New River, AZ
Population 18,365 · Arizona
About New River, AZ
New River is a mid-sized city located in Arizona with a population of 18,365 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $120,279 per year, which is 60% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 50.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in New River features a median home value of $603,700, which is 147% above the national median of $244,900. This places New River in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,837, 58% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,381 total housing units, 94% are owner-occupied (6,653 units) and 6% are renter-occupied (392 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in New River shows an unemployment rate of 2.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 5.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in New River have an average one-way commute time of 33.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.6% of New River residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 5.5% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 3.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Climate & Weather
New River experiences an annual average temperature of 71.9°F with 15.31" of precipitation per year. The warm climate makes it appealing for those who prefer mild winters and plenty of sunshine. Summer highs average around 104°F (July–August), while winter lows dip to approximately 45°F (December–January).
How New River Ranks in Arizona
Cost of Living in New River, AZ
Compared to national averages, New River has a median household income of $120,279 (60% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $603,700, which is 147% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,837 is 58% above the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, New River's income is 94% above the state average of $62,086, and home values are 155% above the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in New River, AZ?
New River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $120,279, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.9%, and a low poverty rate of 5.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $603,700. However, New River’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
New River has a population of 18,365 with a median age of 50.6 years. Compare New River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near New River
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flowing Wells | 16,989 | $40,769 | $51,800 | Compare |
| Nogales | 19,753 | $40,745 | $172,800 | Compare |
| Eloy | 16,671 | $54,080 | $243,600 | Compare |
| Payson | 16,494 | $65,175 | $343,200 | Compare |
| Douglas | 16,118 | $39,350 | $138,200 | Compare |
| Vail | 15,722 | $121,385 | $367,500 | Compare |
| Fort Mohave | 15,716 | $65,417 | $274,600 | Compare |
| Tanque Verde | 15,531 | $119,212 | $573,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Climate & Weather in New River
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 57 | 61 | 65 | 83 | 89 | 96 | 107 | 101 | 95 | 88 | 74 | 67 |
| Low °F | 42 | 43 | 47 | 59 | 66 | 72 | 84 | 81 | 73 | 66 | 55 | 48 |
| Rain " | 2.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 4.1 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.3 | 2.1 |
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare New River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about New River
What is the population of New River, AZ?
The population of New River, AZ is 18,365 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Arizona.
What is the median household income in New River?
The median household income in New River, AZ is $120,279 per year, which is 60% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in New River?
The median home value in New River, AZ is $603,700, which is 147% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in New River?
The median monthly rent in New River, AZ is $1,837, which is 58% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in New River?
The unemployment rate in New River, AZ is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is New River, AZ a good place to live?
New River offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 18,365 and a median age of 50.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is New River, AZ?
31.6% of residents in New River aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in New River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for New River, AZ: median home value is $603,700 (147% above national), median rent is $1,837/month, and median household income is $120,279. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.0x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in New River?
The poverty rate in New River, AZ is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is New River, AZ?
New River's population is 5.5% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 3.8% of residents are foreign-born.