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.
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On average, homes in Yuma, AZ sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Yuma, AZ over the last 12 months is $325,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Looking for a move-in ready home with space for vehicles, projects, and outdoor living? This recently remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 2008 offers 1,344 sq ft of refreshed living space. Inside, you’ll find new wood-look luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh interior paint, vaulted ceilings, and an open floor plan that creates a bright and welcoming feel. The dining area features chandelier
Beautiful move-in ready home located in the highly desirable College Park subdivision! This spacious 2,041 sq ft property features 4 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with tile flooring throughout for easy maintenance and a clean, modern feel. The versatile layout offers two separate living areas, providing plenty of space for entertaining, relaxing, or creating a formal and casual living setup. Step
Escape to your private desert oasis in the highly desirable Desert Foothills Estates! This meticulously maintained home is a rare find, combining ultimate relaxation with unmatched utility. Imagine spending your afternoons cooling off in your own sparkling in-ground pool or relaxing under the palapa or covered patio, all while enjoying incredible energy efficiency thanks to newer dual-pane
Welcome to 8342 E Paraiso Parkway, a beautifully positioned corner-lot home in The Courtyards @ Cielo Verde, offering a move-in-ready alternative to new construction. Priced at $415,000, this home delivers what the builders can’t: space, upgrades, and instant lifestyle, no waiting, no dust, no design-center upcharges. Inside, you’ll find granite countertops, beautiful natural wood cabinetry, and
Welcome to the Foothills! This well kept 2 bed, 2 bath manufactured home offers 1,316 sq ft of comfortable living space on a 6,000+ sq ft lot. Enjoy a clean, move in ready interior with an open layout, split floor plan, and all kitchen appliances included. Fully paid off solar keeps monthly costs low. Outside features a fully fenced yard, RV access with hookups, and plenty of room for outdoor
Welcome to this well-appointed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offering a spacious layout highlighted by vaulted ceilings. The home is equipped with natural gas, providing highly desirable energy efficiency for daily living. Designed with utility and storage in mind, the property features an attached 2-car garage along with a detached outdoor shed. A standout exterior amenity is the fully
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
Welcome to this beautifully designed 4 bed, 3 bath single story home built in 2023 and located in the desirable Livingston Ranch subdivision. Situated on an 8,035 sq ft lot, this home offers a spacious and versatile layout with two separate living areas, creating flexibility for both everyday living and entertaining. The open concept kitchen features quartz countertops, a large center island,
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
Looking for the perfect spot to build your dream home? Look no further than this fantastic .44-acre property! Located in a prime location close to elementary, junior, and high schools, community colleges, shops, and restaurants, this property offers the ideal blend of convenience and tranquility. Imagine waking up every morning to stunning views, enjoying coffee on your porch, and watching the
Welcome to effortless resort-style living in this stylish 1 bedroom, 1 full bath home offering 326 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed space in the highly desirable SunVista RV Resort. Ideal as a stylish winter retreat or low-maintenance full-time residence, this home maximizes every square foot with smart upgrades and elevated finishes. Interior Highlights Fully furnished with modern, clean-lined
Foothills Gem – 1999| 2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1 Den 1,308 Sq. Ft. Spacious and move-in ready! This 1999 double-wide sits on 7040 sq. ft. lot surrounded by the desert on one side and beautiful mountain views. *Huge kitchen with dishwasher, R/O system, gas stove *Separate laundry room *Vaulted ceilings & dual-pane windows *New roof (2026) *Large den/office room *Master bath has a garden tub and separate
FURNISHED! This charming Yuma Fortuna Foothills three-bedroom, two-bath retreat is not just cozy but packed with modern updates. Enjoy the convenience of a washer and dryer and brand-new appliances, all while being mere moments from shopping, the stunning Martinez Lake, Telegraph Pass, and exhilarating off-road trails. Plus, with private parking and everything you need fully stocked, adventure
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
$1,800/month, FIRST MONTH FREE! Renovated 3 bed, 2 bath historic home in central Yuma with 1,700 sq ft of spacious living on a corner lot. This charming property features a great layout with classic character and modern updates, a formal dining room, and washer/dryer included, plus lots of parking. Prime location just minutes from downtown Yuma with easy access to restaurants, bars, cafes, retail
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
Are you looking for the perfect apartment in Yuma, Arizona? At La Mirada Apartment Homes, you're always close to the action. Conveniently located near Highway 95, shopping, restaurants, and Ironwood Public Golf Course, La Mirada Apartments puts you close to everything Yuma has to offer! Our beautifully landscaped community offers residents the style and luxury they deserve. La Mirada Apartments
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
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
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
Welcome to The Beach Club!! Here at The Beach Club Apartments you will enjoy Palm trees and lush landscaping, beach volleyball, outdoor basketball, a Palapa-style poolside bar, and barbecue areas around a Gigantic sparkling swimming pool, one of Yuma ’s largest! We are Pet friendly too !!!Beach Club’s central location can’t be beat, you can get anywhere in a jiffy! Just one block away in
Welcome to Regency Square Apartments in Yuma, Arizona, offering a variety of studio, 1, and 2 bedroom floor plans designed for comfort and convenience. Each apartment features large kitchens and spacious bedrooms, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. Enjoy a range of exceptional amenities, including two refreshing pools, a basketball court, and more, all within a vibrant and welcoming community.
Welcome home, El Encanto Apartment Homes offers every thing you need!El Encanto Apartment Homes feature a variety of floor plans including, studio, one bedroom and two bedroom homes. Spacious kitchens with dishwasher, refrigerator, food pantry and plenty of cabinetry. Everything you need just a few minutes away. Enjoy all the on site amenities such as sparkling pool, hot tub, BBQ
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
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