Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s Rim Country, Payson is one of the state’s most scenic and inviting mountain towns. Surrounded by the Tonto National Forest and located just 90 minutes north of the Phoenix Valley, Payson offers the perfect blend of small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and relaxed mountain living.
Payson is often referred to as the “Heart of Arizona” because of its central location and easy access to both desert and high-country landscapes. At an elevation of about 5,000 feet, residents enjoy four mild seasons, towering pines, and cool summer temperatures — a welcome retreat from the Valley heat.
Outdoor enthusiasts love Payson for its endless hiking trails, fishing lakes, and scenic drives. The nearby Mogollon Rim offers breathtaking views, campgrounds, and outdoor recreation year-round. Residents enjoy popular destinations like Green Valley Park, Woods Canyon Lake, and the historic Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.
Despite its natural surroundings, Payson has a thriving local economy, with restaurants, boutiques, and local businesses that maintain its friendly, small-town feel. The community hosts beloved annual events such as the World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo, the Rim Country BBQ Festival, and the Beeline Cruise-In Car Show.
Payson offers a variety of housing options, from rustic cabins and ranch homes to modern mountain estates and gated communities. It’s a favorite for retirees, outdoor lovers, and families looking for a slower-paced lifestyle without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Q: Why do people love living in Payson?
A: Payson offers a peaceful, outdoor-focused lifestyle with cooler weather, stunning scenery, and a close-knit community — all just 90 minutes from Phoenix.
Q: Is Payson a good place for families?
A: Absolutely. With excellent schools, parks, and family-oriented events, Payson is a safe, family-friendly community perfect for raising kids or retiring comfortably.
Q: What’s the real estate market like in Payson?
A: The Grandon Group helps clients find everything from cozy cabins to luxury mountain estates. Homes in Payson are in high demand thanks to their natural setting and affordable pricing compared to metro areas.
Q: What’s the weather like in Payson?
A: Payson enjoys all four seasons, with mild summers, colorful autumns, light snow in winter, and crisp spring weather — ideal for year-round outdoor living.
23,323 people live in Payson, Arizona, where the median age is 60.4 and the average individual income is $39,683. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Payson, Arizona, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Below the Rim Meadery, CRNE Tacos Fuego, and Noley's - Books, Art & Whatnot.
Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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Dining | 2.78 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 0.94 miles | 40 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 1.9 miles | 25 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 1.34 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining · $$ | 2.27 miles | 81 reviews | 4.7/5 stars | |
Dining · $$ | 1.65 miles | 129 reviews | 4.7/5 stars | |
Dining · $ | 1.58 miles | 96 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
Shopping | 0.95 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 2.72 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.34 miles | 26 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
Active | 1.34 miles | 21 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
Active | 2.22 miles | 37 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
Active | 0.81 miles | 24 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
Nightlife | 2.37 miles | 25 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.56 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.53 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.34 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.6 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Payson, Arizona has 11,349 households, with an average household size of 2.02. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Payson, Arizona do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 23,323 people call Payson, Arizona home. The population density is 28.85 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
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Blue vs White Collar Workers
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