Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cottonwood, AZ
Cottonwood, AZ is a charming small city of 12,272 residents nestled in Arizona’s scenic Verde Valley. With a median home price around $315,000 and average rents near $1,210, Cottonwood offers affordable living and lots of sunshine—about 73% of days are sunny! Commute times are short (about 16 minutes), and the city provides convenient healthcare and education options. While property crime rates are higher than average, the friendly community, mild climate, and access to nature make Cottonwood an appealing choice for those seeking a relaxed Arizona lifestyle.
Demographics - Cottonwood, AZ
Demographics - Cottonwood, AZ
Cottonwood is home to 12,272 residents, with a median age of 46.8, reflecting a mature population. The city is predominantly White (85%), but also includes a mix of other ethnicities and nearly 10% of residents speak a language other than English. With a moderate population density of 1,100 people per square mile, newcomers will find a welcoming, close-knit community.
Population:
12,272
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.8
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
12.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cottonwood, AZ?
The cost of living in Cottonwood is slightly below the national average, with a cost of living index of 98.4. Median home values are affordable at $315,000, and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are around $1,210 per month. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, making Cottonwood an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$315,000
Gross Rent:
$1,210
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,560
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$515
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.4
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
98.6
Utilities:
102.1
Transportation:
95.3
Health Care:
101.8
Miscellaneous:
99.0
Crime
Is Cottonwood, AZ a safe place to live?
Cottonwood experiences a higher rate of property crime, with a 1 in 36 chance, while violent crime remains relatively low with a 1 in 373 chance. The overall crime index suggests residents should stay mindful of property security. Despite this, many find the city’s friendly atmosphere and community spirit reassuring.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
268
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,740
Crime Index:
3,008
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 373
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Cottonwood, AZ year-round?
Cottonwood boasts a mild, sunny climate with about 73% of days filled with sunshine each year. Winters are cool but comfortable, with lows around 32°F, while summers are warm and dry, reaching up to 97°F. Annual rainfall is moderate at 13.6 inches, providing a pleasant environment for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Residents in Cottonwood enjoy a median household income of $49,800, and most neighbors have at least a high school diploma. The average commute is short, just 16.4 minutes, with very few relying on public transportation. While the poverty rate is slightly above the national average at 16.2%, the community is diverse and welcoming.
Median Income:
$28,200
Household Income:
$49,800
Family Income:
$62,200
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
9.5%
Rent:
$1,210
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
16.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.3%
Bachelors or More:
21.4%
Education
How are the schools in Cottonwood, AZ?
Cottonwood offers a variety of educational opportunities, including public schools like Cottonwood-Oak Creek School and Mingus Union High School, both with moderate student-teacher ratios. The city also features private schooling options and is situated just 3 miles from Yavapai College’s Verde Valley campus. Families will appreciate the city’s commitment to accessible education at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Cottonwood-Oak Creek School
Street:
1 N Willard St
Phone:
928-634-2288
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Mingus Union High School
Street:
1801 E Fir St
Phone:
928-634-7531
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.0
Private Schools
Name:
Verde Valley Christian School
Street:
102 S Willard St
Phone:
928-634-8113
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Yavapai College – Verde Valley Campus
City:
Clarkdale
State:
AZ
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Cottonwood provides strong access to healthcare, anchored by Verde Valley Medical Center and a physician-to-population ratio of 1.7 per 1,000 residents. Over 91% of locals have health insurance, ensuring most have access to necessary care. The city’s healthcare index reflects reliable medical services for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Verde Valley Medical Center
Address:
269 S Candy Ln, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Phone:
(928) 634-2251
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cottonwood, AZ?
The Cottonwood housing market offers a median home price of $315,000 and a 60.8% owner-occupancy rate, indicating a stable residential community. Renters will find average two-bedroom rents at $1,210, with a moderate rental vacancy rate of 6.5%. Home values have appreciated by 4.4% over the past year, signaling healthy growth.
Median Home Price:
$315,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,210
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Cottonwood residents are served by the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located on S 12th St. The local DMV provides a full range of vehicle and licensing services, with helpful staff accessible by phone or through the state’s online portal.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
525 S 12th St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Phone:
1-800-251-5866
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.