Payson, AZ
Population 16,494 · Arizona
About Payson, AZ
Payson is a mid-sized city in Arizona with a population of 16,494 residents. The median household income is $65,175 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Payson is 58.9 years.
Housing in Payson has a median home value of $343,200 and median monthly rent of $1,355. Of the 9,824 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,034 owner-occupied and 1,787 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Payson is 7.8% and the poverty rate is 8.3%. 26.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.2 minutes.
How Payson Ranks in Arizona
Cost of Living in Payson, AZ
Compared to national averages, Payson has a median household income of $65,175 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $343,200, which is 40% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,355 is 17% above the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, Payson's income is 5% above the state average of $62,086, and home values are 45% above the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in Payson, AZ?
Payson offers a low poverty rate of 8.3%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 18.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,175) that falls below the national average. However, Payson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Payson has a population of 16,494 with a median age of 58.9 years. Compare Payson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near Payson
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eloy | 16,671 | $54,080 | $243,600 | Compare |
| Douglas | 16,118 | $39,350 | $138,200 | Compare |
| Flowing Wells | 16,989 | $40,769 | $51,800 | 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 |
| Coolidge | 15,300 | $57,161 | $203,100 | Compare |
| New River | 18,365 | $120,279 | $603,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Payson
What is the population of Payson, AZ?
The population of Payson, AZ is 16,494 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Payson?
The median household income in Payson, AZ is $65,175 per year.
What is the median home value in Payson?
The median home value in Payson, AZ is $343,200.
What is the average rent in Payson?
The median monthly rent in Payson, AZ is $1,355.
What is the unemployment rate in Payson?
The unemployment rate in Payson, AZ is 7.8%.