If you’re driving between Phoenix and Tucson, you’ve probably seen the signs. It's that quiet spot right near the junction of I-10 and I-8. Most people blink and miss it. But for those looking to move, invest, or just settle a bet, the question always comes up: what county is Arizona City AZ in exactly?
The answer is Pinal County.
Honestly, it’s a weird little spot. It isn't a "city" in the way most people think. It's an unincorporated census-designated place (CDP). Basically, that means it doesn't have its own mayor or city council. Instead, it relies on Pinal County for almost everything.
The Pinal County Connection
Pinal County is massive. It covers over 5,300 square miles of desert, mountains, and farmland. Sitting right between the two biggest metros in the state, it's become a bit of a "bedroom community" hub. Arizona City sits in the southwestern part of this county.
It’s a rural-suburban mix. You’ve got the Santa Cruz Flats surrounding it, which sounds fancy, but mostly just means flat, open desert that’s great for agriculture. Because it’s in Pinal County, residents are governed by the Board of Supervisors in Florence, which is the county seat.
Why the location is actually kind of genius
If you look at a map, Arizona City is almost perfectly halfway between Phoenix and Tucson. It’s about 60 miles from both. For people who work in the big cities but can't stand the traffic or the prices, Pinal County offers a middle ground.
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- Proximity to I-10: You’re minutes away from the main artery of the state.
- The I-8 Junction: Want to head to San Diego? You’re already at the starting line.
- Casa Grande Neighbors: Most people head to nearby Casa Grande for the "big city" stuff like Walmart or major medical care.
Is Arizona City Actually a City?
Not really. Names can be deceiving. As we mentioned, it’s a CDP.
When a place is unincorporated in Pinal County, the Pinal County Sheriff's Office handles the policing. There's no local "Arizona City Police Department." This keeps the taxes lower than in incorporated cities like Maricopa or Casa Grande, which is a huge draw for retirees.
According to the latest 2024 and 2025 data, the population hovers around 9,000 to 11,000 people. It’s small. Everyone kinda knows everyone, or at least they know whose dog got loose on the golf course.
Real Estate and Living in Pinal County
If you’re asking what county is Arizona City AZ in because you’re looking at Zillow, you’re not alone. Pinal County has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the entire United States.
As of early 2026, home prices in Arizona City are still significantly lower than what you’ll find in Maricopa County (Phoenix). While a modest home in Phoenix might set you back $450,000, you can often find a decent single-family home here for closer to $260,000 or $300,000.
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The Cost Factor
Living in this part of Pinal County is about 5% cheaper than the national average. Housing is the big winner—it's roughly 38% lower than the U.S. average. But there’s a catch. Utilities can be higher because, well, it’s the desert. Running the A/C when it’s 115°F in July isn't cheap.
Also, you're going to drive. A lot. Most residents face a commute of 30 minutes or more. Since the grocery options within the immediate "city" limits are limited, you’ll be making frequent trips to Casa Grande or Eloy.
What Is There to Do?
Living in Pinal County isn't all about cheap houses. It’s for people who actually like the desert.
- Arizona City Golf Course: This is the heart of the community. It’s a 18-hole course that draws people from all over the county.
- Picacho Peak State Park: Just a short drive south on the I-10. It’s famous for the spring wildflowers and a hike that involves actual steel cables to reach the top.
- Skydive Arizona: Located in nearby Eloy. It's one of the biggest skydiving centers in the world. Even if you don't jump, watching the colorful chutes come down is a local pastime.
- Casa Grande Ruins National Monument: About 20 minutes away in Coolidge. It’s a massive prehistoric structure that's been standing for centuries.
The Weather Reality
Let's be real for a second. If you move here, you have to deal with the dust. Because Arizona City is surrounded by farmland and open desert, "haboobs" (giant dust storms) are a regular thing during monsoon season.
The heat is also intense. The record high is around 119°F. If you aren't a fan of the sun, Pinal County might feel like living on the surface of Mercury for four months a year. But the winters? They’re perfect. 65°F and sunny while the rest of the country is shoveling snow.
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Quick Facts for Your Search
To keep it simple, here is the breakdown of the essentials:
- County: Pinal
- ZIP Code: 85123
- Area Code: 520
- Elevation: 1,510 feet
- Founded: 1959
It’s worth noting that Arizona City isn't the same as the historical "Arizona City." Back in the 1800s, Yuma was actually called Arizona City for a brief period. Don't let that confuse you if you're looking through old history books. The current Arizona City was a planned community started in the late 1950s.
Actionable Next Steps
If you are planning a trip or a move to this part of Pinal County, here is what you should do:
Check the Pinal County official website for the latest on zoning and property taxes if you’re buying land. Because much of the area is in a floodplain, you absolutely need to verify if the specific lot you're looking at requires flood insurance.
Drive the area at different times of day. The commute to Phoenix can be a breeze at 10:00 AM, but the I-10 "Wild Horse Pass" stretch is a nightmare during rush hour.
Visit the Pinal County Library branch in Arizona City. It’s a great way to meet locals and get a feel for the community vibe before you commit to a lease or a mortgage.