Rural desert life in the Phoenix metropolitan area
Home to about 40,000 people, the rural city of Apache Junction offers lower housing prices than Phoenix, 35 miles west, and a small-town feel beside the Superstition Mountains. The area was named after the Apache Trail, a scenic trade route built in the early 20th century; today, the trail is known as Route 88. “Apache Junction is amazing because the people are always welcoming," says Ryan Hunt, co-owner of Boba Shack, a local restaurant. "It still has the small-town vibes, but with both city and country folk.”
According to Apache Junction Economic Development, the city’s leading industries are retail, consumer services and healthcare. Mesa borders Apache Junction to the west, and many folks work at Mesa-based Fortune 500 companies like Boeing and Northrop Grumman. “People don’t need to get to Phoenix for work,” says Kristie Falb, a Realtor with Homesmart and over 10 years of experience. “There are so many big businesses booming around us.”
Meet majestic horses and ride through history at Goldfield Ghost Town in Apache Junction.
Find your slice of heaven in the Sonoran Desert in Apache Junction.
Take a scenic drive on the Apache Trail in Apache Junction.
Apache Junction residents who work at Boeing run into little traffic on their daily commute.
1/4
21st-century master-planned neighborhoods
The average home price in Apache Junction is $320,000, lower than the Phoenix average of about $623,000 and the national average of about $400,000. “People come this way because they’re finding lower home prices in this area,” Falb says. Developers are actively building here, and in 2023, over 900 home-building permits were issued by the city.
Most homes here are 21st-century new traditional Spanish-style, laid out in master-planned communities; however, there are also a few subdivisions' worth of late 20th-century ranch-style homes. There are also a few retirement communities, including the gated Dolce Vita neighborhood and the Shiprock RV Resort Mobile Home Park. Throughout the city, typical landscaping is gravel-packed and dotted by cacti and succulents.
Pueblo inspired architecture is more common on the east side of Apache Junction.
Spanish influenced homes in Apache Junction are typical in the area.
Some homeowners in Apache Junction have enough land to keep horses and cows.
Many 55+ RV communities can be found throughout Apache Junction.
1/4
Unique academic programs at Apache Junction schools
Apache Junction is part of the Apache Junction Unified School District, rated C overall by Niche. At the C-rated Four Peaks Elementary, students may apply for the Dual Language Learning Program, which evenly splits the learning day between English- and Spanish-language instruction. The B-rated Imagine Superstition Prep is a charter school for Grades 9-12 and offers STEM-related classes, like engineering and forensics.
Four Peaks Elementary is located in the northern part of Apache Junction.
Imagine Prep Superstition is a public middle and high school.
Cactus Canyon Junior High School entrance.
Apache Junction High School building.
1/4
Parks and natural beauty
The 16-acre Painted Sky Park is the largest in the city, offering a 3-acre playground, a catch-and-release fishing lake and games like bocce, cornhole and table tennis. Currently, the city is adding 16 new pickleball courts to Prospector Park, where folks also play softball, soccer, basketball and sand volleyball. Golfers can head to Apache Creek Golf Club for an 18-hole round on the desert-themed course.
According to Hunt, “You can drive 15 minutes in any direction and find a trail to hike, or just sit in nature." Lost Dutchman State Park offers dirt-packed hiking, biking and equestrian trails weaving up the Superstition Mountains, while Canyon Lake, a scenic 15-mile drive northwest, is popular for boating, fishing and swimming.
Apache Junction residents are loving the new pickleball courts at Prospector Park.
See the iconic saguaro cactus at Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction.
Apache Junction’s Painted Sky Park is a great spot to take the kids fishing.
Apache Junction’s Apache Creek Golf Club offers some of the best views in the valley.
1/4
Downtown shopping and dining
Downtown Apache Junction offers a modest shopping and dining scene that includes small businesses and locally owned cafes, breakfast diners and authentic Mexican restaurants. Though most downtown establishments are spread along the sidewalk-lined Apache Trail, Falb says most folks drive rather than walk to them. A couple of shopping centers have grocery stores, chain retailers and fast-food eateries. While nightlife is limited, there are a few saloon-style bars that offer live music and games like pool and darts.
Downtown Apache Junction will remind you of an old western downtown area.
Apache Junction’s Skies Bar and Grill serves up hot meals and cold beer.
Raise a glass to the Wild West experience at Goldfield Ghost Town's legendary Saloon.
Browse through history and find unique keepsakes at Apache Junction's Antique Mall.
1/4
Southwestern style and Lost Dutchman Days
“February is a big month for the city of Apache Junction,” Falb says. Lost Dutchman Days is a three-day celebration in February that includes a downtown parade, carnival and all kinds of rodeo fun, like bull riding and barrel racing. “Another big event is the Lost Dutchman Marathon that has almost 3,000 participants,” Falb says. The celebration is named after the fabled Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, which is alleged to be a lost mine of treasures in the Superstition Mountains. The Festival of the Superstitions Country Bash in November is another highlight, where folks can enjoy food trucks, local vendors and live music from country artists. Public art pieces, like downtown murals and park sculptures, showcase the city's southwestern style.
Apache Junction’s roots start in gold prospecting.
Apache Junction residents can drop water payments in this art piece.
1/2
Getting around from Apache Junction
Apache Junction is about 35 miles east of Phoenix, a 30- to 60-minute drive during rush hour. Mesa borders Apache Junction to the west, and Route 60 grants easy access to the rest of the Phoenix metro area. There isn’t any public transportation, so most locals are car dependent. Banner Goldfield Medical Center is located within the city, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is 15 miles southwest, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 30 miles west.
Crime and environmental factors
According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, Apache Junction’s total reported number of violent- and property-related crimes decreased from 1,300 in 2013 to 900 in 2023. The police department partners with neighborhood watch organizations to report and reduce crime.
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, so it’s common for folks to relax indoors or head to the aquatic center at Superstition Shadows Park to escape the extreme heat. The city is also at risk of wildfires, and folks may sign up for emergency alerts on the city's website.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Nelson
Video By
Michael Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brandon Edwards,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Apache Junction (MGC) Multi-Generational Center / Parks and Rec Complex Park
Painted Sky Park
Apache Junction Housing Trends
On average, homes in Apache Junction, AZ sell after 60 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Apache Junction, AZ over the last 12 months is $414,990, up 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
View this home w/nothing to do. MOVE IN (partially furnished) & start living the Sweet Life here. Stucco/Tile hme. Beautiful inside & out. Enjoy the outside w/breathtaking mountain & sunset views from the roof top sitting patio. Catch shade under the covered patio. Entertain in the nicely 520 sq. ft. enclosed. Arizona rm w/windows, screened & shades. Split air/heat system for seasons. All
This stunning 4-bed, 2-bath home--built in 2024--offers 1,701 sq ft of modern, thoughtfully designed living. Located in the growing Radiance community, you'll enjoy access to fantastic amenities including a community pool, splash pads, tennis courts, basketball courts, and more.Inside, the open floor plan features sleek tile flooring throughout the main living areas and plush carpet in the
The wait is over for this stunning 1598 sq. ft. two-bedroom, two-bathroom single-owner ranch home located in the prestigious Meridian Manor gated community. Nestled against the majestic Superstition Mountains, this property offers breathtaking views and effortless lock-and-leave convenience. Recent upgrades include new Lennox AC in 2020 and an updated water heater. Additionally, all appliances
Award-Winning Resort Living | Golf Course Views | Luxury Lifestyle *Located directly on the 7th fairway of the executive golf course inside Gold Canyon RV and Golf Resort, Lot 780 offers scenic golf course and mountain views in an award-winning 55+ resort community known for its active lifestyle and desert beauty. Built in 2021, this Champion manufactured home offers approximately 800 square feet
Experience award-winning resort living at an affordable price in Gold Canyon RV & Golf Resort, one of Arizona's most desirable active 55+ communities. Located on Lot 229, this well-maintained and thoughtfully updated 1995 Cavco park model offers 435 square feet of efficient living space with scenic mountain, park, and golf course surroundings. The interior features a bright pass-through kitchen
Welcome home to easy, carefree living in the sought-after 55+ community of Pueblo Manor! Imagine starting your mornings with coffee on the patio while enjoying beautiful views of the breathtaking Superstition Mountains. In the evenings, relax under those famous Arizona sunsets with friends and neighbors in this warm, welcoming community. This well-maintained manufactured home is truly move-in
55+ | Lot Rent $850 Furnished 1 bed, 1 bath home in Pacific Manor with beautifully updated interiors. Two bedrooms were combined into one spacious suite with ample closet space. Open-concept layout features laminate wood flooring, carpeted bedroom, fresh paint, and an updated kitchen with painted shaker cabinets, new hardware, and eat-in dining. New roof, 3 new air conditioning units, and new
Enjoy comfortable and affordable living in the welcoming 55+ community of El Dorado Mobile Estates. This well-maintained 1999 Redman manufactured home offers 728 square feet with 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath in a functional single-section 14x52 layout designed for easy living. Recent 2026 updates include fresh exterior paint, new bedroom carpet, and a brand-new deck with railings, creating a clean
Located in Silverado Estates,a 55+ community in Apache Junction, this well maintained 1981 manufactured double wide offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,248 sqft of comfortable living space with Superstition Mountain views.The home has beautiful tile flooring with carpet in living room & bedrooms, upgraded kitchen cabinets, and a kitchen island with breakfast bar that adds convenient prep
Welcome home, this home is looking for its new owners. It has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2 car garage. This dreamy floor plan is nestled in one of the most sought-out communities in Apache Junction. High ceilings, modern amenities throughout the home; This split floor plan features 9-foot ceilings & offers upgrades galore. Chef's kitchen w/stainless steel appliances, extra outlets, walk-in pantry,
Welcome to easy, affordable living in the desirable 55+ community of Shady Rest! This beautifully remodeled 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home is the perfect blend of comfort and charm. Step inside to find a fresh, modern interior with thoughtful updates throughout, creating a bright and cozy living space you'll love coming home to. The home features an onsite washer and dryer for added convenience,
Charming and affordable 1 bed, 1 bath park model located in a desirable 55+ community in Apache Junction. This well-maintained home offers a comfortable living space with an efficient layout and low-maintenance lifestyle. The kitchen offers ample cabinetry, and a convenient pass-through design with a breakfast nook. New dishwasher, and updated plumbing and flooring throughout. Enjoy Arizona
Rare opportunity to acquire a fully updated, wheelchair-accessible 3-bedroom home situated on one of the largest lots in the community (approx. 4,200 sq ft). Renovated in 2023, improvements include new alder cabinetry, updated electrical and plumbing systems, new flooring, roof coating, and upgraded insulation: R21 on South & West walls, R13 on other walls. Designed for accessibility with wide
This well-maintained 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom manufactured home offers comfort, convenience, and plenty of space to enjoy your next chapter. Fully furnished and move-in ready, this home features stylish updates including a brand-new sofa, quality bedroom sets, and even an air purifier for added comfort. The kitchen is a standout feature with a custom oversized pantry-perfect for storage,
Upgrades, Furnished, and move-in ready! New floors, that were professionally leveled. New security door, new water heater, and professionally painted kitchen cabinets. Refrigerator and dishwasher are also new, washer dryer included. Roof has a lot of life left. All furniture can stay with this home. Unpack your bags and start living in this tight-knit community that enjoys stunning views of the
Like-New Living! Located in the highly desirable Radiance at Superstition Vista community, this just over 2-year-old home is designed for modern living with a bright, open layout filled with natural light. The spacious main living area flows seamlessly, ideal for everyday living & entertaining. Kitchen includes all appliances for added convenience. Each room has Alexa compatible ceiling fans.
Explore Our Brand-New Homes in Apache JunctionWelcome home to Hampton Meridian! Our community offers the perfect Apache Junction home with stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. Conveniently located off US-60 and near AZ-202, our pet-friendly community features modern single-story detached and duplex homes with 1, 2, or 3-bedroom floor plans. You can reside in comfort and
Open floor plan 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home now available! This home is pet friendly, easy to tour and easy to apply. Open kitchen with pantry with stainless steel appliances. Bedrooms have carpet and remaining home has hard flooring. Easy to maintain backyard and front yard.
Welcome to Sunset Vista Apartments, a brand-new 55+ independent living community in Apache Junction. Opened in 2025, Sunset Vista was created for those who want a comfortable, affordable place to call home. As part of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, our community provides quality apartment living for residents 55 and older who meet income program requirements.At Sunset
Welcome To Luxury Living & Modern Convenience! Experience This Beautifully Designed FULLY FURNISHED Studio Smart Home. Kitchen With Upscale Soft Close Cabinetry, Gorgeous Granite Countertops, And Luxury Tile Flooring Throughout! Includes Full Size Washer And Dryer! Located In Desirable Apache Junction With Breathtaking Views Of The MAJESTIC Superstition Mountains! Close To Schools, Parks,
The Havenly Superstition features new one- two- and three-bedroom detached homes ranging from 721 to 1,246 square feet to comfortably accommodate your lifestyle and space requirements. Our pet-friendly attitude and pet amenities mean your four-legged family member will feel right at home too!Ideally located near the city center which includes a terrific recreational facility. It is also close to
Interested in this home? You clearly have exceptional taste. This charming 3.0-bedroom, 2.0-bathroom home is not only pet-friendly, but also equipped with smart home features to make everyday life more convenient and connected. Homes like this dont stay on the market for longdont miss your chance to make it yours. Apply today!
Golden Sands Apartments are located in Apache Junction, 35 miles directly east of Phoenix on Highway 60 (the Superstition Freeway). This is the easternmost community in the Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area. It is home to the legendary Superstition Mountains and the gateway to a wonderful outdoor recreational area. With a hometown feel, Apache Junction continues to value and respect the natural
Nice 3bed, 2bath home on 1.125 in Apache Junction. New carpet in bedrooms, freshly painted inside and out. 2 car garage. Views of the Superstition Mountains.
Property Id: 2375129Welcome to your dream home in Apache Junction! This charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom single-family unit features modern amenities such as a dishwasher, washer/dryer, and vaulted ceilings. The fenced yard is perfect for pets, and the spacious layout is ideal for entertaining. Don't miss out on this opportunity, schedule a viewing today!
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $1989.90. That covers your base rent, $1770.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Pool
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
