Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Forest Lakes, AZ
Thinking of moving to Forest Lakes, AZ? With a small population of just 165, Forest Lakes is a peaceful, close-knit mountain community known for its cool summers, 75% sunny days, and affordable living. Home prices average around $417,000 and rents near $1,400, with a low violent crime rate of only 62 per 100K. Commute times are about 30 minutes, and while education options are limited locally, the area’s scenic beauty and outdoor lifestyle make it a unique Arizona retreat.
Demographics - Forest Lakes, AZ
Demographics - Forest Lakes, AZ
Forest Lakes, AZ is a quiet community of about 165 people, characterized by a predominantly older population with a median age of 62.8 and a strong majority of residents identifying as White. The low population density of 13 per square mile contributes to its tranquil, rural atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.
Population:
165
Density:
13 per sq mi
Median Age:
62.8
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.5%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
4.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Forest Lakes, AZ?
The cost of living in Forest Lakes is slightly above the national average, with a typical home valued at $417,000 and average rents around $1,400. Utilities and other expenses are moderate, reflecting a balanced affordability for those seeking a mountain town lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$417,000
Gross Rent:
$1,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,475
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,600
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.0
Grocery:
98.0
Housing:
108.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
102.0
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
100.0
Crime
Is Forest Lakes, AZ a safe place to live?
Forest Lakes offers a notably safe environment, with a very low violent crime rate of just 62 incidents per 100,000 people and a low chance of property crime. Residents benefit from peace of mind in this secure, close-knit community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
62
Property Crimes Per 100k:
430
Crime Index:
492
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,600
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 385
Weather
What is the weather like in Forest Lakes, AZ year-round?
Forest Lakes enjoys cool summers with highs reaching 80°F, crisp winters dipping to 16°F, and about 75% sunny days annually. The area receives ample rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate four distinct seasons and an outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
29°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
Residents of Forest Lakes typically enjoy a median household income of $54,300 and a low poverty rate of 8.5%. The area has a highly educated population, with over 93% holding at least a high school diploma, and offers a quiet, car-dependent lifestyle with average commutes of about 30 minutes.
Median Income:
$43,000
Household Income:
$54,300
Family Income:
$60,000
Per Capita Income:
$35,500
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
8.5%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,400
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
30.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.2%
Bachelors or More:
24.1%
Education
How are the schools in Forest Lakes, AZ?
Educational opportunities in Forest Lakes are limited but supported by the nearby Heber-Overgaard Unified School District, known for small class sizes. For higher education, Northland Pioneer College’s White Mountain Campus is about 40 miles away, making it accessible for those seeking college courses.
Public Schools
Name:
Heber-Overgaard Unified School District
Street:
3375 Buckskin Rd
Phone:
928-535-4622
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Colleges
Name:
Northland Pioneer College - White Mountain Campus
City:
Show Low
State:
AZ
Distance:
40 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
While Forest Lakes itself is small, quality healthcare services are accessible nearby at Banner Payson Medical Center, and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance. The area maintains a favorable healthcare index and a good ratio of physicians to residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner Payson Medical Center
Address:
807 S. Ponderosa St, Payson, AZ 85541
Phone:
(928) 474-3222
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
76.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Forest Lakes, AZ?
The housing market in Forest Lakes is stable, with a median home price of $417,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 85.5%. Home values have appreciated by 4.7% over the past year, reflecting a healthy market with low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$417,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
85.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Forest Lakes residents access DMV services through the Arizona Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division in nearby Payson. Essential services, licensing, and vehicle registration are provided both in person and online, ensuring convenience for locals.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1101 E. Hwy 260, Payson, AZ 85541
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.