Apache Junction is located 35.2 miles away from Phoenix. It is bordered by the Phoenix metropolitan area and wilderness, making it the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts.
Let’s discover some of the benefits of living in Apache Junction to see if this city is the right place to call home.
History of Apache Junction
Apache Junction was incorporated on November 24, 1978. Originally, it was the location where the Apache trail started and ended. This train follows 120 minutes of gorgeous lake shores, mountains, mining towns, cliff dwellings, and deserts.
This town was given its name because it served as the junction for the Apache Trail.
It is known for Superstition Mountain, outdoor activities, Goldfield Ghost Town, and the Lost Dutchman State Park.
Some of the most notable people to live in Apache Junction include:
- Chip Wilson, mayor of Apache Junction
- William Creighton, founder of Apache Junction’s first film set
Apache Junction is a good place to live because of its suburban environment, phenomenal views, and recreational opportunities.
Let’s talk more about the benefits of moving to Apache Junction.
1. People Living in Apache Junction, AZ – Population & Demographics
How many people live in Apache Junction? Over the years, Apache Junction has seen consistent population growth. There were only a little over 2,000 residents in the city in 1970, but there are now more than 41,000 residents.
Many people are relocating to Apache Junction, so the population is growing. The Apache Junction population is 41,453 people. Residents have a median age of 53.9 years old.
Apache Junction demographics include 75% Caucasian, 18% Hispanic, 1% African American, 1% Native American, and 1% Asian. The gender ratio is 51% female and 49% male.
The median household income in Apache Junction is $56,209.
2. Cost of Living in Apache Junction, AZ
How much does it cost to live in Apache Junction, AZ?
The average cost of living in Apache Junction is 2% higher than the United States average and 4.1% lower than the Arizona average.
In Apache Junction, healthcare and grocery bills tend to cost more than the rest of Arizona. Transportation, utilities, and housing generally cost less.
Typical Apache Junction Living Expenses
- Bread (1 loaf) $4.13
- Eggs (1 Dozen) $3.61
- Milk (regular 1 gallon) $4.87
- Bananas (bunch) $0.75
- Hamburger $5.76
- Average Cost of Gasoline (per gallon) $3.57
- Average Cost of Electricity (per month) $203.47
- Doctor’s Visit $131.05
3. Apache Junction Real Estate | Buying or Selling a Home in Apache Junction?
The Apache Junction real estate market offers single-family homes, mobile homes, and retirement communities.
The homeownership rate in Apache Junction is 77.8%.
Prior to relocating, check out the many Apache Junction, AZ homes for sale.
The average price of a home in Apache Junction is $174,100.
Normally, the average down payment is between 3% and 20%. As a result, the typical down payment is between $5,223 and $34,820.
Apache Junction has a median sale price of $250 per square foot.
The Apache Junction property tax rate is 0.650%.
The Apache Junction rent is $1,300, which means the average price of rent in Apache Junction is $250 less than the Arizona average of $1,550.
4. Apache Junction Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Apache Junction
Where should you live in Apache Junction? There are many different neighborhoods to choose from. Whether you are a retiree or a family with young kids, you can find a home in one of the best Apache Junction neighborhoods.
- Eastmark
- Apache Wells
- Ironwood Estates
- Superstition Springs
- Fountain of the Sun
- Sunland Village East
Apache Junction operates two parks and many other amenities for all residents to enjoy.
Check them out on the Apache Junction Parks and Recreation site.
For convenient shopping in Apache Junction, visit Ross Dress for Less, Walmart, the Quilt Wizard, and Office Max.
Apache Junction is 35.2 miles from Phoenix.
The commute from Apache Junction to downtown Phoenix takes about 40 minutes.
5. Apache Junction, AZ Weather & Climate
Apache Junction weather is known for being sweltering hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Most of the year, the weather is fairly clear.
The climate in Apache Junction is considered semiarid, which means that there is very little rain throughout the year.
The average temperature in Apache Junction varies between lows of 43°F and highs of 67°F in the winter to highs of 106°F and lows of 78°F in the summer.
Apache Junction receives an average of 14 inches of rain and 0 inches of snow. While this portion of Arizona rarely receives any snow, you can drive a couple of hours away to enjoy all of your favorite snow-based activities.
Residents who love hiking, biking, and golfing will find many available options in the area.
6. Things to Do in Apache Junction
If you’re interested in finding local parks and landmarks, the area is full of outdoor options. After you move to the area, check out the following things to do in Apache Junction.
Lost Dutchman State Park
When it comes to outdoor activities, the Lost Dutchman State Park is one of the best parks and landmarks in the entire area. This park is a beautiful example of the Sonoran Desert and is located at the base of the Superstition Mountains.
Lost Dutchman State Park, 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 (480) 982-4485
Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum
For one of the best Apache Junction attractions, check out the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum. Known as one of the top points of interest, this museum features movie props, trains, an Apache village, and mining artifacts.
Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum, 4087 E Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 (480) 983-4888
Apache Creek Golf Club
If you’re looking for one of the top things to do in Apache Junction, head to the Apache Creek Golf Club. This turf-style desert course offers great value, so it’s a popular practice facility for golfers.
Apache Creek Golf Club, 3401 S Ironwood Dr, Apache Junction, AZ 85220 (480) 982-2677
Apache Junction Performing Arts Center
For a can’t miss thing to do in Apache Junction, check the event schedule at the Apache Junction Performing Arts Center. When popular bands come to the area, they tend to perform here, so this is one of the best places to visit if you’re passionate about music.
Apache Junction Performing Arts Center, 2525 S Ironwood Dr, Apache Junction, AZ 85120 (480) 982-1110 ext. 2250
Additional Apache Junction Attractions
7. Apache Junction Restaurants
For some of the top restaurants in Apache Junction, visit some of the following dining establishments.
Papa Bears Texas Barbeque
If you’re passionate about smoked meat and Texas-style barbecue, Papa Bears Barbecue is one of Apache Junction’s top places to eat. Other than trying some of the daily specials, you can also buy meat by the pound.
Papa Bears Texas Barbeque, 1200 W Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120 (480) 982-1096
Hacker’s Grill
For a small-town vibe, Hacker’s Grill is one of the top restaurants in Apache Junction. This quaint restaurant features soups, salads, sandwiches, and other American fare.
Hacker’s Grill, 310 N Plaza Dr, Apache Junction, AZ 85120 (480) 671-9933
The Handlebar Pub and Grill
If you’re interested in having a fun night out, the Handlebar Pub and Grill is one of Apache Junction’s top places to eat. This local neighborhood pub has 30 beers on tap. Its menu includes mushroom flatbread, shrimp skewers, green chili burgers, and other pub fare.
The Handlebar Pub and Grill, 650 Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120 (480) 982-2091
8. Jobs in Apache Junction
The average salary in Apache Junction is $40,773 per year.
The state income tax rate is 2.5%.
The Apache Junction unemployment rate is 5.7%.
If you’re interested in finding Apache Junction jobs, the following employers are some of the best places to work in Apache Junction.
- Central Arizona College-Superstition Campus
- Apache Junction Unified School District
- Superstition Mountain Mental Health
- City of Apache Junction
- Walmart
9. Apache Junction Schools
There are roughly 6,605 kids between the ages of 0 and 18 years old. Children make up 17% of the population.
Apache Junction is an excellent place for families to live, thanks to its many parks, trails, and amenities.
The city is served by the Apache Junction Unified District.
After you move to the area, you can check out some of the top schools in Apache Junction:
- Imagine Prep Superstition
- Apache Junction High School
- Apache Junction Distance Learning Program
- Avalon Elementary School
- Peralta Trail Elementary School
Among other colleges and universities, students can check out the Superstition Mountain Campus of Central Arizona College.
Students and others will enjoy the free Apache Junction library.
10. Crime Rate in Apache Junction
Is Apache Junction a safe place to live? Thanks to its safe streets and low crime rate, Apache Junction is an incredibly safe place to live.
The crime rate in Apache Junction is 2,241 per 100,000 people.
This community is protected by the Apache Junction Police Department.
To learn more about the safety of your neighborhood, check out the Apache Junction crime map.
11. Essential Apache Junction Information
- Square Miles: 35.1 square miles
- County: Pinal and Maricopa County
- Zip Code: 85117, 85119, 85120, 85178, and 85212
- Area Code: 480
Like the rest of Arizona, the time zone in Apache Junction is Mountain Standard Time (MST). Arizona doesn’t follow Daylight Savings Time, so you don’t have to change your clocks each year.
The elevation in Apache Junction is 1,700 feet above sea level.
Map of Apache Junction, AZ
Find plenty of other things to do, places to eat, and beyond with this Apache Junction map.
Tips for Living in Apache Junction
- Apache Junction generally doesn’t receive any snow, so plan on vacationing somewhere that has snow if you love wintertime activities.
- Like the rest of Arizona, Apache Junction is incredibly hot in the summer. Your car and future house will need to have well-maintained air conditioning units to help you beat the heat.
- Always pack plenty of water for your outings because dehydration can happen quickly, and it is easy to get turned around during desert hikes.
Moving to Apache Junction, AZ
If you’re interested in outdoor activities, a safe community, and easy access to major parks, there are many reasons to move to Apache Junction. From mobile homes to single-family neighborhoods, there are plenty of property types available for sale.
If you need a real estate agent, reach out to an experienced Apache Junction real estate team like our partners at SPACE.
