Thatcher, AZ, is a small community nestled between Mount Graham and the sandy mountains to its north, with the neighboring town of Safford nearby. The housing market features a mix of midcentury bungalows, ranch-style homes from the 1960s to 1990s, and newer constructions built after 2020, including Craftsman and farmhouse styles. Many homes come with large backyards and mountain views. The local economy is heavily reliant on the Freeport-McMoRan copper mines, with one located just north of Safford and another about 50 miles away in Morenci. Thatcher boasts highly rated schools, including Jack Daley Primary School, Thatcher Elementary School, Thatcher Middle School, and Thatcher High School, all of which receive A-minus ratings. Eastern Arizona College offers a range of associate degrees, certificate programs, and bachelor’s degrees. U.S. Route 70 is lined with diverse dining options such as JD’s Grill House, Kainoa’s Hawaiian Grill, and La Casita Café, along with grocery stores like Safeway, Food City, and Walmart Supercenter. Green spaces in Thatcher feature shaded playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields, with Mt. Graham Golf Club offering a public 18-hole course. The community is connected by U.S. Route 70 to Duncan, Safford, Tucson, and Phoenix, with the Safford Regional Airport providing flights to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. However, properties on the southwestern outskirts face an increased risk of wildfire.
