This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home nestled in the desirable Vista Del Sol subdivision. Offering 2,040 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, this home features an open floor plan perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. The bright, inviting kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The
Looking for a well-cared-for home in the Foothills with low monthly costs and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors? This ground-level double-wide manufactured home offers just that. The paid-off solar system with 20 panels and a 25-year equipment warranty means lower utility bills and peace of mind for years to come. Inside, you’ll find a newer reverse osmosis system and water softener, adding
Spacious 624 sq. ft. Park Model - 55+ Community Charming 1-bedroom, 3/4-bath home featuring hardwood floors, dual-pane windows, interior freshly painted, outside freshly power washed and newer appliances-including washer, gas range, microwave, and refrigerator. Stay cool with a 5-year-old AC. An 8x10 attached shed with electricity and shelving offers excellent storage, while a covered carport
Discover the potential of this spacious lot in the North Foothills, offering incredible mountain views and plenty of room for your ideas. The property comes with 3 RV hookups, a 5th wheel, and a shed with electric and water connected, ready for RV living or storage. Whether you want a weekend getaway, a base for outdoor adventures, or a place to build your dream home, this lot provides the
NEW CONSTRUCTION/ MODERN/ LOADED WITH UPGRADES. Photos shown are a representation of the finished product; final finishes and color may vary. Beautiful home - estimated 100% completion in approximately 30 days! This thoughtfully designed modern style offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with $34,000 in upgrades throughout. Interior features 9-foot ceilings throughout, 8-foot interior doors, and
Back on the market at no fault of the Seller!! Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this beautifully remodeled 1-bed, 1-bath home. Freshly painted with updated appliances, the interior offers a bright and inviting space—ideal for first-time buyers, downsizers, or investors. A generous laundry/utility room, extra storage, and a dedicated workshop add to the functionality, while
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3 bedrooms, 2 baths home offering 1429 sq ft of living space. From the moment you step inside, you'll love the open floor plan filled with natural light, fresh new paint, and stylish modern finishes. This home features sleek tile floors throughout, granite counter tops, elegant shutters, the spacious layout flows seamlessly to an extended patio, perfect for
Tucked within the desirable Palo Verde Estates, this refined 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers a rare combination of style, space, and versatility. Distinctive features include an oversized, extra-deep garage ideal for a large truck, boat or recreational toys, a custom attached covered carport, and generous RV or 5th-wheel parking complete with a 50 AMP hook-up. Inside, an inviting and
Don't just dream of a new home, live in it today! Welcome to the newest jewel of the Saguaro subdivision. Step inside and feel the fresh energy of a home that has never been lived in. The spacious 1,800+ square foot floor plan, featuring three large bedrooms and two modern bathrooms, is designed for seamless, comfortable living. The entire home is a turn-key masterpiece, meaning you can move in
Super clean and well-maintained property, 2018 Park Model. Casita and RV Carport. Main home is a 396 sq ft Park Model in excellent condition with an additional 350 sq ft Casita, with a 3/4 bathroom, full size washer and dryer and a queen size Murphy bed. Partial furnished with couch, rocking chairs ,end tables, dresser, TVs Outdoor features include Pavers around both structures and in the back
Why buy 1111 S 2nd Avenue, Yuma, AZ? Remodeled 4-bedroom single family home in the heart of Yuma’s Midtown District! This remodeled ready property features stylish laminate flooring throughout, a modern kitchen with brand new cabinets, and beautifully remodeled bathrooms. Enjoy the benefits of newer windows and fresh stucco for a crisp, updated look and feel. The spacious lot offers ample
This well-maintained single-story Hillcrest mobile home offers 2 bedrooms and 2 convenient half baths, connected directly to each bedroom, providing a comfortable and functional layout ideal for full-time living or a seasonal retreat. With 704 sq. ft. of interior space, the home features an inviting entry foyer that leads into a bright, open living area. The open kitchen is equipped with
Step into luxury and move-in-ready perfection in the coveted Ravines subdivision! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,800+ sq. ft. of bright, open living, featuring a chef inspired kitchen with quartz countertops, premium gas appliances, and abundant cabinet space. Luxury plank flooring flows throughout, connecting the spacious living and dining areas, while oversized windows flood
Cielo Verde Apartments LLC is the next chapter in the Cielo Verde story that began more than 20 years ago. The design objective of the Cielo Verde communities is to give residents more flexibility in their life-style choices and make neighborhoods more livable, while increasing access to pedestrian activities close to home. The Cielo Verde Apartments complement well our existing nearby
This home is a must to view! Cute and cozy 3 bedroom 1 and 3/4 bath with a 2 car garage. Split floor plan. All tile flooring, Neutral colors throughout. Home is Super maintained. Celling fans and window treatments. Appliances. Garage with automatic opener and remote. Storage shed. Side gate for parking. super cute back patio surrounded by a meticulously landscaped yard. Monthly yard service is
Are you ready to start living your best life? Water, sewer, and trash included in rent saving you $100/month compared to other communities in the area! Welcome to Yuma's newest luxury rental housing community. Desert View Villas is the confluence of luxury, safety, lifestyle, and community. Situated ideally in the Foothills of Yuma County, Arizona. You have the convenience of work, shopping,
1 bedroom, one 3/4 bathroom duplex unit for rent. Tile flooring throughout. Gas stove and refrigerator in kitchen. Tile countertops. Small backyard. Call today! Owner is a licensed real estate agent in Arizona. No pets please.
Welcome home to Terracina Apartments, where you will find the perfect blend of style, comfort and affordability. Located in the heart of Yuma, Terracina Apartments offers you the opportunity to enjoy a variety of restaurants, convenient shopping and a round of golf just minutes from your new convenience and style are just a few of the features you'll find at Terracina Apartments. Choose from
Upgraded townhouse ready for tenants March 1st. Spacious floor plan with laminate wood flooring in common areas. Quartz countertops, Reverse Osmosis, washer dryer, and so much more. HOA covers front yard landscaping included with rent. 6 month to 12 month lease available with approved application. Call listing agent to schedule showing.
Welcome to River North Apartment Homes, a premier residential community in the heart of Yuma. Discover thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes that blend comfort and functionality with modern style. Our pet-friendly community features spacious interiors and fully equipped kitchens complete with a stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Beyond your front door, enjoy an
Beautiful fully furnished and recently remodeled condo in the desirable Vista Del Valle Subdivision. Located in close proximity to Onvida Hospital. This property has a community pool, carport directly in front of the unit and gorgeous views. HOA covers water, trash and landscaping. Kitchen, dining room and sunk-in living room are open and flow together. Primary bedroom has a built-in reading nook.
Striking the perfect balance between style and convenience, Villa Serena Apartments delivers everything you've been dreaming of in an apartment home, including an enjoyable play area, a sparkling swimming pool, a welcoming clubhouse, and a laundry facility, which are all within a beautifully landscaped community. Comfortable living made easy!Elevated living is defined in every way, with beautiful
Mesa Del Sol Estrella 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom house for rent, available immediately. This well maintained home features an automatic 2 car garage and double side gate with plenty of additional parking space. The backyard features a huge covered patio with ceiling fans, fire pit, and shaded veranda. Easy care landscaping is mostly hardscape. Elevated ceilings, blinds, and tile and vinyl plank
Villa Nueva, a certified crime free community, is an apartment community located in Yuma, Arizona. Villa Nueva provides two- and three-bedroom homes with amenities for your personal comfort and enjoyment. Our intimate community emphasizes the importance of comfortable living and accommodates all personal tastes and needs. Our expansive floor plans were meticulously designed to create a community
Now available! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath single-family rental offers a practical floor plan and RV access for added convenience. Plenty of space to make yourself at home.
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.
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