Safford, AZ
Population 10,217 · Arizona
About Safford, AZ
Safford is a mid-sized city located in Arizona with a population of 10,217 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,727 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Safford features a median home value of $191,600, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Safford in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $976, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,132 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (2,683 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (986 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Safford shows an unemployment rate of 5.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Safford have an average one-way commute time of 24.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.3% of Safford residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 43.1% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 2.4% Asian residents, with 2.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Climate & Weather
Safford experiences an annual average temperature of 70°F with 6.39" 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 39°F (December–January).
Cost of Living in Safford, AZ
Compared to national averages, Safford has a median household income of $65,727 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $191,600, which is 22% below the national median. Monthly rent at $976 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, Safford's income is 6% above the state average of $62,086, and home values are 19% below the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in Safford, AZ?
Safford offers affordable housing with a median home value of $191,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $976/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,727) that falls below the national average. However, Safford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Safford has a population of 10,217 with a median age of 31.3 years. Compare Safford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near Safford
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedona | 9,770 | $67,374 | $708,400 | Compare |
| Picture Rocks | 9,665 | $59,745 | $181,200 | Compare |
| Corona de Tucson | 9,039 | $127,743 | $352,500 | Compare |
| Tucson Mountains | 11,428 | $132,946 | $457,300 | Compare |
| Winslow | 8,831 | $53,114 | $143,200 | Compare |
| Arizona City | 8,681 | $54,519 | $219,400 | Compare |
| Show Low | 11,913 | $63,376 | $275,000 | Compare |
| Tuba City | 8,265 | $61,092 | $66,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Climate & Weather in Safford
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 56 | 62 | 69 | 84 | 90 | 99 | 108 | 101 | 95 | 85 | 70 | 62 |
| Low °F | 37 | 40 | 46 | 56 | 64 | 71 | 82 | 78 | 70 | 60 | 48 | 41 |
| Rain " | 1.9 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.2 | 0.8 | 0.1 | 0.3 | 1.3 |
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Safford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Safford
What is the population of Safford, AZ?
The population of Safford, AZ is 10,217 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 Safford?
The median household income in Safford, AZ is $65,727 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Safford?
The median home value in Safford, AZ is $191,600, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Safford?
The median monthly rent in Safford, AZ is $976, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Safford?
The unemployment rate in Safford, AZ is 5.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Safford, AZ a good place to live?
Safford offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 10,217 and a median age of 31.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Safford, AZ?
19.3% of residents in Safford 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 Safford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Safford, AZ: median home value is $191,600 (22% below national), median rent is $976/month, and median household income is $65,727. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Safford?
The poverty rate in Safford, AZ is 13.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Safford, AZ?
Safford's population is 43.1% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 2.4% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 2.8% of residents are foreign-born.